The Right Way to Clean a Waffle Maker

When it comes to breakfast, few things compare to warm, fluffy waffles. But if the idea of cleaning your waffle maker keeps you from making these breakfast treats, it's likely you just haven't found the right cleaning method. With the correct technique and some basic household cleaning supplies, you'll no longer fret over stuck-on batter and sticky built-up oil residue.

How Often to Clean a Waffle Maker

To ensure your waffle maker continues to perform correctly and doesn't accumulate old grease and batter, you should clean it after each use.

Materials

Make sure you have these materials on hand.

• Bowl
• Dish soap
• Water
• Sponge
• Microfiber cloth(s)
• Baking soda
• Old toothbrush
  

How to Clean a Waffle Maker

Cleaning your waffle maker can be done with common household cleaning supplies. Before getting started, turn off the machine and unplug it. "Waffle makers are able to make those delicious breakfast favorites by using pretty high heat," says Kathy Cohoon, director of franchise operations of Two Maids. "Leaving the machine plugged in or turned on can cause injury and also melt cleaning tools, ultimately damaging the machine."

1. Fill a bowl with warm water and a few drops of dish soap.
2. Dip a sponge or soft cloth into the mixture and wring well.
3. Wipe down the waffle maker's exterior with the sponge or cloth, focusing on major messes.
4. Once clean, dry with a microfiber cloth.
5. Open the waffle maker. Use a dry cloth to wipe away crumbs and any dry messes from the plates.
6. Fold a paper towel in half and soak up any oil that's left on the plates.
7. Remove the plates and wash them with warm water and mild dish soap in the sink.
8. If the plates aren't removable, use an old toothbrush to work soapy water into the grooves of the plate.
9. Wipe down the plates with a damp cloth so no soapy residue remains.
10. Wipe dry with a microfiber cloth.
    

How to Deep Clean a Waffle Maker

If built-up residue or oil remains after cleaning your waffle maker with soapy water, deep clean the plates using baking soda following Cohoon's method below.

1. Mix baking soda with lukewarm water until a paste forms.
2. Spread the paste over the plates of the waffle maker. Let sit for up to 45 minutes.
3. Wipe down the plates with a damp cloth so no baking soda remains.
4. Wipe dry with a microfiber cloth.

How to Maintain a Waffle Maker

There are a few things to keep in mind to keep your waffle maker in good condition.

• Ensure all batter and oil are cleaned up after each use, says Jennifer Parnell, co-founder of Humble Suds
• Completely dry your waffle maker before putting it away. "We recommend letting it air dry for 20 minutes or until completely dry before storing it," says Parnell.
• Do a quick visual check for any damages or issues after using your waffle maker to prevent any potential home hazards.
• Follow the manufacturer's instructions when using and cleaning your waffle maker to avoid damage.