That toaster looks heavily soiled with baked-on grease and crumbs, but from the photo it doesn’t appear beyond saving. The most important thing is to avoid getting water or cleaning solution inside the toaster, where the electrical components are.
What You’ll Need
- Dish soap
- Warm water
- Baking soda
- White vinegar (optional)
- Microfiber cloths
- Soft sponge
- Old toothbrush
- Cotton swabs
- Plastic scraper or old credit card
- Paper towels
Step 1: Unplug the Toaster
Make sure it’s completely unplugged and cool before cleaning.
Step 2: Empty the Crumbs
- Remove the crumb tray.
- Shake out all loose crumbs into the trash.
- Turn the toaster upside down over a sink or trash can and gently shake it.
Never insert knives or metal objects into the slots.
Step 3: Clean the Exterior
Mix a few drops of dish soap with warm water.
- Dip a microfiber cloth into the solution.
- Wring it out until it’s only damp.
- Wipe the entire outside of the toaster.
For stubborn grease, sprinkle a little baking soda onto a damp sponge and gently scrub.
Step 4: Remove Stubborn Brown Stains
For baked-on grime:
- Make a paste using:
- 3 tablespoons baking soda
- 1 tablespoon water
- Spread it over the stained areas.
- Let it sit for 10–15 minutes.
- Gently scrub with a soft sponge or toothbrush.
- Wipe clean with a damp cloth.
Avoid getting the paste inside the toaster slots.
Step 5: Clean Around Buttons and Knobs
Use:
- Cotton swabs
- An old toothbrush
to remove dirt around the controls and edges.
Step 6: Polish Stainless Steel (if applicable)
If the top is stainless steel:
- Wipe with a microfiber cloth lightly dampened with white vinegar.
- Dry immediately with a clean cloth.
Step 7: Clean the Crumb Tray
Wash the tray with warm, soapy water.
Dry it completely before reinstalling.
Important Things NOT to Do
- ❌ Don’t immerse the toaster in water.
- ❌ Don’t spray cleaner directly onto it.
- ❌ Don’t use steel wool or abrasive scouring pads.
- ❌ Don’t insert metal utensils into the slots.
- ❌ Don’t use oven cleaner.
If It Still Looks Dirty
Some brown or yellow discoloration may be permanent staining from heat and grease. If the plastic has become stained, you may not be able to restore it to its original bright white color, but thorough cleaning should make it look much better.
If the toaster smells like something is burning, has damaged wiring, doesn’t heat evenly, or trips the circuit breaker after cleaning, it’s safest to replace it rather than continue using it.
