1. Empty the crumbs every week

• Once a week or every two weeks, empty the crumbs into your toaster or toaster oven, depending on how often you use it.
• The toasters are designed to facilitate the removal of crumbs. Some toasters are equipped with sliding garbage collectors; others have swing doors that allow you to empty the crumbs.

  

   

• Whatever type of toaster you have or the type of mechanism to remove the crumbs, always unplug the toaster before cleaning it.

2. If you cannot remove everything

Try to disintegrate them with heat. Operate the vacuum toaster at maximum temperature two to three times. (This is also the principle of self-cleaning ovens).

3. For crumbs that are difficult to remove

• Use a clean, dry toothbrush, (not the one you use to rub the grout, but a new one) or an old clean brush.
• Again, do not forget to unplug the toaster.
• Remove the crumbs with the brush, and then discard them.
• Turn the toaster over and shake it. Be careful not to damage the heater unit.

4. Wipe the outside of the toaster

• With a damp cloth, wipe around the control knobs.
• Add a little vinegar or dishwashing liquid to your water for more cleaning power.
• For stainless steel toasters, polish with stainless steel varnish, available in supermarkets and hardware stores.

5. The outside of the toaster oven

Toaster ovens generally require better cleaning than toasters. Many people do more than toast in their toaster ovens. They make grilled cheese sandwiches, juicy fruit tarts and even grill small chunks of splashing chicken.

• Keep the exterior clean by wiping regularly with a damp cloth.
• Add a little vinegar or dishwashing liquid to your water for more cleaning power.
• The control buttons can be removed for easy cleaning of the control panel. Refer to owner’s manual.

6. Every week or two

• Empty the crumb tray, which, in most toaster ovens, is removable. Some even have doors underneath to remove the crumbs that fall from the tray. If you intend to open this hatch, first disconnect the oven.
• Wash the removable tray. Most trays are made of thin aluminum and may not be dishwasher safe. Read the owner’s manual to find out. If you are not sure, wash the tray by hand in hot, soapy water.

7. Immediately clean dirt

• Clean just after cooking sessions messy in the oven toaster.
• Allow the oven to cool, unplug it and remove the drawers or racks.
• Clean trays and grates in hot, soapy water.
• Wipe the inside of the oven with a damp cloth.
• If you’re lucky, your oven is equipped with a non-stick surface inside, and the baked foods will peel off right away.
• Gently lift the heating unit (if possible) and clean underneath.

8. For glued food

• Try using a wet plastic or nylon scouring brush.
• Never use an abrasive material such as steel wool. You may scratch the smooth surface, which will cause the food to stick more next time.
• If you are unsuccessful with the plastic scouring pad, put a small bowl of undiluted ammonia inside the unplugged oven with the door closed. Let stand overnight, then remove the ammonia. Vapors will take off food.
• Wipe the inside again and allow the oven to ventilate before using.