Should you pull the toaster out from under the upper cupboards before using and why?

Question

I mean when it is already on the countertop.

Answer 1

you'll probably never start a fire - but the heat is going to dry out the wood on the cupboards causing skinking or warping of the wood

Answer 2

A always do now and I unplug it when not in use because mine started a fire. It was one of those old chrome Sunbeams with the fabric covered cords. I used it in the morning left for the day and came home to a completely charred kitchen. According to my insurance investigator, the elements failed to turn off which kept the toaster heated charring the cupboards and catching the window curtains on fire. Totally melted the laminate countertop, too buring clean through to the cupboards underneath it. Is that likely to happen to you, guess it depends on how old the toaster is.

Answer 3

As long as the toaster is in good working order and there is least 12 inches of open space between the top of the toaster and the bottom of the cabnet it should be okay. It takes quite a lot of heat, and sustained heat, to get wood to catch on fire. If the toaster is old/dirty, or ever tends to smoke or jam, then it is a hazard.

However, even with a good toaster and good clearance, I would not recommend it. For one thing, over time, or if you use the toaster a lot (daily), the finish on the cabnets might discolor the finish/paint over time.

Answer 4

Yes, you should because depending on how close the countertop is to the cabinet bottom, the heat from the toaster could at worst start a fire, or blister the paint on the cabinet, damage the finish, etc.

Answer 5

Well, My toaster is about 8" from the cupboard and we've had no problems, it depends how close it is. Just do a test run and feel the bottom of the cupbords, if you think it's getting too hot then move the toaster.

Answer 6

Definately! Heat rises, so if you place it underneath your cupboards it could create some serious damage (burn marks, and a possible fire). I have a big toaster and I used to place it underneath the cupboards so it would look nicer, and my dad told me to move it because it could ruin them.

Answer 7

Thats' a judgment call on your part.
I leave mine under the overhead cupboards while using it.
But then, I'm standing right there the whole time while toasting. Just incase something does go wrong.

Better safe than sorry.....If you're not sure. Do the safe thing.

Things do go wrong.....

Answer 8

To prevent smoke damage from burnt toast, to prevent any fire hazards, and not allow the radiant heat from the toaster from messing up the cabinet bottoms.

Answer 9

the heat could cause some serious damage to the bottem of the cupboards. like black spots and other stuff