Many of us might not even realise our toasters have crumb trays at the bottom – but they are actually very important and need to be cleaned at least once a week
Toast reigns supreme as a beloved breakfast staple across the nation – with many Brits savouring it daily topped with butter and a spread of jam or marmalade.
However, an often-neglected household chore is keeping the toaster clean, which is essential for its longevity. A cleaning expert from Morphy Richards, a leading cooking appliance brand, has emphasised the importance of regular toaster maintenance and offered top tips for effective cleaning.
The expert highlighted that the most critical component to keep spotless is tucked away at the base of the device. Many might not even be aware that their toasters come equipped with crumb trays designed to capture falling bread particles.
Christian Strandoo, product manager at Morphy Richards, said: “The crumb tray sits underneath your toaster and catches errant crumbs so that they don’t build up inside the toaster slots. If you’ve never noticed it before, the crumb tray compartment can usually be opened from the back of the toaster and it will slide out from underneath.”
These trays are vital for preventing potential burning and smoking hazards, yet neglecting them can pose risks. The cleaning authority recommends giving these trays a thorough cleanse at least once every week.
To ensure your toaster remains spotless, just yank out the crumb tray from the underside of the device, shake off the crumbs into the bin, then grab a damp paper towel or cloth to wipe away any leftovers before slotting it back in. Christian highlighted that this routine isn’t just about cleanliness – it’s a safety measure to prevent the crumbs from burning or smoking inside the toaster.
He added: “Cleaning the crumb tray regularly will increase the lifespan of the product – which of course will be cost-saving and more sustainable over time.”