Cleaning baked-on grease from a toaster oven requires some elbow grease, but it can be done effectively with the following steps:
Unplug the toaster oven: Safety should always be a priority when cleaning electrical appliances. Unplug the toaster oven and let it cool down before starting the cleaning process.
Remove trays and racks: Take out all removable parts such as trays, racks, and crumb trays. Soak them in hot, soapy water to help loosen the baked-on grease. You can add a few drops of dish soap to a sink or basin filled with warm water.
Scrape off loose debris: Use a plastic or wooden spatula to gently scrape off any loose debris and larger pieces of baked-on grease. Avoid using metal tools as they can scratch the toaster oven's surfaces.
Create a cleaning solution: Mix a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. The acidic properties of vinegar help to break down grease and grime effectively.
Spray the interior: Liberally spray the interior surfaces of the toaster oven with the vinegar solution, focusing on areas with visible grease buildup.
Let it sit: Allow the vinegar solution to sit and work on the grease for about 10-15 minutes. This will help to loosen the baked-on grease, making it easier to clean.
Scrub the interior: Take a non-abrasive scrubbing sponge or a soft cloth and gently scrub the interior surfaces of the toaster oven. Pay extra attention to areas with stubborn grease stains. Be gentle to avoid damaging the heating elements or interior coatings.
Wipe down with a damp cloth: Dampen a clean cloth with water and wipe down the interior to remove any remaining vinegar solution and grease residues.
Clean removable parts: Take the trays, racks, and crumb trays out of the soapy water and scrub them with a sponge or brush. Rinse thoroughly under running water and let them air dry.
Clean the exterior: Wipe down the exterior of the toaster oven with a damp cloth to remove any grease or dirt that might have accumulated.
Reassemble and plug in: Once everything is dry, reassemble the toaster oven by putting the trays and racks back in place. Plug it back in and it's ready for use.
Remember to regularly clean your toaster oven to prevent excessive grease buildup, as this will make future cleaning much easier.