Toasters
Toasters are in nearly every kitchen, but they cause thousands of house fires every year. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), toasters are responsible for an estimated 3,000 fires annually in the U.S. Crumbs and dust can build up inside, easily igniting when the device heats up. Many people leave toasters plugged in, which increases the risk if they malfunction. Fires can also start if bread gets stuck and owners try to poke it out with metal objects. Despite these dangers, most people never think twice about using their trusty toaster each morning.
Coffee Makers
Coffee makers are a surprising kitchen fire risk, especially if left on for hours. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has issued several recalls for coffee makers overheating or short-circuiting. Data from 2024 found that more than 1,000 fires per year begin with coffee makers, often due to faulty wiring or forgetting to turn them off. Even single-serve machines can overheat and melt plastic parts, releasing smoke or catching fire. Yet, millions of people still leave them plugged in day and night.
Air Fryers
Air fryers have surged in popularity, but their high-temperature cooking and enclosed heating element can make them dangerous. A 2023 report from the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) noted an uptick in air fryer-related fires, mostly caused by oil buildup or failing to clean the basket. Some models have also been recalled due to electrical faults that lead to overheating. Given their convenience, people often leave air fryers unattended—sometimes with disastrous results.
Microwave Ovens
Microwave ovens are convenient but can become fire hazards, especially when metal or foil is accidentally put inside. The NFPA warns that microwaves account for over 4,000 fires annually in the U.S., with incidents often caused by superheated liquids or overheated food. Food wrappers, popcorn bags, and even glassware can ignite if used improperly. Many people don’t realize that microwaves can malfunction, leading to fires even when used correctly.
Electric Griddles
Electric griddles are a go-to for pancakes and bacon, but they can be dangerous if left unattended. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, these gadgets cause fires due to grease buildup or faulty cords. The flat surface often collects oil that can ignite quickly. Fires start when users forget to turn them off or when the thermostat fails. Even with these risks, electric griddles remain a breakfast favorite in many households.
Slow Cookers
Slow cookers, or crockpots, are supposed to be safe for long, unattended use, but they’re not without risks. The CPSC has investigated fires that began when slow cookers overheated or had faulty wiring. In 2023, there were several recalls for slow cookers with defective power cords that could spark fires. Although these incidents are rare compared to other gadgets, the risk increases when people leave them on all day while at work.
Electric Kettles
Electric kettles heat water rapidly, but faulty switches or damaged cords can cause fires. The ESFI noted a spike in electric kettle recalls in 2024 due to overheating hazards. When the automatic shut-off fails, kettles can boil dry, melt plastic, or catch fire. Despite these warnings, kettles are left plugged in on countertops everywhere, often with little oversight.
Deep Fryers
Deep fryers are notorious for starting kitchen fires, especially when oil splatters or overheats. The NFPA reports that deep fryers cause more than 5,000 house fires each year, many resulting in severe injuries or property damage. Oil can spill over and ignite instantly, and even small countertop fryers have been recalled for overheating. Still, people continue to use them for crispy fries and chicken, sometimes with unsafe amounts of oil.
Electric Waffle Makers
Electric waffle makers can become dangerous if left on too long or if batter overflows onto the heating elements. The CPSC has recalled several models since 2023 for wiring issues that led to overheating or sparking. Because they’re often used during busy breakfasts, people might forget them plugged in, increasing fire risk. Sticky batter can also burn quickly, creating smoke and sometimes flames.
Portable Electric Burners
Portable electric burners, or hot plates, are popular in small apartments and dorms but can be a significant fire risk. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, these devices frequently cause fires when left unattended or when cheap models overheat. Cords can fray, and the exposed heating element can ignite nearby paper towels or food. Despite warnings, many people rely on them for quick meals or extra cooking space.
Food Dehydrators
Food dehydrators run for hours at a time, sometimes overnight, which makes them a hidden fire hazard. The CPSC has issued recalls in recent years for dehydrators with faulty electrical components that could overheat. Fires have started when dehydrators were placed on flammable surfaces or left near curtains. Yet, with the rise in homemade snacks, these gadgets have become more common in modern kitchens.
Electric Pressure Cookers
Electric pressure cookers, like the Instant Pot, are designed to be safe, but malfunctions can lead to fires or even explosions. The CPSC reported several recalls between 2023 and 2025 for pressure cookers with faulty seals or wiring issues. In rare cases, overheating has caused fires when food became stuck to the heating element. Despite these incidents, millions of people continue to use them for fast, convenient meals.
Sandwich Makers and Panini Presses
Sandwich makers and panini presses heat up quickly, and their nonstick surfaces can catch fire when crumbs or grease build up. The ESFI highlighted an increase in sandwich maker recalls due to overheating and electrical faults in 2024. Fires can start when people leave the device closed and plugged in after use. Even as these risks are reported, the convenience keeps them on kitchen counters everywhere.
