64% of households are neglecting this essential task - here's how to clean a toaster quickly

Chances are, you're probably on top of descaling your kettle – after all, those unsightly specks of limescale floating in your morning cuppa are a good reminder, especially if you live in a hard water area. However, there may be one kitchen appliance you're leaving far too long between cleans: your trusty toaster.

According to AEG, 64% of Brits are overdue a good clean of their toaster (myself included). A daily workhorse, even the best toasters need a regular spruce up, though it's likely not exactly at the top of your to-do list. However, a clean toaster is important not only for hygiene, but also for reducing the risk of accidental fires caused by those long-forgotten, extra crispy crumbs.

The good news? Whether yours is a classic two-slotter or a fancy four-slice toaster, it’s a quick and easy job that can be done in four simple steps. From tackling the crumb tray to safely cleaning the exterior, here's what the experts recommend.

Looking for more household advice from Mumsnet? We also have guides to the best dishwashers and best fridge freezers.

How to clean a toaster: four quick steps from the experts

1. Unplug your toaster

"Before attempting any cleaning or maintenance, unplug your toaster from the mains power supply," Charles Cadman, Senior Product Developer for Salter, advises, adding that it should be left to fully cool down before you embark on step two.

2. Empty the crumb tray and give it a clean

Most toasters have a crumb tray lurking at the bottom, quietly collecting all those stray bits of bread. Crumbs might seem harmless, but over time they can build up, not only affecting performance but even becoming a fire hazard. As Reha Farhan from appliance brand VQ advises, “Empty the crumb tray regularly (you’d be surprised how much builds up in there!).”

To clean it, carefully slide the tray out – if you're unsure how, check your toaster’s manual – then tip the crumbs straight into your kitchen bin. Giving the tray a quick wipe is better than nothing, but for the best results Michael Robbins, Marketing Manager at ZWILLING and STAUB, suggests a little extra elbow grease: “If any residue is stuck, gently scrape it off or wash the tray with warm, soapy water. A little upkeep goes a long way in keeping your toaster clean, safe, and running smoothly.”

Related: Best sandwich toasters

3. Stubborn crumbs? Give it a good shake over the sink

Even after emptying the crumb tray, some stubborn bits can still stay lodged inside the toaster slots, which can affect performance and leave behind an unpleasant burnt smell. As Farhan suggests, “To get rid of stubborn crumbs, give the toaster a gentle shake over the sink or bin, and use a soft brush to reach any tricky spots.”

4. Tackle the exterior

A clean toaster isn’t just about what’s inside – keeping the outside free from fingerprints, grease, and crumbs will help it stay looking fresh and stylish on your countertop. Robbins recommends a simple approach: “For the exterior, wipe it down with a damp kitchen towel and a little washing-up liquid to remove fingerprints and light stains – just be sure to avoid abrasive cleaners that could scratch the surface. Also, make sure the cloth isn’t too wet, especially near the slots, to prevent moisture from getting inside and causing issues.”

It's a point echoed by Cadman too, who had this important safety message: "For the exterior, wipe the toaster housing with a soft damp cloth and dry thoroughly. Do not immerse your toaster in water or any liquid."

If your toaster has a stainless steel finish, you might need a little extra care to maintain its shine. Natalie Harrison, Head of E-Commerce and Marketing at Dualit, says, “For cleaning the Dualit Classic Toaster and Kettle, we always recommend using a damp, non-abrasive cloth to gently wipe the surface, followed by a soft, dry cloth to buff and polish. For tougher stains or more stubborn marks on the Classic Toaster cover, a stainless steel cleaner that isn’t chemical, abrasive, or contains ammonia can be applied. After cleaning, ensure the appliance is wiped down with a soft, dry cloth to prevent streaks and maintain the stainless steel shine.”

Related: The best kettle and toaster sets for style

How often should I clean a toaster?

This depends on how much toast your household regularly munches its way through. If you’re popping in slices every morning (and maybe sneaking in a cheeky crumpet or bagel in the afternoon), it's generally recommended that you give it a quick clean once a week, as Mumsnetter LoremIpsumCici suggests:

If you use your toaster less frequently, a clean every few weeks should do the job.

About the author

Natasha Gregson is a Senior Content Editor at Mumsnet and oversees all home and kitchen content on the website. With numerous years of editorial experience under her belt, her work has also been featured in prestigious national publications like The i Paper and Stylist Magazine, and she's written on a wide range of topics.

A keen foodie, Natasha has been on a mission for Mumsnet to find the top toasters, nobly munching her way through all manner of bread slices (and crumpets!) to find quality options for Mumsnetters. It's a hard task, but someone's got to do it. She's also worked extensively on other kitchen content for Mumsnet, including researching and writing about the best tea towels, slow cookers, air fryers, and much more.

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