Toasters

About Toasters

Toasters are probably the most popular type of small kitchen appliances worldwide. They marked the 20th century, becoming a quintessential part of mid-century design, as well as many breakfasts. 

Modern toasters come with a broad range of convenient features, from adaptable slot sizes to smart connectivity and touch screens.

Types of Toasters

2 Slice Toasters

Models with two bread slots are the most popular option worldwide. Their size may vary, but most models are compact and suitable even for small kitchens with restricted counter space. Two-slice toaster controls are usually featured on the narrow side. 

4 Slice Toasters

Ideal for families and larger households, four-slice toasters can fit four slices at once. The downside is that those four pieces are not always roasted uniformly; hence it’s good to look for models with independent controls and different level settings. Four-slice toasters are, naturally, on a larger side, with the control panel paced in the front.

Long-Slot Toasters

Long-slot toasters can have one or two slots, each suitable for two slices of bread. Although less common than standard two-slice models, they have the advantage of a slim profile and relatively consistent toasting results. Long-slot toasters can also fit irregular shapes or tall slices placed sideways. 

Toaster Oven Features

Some features come as standard and should be available on any model, including the most affordable ones. Those features include a crumb tray and a series of essential functions:

• Cancel function: Pressing the button immediately stops the toasting cycle
• Defrost: Useful for toasting frozen bread slices
• Reheat: Warms up the piece of toast without drying it out further

Extra Features 

Models on a higher price end come with a series of handy additional features. 

• Extra lift: Useful for toasting smaller pieces such as muffins or slices of baguette. It raises small items high, making it easy to take them out of the machine without the risk of burning fingers. 
• Bagel setting: Designed for turning the heat down on one side to keep the bagel in ideal condition, with a soft edge and toasted centre.
• Variable width slots: More versatile models feature a lever for widening or narrowing the slot, also helpful in compressing the bread to ensure even browning.  
• Lift and look: This function is also called ‘peek and pop,’ allowing to check toasting level without interrupting the cycle.
• Countdown timer: Handy for those who know exactly how they want their toast, the countdown timer can be preset to ensure the precise toasting every time. 
• Bun warmer: Some toasters feature either a clip-on or integrated pop-up rack, suited for warming croissants and buns.
• Sandwich toasting cage:  This convenient function eliminated the need for a sandwich press, with a hinged metal cage that allows their safe toasting.
• Smart toaster: More advanced models feature handy connection possibilities. Touch screen toasters come with digital panels that ease maintenance and improve the overall convenience of use. 

Design & Colours

Toasters are available in a virtually endless selection of colours and designs. Apart from standard silver and black toasters, popular options include white toasters, varieties of red and yellow, or retro toasters with geometric patterns. Mixing and matching them with designs of kettles, juicers, or coffee machines can result in an attractive kitchen focal point. 

While combinations of stainless steel and plastic are still highly popular, it’s also possible to find more unique models such as glass toasters.

Ease of Maintenance

Some toasters designs are extremely attractive, but if the surface shows up every fingerprint - the perk will soon become a hassle. It’s best to look for a toaster with a matte finish, or at least the one that can be wiped clean easily. 

Another thing to check is the crumb tray. It should be easy to remove and clean daily.

Things to Consider When Choosing a Toaster

Slot Size

Unless buying a model with variable slots, this feature might be important. Larger slots allow more versatile use, including toasting different sorts of homemade bread. 

Regular slot sizes often leave slices longer than standard to poke out of the top. Turning them results in the double-roasted middle part. Wider slots can also eliminate the need for additional bagel features. 

Accessible Controls

Too small or inconveniently placed controls may cause a lot of frustration. It’s good to look for a suitable display before falling for an attractive design.

Heaters Positioning

An unevenly roasted slice of toast is not the result that many hope for. Browning control helps the appliance to do a good job. The distance between heating elements between toasting slots determines the toasting quality. For best results, those shouldn’t stand too far apart. 

Power

High wattage means that the bread will brown faster and probably be more crunchy than those from low-power devices. An average wattage for a two-slice toaster is 1000W or higher, while the four-slicer shouldn’t feature less than 1800W.

Longevity

Longevity and durability are not always directly related to the price. Still, the more quality elements will undoubtedly help to extend the bread toaster’s life expectancy. Construction quality, materials, proper usage, and regular cleaning all play a role in how long and how well the appliance is going to work. It’s also good to check the manufacturer’s guarantees and terms of service.

Energy Efficiency

Some options, such as choosing how many slots will heat up simultaneously, can help save energy and lower the utility bill. 

If you need assistance to find the right toasters for your home or office, ArchiPro provides a connection to the various professionals, ready to assist with all requirements and questions. Simply click "Contact supplier" on the product's page, or visit the supplier's website directly from the product's page.