Toaster Oven Safety and Maintenance

Toaster ovens are among the most versatile appliances in the kitchen. They can be used to thaw, toast, bake or broil, and, due to their compact size, they can heat up much more quickly than a standard oven. In order to ensure optimal performance and safety, however, it is necessary to follow these simple steps.

Step One: Finding A Toaster Oven That Is Right For You
Different toaster ovens have different features. The standard range for a toaster oven is from roughly 100 degrees Fahrenheit, for defrosting and light toasting jobs, to 500 degrees Fahrenheit, usually reserved for the broiler setting. If you plan on using your toaster oven only for breakfast toast and similar purposes, there's no reason to drop the extra cash on a model that has a broiler setting. If you do intend on taking advantage of every setting a fully loaded model has to offer, then go ahead and spend a little more.

Another aspect to consider when purchasing your toaster oven is the interior. Many models have an enamel coating on the interior surface that helps to keep food from sticking, making cleanup much easier. These models often cost more, but they save you time and may add a few years to your toaster oven's life expectancy.

Last is whether or not your model is insulated. Many toaster ovens are not, which means that the exterior can reach temperatures that far exceed most human's pain thresholds. Whether it's a wandering child or an adult not paying close enough attention, accidents will happen. It's better to avoid un-insulated models altogether, even if their safer counterparts are a little pricier.

Step Two: Maintaining Your Toaster Oven
Regular cleaning is needed to guarantee that your toaster oven lasts longer and that the food coming out of it tastes better. If you purchased a model with an enamel interior coating, a wipe down with a mild dish soap will do. Otherwise, it may be necessary to rub the interior with steel wool first and then use a soapy sponge to get up any grease or residue left over. Either way, make sure to rinse the oven out thoroughly afterwards because soap and toast is not a pleasant combination.

Step Three: Watch What Goes Into Your Toaster Oven
Keeping your toaster oven clean and safe is a lot easier if you pay close attention to what goes into it. Some models recommend not using aluminum foil because it can't stand up to the high heat it will be exposed to. Plastic is obviously a universal no-no.

Many toaster oven accidents are caused by heating up overly greasy foods or letting the grease in your oven build up too long. Toasting greasy foods without a tray could result in grease dripping onto the coils that heat from below, causing a grease fire. Not only will your food get burned, but your house could, too. You also want to make sure that no food is too close to the overhead coils, as direct contact with them could result in a fire.

If you shop well for a good model, see that it is properly maintained and watch what you put into it, you should have a well-functioning toaster oven for years to come.