Toasters- on the face of it, they're not the most complicated of kitchen gadgets. Most people will just plonk their bread in without even thinking about it. We've already covered what the numbers on a toaster mean, but that's just scratching the surface. Many modern toasters come with a plethora of extra features. Not only will these really open up the way you use your toaster, but they could even help you get more life out of it- thereby saving you money in the long run. So, without further ado- let's toast!
Related: Top 10 Best Toasters of 2024
How do I defrost bread in my toaster?
By using the defrost setting, of course! Many toasters come with this feature- we'd say it's on the majority of models produced nowadays. The defrost mode works by adding extra toasting time so that frozen bread will be quickly defrosted and then browned, so your toast still comes out just the way you like it. If your toaster has this feature, be sure to check the manual before using it. On some models, you need to press the defrost button before lowering the bread into the slot. With others, though, it's the other way around.
What does the bagel setting on my toaster do?
Lots of toasters come with a bagel setting. As you might expect, this is specifically designed for toasting bagels. These only need to be toasted on one side, so (normally) this feature will just activate the element on one side of the toaster slot. However, some models we've come across just add extra time onto the toasting time to account for the added thickness of a bagel.
If your toast is coming out only browned on one side, then it may be because you've accidentally turned the bagel setting on.
How do I make sure my toast is browned all over?
We've all been there. Try as you might, you just can't get a slice of toast that's browned all the way to the edge. Well, not all toasters are created equal. We've put together an expertly-chosen list of the best toasters on the market.
How do I keep my toaster clean and in good working order?
Toasters are fairly simple devices. But if you don't give them a bit of TLC every now and again, they could stop working on you. Empty the crumb tray at least once a week, to ensure that it doesn't get too full and present a fire risk. If you're not the cleanest in the kitchen, then you might want to look for a toaster that's easier to just wipe down.
To clean the interior of your toaster, unplug it, then take a clean toothbrush or pastry brush and give the horizontal wires a good wipe to remove any burnt-on crumbs. When that's done, turn the toaster upside down and give it a good shake to empty out anything you've brushed off. Then, lightly dampen your brush with vinegar and give the vertical bars a scrub.
How long does the average toaster last?
How long your toaster lasts will largely depend on how much you spend. Many supermarkets sell toasters for as little as £10, but these are unlikely to last very long before they need to be replaced. On the other hand, high-end brands can cost hundreds of pounds, but will have a longer lifespan. On average, people replace their toaster every three years, so in most cases, they'll last you a fair bit longer than the warranty period.