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A toaster oven can do much more than toast bread.

All it takes is a bit of time and some cleaning products you have on hand.

Crumbs and food residue can cause a fire or leave foods withburnt odorsand flavor.

person putting cookies into toaster oven

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If there is stuck-on food, allow the components to soak overnight in soapy water for easier cleaning.

Shake to Remove Crumbs

Move the toaster oven to a trash can or sink.

If possible, initiate the bottom and give the appliance a good shake to remove crumbs and food particles.

unplugging the toaster oven

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Use a pastry brush to brush out any crumbs that are clinging to greasy surfaces.

That’s a bad idea because most interiors are made of aluminum that is damaged by oven cleaners.

Clean the Interior

Wipe down every interior surfacewalls, floor, and ceilingrinsing out the sponge frequently.

removing toaster oven components

The Spruce / Ana Cadena

Dip a plastic scrubber or amelamine spongeinto the paste and scrub lightly.

Never use steel wool or any excessively abrasive scraper.

Make the Glass Door Sparkle

Most toaster ovens have a glass window in the door.

shaking crumbs out of the toaster oven

The Spruce / Ana Cadena

Cut through the spatters and grease and make the glass sparkle by using full-strength distilled white vinegar.

Spray or wipe it on the glass and let it sit for a few minutes.

Wipe away with a soft cloth for a streak-free shine.

mixing a cleaning solution

The Spruce / Ana Cadena

Don’t forget to clean the controls.

Additional Tips

Always unplug the oven and allow it to cool.

Remove the racks and trays.

cleaning the inside of a toaster oven

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Dampen a sponge in a solution of hot, soapy water.

Wring and wipe out the inside.

Finish by wiping away any residue with a clean, damp sponge or cloth.

cleaning the glass door of the toaster oven

The Spruce / Ana Cadena

Remove baked-on grime with a sprinkle of baking soda on the sponge or use a melamine eraser.

Rinse the interior by wiping it out with a clean, damp sponge.

Vinegar helps cut through greasy residue and can leave stainless steel exteriors shining.

cleaning the outside of the toaster oven

The Spruce / Ana Cadena

putting the toaster oven back together

The Spruce / Ana Cadena