Step 3: Clean the Nooks and Crannies
Grease and crumbs love to hide around buttons, knobs, and seams. Nana uses an old toothbrush or cotton swab dipped in the vinegar solution to gently clean these hard-to-reach areas.
For the crumb tray and removable parts, soak them in warm water with a splash of vinegar for 10–15 minutes. After soaking, scrub lightly with baking soda, then rinse thoroughly with clean water.
Step 4: Polish It Up
Once all the grease and grime are gone, wipe the toaster with a clean, damp cloth to remove any remaining vinegar or baking soda residue. Finish by drying and polishing with a microfiber cloth for a streak-free shine.
Nana’s tip: For stainless steel toasters, add a tiny drop of olive oil or baby oil to the microfiber cloth and wipe in the direction of the grain. This helps prevent fingerprints and gives a professional-looking finish.
Step 5: Let It Dry and Reassemble
Allow all parts to dry completely before plugging the toaster back in. Moisture and electricity don’t mix, so give it at least 30 minutes to air-dry, or towel-dry thoroughly if you’re short on time.
Once everything is dry, reassemble your toaster—and it’s ready to use.
Why This Method Works
Vinegar and baking soda are a classic cleaning combo for good reason. Vinegar’s acetic acid dissolves grease and grime, while baking soda lifts stuck-on residue. When combined, their fizzing reaction helps loosen dirt in crevices and corners.
Unlike many commercial degreasers, this method is gentle, non-toxic, and residue-free. You can use it confidently in the kitchen without worrying about harsh chemicals—and it costs next to nothing.
Other Benefits of Nana’s Trick
No harsh chemicals: Safe to use around food and hands
Eco-friendly: Reduces reliance on chemical cleaners
Budget-friendly: Uses pantry staples you already have
Low effort: Minimal scrubbing required
A Toaster That Looks as Good as New
The next time your toaster looks greasy or grimy, there’s no need to stress. With Nana’s simple vinegar-and-baking-soda trick, you can have it sparkling clean in no time—with hardly any effort.
Whether you’re freshening up before guests arrive or just staying on top of your kitchen routine, this easy hack keeps your toaster in tip-top shape.
So next time your appliances need a quick refresh, remember Nana’s trick—it really does work like magic.
