Before you settle in for the night, there’s one simple but crucial safety habit you should adopt: unplugging certain kitchen appliances that could pose a hidden fire hazard while you sleep. Among the most important to unplug are air fryers and toaster ovens. These handy appliances may have revolutionized the way we cook—offering convenience, speed, and delicious results—but they also come with potential risks that many users overlook.
The reason these devices are particularly concerning is that they can still pose dangers even when not in use. Just because they’re not turned on doesn’t mean they’re completely off. As long as they remain plugged into a live outlet, electricity is still flowing to them, and if there are any hidden faults in the device, the wiring, or the outlet, that can create the perfect storm for something to go wrong. Unfortunately, not all appliances are created equal. Some air fryers and toaster ovens are manufactured with cheap or substandard internal components, which can wear down over time and cause serious problems.
Faulty wiring, damaged heating elements, or low-quality circuit boards can all contribute to electrical malfunctions that may result in overheating, short circuits, or even spontaneous ignition. These risks are heightened overnight, when no one is in the kitchen to notice any warning signs like a burning smell or strange noise. Add in the possibility of an older wall outlet, a loose connection, or a power surge, and the chance of an electrical fire increases significantly. The quiet of the night can quickly become dangerous if a fire starts and spreads while your household is asleep, giving you little time to react. While air fryers and toaster ovens are the focus of increasing concern, they’re not the only kitchen appliances that pose a risk if left plugged in for extended periods. Other devices like coffee makers, electric kettles, and outdated microwave ovens can also be problematic.
These appliances often contain heating elements or internal timers that, if defective or worn out, could trigger overheating or short circuits. However, the spotlight has recently shifted more intensely toward air fryers and toaster ovens due to the sharp rise in reported incidents involving them. These devices have surged in popularity, meaning more households are using them frequently—sometimes multiple times per day—which leads to more wear and tear. Additionally, many consumers purchase inexpensive models online or from lesser-known brands that may not undergo the same rigorous safety testing as more established names. This increases the chances of encountering a unit that may be more prone to failure over time.
That’s why fire safety professionals and consumer protection experts strongly advise unplugging these types of appliances whenever they’re not in use, and especially before going to bed. It only takes a few seconds to pull the plug, but doing so could prevent a dangerous fire from breaking out while your home is vulnerable. If you tend to leave your appliances plugged in for convenience, a safer alternative might be using a surge-protected power strip with an on/off switch or even a smart plug that allows you to control the power remotely from your phone. This gives you the benefit of quick access during the day while still offering peace of mind at night. Preventing household fires isn’t always about dramatic actions—it often comes down to small, consistent habits. Simply taking a few moments before bedtime to check your countertop appliances and unplug the ones you’re not using is an easy way to safeguard your home and loved ones. The reality is that most kitchen fires caused by appliances are completely preventable, and it starts with awareness. So tonight, and every night going forward, make it a routine to glance at your air fryer, toaster oven, or any other potentially risky kitchen appliance and make sure it’s unplugged. That tiny step could make all the difference when it comes to your family’s safety and your home’s protection.
