For warm slices of bread at breakfast and golden toast with appetizers, you need a good toaster. How many slots does a toaster have? Do they have to be extra wide? What is the minimum power for this appliance, which is present in 75% of French homes? Find out everything you need to know in this buying guide on the best toasters of the moment.
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Our selection
"The beautiful Smeg TSF01RDEU Red is a must-have for any vintage toaster lover. Compatible with all types of bread, it has 2 extra wide slots…"
"You can choose a toaster just for the look! If that's the case for you, the Russell Hobbs Colours Plus 23330-56 will interest you. Despite…"
"The KitchenAid 5KMT2204ECA, with a sandwich holder, will lower and raise your bread slices fully automatically. With its ease of use, design and various features,…"
"This toaster consists of 4 slots and operates with a relative power of 1600 W. Made of stainless steel, it offers up to 6 toasting…"
"Are your breakfasts lacking in pizzazz? Treat yourself to this Russell Hobbs 21680-56 Retro toaster for less than 50 €. In addition to its high…"
The beautiful Smeg TSF01RDEU Red is a must-have for any vintage toaster lover. Compatible with all types of bread, it has 2 extra wide slots and full functionality. The device also comes in a 4-slot version and 6 other colors.
127 £ on BoulangerCompatible with most current bread slices, the Smeg TSF01RDEU has a retro design that smells like the 1950s. The red color, the 2 extra wide slots and the pressed steel structure enhance the device. This toaster is also available in a 4-slot version and in other colors. You can choose between beige, white, black, green, multicolor and pink.
With dimensions of 31 x 19.8 x 19.5 cm, this toaster has a power of 950 W. It is equipped with a manual 6-position thermostat, with the possibility to choose the browning of the toasts. The main functions are defrosting, reheating and the bagel function. The bagel function toasts one side of the slice of bread and heats the other side.
The Smeg TSF01RDEU Red is a top-of-the-line appliance and also has an automatic ejector, a crumb tray and a pastry holder. The integrated cord storage is also very practical. However, we regret the unclear instructions and the absence of a toast holder.
You can choose a toaster just for the look! If that's the case for you, the Russell Hobbs Colours Plus 23330-56 will interest you. Despite its random cooking, this device is a good choice for toasting slices of bread.
33,25The so british design of this toaster justifies its place in our ranking. Especially since Russell Hobbs was a pioneer of toaster machines. The flamboyant red color, enhanced by the shiny stainless steel shell, suits it so well. The machine is also available in stainless steel. Comes with a toaster warmer, this 2-slot toaster has non-slip feet.
In addition to its 16,070 W power, it is equipped with a 6-position manual thermostat. Be careful not to burn yourself. Like most toasters, the wall of the Russell Hobbs Colours Plus 23330-56 heats up when it's running. Despite the price, you will get defrosting, centering function as well as quick browning. However, there is no bagel mode.
For ease of use, Russell Hobbs has included the cord storage, automatic ejection, removable crumb tray and extra high lift to its toaster. Too bad the slots are not very wide. In addition, we deplore the random operation. Sometimes the bread comes out charred, other times it comes out all white.
The KitchenAid 5KMT2204ECA, with a sandwich holder, will lower and raise your bread slices fully automatically. With its ease of use, design and various features, you can't help but appreciate it.
234 £ on AmazonHave you always dreamed of a fully automatic toaster that won't burn your fingers? It is now a reality. The KitchenAid brand offers you its 5KMT2204ECA model. With such a jewel, you will be able to start your day in a good mood, toast well browned in the hand. In the evening, after a tiring day, prepare a melting, but not runny, cheese sandwich and enjoy a good movie.
The KitchenAid 5KMT2204ECA toaster promises outstanding performance. As soon as you place your breads in the slots, the unit automatically detects them and lowers them to toast them to perfection. Note that the browning level can be adjusted to 7 degrees, with the duration timed with an LED timer.
Other comfort options complete the package, such as the support of round buns and hamburger buns, the presence of the sandwich holder, which allows you to vary the pleasures or the warmth maintenance.
This toaster consists of 4 slots and operates with a relative power of 1600 W. Made of stainless steel, it offers up to 6 toasting levels.
53,12 £ on Amazon
Are your breakfasts lacking in pizzazz? Treat yourself to this Russell Hobbs 21680-56 Retro toaster for less than 50 €. In addition to its high quality materials, this model will bring a touch of elegance to any kitchen while remaining practical.
38,32 £ on AmazonThis toaster is retro in name and design. The perfect alliance between its intense red color, its magnificent lines and its shiny steel finish will allow it to sit comfortably on any work surface. It will have no trouble harmonizing with all styles of decoration. On the front, the appliance has a retro-looking gauge that lets you know how much time is left for browning. The browning time is adjustable in 6 levels and will be 65% faster thanks to the Fast Toast technology.
The Russell Hobbs 21680-56 Retro has a removable crumb tray that makes cleaning much easier. Several interesting features such as the possibility to cancel browning, defrosting or reheating of bread ensure a comfortable use.
The toaster is very stable thanks to its non-slip feet. The cord can be stored in the integrated storage system. What's more, you can use the same device to heat up your pastries.
The Cuisinart CPT180PIE Rose toaster stands out for its style, rich functionality and 2 pairs of independent slots. Its simplicity makes it usable by even the worst cook. We recommend it to large families and busy users.
53,59 £ on BoulangerTwo-slice toasters are rarely suitable for large families. That's why there are 4-slice models. The Cuisinart CPT180PIE Rose stands out. Measuring 29 x 18 x 27 cm, weighing 2.72 kg and equipped with non-slip feet, it easily fits in the kitchen. We love its retro and timeless design, with stainless steel body. You can also have it in pistachio green color.
The extra wide 36mm slots can accommodate all types of bread. Note that each pair has independent settings with LED indicators. They come in handy, for example, if a family member is prone to allergies. But be careful with the thickness of the bread slices, or you may have trouble removing them.
The appliance has a power rating of 1800 W and a 6-position manual thermostat. There are many functions: bagel, baguette, defrosting, reheating, centering, quick browning and extra high rise. A button allows you to stop everything if necessary. Note also the presence of an integrated cord storage and a crumb tray. On the other hand, we would have liked to see larger buttons and clearer instructions.
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| THE BEST | LESS EXPENSIVE | TOP OF THE RANGE | EXCELLENT | Alternative | Very good | |
In accordance with our commitment, this buying guide does not contain any sponsored products. |
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8/10 |
8/10 |
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| OUR SELECTION |
Smeg TSF01RDEU Red
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Russell Hobbs Colours Plus 23330-56 Rouge
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KitchenAid 5KMT2204ECA
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Ariete Vintage 156
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Russell Hobbs 21680-56 Retro
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Cuisinart CPT180PIE Rose
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The beautiful Smeg TSF01RDEU Red is a must-have for any vintage toaster lover. Compatible with all types of bread, it has 2 extra wide slots and full functionality. The device also comes in a 4-slot version and 6 other colors.
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You can choose a toaster just for the look! If that's the case for you, the Russell Hobbs Colours Plus 23330-56 will interest you. Despite its random cooking, this device is a good choice for toasting slices of bread.
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The KitchenAid 5KMT2204ECA, with a sandwich holder, will lower and raise your bread slices fully automatically. With its ease of use, design and various features, you can't help but appreciate it.
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This toaster consists of 4 slots and operates with a relative power of 1600 W. Made of stainless steel, it offers up to 6 toasting levels.
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Are your breakfasts lacking in pizzazz? Treat yourself to this Russell Hobbs 21680-56 Retro toaster for less than 50 €. In addition to its high quality materials, this model will bring a touch of elegance to any kitchen while remaining practical.
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The Cuisinart CPT180PIE Rose toaster stands out for its style, rich functionality and 2 pairs of independent slots. Its simplicity makes it usable by even the worst cook. We recommend it to large families and busy users.
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Power
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950 W
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1670 W
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1250 W
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1600 W
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1300 W
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1800 W
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Additional features
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Defrosting, reheating, bagel
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Defrosting, centering function, quick browning
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Sandwich, defrost, pastry
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Heat and defrost
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Defrost, cancel and reheat (breads and pastries)
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Defrosting, reheating, baguette toaster, centering function, quick browning, bagel, canceling
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Material
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Drawn steel
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Stainless steel
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Metal
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Stainless steel
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Stainless steel
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Metal
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Number of slots
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2
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2
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2
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4
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2
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4
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Browning degree setting
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6
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6
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7
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6
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6
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6
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As with any other household appliance, the performance of a toaster is measured primarily by its power. Indeed, the value of this one determines the speed of heating of the resistances or the radiators embarked in the toasters. To brown or toast without drying out the slices of bread, you should choose an appliance with a minimum power of 900 watts. Models intended for intensive use and those cut for large families can go up to 1800 W.
As you browse through the different toaster models on the market, you'll find that the number of slots generally varies between 1 and 6. When you live alone or with two people, one or two slots are enough. However, for large families, you should consider a toaster with at least 4 slots.
The width of the slots should also be taken into account. Toasters with one slot are generally sized to accommodate half a baguette. On the other hand, those with multiple slots are designed for smaller slices of sandwich bread, baguette, country bread, etc.
Modern toasters are usually equipped with a thermostat that allows you to choose to brown or toast the slices of bread at the temperature you want. In other words, you retain control over the intensity of the toasting so you can adjust it to suit the thickness of the bread slices. Typically, thermostat toasters offer 6 to 10 temperature settings.
If the toaster you're interested in doesn't have a thermostat, make sure it has a window or visual indicator so you can keep an eye on the browning of your slices.
Some toasters do not have a timer or thermostat. It is essential to monitor the cooking process to ensure that the bread does not burn.
To stand out from the crowd, manufacturers have incorporated some very practical and ingenious features into their toasters to make use more enjoyable.
As much as possible, opt for a toaster that is compatible with all types of breads: bagels, baguettes, country loaves, pains au chocolat, croissants, etc. This gives you an opportunity to vary the pleasures, which is why models with a pastry holder are among the most popular of the moment. Unlike all bread toasters, some machines are very selective and only suitable for those with a particular taste.
To get an idea of the versatility of a toaster, the thickness of the slot is a good indicator. In addition to the standard size (35 mm), some slots are 28 and 38 mm thick to accommodate the thinnest and thickest slices of bread.
When choosing your toaster, pay close attention to its dimensions and consider the amount of free space on your kitchen counter or countertop. While height is usually not an issue, it's the length and width of the appliance that you need to be careful with.
According to its design, a toaster can be vertical or horizontal. The vertical version is undoubtedly the most common form on the market, as it is intended for home use. To recognize it, nothing could be easier: the baked, browned and toasted breads come out towards the top. In shops, like cafeterias or restaurants, horizontal toasters are recommended. Similar to ovens in miniature, they have a very high output and can accommodate several slices of bread at a time.
How can we not talk about design when we talk about home appliances? Because this appliance will be highly visible in your kitchen, you might as well make sure it doesn't clash with the decor. In this age of connectedness, retro or vintage style is still very popular with the public. And manufacturers are not lacking in offering them in all ranges, with a stainless steel or aluminum shell.
Some toaster brands, however, rely on reinforced ABS plastic to reduce weight and to offer the appliance in a range of more vivid and attractive colors. Of course, the robustness could be questioned in this case.
If possible, don't buy a toaster with only a one-year warranty. It is better to choose a model with a 2, 3 or even 5-year warranty, as this is a good indicator of the toaster's sturdiness and allows you to exchange it in case of problems.
To heat, bake, brown or toast slices of bread, the toaster is equipped with resistors, the number of which varies from one model to another. Certainly, it may seem that it is among the appliances that consume a lot, but it should be known that it only takes 5 minutes to prepare good toast for large families. Of course, this will require choosing a toaster with multiple slots.
Also, for a use of 5 minutes per day, a toaster accuses on average an annual consumption of 26 kWh. Of course, the cost varies depending on your energy provider, but in general, it is around 4 to 5 euros per year. The toaster thus remains the cheapest household appliance, as even the kettle charges 134 kWh of annual consumption for a use of 10 minutes per day.
Buying your toaster on the internet is a particularly interesting choice, because you will often benefit from a better price than in a store. What's more, the seller takes care of the delivery, so there are no shipping costs to pay and no time spent unnecessarily. Moreover, some brands take back your old toaster and give you a discount on the new one. And of course, you have several days to retract your purchase if you don't like it; a return policy is in place for this specific case.
Many brands sell directly from their websites. Others work in partnership with specialized stores like Boulanger, Darty or Cdiscount. Our preference goes to Boulanger, given its reputation, the quality of its offers and the performance of its delivery and after-sales service, as well as its return policy. Moreover, Boulanger has an online store in addition to its physical stores.
Its name already suggests the versatility of this type of toaster. Designed to accommodate baguettes, slices of farmhouse or sandwich bread, and even pastries, the all bread toaster allows you to vary the pleasure for a succulent breakfast, a successful brunch and greedy appetizers.To recognize the all bread toaster, you just have to spot the wide, long and deep slots. The existence of many features are also good indicators: extra high lift, crumb tray, defrosting, bagel function, pastry holder, etc.Advantages: The versatility is already a good point for this type of toaster, because, in principle, it is compatible with all types of bread, even pastries. Then, we must recognize that the many functions integrated into this appliance facilitate the daily task. And then, thanks to the nature of the slots, it is sometimes possible to bake several slices of bread at the same time.Disadvantages: Due to the width of the slots, it is often difficult to brown or toast, and to bring out small slices of bread. In some cases, the slice of bread may even bend when it comes out if it is too thin for the slot.Who is it for? The all bread toaster is more for those who want to diversify the type of bread used. It is also recommended for large families where tastes are rather heterogeneous, because this appliance will allow to bake a variety of breads at the same time.
Although it is becoming rare these days, the toaster with a swinging door is a very practical model. Although it only bakes, browns and toasts on one side, due to the location of its heating elements, you can put small slices of toast in it as well as bread balls.Its operation could not be easier. The door opens vertically like an oven door and works like a grill. The door opens vertically like an oven and works like a grill. You place the slices or balls of bread to be toasted on it, close it and turn on the machine. If you want to brown the bread on both sides, you will have to take it out and turn it over after a few minutes.Advantages: The main advantage of a toaster with a swinging door is that it can handle both thin slices of bread and thick balls. In addition, it is very easy to use and its efficiency is not in doubt. And even though performance is more important than design when buying an appliance, the vintage and retro look of this type of toaster is very appealing.Disadvantages: With an overhead door toaster, you can only cook on one side, so you have to flip the bread for a nice golden brown on both sides. Of course, this means more handling, so the risk of burning is not to be minimized.Who is it for? The toaster with an overhead door is for those who like to brown a fairly thick slice of bread, such as bread balls. It is also the ideal toaster for making good toast to accompany your appetizers.
The baguette toaster is recognizable by its slim, elongated appearance. Its shallow slots also follow the same trend and are designed for several types of bread. One of the main features of a baguette toaster is the functions it offers. One of the main features of a baguette toaster is the functions it includes. The defrosting mode is always present, as well as the bagel function. This type of toaster also has metal baskets to heat up the pastries.Advantages: Due to the slim and wide slots of the baguette toaster, you can cut the bread in half lengthwise and toast one or both sides. The functions built into the device will also allow you to defrost slices of bread, heat them to soften them or toast them.Disadvantages: While the slots are one of the strengths of a special baguette toaster, they also remain its main drawback. Indeed, they are not very deep and do not adapt to all bread shapes, especially to those that are quite wide.Who is it for? Also known as "French bread", the baguette is always very popular during the morning meal. So, this type of toaster is for those who like a very French breakfast with golden bread, crispy as we like it.
Its name is already suggestive enough: the motorized toaster is a type of automatic toaster. Basically, all you have to do is place the slices of bread on the supports and the device will then drive them to the heating elements to cook them according to the commands given. During this automated process, the machine is silent: you won't hear the typical sound of the bread slices going down to the toaster or the clattering sound when the toast is "lifted" up at the end of the cooking process. In most cases, motorized toasters are equipped with a metal basket to heat the pastries.Advantages: The main argument for this type of toaster is that it is "motorized". You just have to put the slices of bread on the support and the device, which has a silent system, takes care of the rest. This automation of the process results in a very limited intervention for the user who is then protected from any burns.Disadvantages : To avoid any accident in this motorized process, this type of toaster incorporates various safety mechanisms. While these mechanisms are a good thing, some models are not as responsive as others, because if a piece of bread gets stuck, the alarm sounds.Who is it for? The motorized toaster is for those who are looking for a silent toaster that is practically autonomous in its operation. It is also with this type of toaster that you can easily warm up pastries, so it is recommended for those who enjoy a good croissant for breakfast.
Eating fresh toast or slices of bread every morning in less than 3 minutes is possible thanks to the toaster. It is a small appliance with a power of between 500 and 1600 W, consisting of 2 to 4 slots where the slices of bread must be placed.
The use of this device is very beneficial. The toaster is easy to handle, heats up quickly, consumes less energy and is easier to clean than a normal sized oven. In addition, eating toasted bread helps reduce the rate of fat absorption by the body.
It is a 700 to 1200 W machine that can easily make sandwiches. The sandwich maker can also cook pancakes, puff pastries and waffles with the additional interchangeable plates that make it up.
Very practical, it has a cooking and heating indicator that guarantees the efficiency of the preparation. It is also composed by a non-stick coating, which makes it easy to clean. However, this type of device has a not quite stable temperature. Moreover, it can give an aftertaste to your sandwich.
If you like homemade snacks, a sandwich maker will suit your needs. If not, a toaster is the way to go, especially if you like slices of bread spread.
The latest surveys show that 3 out of 4 French households now have a toaster. This craze is not a coincidence; it can be explained by the fact that this appliance allows you to quickly warm up bread or pastries. Indeed, who would refuse a good breakfast with hot, crusty bread? Some hotels even make toasters available to their guests who love French-style breakfasts.
The functions of a toaster are numerous. Not only does it heat, bake and toast slices of bread for breakfast or an afternoon snack, but it also heats up pastries so that they become as crisp as when they came out of the oven. In addition, you can also use your toaster to make great toast to serve as an appetizer or as a snack.
Not everyone has the opportunity to go to the bakery to buy fresh bread every morning. Many households choose frozen bread to make up their weekly rations. With a good toaster, slices of bread can be defrosted, heated and even lightly toasted for breakfast in no more than 5 minutes. You can even choose the level of toasting if you choose a mid-range or high-end toaster.
The toaster is a particularly economical and energy-efficient appliance, even if it is equipped with heaters or resistors. On average, the annual consumption of a toaster is less than 30 kWh, which represents about 5 euros of your annual electricity bill.
Most modern toasters have a thermostat to allow you to set the temperature and level of cooking. In many cases, the thermostat is even coupled with a timer. This means you can toast your toast without burning it, brown your bread slices without burning them, or heat your toast without browning it.
If the use of a toaster is within everyone's reach, so is its maintenance and cleaning. The toaster can be equipped with a crumb tray, a removable accessory that collects the crumbs that fall out during cooking. In addition, it can be equipped with an extra-high lift function that pushes the bread slices up when they are ready to be picked up and eaten.
In our opinion, the best brands of toasters in 2022 are :
The Italian brand manufactures toasters with a very advantageous look. The shapes, the color, the choice of materials used, the functionality... Nothing is left to chance. Of course, these high-end models are expensive. But considering the quality, it remains a very good deal. Smeg is also known for its vintage fridges, coffee machines and food processors.
Russell Hobbs is a British appliance manufacturer founded in 1952. This brand won the title of best brand in the 1960s with its range of kettles in the British market. Nowadays, the brand keeps innovating and tries to acquire the international market with its new products like their electric toasters. Obviously these products are always of good quality.
Founded in 1971 by a lover of French gastronomy, Cuisinart has democratized the use of food processors. Now, the French brand makes coffee makers, blenders, blenders, multi-cookers or even toasters. What do all its appliances have in common? Their manufacturing quality.
Every year, the Swedish giant sells more than 60 million appliances for domestic use in over 150 countries. So it's no surprise that Electrolux makes toasters. The brand is also famous for its washing machines, dryers, induction cookers, dishwashers and built-in ovens. A very good choice for the entry and mid-range segments.
Also owned by the De'Longhi Group, Kenwood is famous for its kitchen appliances, especially food processors. The British brand's kMix appliances are among the must-haves in the high-end segment. Its toasters will please those who are looking for quality above all.
The diagram below will help you to get an idea of the typical prices for each price range (entry-level, mid-range and high-end).
However, more expensive does not necessarily mean better.
We therefore advise you to always consult our ranking before deciding, rather than blindly relying on price ranges.
Unplug your toaster.
Did you know that standby mode accounts for 10% of a household's annual energy consumption? So, after using your toaster, unplug it without waiting for it to cool down completely. Of course, this appliance already consumes little energy, but with this gesture, you'll save even more.
Put a tray under the toaster.
Concerned about hygiene, a toaster must be cleaned after each use. First, unplug the appliance and wait for it to cool completely before cleaning. Whenever possible, do this near the sink, as it will be more convenient and less messy.
Never use metal cutlery to retrieve your toast.
Clean the toaster's structure with a damp sponge, then wipe it down with a dry cloth. This method works whether you have a toaster with a stainless steel or ABS plastic shell. For the interior, run empty cycles to burn the bread pieces and turn them into crumbs.
Remove crumbs weekly.
If your toaster doesn't have a crumb catcher, it's highly recommended that you place an insulating tray underneath the appliance so that your work surface doesn't get dirty. We insist on the insulating aspect of the tray, because if you choose a material that conducts current or heat, the risk of burns will be numerous.
Disintegrate the crumbs.
We've seen enough on TV of the little spark that a fork and the top of a toaster produce. Also, avoid using a metal cutlery, whether magnetic or not, to pick up your slices of bread. Prefer a tool with a wooden or plastic handle, both of which are non-conductive materials.
If your toaster has a crumb tray, this accessory will catch the leftovers after each use. To keep it from overflowing, remember to remove the crumb tray once or twice a week to empty, clean, dry and replace it.
Sometimes it's difficult to remove crumbs or bits of bread stuck in the toaster. To do this, run the machine on empty, choosing the highest temperature to disintegrate the leftovers. This way, they will fall more easily into the crumb tray or collection tray.
How many times have you run one to three vacuum cycles without crumbs coming off the inside wall of your toaster? A thorough cleaning is in order! To do this, take a new, clean toothbrush and use it to scrub the inside of the toaster. If necessary, wet the brush with a few drops of white vinegar.
Generally, a toaster is the specific composition of cavities used to introduce the pieces of bread to be toasted. On the other hand, the toaster has one or more horizontal compartments to receive the toasts. But both normally work in the same way and it is possible to adjust them according to the convenience of each one.
This is not normal at all and should even alert you. If it still persists, you should take a look at the circuit board or the power supply of your device, as something might be damaged and causing this problem. So, you should unplug your device immediately and start by removing the cover in order to perform the check.
Generally, the toaster uses the infrared radiation feature to heat or toast a slice of bread. It is thanks to the electric current through an assembly of nickel and chromium in a coil that the radiation can be produced. This production of heat is called the Joule effect.
Avoid searching for bread with a metal object, knife or fork. Prefer wooden objects. And turn off the appliance with the plug unplugged before cleaning. These actions will minimize the risk of electrocution. Also, set the toaster to the right temperature to avoid burning your bread, which not only has no taste, but is harmful to your health.
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