How to Care for Small Appliances
Small appliances like toasters, coffee makers and blenders come in for heavy use in the typical family kitchen, but don't always get the attention that they need. It's important to follow all instructions carefully and use the appliances only in the way they are intended to be used.
Instructions
- 1 Store all instruction manuals in a safe, handy location. Refer to them when problems arise with your appliances -- they usually contain a troubleshooting section.
2 Turn off appliances before plugging or unplugging the cords. Always insert removable cords into the appliance before plugging them into the outlet . Unplug them from the wall before detaching the cords from the appliance.
3 Wait for appliances to cool completely before cleaning or storing them.
4 Clean the exteriors of your small appliances with a cloth moistened with warm water and a drop or two of liquid dishwashing detergent. Use cotton swabs dipped in the solution to clean nooks and crannies that are difficult to reach.
5 Wipe spills in the interior of your microwave and toaster ovens immediately to keep them from hardening.
6 Remove stubborn stains from inside the microwave by filling a 3-cup, microwave-safe glass with 1 cup water and 1 cup white vinegar. Microwave uncovered for 5 minutes. Wipe away any food residue with a moist cloth.
7 Wash the interior of the blender by filling it halfway with hot water and adding two to three drops of dish-washing detergent. Blend for 30 seconds and rinse well.
8 Empty the crumb tray on toasters after each use.
9 Clean the carafe and filter of coffeemakers with warm, soapy water after each use. Once or twice each month fill the carafe with equal parts white vinegar and water. Pour the solution into the reservoir and allow it to go through a brewing cycle. Empty the carafe and refill with water. Pour into the reservoir and put through a brewing cycle to remove all traces of vinegar.
10 Examine cords regularly for signs of wear or damage.
