If the inside of your stainless steel toaster oven is burnt from a previous incident where the bread caught fire, it is generally safe to clean it and continue using it. However, it's important to take some precautions and thoroughly clean the burnt areas before using it again. Here's what you can do:
Unplug the toaster oven: Before starting any cleaning process, make sure the toaster oven is unplugged from the power source to avoid any electrical hazards.
Allow it to cool down: Give the toaster oven enough time to cool down completely before you begin cleaning. This will prevent any burns or injuries during the cleaning process.
Remove the racks and trays: Take out any removable racks, trays, or accessories from inside the toaster oven. This will make it easier to clean the burnt areas.
Wipe off loose debris: Use a dry cloth or paper towel to wipe off any loose debris or ash from the burnt areas. Be gentle to avoid scratching the stainless steel surface.
Create a cleaning solution: Mix a solution of mild dish soap and warm water in a bowl or bucket. You can also add some baking soda to the mixture for additional cleaning power.
Scrub the burnt areas: Dip a sponge or soft cloth into the cleaning solution, then gently scrub the burnt areas inside the toaster oven. Pay close attention to the burnt spots and use a bit of extra pressure if needed.
Rinse and wipe: Once you've scrubbed the burnt areas, rinse the sponge or cloth and wipe away the cleaning solution from the interior. Make sure to remove any soapy residue.
Dry thoroughly: Take a clean, dry cloth or paper towel and thoroughly dry the inside of the toaster oven. Moisture can cause rusting in the long term, so it's important to ensure it's completely dry.
Reassemble and test: Once everything is dry, reassemble the racks and trays back into the toaster oven. Plug it back in and test it by heating it up for a short period to ensure it's functioning properly.
By following these steps, you should be able to clean the burnt areas of your stainless steel toaster oven and continue using it safely. However, if the burn marks are severe, there is excessive damage, or you have concerns about safety, it's best to consult the manufacturer's instructions or consider replacing the toaster oven.