With a little TLC, small kitchen appliances will last a long time. Here are a few tips to keep yours in tiptop shape.

– If a blender cannot be taken apart for cleaning, fill the pitcher halfway with warm water and detergent and run on high for 10 to 15 seconds. Add ice to sharpen the blades.

– Use rice to clean a coffee grinder. The grains clean as well as sharpen the grinder blades.

– Clean tough stains in a slow cooker by filling it with a solution of soap and water and running on high temperature for an hour.

– Electric can openers won’t work if they get too grimy. Remove the section with the cutting wheel and lid and soak it in warm, soapy water. For one-piece openers, use a toothbrush and baking soda and then rinse.

– To thoroughly clean a food processor, soak all the parts in hot, soapy water and wipe the base with an all-purpose cleaner. Spray nonstick vegetable spray on the shaft to keep sticky foods like dough from sticking.

– Before cleaning toasters and toaster ovens, allow them to cool and then unplug. Empty the crumb tray regularly, and shake toasters upside down over a trash can. Clear any crumbs inside with a narrow brush. Wipe down the inside of a toaster oven with a light solution of baking soda and water.

– To remove mineral deposits in drip coffee makers, run a bottle of white vinegar through, followed by hot water.

– Add a dab of mineral oil to lubricate blenders, mixers or other appliances with movable parts. Unlike salad oil, mineral oil will not corrode parts.

Source: Louisiana State University AgCenter