Ah, the toaster oven. This trusty appliance is a must-have for any small kitchen. But where do you put it? Do you have enough counter space? What if you don’t have an oven? Fear not! In this article, we will answer all of your questions and give you some useful tips on how to use your toaster oven in a small kitchen!
Things to Consider When Deciding Where to Put Toaster Oven in Small Kitchen
Oven Size
If it’s a countertop model, then you’ll likely have more flexibility with its placement. But if it’s a larger, freestanding unit, then you’ll need to make sure there’s enough space around it for air circulation and safety purposes.
Usage
How often do you plan on using the toaster oven? If you’re someone who only pulls it out for special occasions, then you might be able to get away with storing it in a cabinet or pantry until needed. But if you’re someone who uses it on a daily basis, then having quick and easy access will be important. In this case, placing it on the countertop near the stove might be your best bet.
Function
What do you plan on using the toaster oven for? If you only plan on using it for its namesake purpose (toasting bread), then you might not need a unit with all the bells and whistles. But if you also want to use it for baking, broiling, or reheating food, then you’ll want to make sure you choose a model that has these features. Again, this will likely come down to personal preference and how often you plan on using the appliance.
Convenience
As with most appliances, convenience is going to be a key factor in deciding where to put your toaster oven. After all, the whole point of having one is to make your life easier! So when placing it in your kitchen, think about how you can make the process of using it as simple and streamlined as possible.
One way to do this is by placing it near other appliances that you use in conjunction with it. For example, if you plan on using the toaster oven for baking, then putting it next to your oven might make sense. That way, you can easily transfer items back and forth between the two without having to go too far out of your way.
Another thing to consider is how often you’ll be using the toaster oven. If you only plan on pulling it out for special occasions, then storing it in a cabinet or pantry might be perfectly fine.
Ventilation
When it comes to toaster ovens, ventilation is key. Most toaster ovens come with a little vent on the back or side that helps circulate air and keep the unit from overheating.
Another option is to put the toaster oven on a shelf above your stovetop where it can get some airflow from underneath.
Another thing to keep in mind is that some toaster ovens come with a built-in fan. This can be helpful for circulated air, but if you’re worried about noise, you might want to opt for a model without one.
Heat Protection
When it comes to heat protection, you’ll want to make sure that your toaster oven is placed on a sturdy and heat-resistant surface. Some good options include a countertop, an island, or a table. You’ll also want to make sure that there’s plenty of airflow around the toaster oven so that it doesn’t overheat.
Another important consideration is the distance from other appliances. If possible, try to place your toaster oven at least six inches away from the stove or any other heat source. This will help ensure that your food cooks evenly and prevent accidental fires.
Finally, always use caution when handling hot foods or appliances. Be sure to use oven mitts or gloves when removing items from the toaster oven, and never leave the appliance unattended while it’s in use.
Electrical Outlet
In order to use your toaster oven, you’ll need to have a working electrical outlet nearby. If possible, try to plug the appliance into its own dedicated outlet so that it doesn’t overload your home’s wiring. [1]
If you’re using an extension cord, be sure that it’s rated for the wattage of your toaster oven and that it’s in good condition. Never use a frayed or damaged extension cord, as this could pose a fire hazard.
Places to Put the Toaster Oven
Now that you know some important considerations for placing your toaster oven, let’s take a look at some of the best places to put it in a small kitchen.
Countertop – With Precautions
A countertop is a popular place to put a toaster oven, especially in small kitchens. If you choose this option, be sure to follow the precautions listed above for heat protection and electrical safety. You’ll also want to make sure that there’s plenty of clearance on all sides of the appliance so that you can open the door without hitting anything.
One downside of putting the toaster oven on the countertop is that it can take up valuable prep space. If you have a limited amount of counter space, you may want to consider another option.
Another potential issue is accessibility. If your toaster oven is placed too high, it may be difficult to reach without a step stool or ladder.
Find a happy medium by placing the toaster oven at a comfortable height for most people in your household.
You’ll also want to make sure that the appliance is within easy reach of any cabinets or drawers where you keep your pots, pans, and baking supplies. This will make it easier to grab what you need when it’s time to start cooking.
A final consideration is aesthetics. If you’re concerned about how your kitchen will look with an appliance out in the open, consider hiding it behind a cabinet door or curtain.
This can give the illusion of more space and help your kitchen feel more organized.
Below the Counter
Toaster ovens may be placed under the counter or on top of it, but most individuals choose to place them beneath the counter since they are less obtrusive. This leaves the countertop clear for other uses and keeps the toaster oven out of the way.
There are a few things to think about when putting your toaster oven on the counter.:
- Accessibility: Make sure your toaster oven is easily accessible so you can use it whenever you need. If you have small children, you might want to place it higher up so they can’t reach it.
- Ventilation: Because toaster ovens produce heat and smoke, it’s critical to ensure there’s adequate ventilation.
- Heat: Because toaster ovens radiate a lot of heat, they must be kept away from combustible materials. This includes things like plastic or paper items, as well as anything else that might be sensitive to heat.
Under Cabinets
Under the cabinets is one of the most popular locations to install a toaster oven. This is especially useful if you have limited counter space. You can find models that are made specifically to be mounted under cabinets.
If you have the space, you can also put your toaster oven on top of the cabinets. This is a great option if you want to be able to use it as extra counter space when necessary. Just make sure that the area around the toaster oven is clear and free from clutter so that you can easily access it when needed.
Pull Out Drawer
On top of a pull-out drawer is another alternative for placing a toaster oven in a tiny kitchen. This can give you extra counter space and make it easier to access the toaster oven. However, make certain the drawer can handle the weight of the toaster oven.
You must consider how close your toaster oven will be to other appliances and goods in your kitchen when placing it on a pull-out drawer.
Finally, be sure the toaster oven’s power cord reaches all the way to the outlet. You don’t want it to be too short and have to use an extension cord, which can be a fire hazard.
Shelf
Putting it on a shelf can provide you with some extra counter space and make the toaster oven less conspicuous when you’re not using it. Check to see if the shelf is capable of supporting the toaster oven. [2]
Wall
A toaster oven can also be hung on the wall if you have a small kitchen. In tiny kitchens, wall-mounted shelves are a smart option. However, double-check to make sure the wall mount can support the weight of the toaster oven.
Check how close it will be to other appliances or items in your kitchen and the cord of the toaster oven for length and make sure it reaches all the way to the outlet.
Appliance Garage
Appliance garages are also great if you have limited space in your kitchen. However, make sure that the appliance garage is large enough to accommodate the size of the toaster oven. To protect the bottom of your toaster oven from heat damage, consider placing something like a cutting board or aluminum foil beneath it.
Appliance Cart
This might be another fantastic location for your toaster oven if you have an appliance cart. It might provide you with some additional counter area and allow you to keep the toaster oven out of the way when you’re not using it.
Points to Note
Heat Guards
It’s crucial to consider where you’ll position your toaster oven while planning where to put it. The machine generates heat, so keep that in mind when selecting a location for it. You’ll want to make sure that there’s plenty of clearance around the toaster oven so that the heat doesn’t damage anything nearby. If possible, try to position the toaster oven away from any cabinets or other kitchen appliances.
Another consideration is whether or not the toaster oven has a built-in heat guard. Some models have an automatic shut-off feature that kicks in if the surrounding temperature gets too high. This can be helpful if you’re worried about accidental fires, but it’s something to keep in mind when you’re deciding on a location for your toaster oven.
Two Set of Hands
Keep in mind that you’ll need two hands to operate a toaster oven: one to open the door and one to remove the food. If you’re planning on using the toaster oven frequently, it might be worth considering a location that’s close to the counter or table where you’ll be eating. This way, you won’t have to carry hot food very far.
Heat guards are essential, as well as having two pairs of hands accessible.
Keep Away from Children
In order to keep a glass-top toaster oven safe, it’s important to keep little hands and dogs away from it. It’s also crucial to remember that toaster ovens are extremely hot, so they should only be used by adults. A good rule of thumb is to keep them on a counter that is at least four feet off the ground. If you have young children in your home, you might want to consider keeping the toaster oven in a cabinet or on top of the refrigerator.
Another safety tip is to make sure that the cords are not dangling down where kids or pets could pull on them and potentially knock the toaster oven over. Always unplug the toaster oven when you’re not using it. This will help keep it from starting a fire.
Comparison of Ideal Locations for a Toaster Oven in a Small Kitchen
When space is limited in a small kitchen, finding the right place to put a toaster oven can be a challenging task. To help you make an informed decision, we have compared various indicators for different locations within a small kitchen. The following table provides insights into the advantages and disadvantages of each location, considering factors such as accessibility, safety, and convenience.
The table below illustrates a comparison of different indicators for placing a toaster oven in a small kitchen. The indicators include countertop space required, proximity to electrical outlets, ventilation needs, and safety considerations. The data is presented in the imperial system for ease of understanding.
| Location | Countertop Space Required (inches) | Proximity to Electrical Outlet (feet) | Ventilation Needs | Safety Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Under the Upper Cabinets | 15 | 2-3 | Adequate ventilation required | Potential fire hazard if not properly installed |
| On the Countertop | 30 | 1-2 | Some ventilation needed | Accessible and less risk of accidents |
| Wall-Mounted | N/A | 2-4 | Adequate ventilation required | Requires installation and limited countertop space |
| In a Lower Cabinet | 15 | 2-3 | Adequate ventilation required | Requires bending down and potential heat damage to cabinet |
In this table, the “Location” column represents the different areas within a small kitchen where a toaster oven can be placed. The “Countertop Space Required” column specifies the approximate inches of countertop space that will be occupied by the toaster oven in each location. The “Proximity to Electrical Outlet” column indicates the recommended distance in feet between the toaster oven and the nearest electrical outlet.
The “Ventilation Needs” column provides an overview of the ventilation requirements for each location. Adequate ventilation helps prevent overheating and ensures the toaster oven operates efficiently. The “Safety Considerations” column highlights potential safety concerns associated with each location.
It’s important to consider these indicators and choose a toaster oven location that suits your kitchen layout, usage patterns, and safety requirements.
FAQ
Where do you put a toaster in a small kitchen?
When it comes to locating your toaster oven in a tiny kitchen, there are a few things to think about. One is counter space. If you only have a few inches of counter space, place the toaster oven on top of your stove or refrigerator. Also, consider how often you use the toaster oven. If you use it occasionally, you may want to store it in a cabinet or pantry until you need it.
Another thing to think about is what type of food you’ll be cooking in the toaster oven. If you’re preparing larger meals like casseroles or roasting meats, you’ll need more room around the toaster oven than if you’re just toasting bread or reheating leftovers. Keep this in mind when choosing a toaster oven’s location in a tiny kitchen. [3]
Finally, consider how much ventilation your toaster oven will require.
Is it safe to put a toaster oven in a cabinet?
Better no. Toaster ovens can get hot, sometimes very hot, and you don’t want that heat near flammable materials like wood cabinets. If you have no other choice but to put your toaster oven in a cabinet, make sure there’s plenty of airflow around it so it doesn’t overheat. Anyway, it requires adequate ventilation. The clearance should be at least four inches on all sides to allow for proper heat circulation. Try to position the toaster oven near an exhaust fan to help ventilate the area. [4]
Never use aluminum foil within the toaster oven, since doing so might cause a fire. If you need to line the baking tray, use parchment paper instead. Even if you’re only going to leave the toaster oven on for a few minutes, unplug it.
How much space do you need around a toaster oven?
The amount of counter space needed will be determined by the toaster oven’s size. A toaster oven may only require about six inches of clearance on each side, depending on the size. A larger model could require up to a foot of space on either side. [5]
You also need to consider the height of the unit when it is in use. Some models have an extended door that needs clearance when open. If you don’t have enough vertical space, the toaster oven might not be able to fit underneath your cabinets.
Another consideration is if the toaster oven will be used for storage. If you plan on keeping it on the counter, make sure there is enough nearby cabinet or drawer space to store the cords, baking sheets, and other accessories.
How do I keep my oven in a small kitchen?
There are a few things to keep in mind when deciding where to put the oven in a tiny kitchen. First, think about how you use your oven most often. If you tend to use it for quick meals or snacks, then having it closer to the countertop or stove might be more ideal. On the other hand, if you use your oven for larger meal prep tasks like baking, then placing it further away from these areas might be better so that you have more counter space to work with.
Another consideration is what kind of appliances and cabinetry you have in your kitchen. If your kitchen is already cramped with lots of other large appliances, then placing your oven on an empty wall might be the best option. You’ll also want to make sure that your oven is easily accessible, so avoid putting it in a corner or behind a door if possible.
Once you have a general idea of where you want to put your oven, measure the space to make sure that your chosen spot can accommodate the size of your oven. It’s also a good idea to consult with a kitchen designer or contractor to get their professional opinion on the best placement for your oven.
Where can I safely place a toaster oven in a small kitchen?
When considering the placement of a toaster oven in a small kitchen, it is important to choose a safe and convenient location. One option is to place it on a sturdy countertop, making sure to leave enough space for ventilation and clearance on all sides. Another option is to use a heat-resistant, non-flammable surface such as a toaster oven cart or a dedicated shelf. Avoid placing it near flammable materials or where it may obstruct traffic flow in the kitchen.
Can I place a toaster oven under the kitchen cabinets?
It is generally not recommended to place a toaster oven directly under kitchen cabinets. Toaster ovens generate heat during operation, and placing them under cabinets can lead to a fire hazard or damage to the cabinets due to the heat. If you have limited counter space, consider using a toaster oven stand or cart that provides adequate clearance between the toaster oven and the cabinets, ensuring proper ventilation and preventing heat buildup.
What are some creative solutions for placing a toaster oven in a small kitchen?
If you have limited counter space in a small kitchen, there are several creative solutions to consider for placing your toaster oven:
- Mount it on a wall: Install a sturdy shelf or wall bracket at an appropriate height to securely hold the toaster oven, making sure it has proper clearance for ventilation.
- Use a pull-out drawer: Consider installing a custom pull-out drawer or slide-out shelf that can accommodate the toaster oven and be easily tucked away when not in use.
- Utilize a rolling cart: Opt for a compact rolling cart with shelves or compartments, allowing you to move the toaster oven around as needed and store it away when not in use.
- Utilize vertical space: Look for vertical storage options, such as wall-mounted shelves or hanging racks, that can house the toaster oven without taking up precious counter space.
Can I place a toaster oven on top of a microwave or refrigerator?
It is generally not recommended to place a toaster oven directly on top of a microwave or refrigerator. Both appliances generate heat during operation, and placing the toaster oven on them can lead to excessive heat buildup, potentially damaging the appliances or creating a fire hazard. If you have limited counter space, explore other options like using a dedicated stand, cart, or finding alternative placement areas that provide proper clearance and ventilation for the toaster oven.
How can I maximize the space when placing a toaster oven in a small kitchen?
To maximize space when placing a toaster oven in a small kitchen, consider the following tips:
- Utilize vertical storage: Look for wall-mounted shelves or hooks to hang cooking utensils, oven mitts, or other accessories, freeing up counter space.
- Organize cabinets efficiently: Optimize your cabinet space by using stackable containers or adjustable shelving units to store baking sheets, pans, and other items that can be placed in the cabinets rather than on the countertop.
- Invest in multi-functional appliances: Consider appliances that serve multiple purposes, such as combination toaster ovens with built-in air fryers or microwave functionality, to minimize the number of appliances taking up space on your countertop.
- Utilize the toaster oven for storage: When the toaster oven is not in use, you can use its interior as a storage space for baking pans, trays, or cutting boards, freeing up additional cabinet space.
Useful Video: TOASTER OVEN…GREAT FOR SMALL KITCHEN
Conclusion
Now that you know all the variables to consider when placing the toaster oven, you can make an informed decision about where to put yours. Just remember to keep safety in mind, and always consult your oven’s manual for specific instructions. With a little bit of planning, you can find the perfect spot for your toaster oven – and enjoy delicious, freshly-baked meals for years to come!
References:
- https://kitchengearoid.com/toaster-ovens/where-to-put-toaster-oven-in-small-kitchen/
- https://kitchenseer.com/where-to-put-toaster-oven-in-small-kitchen/
- https://cookingindoor.com/toaster/how-to-store-a-toaster/
- https://kitchenaku.com/is-it-safe-to-put-a-toaster-oven-in-a-cabinet/
- https://www.bestbuy.com/site/questions/oster-convection-toaster-pizza-oven-brushed-chrome/