Neither an air fryer nor a toaster oven is considered better than the other. Both serve different purposes. An air fryer is better at making crispy food fast, while a toaster oven is better at better at baking, toasting and preparing larger dishes. An air fryer uses a top-mounted fan and high-speed convection to cook food, while a toaster oven uses traditional radiant heat elements like a miniature oven to cook food.

When you’re using a toaster oven, you should avoid cooking liquids and soups, fatty or greasy meats without a drip pan, uncooked rice or pasta along with plastic, paper or non-oven-safe-glass. These types of items can create fire hazards, melt, shatter or fail to cook properly. Toaster ovens are better used for toasting bread, baking cookies or small cakes, roasting vegetables or reheating leftovers.

To clean your toaster, start by sliding out the bottom crumb tray and throwing away the debris in a garbage bag or compost bag. Wash the tray with warm soapy water. Dry it completely before sliding it back in the toaster. Turn the toaster upside down over the garbage or sink and shake it to loosen trapped crumbs. Use a soft brush to reach between the heating wires. Clean the outside using a damp cloth with mild dish soap. Make sure every part is completely dry before you plug the toaster back into the wall.

To clean your toaster oven, start by removing any removable parts like the racks, baking pan, drip tray or bottom crumb tray. Soak the removable parts in a sink with warm water and dish soap for around 20 to 30 minutes. For tougher stains, use a sponge with a combination of baking soda and water. Rinse thoroughly and dry completely before reinserting the parts. To clean the interior, brush away loose crumbs and use a damp rag with mild dish soap. Gently wipe the heating elements. Never scrub or drench them. Wipe the exterior with a cloth and mild dish soap or a specialized cleaner. Make sure all pieces are completely dry before putting the toaster oven back together and reusing it.