That’s an important safety reminder. The kitchen appliance most often recommended to be unplugged before bed or when not in use to reduce fire risk is the toaster or toaster oven.
Here’s why:
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Crumb buildup can ignite if heating elements cycle on unexpectedly.
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Electrical malfunctions or short circuits can occur even when not actively toasting.
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Thermostats can fail, causing the appliance to overheat.
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It’s a common item left plugged in and unattended for long periods.
Other high-risk appliances that should be unplugged when not in use include:
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Electric kettle
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Coffee maker
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Slow cooker / Crock-Pot (if left unattended for very long periods)
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Air fryer
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Griddles / sandwich presses
General safety tips:
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Don’t leave cooking appliances unattended while in use.
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Keep appliances clean and free of grease/food debris.
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Ensure they’re on a stable, heat-resistant surface away from flammable items.
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Check cords for damage and replace if frayed.
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Consider using a power strip with a surge protector for appliances that aren’t used daily, and switch it off at night.
Ultimately, unplugging any heat-producing kitchen appliance when not in use is a simple, effective habit to minimize fire risk, especially overnight or when leaving home. The toaster is the most frequently cited example in fire safety guidelines for this practice.