If you’re fact-checking “Before Bed: One Kitchen Appliance You Must Unplug to Avoid a Fire,” the appliance most commonly singled out is the toaster—and there is legitimate fire-safety advice behind that claim.
Why the toaster deserves attention
A toaster contains exposed heating elements and can accumulate crumbs and food debris. Fire-safety authorities specifically recommend unplugging toasters when they’re not being used and regularly cleaning the crumb tray.
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Queensland Fire Department
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A toaster can potentially ignite nearby combustible material even when its lever is not actively down if there’s an electrical fault or malfunction.
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Illinois Extension
But it’s not the only appliance to consider
Fire authorities generally recommend unplugging small electrical appliances when they’re not in use, particularly appliances that produce heat. Coffee makers, kettles, toaster ovens and similar appliances can present risks if they malfunction or are left unattended.
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Queensland Fire Department
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Before going to bed, a sensible routine is:
Unplug the toaster and other unnecessary small appliances.
Make sure the stove and oven are completely off.
Don’t leave a coffee maker, kettle, toaster oven or other heating appliance running unattended.
Keep appliances away from towels, paper, curtains and other flammable materials.
Don’t overload outlets or use inappropriate extension cords.
Keep smoke alarms working.
The U.S. Fire Administration also recommends unplugging small appliances when they’re not being used.
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U.S. Fire Administration
Bottom line: If the viral post says “the one appliance” is a toaster, that’s a reasonable safety recommendation—but it’s misleading to imply that unplugging only one appliance is the key to preventing kitchen fires. Unplug unnecessary heat-producing appliances and never leave cooking equipment unattended.
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