When it comes to leaving the house, I’m a bit of an obsessive checker. I always need to check at least twice that I’ve switched off the hairdryer. That I’ve definitely got my keys. I’ve even been known to double back on my way to the train station of a morning, just to make sure that the front door is locked. Some might call me neurotic. I say it’s all about peace of mind.

That peace of mind was shattered today, when I learned that I’m actually supposed to be unplugging a very basic piece of kitchen equipment before I leave the house: the toaster. 

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Why should I unplug the toaster before leaving the house?

Thankfully, today’s modern toasters are built well enough that ‘spontaneous kitchen inferno’ is unlikely to be a standard factory setting. However, leaving one connected to a power source while unattended can carry some unnecessary risks and problems.

• Toasters are designed to draw a large amount of electricity to instantly heat up the metal coils inside them. If the appliance were to develop a wiring flaw, a short circuit or some kind of electrical fault, it could potentially overheat and spark when no one is around. And remember that once a toaster has been used a few times, there will be crumbs inside of it. These can basically act as kindling, and it only requires a wee spark to ignite them.
• Power surges caused by electrical storms or power grid fluctuations can fry the internal components of a plugged-in toaster. No more toast for you.
• If you own a cat (hi, Gilbert!), they could climb up on the counter and – yes, it’s a long shot, but anyway – activate the lever, switching the toaster on and charring those crumbs. Rodents can also do this, so if you suspect you have a pest problem, this is one more thing to worry about. I suggest getting a cat. 
• If you have a super-fancy toaster with a digital screen, LED lights or smart features, these continue to draw small amounts of energy, acting like a power ‘vampire’ and costing you more on your power bill. 

So take two seconds to unplug your toaster after using it to remove these risks entirely. That way, you only have to worry about checking whether you left the iron on again.

Related story: 10 things you should never microwave: a guide to not blowing up your kitchen