October 10, 2024, 10:54 am | Read time: 3 minutes
A toaster can probably be found in most households. However, this household appliance also poses a danger that should not be underestimated. In the worst-case scenario, it could even cause a fire in your home. myHOMEBOOK asked an expert.
Did I turn off the stove? Everyone has probably had this thought after locking the door to their house or apartment. Few people think about the toaster, but this kitchen appliance is not entirely harmless. In the worst case, it can even cause a fire in your home. Read why you should unplug the toaster after use and what other sources of fire are lurking in the kitchen.
Is the toaster a typical cause of fire in the home?
“A good third of all home fires start in the kitchen,” explains Hendrik Schäfer from the VDE Testing and Certification Institute in Offenbach when asked by myHOMEBOOK. However, the toaster is not solely responsible for this figure. Schäfer also mentions that other kitchen appliances, such as electric stoves, ovens, coffee machines, waffle irons, and sandwich makers, can cause fires. But it’s not just in the kitchen that you should be careful. “The most common cause of fires in the home is the tumble dryer,” adds the expert.
It’s better to unplug the toaster after use
Schäfer generally advises that electrical appliances should always be disconnected from the power supply after use. “This is the safest way to prevent unintentional operation or appliance malfunction,” says the professional. This also applies to the toaster. However, many appliances also have appropriate safety devices. To identify such appliances, it is advisable to look for test marks, such as the VDE or GS mark.
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How else can you minimize the risk of fire?
According to Schäfer, small kitchen appliances such as toasters, waffle irons and sandwich makers should always be operated on a “stable and heat-dissipating surface”. This would prevent overheating. This is one of the most common causes of fires, “especially when using the bun attachment on toasters,” adds Schäfer.
You should also ensure that no easily flammable materials, such as curtains or napkins, are in the immediate vicinity. Ideally, the heat generated should be able to escape easily so that no heat build-up occurs.
Schäfer gives another tip: “You should also make sure that the connecting cables are not routed over sharp edges to prevent damage.” This is because a short circuit in the cable can also lead to fire damage or electric shocks.