A toaster is great for heating and crisping bread while using less energy than the average electric oven. Its size makes it convenient to store and can free up counter space for other tasks.
Modern toasters boast many innovative features and even let you control the level of toasting. However, if you are one of those who find their toaster emitting a burning plastic smell, you’re not alone.
While it is true that a toaster that’s newer may be releasing more of this smell, you can often make it go away by following a few simple steps if you know the reason behind it. Let’s take a look at some of the possible causes:
Why Does My Toaster Smell Like Burning Plastic?
- Actual Plastic Pieces in The Toaster
If your toaster’s internal components smell like burning plastic, you should check for the problem. It’s possible that a plastic piece fell out of its packaging into the toasting slot.
If you’re using a new toaster, a plastic piece might fall into the compartment and cause a plastic smell. However, you can prevent this from happening by running a thorough check.
One way to solve this issue is to read the manual before using your toaster for the first time. In the event that the plastic smell persists, read on.
- A New Toaster
The plastic smell can also be caused by the interior of the toaster’s cavity insulation coming into contact with extreme heat for the first time.
This process can make your toaster smell like plastic for about 10 to 20 minutes. However, the plastic smell will subside after a few uses.
- Improper Cleaning
If your toaster is giving a burning plastic smell, you might need to clean it. The best thing you can do to get rid of the smell is to clean the toaster thoroughly. If you do not clean it well, it may cause the plastic smell to persist due to the bread crumbs or other particles trapped in the unit.
Regularly used toasters should be cleaned with a soft cloth soaked in warm water or soapy water. You can also use a non-toxic cleaning solution to remove the debris from the crumb tray.
Old toasters are prone to the accumulation of food debris. Wiping them prevents a heavy build-up of debris. If you fail to wipe them, they can cause a burnt smell when used.
- Internal Components Are Burning
The burning smell can also be an indicator of the burning of an internal component. In this case, you need to switch off the toaster and remove the dust from the coils.
However, you should read your product manual to ensure that you don’t cause any damage to your toaster while doing so. Some manuals will also give you helpful tips in disassembling the unit and removing the coils.
If you can’t deal with the problem by cleaning the coils, it may be a good idea to replace a component that’s causing the smell. In some cases, a burned component is associated with the circuit board. To access the circuit board, flip the toaster over and detach the cable connector.
- Wiring Or Electrical Malfunctioning
Burning plastic smell in toasters may be the result of wiring or electrical malfunction. Depending on the specific source, the plastic smell may go away within a few minutes, but it may last for several uses.
If the plastic smell persists, you may need to check the wiring of the unit. Another cause of a plastic smell from the toaster is a loose component. This component can get into the toaster and burn itself.
If the smell is persistent, it may be an indicator of a more serious problem, and you need to call a professional. It’s best to have an electrician check the unit if there is an electrical problem.
- Bread Bag Sitting Close
One common cause of the plastic smell is a plastic bag sitting too close to the toaster. You need to keep the bag away from the toaster while using it to avoid plastic from getting into it.
If you accidentally put plastic in your toaster, it can melt, making it harmful to you. This causes a burning smell. It can also pose a health and fire risk, as the plastic is likely to cause a flash fire.
The Bottom Line
A burning plastic smell can be dangerous. If you’re worried that your new toaster is emitting a burning plastic smell, it’s time to take action. Typically, the plastic smell is a temporary problem that can be fixed if you know the cause behind it.
In the meantime, it is recommended to avoid using the toaster until the plastic smell goes away. If you do not have enough knowledge, consider visiting a professional.