Before heading to bed each night, there’s one important habit that safety experts strongly recommend adopting, and that’s unplugging a specific kitchen appliance that could pose a hidden fire hazard while you sleep. It might come as a surprise, but the appliance in question is often the air fryer or, in some cases, the toaster oven.
While these convenient devices have become incredibly popular in kitchens across the country thanks to their ability to cook crispy, delicious meals with minimal oil or prep time, they also carry potential risks that many users aren’t aware of. The reason these appliances can be dangerous is that even when they’re not actively being used, they’re still connected to a live electrical current as long as they remain plugged in. Over time, certain models—especially lower-quality or older ones—may suffer from worn-out wiring, internal defects, or cheap components that degrade with frequent use.
These hidden issues can lead to overheating, electrical arcing, or in worst-case scenarios, spontaneous ignition, especially when no one is around to monitor the situation. Leaving an air fryer or toaster oven plugged in overnight, particularly when the kitchen is unoccupied and everyone in the house is asleep, significantly increases the risk of an electrical fire. The problem is compounded if the wall outlet itself is damaged, outdated, or simply not designed to handle modern appliance loads. Power surges, which can happen unexpectedly during storms or due to issues with the electrical grid, can also spike the voltage and cause appliances to malfunction in dangerous ways. These kinds of events may be rare, but they’re serious when they happen, especially when there’s no one awake to intervene quickly. In addition to air fryers and toaster ovens, other small kitchen appliances can also be risky if left plugged in 24/7.
Coffee makers, electric kettles, and especially older microwave ovens are also worth watching. These items tend to have heating elements or electronic timers that could fail or misfire, leading to a similar risk of fire. However, air fryers and toaster ovens have become a growing concern in recent safety reports, with an increasing number of incidents being documented in recent years. This is likely due to the widespread adoption of air fryers and their frequent use, sometimes multiple times a day.
It’s also worth noting that some models may not have passed stringent safety testing, especially if purchased from lesser-known brands or imported without proper certification. That’s why the National Fire Protection Association and many home safety professionals encourage unplugging not just air fryers, but any non-essential appliance that isn’t in use—especially before going to sleep or leaving the house for extended periods. It takes only a few seconds to unplug these devices, and doing so can eliminate the risk of a fire starting while you’re not paying attention. If you’re someone who prefers to leave devices plugged in for convenience, consider at least using a surge protector with an off switch or smart plug that allows you to cut the power remotely through a mobile app. That way, you can still have quick access to your appliances during the day but reduce risk when they’re not in use. Ultimately, kitchen safety starts with awareness and small daily habits. With just a bit of extra effort each night, you can protect your home, your loved ones, and your peace of mind. So the next time you finish cleaning up after dinner and begin your bedtime routine, take an extra moment to look over your countertop and make sure your air fryer or toaster oven is safely unplugged. That simple action could be the one that prevents a major disaster. Safety might not always be convenient, but when it comes to preventing house fires, a few seconds of precaution are always worth it.
