You probably touch this essential of the kitchen every day. But when did you go back the last time you cleaned it?
Now that it is summer, my toaster is working on overtime by extending toast slices to the lawyer, breakfast sandwiches and end-of-evening snacks. But as much as I count, I forgot an important thing: to clean it. After enough use, I started to notice strange smells and an unequal browning, and it was then that I realized that the culprit was not the bread-it was the messy mess inside the toaster.
The crumbs accumulate quickly, and if you do not clean them regularly, they can burn, stink and even turn into risk of fire. Worse? Bit food remains can attract insects, especially in hot weather. Fortunately, giving your toaster deep cleaning is easier than you think. It only takes a few minutes, requires no fancy tools and can save your breakfast (and your kitchen) from the disaster.
For more cleaning tips, learn How to wash your bedding in the right direction And How to clean your kitchen in less than 15 minutes.
How to clean your toaster
If you use your toaster as often as I (daily), you will have to clean it at least once a week. If you use it sporadically, you can get rid of cleaning it every about a few weeks, or when you notice that the leftover food accumulates. Here is the best way to clean your toaster:
1. Disconnect your toaster and make the usual shake on the sink. No, the simple fact of shaking the device on the sink is not completely effective.
2. Take out the crumb tray, if it has one, then wash it with lukewarm water and dish soap.
3. While you let the crumbs dry, chatting a cotton cloth with a little white vinegar and erase the slots where bread, pop pies or other treats are found.
4. If there are residues of food stuck in breakfast pastries on the heating elements, brush them gently with an old toothbrush with white vinegar.
5. Wipe inside with a cloth damaged by water to remove any residue of vinegar.
6. Give the toaster a last good trembling upside down.
7. Wipe the exterior of the toaster with another cushioned cloth. Let the toaster dry completely inside and outside before retreating it. You only have to take a few hours to dry.
For more cleaning advice, consult How to kill mold in your washer and keep it away And How to clean the cat of your sofa.
Frequently asked questions
Can you immerse a toaster in the water to clean it?
No, you should never overwhelm any electrical device in water, as it can damage internal components.
How to make sure that the burning marks of the toaster?
If you went for a long time without cleaning your toaster, you can have burning marks on the top, leaving a unsightly brown brand. To solve this problem, you can make a dough with equal parts in the water and baking soda and although the toaster is still unplugged, rub with a toothbrush or a non-abrasive sponge. Then wipe it with a soft and damp cloth to remove the dough.
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