How to remove burnt on grease from your toaster oven

Toaster ovens are incredibly convenient for whipping up quick meals, but over time, they can become a magnet for grease and grime. If you’ve noticed stubborn, burnt-on grease sticking to the interior of your toaster oven, you’re not alone. This build-up not only looks unsightly but can also affect the performance of even the best toaster ovens.

Cleaning your toaster oven may seem like a chore, but with the right approach, it’s easier than you think. Whether you’re tackling years of baked-on grease or cleaning up after a messy recipe, this guide will help you restore your appliance to its original shine. Plus, if you're battling grease elsewhere in the kitchen, check out our guide on how to remove burnt-on grease from pots and pans for more tips.

Avoiding a dirty toaster oven altogether starts with proper maintenance. Don’t miss our list of toaster oven mistakes to avoid at all costs to help keep your appliance clean and running smoothly.

1. Gather your cleaning supplies

Before starting, gather a few essential items: baking soda, white vinegar, dish soap, a soft sponge or cloth, and a non-abrasive scrub brush.

Avoid using harsh chemicals or steel wool, as these can damage the interior coating of your toaster oven.

2. Remove and soak removable parts

Take out all removable parts, such as the crumb tray, racks, and any baking pans. Then soak them in a mixture of hot water and dish soap for 15-20 minutes to loosen grease and grime.

3. Create a cleaning paste

Ninja Prestige Smart XL Air Fryer &amp; Countertop Oven being tested in a white kitchen

Next, make a paste using equal parts baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the greasy areas inside your toaster oven, focusing on the walls and glass door.

For tougher spots, add a splash of white vinegar to the paste for extra cleaning power.

4. Scrub and wipe down

Someone cleaning an oven rack inside an oven with a cloth while wearing gloves

Gently scrub the greasy areas using a non-abrasive brush or sponge. Wipe away the loosened grease with a damp cloth, rinsing frequently to remove residue.

5. Clean the glass door

Ninja 12-in-1 Double Oven with FlexDoor DCT401 on counter

To clean the glass door, use a mixture of vinegar and water or a glass-safe cleaner. Spray it onto the door, let it sit for a minute, then wipe clean with a microfiber cloth.

Once everything is clean and dry, reassemble your toaster oven. Regular cleaning after each use can help prevent grease build-up and prolong the life of your appliance.

Now you’ve learned how to remove burnt-on grease from your toaster oven, why not tackle other kitchen appliances? Check out our guide on how to clean your bread maker to keep it running smoothly. For a spotless home, don’t miss how to deep-clean every part of your vacuum. And if you're an air fryer fan, make sure to read our 5 top tips when using aluminum foil in an air fryer.

Kaycee is Tom's Guide's How-To Editor, known for tutorials that get straight to what works. She writes across phones, homes, TVs and everything in between — because life doesn't stick to categories and neither should good advice. She's spent years in content creation doing one thing really well: making complicated things click. Kaycee is also an award-winning poet and co-editor at Fox and Star Books.