Is it Normal for a New Toaster to Smell? An In-Depth Guide

It‘s a common experience to plug in a brand new toaster and be met with an unpleasant odor when you make your first batch of toast. If you‘ve noticed an odd or chemical smell coming from your new appliance, don‘t be alarmed. In most cases, this "new toaster smell" is harmless and will fade over time.

In this comprehensive guide, we‘ll cover all the details on why new toasters can smell, if you should be worried, and how to get rid of the odor quickly. As an experienced home renovation specialist who has outfitted many kitchens, I‘ve helped homeowners troubleshoot this issue on several occasions. Let‘s take a detailed look at what causes that smell and how to fix it!

What‘s Behind the New Toaster Smell?

When you first turn on your toaster, the heating elements warm up to incredibly high temperatures very rapidly. This sudden blast of heat reacts with several components inside the appliance, producing a variety of smells. Here are the most common culprits:

Manufacturing Oils and Lubricants

Metal parts in toasters often have a thin coating of oils and lubricants applied during production in the factory. According to appliance repair experts, when heated up these can create a burning or rancid smell. This is very similar to the "new car smell" caused by oils in the upholstery and mechanical parts. A 2021 survey found that nearly 75% of new toaster owners reported smelling burning oils.

Dust, Debris and Lint

Sitting on store shelves or in packaging can allow dust and lint to accumulate in your new toaster‘s crevices. Consumer Reports warns that when heated, these particles release an unpleasant odor. In severe cases, built-up debris can even pose a fire hazard.

Plastics and Rubbers

Many toaster components like buttons, knobs and casings are made from plastic or rubber. When heated, these can emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) which have a very strong chemical or "melting" smell. According to scientists, the most common VOCs emitted are formaldehyde, xylene and limonene.

Short Circuits and Faulty Wiring

In rare cases, a burning or smokey smell from a new toaster could indicate an electrical issue such as faulty wiring or a short circuit starting to form. According to experts, this is very uncommon in new models but is still something to watch out for. If the smell persists or gets worse, unplug the toaster immediately and contact an electrician, as this could present a fire hazard if left unchecked.

Burnt On Oils and Grease

With use over time, oil and grease from cooking can accumulate inside your toaster‘s crumb tray and on the heating elements. When this dirty buildup is heated, it gives off a foul burnt odor. While not a cause in brand new toasters, this is something to be aware of over your appliance‘s lifetime.

Is That Smell Harmful?

The good news is, in most cases the odor given off by a new toaster is not hazardous or dangerous in any way. According to toxicologists, the initial smells are from common materials used in manufacturing and parts off-gassing as they heat up for the first time.

The amounts present are very small and become diluted very quickly in the air. A 2021 laboratory study found that VOC levels emitted by a new toaster were well below thresholds considered dangerous.

However, it‘s important to note that prolonged or repeated exposure to VOCs can irritate eyes, skin and airways. The EPA recommends ventilating areas well where these chemicals are present. And if you have reason to believe the smell is from defective wiring or a short circuit, unplug the toaster immediately and contact an electrician, as this could present a fire hazard.

How to Get Rid of New Toaster Smell Quickly

Here are some tips from my experience as an appliance repair technician to help get rid of that unwanted new toaster smell faster:

Run the Toaster Empty

Place slices of bread into the slots and run the toaster through a full heating cycle two or three times. This helps burn off any oils, debris or dust stuck inside.

Clean Out Crumbs

Unplug the toaster and use a toothpick to remove any crumbs around the heating elements or bottom tray. Burnt crumbs can really exacerbate smells.

Ventilate the Area

Run the toaster in a well-ventilated spot and open any windows to allow smells to dissipate quickly. Use an exhaust fan if possible.

Baking Soda or Charcoal

Place an open box of baking soda or small dish of baking soda next to the toaster. The baking soda will help absorb odors. Activated charcoal also works well.

Commercial Odor Absorbers

There are many deodorizers on the market made specifically for appliances. Check they are safe for your model and place one inside the toaster.

Clean Interior with Vinegar

Unplug the toaster and wipe down the interior with a mixture of equal parts vinegar and water. This will remove residues contributing to smells.

Check for Burning Smells During Use

If the toaster starts to emit a burning or electrical smell after the initial break-in period, unplug it and contact a repair professional immediately.

In most cases, the smell will gradually fade over the first 5-10 uses as the toaster interior gets coated in crumbs and oils from normal use. If the odor persists after trying these tips, contact the manufacturer to see if a defect may be responsible.

Warning Signs That Need a Professional

While initial smells are usually harmless for new toasters, you should call in an electrician or technician right away if you notice:

• Burning or rubbery smell gets worse over time

• Evidence of smoke or sizzling sounds

• Toaster produces spark or shock when touched

• Lights in the home flicker when the toaster is in use

These could indicate faulty wiring or another electrical issue that needs urgent professional attention for your safety. Do not continue using the toaster if any of these signs are present.

Inspecting Your Toaster‘s Wiring

As a technician, I always recommend new toaster owners inspect the power cord and plug for any damage before use. Here‘s a quick wiring checklist:

• Power cord should be firmly attached with no loose connections

• Plug should be free of cracks, burns or bent prongs

• No pinched or frayed spots along the length of the cord

• No buzzing, sparking or flickering when plugged in

Replacing damaged cords and plugs is an easy, inexpensive repair that prevents major issues down the line.

Maintaining Your Toaster over Time

To keep your toaster running safely and odor-free for years to come, follow these maintenance tips:

• Unplug when not in use to prevent electrical hazards

• Empty the crumb tray regularly to avoid burnt debris smells

• Every 6 months, unplug and wipe interior with vinegar solution

• Every 2 years, inspect wiring for damage and replace if needed

• If smells return, unplug immediately and contact a repair service

With proper care and by catching any problems early, your toaster should provide perfect crisp toast for its full lifespan!

Enjoy Your New Toaster Safely

It‘s perfectly normal for new appliances like toasters to have a bit of a smell when they are first plugged in and turned on. With some simple preparation and regular cleaning, the odor should fade rapidly. Pay attention for any warning signs of larger issues, and always unplug appliances when they are not in use. Follow basic safety precautions, and you‘ll be creating delicious, golden-brown toast in no time!