The Kitchen Appliance You Should Unplug Before Bed
If you’re hearing the claim that one particular kitchen appliance must always be unplugged before you go to sleep, the safest answer is: there isn’t one appliance that universally must be unplugged “at all costs.”
However, small countertop cooking appliances that produce heat deserve particular attention. Appliances such as toasters, toaster ovens, air fryers, electric grills, and slow cookers can pose a fire risk if they malfunction, are damaged, covered, or used improperly.
The toaster is a particularly good habit to unplug
A toaster can contain heating elements capable of reaching very high temperatures. Crumbs and food debris can accumulate inside, and an electrical fault or other malfunction can potentially cause overheating.
A sensible nighttime routine is:
- Unplug the toaster after use, especially before going to bed.
- Don’t leave it operating unattended.
- Keep it away from curtains, paper towels, cabinets, and other combustible materials.
- Empty accumulated crumbs according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Don’t use an appliance with a damaged cord or plug.
- Plug high-wattage appliances directly into an appropriate wall outlet rather than an overloaded extension cord.
What about an air fryer?
An air fryer also produces substantial heat, but you don’t necessarily need to unplug every air fryer after every use if the manufacturer permits it and it’s being used correctly. Nevertheless, leaving any heat-producing countertop appliance running while everyone is asleep is an unnecessary risk.
The bigger fire-safety rule
Rather than memorizing one “dangerous appliance,” don’t leave cooking or heating appliances operating unattended, and turn them off when you’re finished. Unplugging countertop appliances that don’t need to remain powered is an additional precaution.
If you smell burning, notice unusual heat, sparks, buzzing, a damaged cord, or repeated tripping of a circuit breaker, stop using the appliance and disconnect it safely. If there’s an active electrical fire, don’t throw water on it—get out and call emergency services.
