Blog

Introduction

Finding the right commercial toaster can be a game-changer for any food service business. Whether you run a bustling diner, a cozy café, or a large-scale restaurant, a high-quality commercial toaster ensures that you deliver perfectly toasted bread, bagels, and more to your customers consistently. This article is here to guide you through everything you need to know to choose the best commercial toaster for your needs.

What to Consider When Buying a Commercial Toaster

Capacity

The number of slices a toaster can handle at once is crucial. In a busy kitchen, you need a toaster that can keep up with demand. Look for models with multiple slots or conveyor systems to handle large volumes quickly.

Durability

Commercial toasters must withstand heavy use. Stainless steel construction is often a good indicator of durability. Check for sturdy components and reliable brand reputations.

Speed

In a commercial setting, time is money. A toaster that heats up quickly and toasts bread in record time can significantly improve your kitchen’s efficiency.Conveyor toasters usually toast bread more quickly than pop-up models.

Energy Efficiency

An energy-efficient toaster can save on utility costs. Look for models with energy-saving modes or automatic shut-off features to reduce power consumption when not in use.

Ease of Use and Maintenance

Busy kitchens need equipment that’s straightforward to operate and maintain. Toasters with removable crumb trays, accessible heating elements, and simple controls can save time and effort.

Price

While it’s essential to invest in a quality toaster, it must also fit within your budget. Weigh the cost against the features to get the best value.

Types of Commercial Toasters

Pop-up Toasters

These are similar to household toasters but are built to withstand heavier use. They are ideal for smaller establishments or as supplementary toasters in larger kitchens.

Conveyor Toasters

Perfect for high-volume operations, conveyor toasters continuously toast bread slices as they move through the machine. They are highly efficient and can produce hundreds of slices per hour.

Bun Grilling Toasters

These toasters are specialized for toasting buns, making them perfect for burger joints and sandwich shops. They can toast both the top and bottom of buns evenly.

Contact Grills

Versatile and multifunctional, contact grills can toast bread and cook other items like sandwiches and paninis. They are a good choice for establishments that need flexibility.

Top Features of the Best Commercial Toasters

Adjustable Browning Controls

To achieve the perfect toast, look for models with adjustable browning controls. This feature allows you to customize the toasting level to meet different preferences.

Multiple Slots

Having more slots allows you to toast more slices simultaneously.If you need to toast a lot of bread quickly, multiple slots are a must-have.

High Toasting Speed

Speed is crucial in a commercial setting. Toasters with high toasting speeds ensure that you can serve customers quickly, reducing wait times.

Cool Touch Exterior

Safety is important in a busy kitchen. Toasters with a cool touch exterior prevent burns and enhance overall safety for kitchen staff.

Removable Crumb Trays

Easy-to-clean toasters help maintain hygiene and efficiency. Removable crumb trays make it simple to keep the toaster clean and operational.

Best Commercial Toaster Brands

Waring

Known for their durability and performance, Waring toasters are a favorite in many commercial kitchens. They offer a range of models suited to different needs.

KitchenAid

KitchenAid is synonymous with quality and innovation. Their commercial toasters are designed to deliver consistent results with robust features.

Dualit

Dualit toasters are renowned for their build quality and stylish design. They are often favored by establishments that want a combination of aesthetics and functionality.

Breville

Breville is renowned for its innovative designs and reliable performance in both commercial and residential kitchens.

Hamilton Beach

Hamilton Beach offers a range of commercial toasters known for their reliability and ease of use.

Toastmaster

Toastmaster toasters are built for durability and consistent performance, making them a staple in many commercial kitchens.

Waring WCT708 Commercial 4 Slice Toaster

Overview

The Waring WCT708 Commercial 4 Slice Toaster is a durable and efficient toaster designed for commercial use. It features a heavy-duty stainless steel exterior, making it robust and suitable for busy kitchens. With electric browning control and a wide 1 3/8-inch slot, it can accommodate a variety of bread and bagel types. This toaster also includes removable crumb trays for easy cleaning and maintenance, ensuring it remains hygienic for continuous use in a commercial setting. Waring provides a one-year warranty, offering peace of mind for users.

• Durable Construction: The heavy-duty stainless steel exterior ensures extended durability, capable of withstanding heavy use in commercial environments.
• Wide Slot: The 1 3/8-inch slot accommodates a wide variety of bread and bagel sizes, making it versatile for different types of food items.
• Electric Browning Control: Allows for precise control over the toasting process, ensuring consistent results and desired doneness.
• Removable Crumb Trays: Facilitates quick and easy cleaning, reducing downtime and maintaining cleanliness in the kitchen.
• Warranty: Comes with a one-year warranty, providing assurance and support for worry-free use.

• Size: It may be larger and heavier compared to residential toasters, which could require more counter space.
• Price: Commercial-grade quality comes with a higher price tag, which may be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers.
• Single Slot Size: Despite its ability to handle a variety of food sizes, having only one slot size may limit the types of items that can be toasted simultaneously.

Conclusion

Overall, the Waring WCT708 Commercial 4 Slice Toaster is an excellent choice for businesses looking for a reliable and durable toaster that can handle frequent use and provide consistent toasting results. It combines robust construction with convenient features like electric browning control and removable crumb trays, making it a practical investment for commercial kitchens.

KitchenAid KMT4115 4-Slice Toaster 

Overview

The KitchenAid KMT4115 4-Slice Toaster in Onyx Black is designed to provide versatility and convenience in toasting various types of bread and bagels. Featuring a stylish stainless steel body with an Onyx Black finish, this toaster fits well in both modern and classic kitchen settings. It includes 4 extra-wide slots, allowing you to toast a variety of bread sizes, from bagels to English muffins and thick artisan breads.

The toaster is equipped with dual independent controls, enabling you to toast different items simultaneously to different shades of brownness. It also features a manual high-lift lever, making it easy to retrieve even small slices of toast.

• Versatility: 4 extra-wide slots accommodate various bread sizes and types, including bagels and thick slices.
• Dual Independent Controls: Allows you to toast different types of bread at different settings simultaneously.
• Bagel Setting: Adjusts the toasting process to gently brown the outer side of bagels while toasting the inside.
• Adjustable Shade Control: Offers 5 different shade settings from light to dark, ensuring your toast is done just the way you like it.
• High-Lift Lever: Makes it easy to retrieve smaller items like English muffins without burning your fingers.
• Removable Crumb Tray: Facilitates easy cleaning, keeping your toaster tidy and free from crumbs.
• Stylish Design: Stainless steel construction with an Onyx Black finish adds a sleek and modern look to your kitchen.

• Hand Wash Only: The removable crumb tray requires hand washing, which may be less convenient compared to dishwashable trays.
• Size: Being a 4-slice toaster, it may take up more counter space compared to smaller toasters if space is limited.
• Price: Higher price point compared to basic models, reflecting its quality and features.

Conclusion

The KitchenAid KMT4115 4-Slice Toaster is an excellent choice for households looking for a stylish and functional toaster that offers versatility and convenience. With its dual independent controls, adjustable shade settings, and high-lift lever, it provides the flexibility to toast different types of bread to individual preferences.

The bagel setting ensures your bagels are toasted perfectly, with the outer side gently browned. While it requires hand washing for the crumb tray and may occupy more space on the counter, its stylish design and robust features make it a worthwhile investment for those who value quality and performance in their kitchen appliances.

Dualit Classic NewGen Toaster, 4-Slice

Overview

The Dualit Classic NewGen Toaster, 4-Slice, Chrome, is a blend of classic design with modern performance. It features ProHeat elements that are armor-plated for superior heat distribution and durability. This toaster comes with a variety of settings, including bagel and defrost options, and includes a warming rack for convenience.

The toaster is hand-built and fully repairable, with replaceable parts ensuring longevity and sustainability. Paired with the Dualit 00499 Sandwich Cage accessory, this toaster can also handle sandwiches, with the cage featuring a built-in drip tray to catch oils or cheese. The sandwich cage is easy to clean and holds one sandwich at a time, making it a versatile addition to your kitchen.

• Classic Design: Combines retro aesthetics with modern functionality.
• ProHeat Elements: Armor-plated for even heat distribution and durability.
• Versatile Settings: Includes bagel and defrost settings for various toasting needs.
• Warming Rack: Convenient for warming bread or pastries.
• Fully Repairable: Hand-built construction with replaceable parts, ensuring long-term use.
• Sandwich Cage Accessory: Allows for toasting sandwiches, featuring a built-in drip tray.
• Easy to Clean: Sandwich cage is dishwasher safe and toaster is easy to maintain.

• Size: Takes up more counter space compared to smaller toasters due to its 4-slice capacity.
• Hand Washing Required: Some parts, like the sandwich cage, require hand washing.
• Price: Higher price point reflecting its quality and durable construction.

Conclusion

The Dualit Classic NewGen Toaster, 4-Slice, Chrome, is an excellent choice for those who appreciate a classic design with modern features and durability. Its ProHeat elements ensure consistent and thorough toasting, while the bagel and defrost settings provide versatility. The addition of a warming rack and the capability to toast sandwiches with the Dualit 00499 Sandwich Cage accessory make it a versatile appliance for any kitchen.

Although it requires hand washing for some parts and may take up more counter space, its high-quality build and repairable design ensure it will be a long-lasting addition to your kitchen arsenal. Dualit’s reputation for quality and innovation since 1945 is evident in this classic toaster model, making it a reliable choice for discerning consumers.

Toastmaster TM-49TS 4-Slice

Overview

The Toastmaster TM-49TS 4-Slice Fast Toaster combines speed, versatility, and convenience in a sleek stainless steel and black design. This toaster is 50% faster than standard toasters, thanks to its higher concentration of power, making it ideal for busy mornings or commercial settings. It features extra-wide toast slots with self-centering guides, accommodating various types of bread including bagels and thick slices.

The toaster includes dual browning controls, allowing you to select your desired shade from light to dark. It also features illuminated buttons for Bagel, Frozen, and Cancel functions, adding to its versatility. The high-rise toast lift ensures easy removal of toasted items while keeping your fingers clear of hot surfaces.

• Fast Toasting: 50% faster than standard toasters, ideal for quick breakfasts or busy kitchens.
• Extra-Wide Slots: Accommodates bagels and thick slices of bread with self-centering guides for even toasting.
• Dual Browning Controls: Allows you to choose the perfect shade of toast with separate controls for each side.
• Versatile Functions: Illuminated buttons for Bagel, Frozen, and Cancel functions provide added convenience.
• High-Rise Toast Lift: Makes it easy to retrieve smaller items without burning your fingers.
• Stylish Design: Stainless steel and black finish adds a modern touch to your kitchen.

• Size: Takes up more counter space compared to smaller toasters due to its 4-slice capacity.
• Power Consumption: Requires 1800 watts of power, which may be higher than some other toasters.
• Manual Cleaning: While the crumb tray is removable for cleaning, it requires manual cleaning rather than being dishwasher safe.

Conclusion

The Toastmaster TM-49TS 4-Slice Fast Toaster is an excellent choice for households or commercial settings looking for a fast and efficient toaster. Its 50% faster toasting speed, along with extra-wide slots and dual browning controls, ensure that you can prepare your breakfast just the way you like it, quickly and efficiently.

The illuminated function buttons and high-rise toast lift add to its user-friendly design, making it a convenient addition to any kitchen. While it may take up more counter space and requires manual cleaning of the crumb tray, its stylish stainless steel and black finish and reliable performance make it a worthwhile investment for those who value speed and versatility in their toasting appliance.

Hamilton Beach 24782 Retro Toaster

Overview

The Hamilton Beach 24782 Retro Toaster combines classic design with modern functionality, featuring polished stainless steel construction. This toaster is designed to evenly toast both sides of a single slice with its Sure-Toast One Slice feature, ensuring balanced color and texture every time. It includes convenient features like Auto Boost, which lifts smaller breads like English muffins and gluten-free slices for easy retrieval.

The toaster enhances the color and texture of toast, English muffins, and sandwiches, giving your food a delicious appearance to match its taste. The bagel function toasts the cut side of the bagel while warming the outside, providing a perfect bagel-eating experience. Additionally, the defrost setting allows for optimal cook time and flavor when toasting frozen breads and waffles.

• Sure-Toast One Slice Feature: Ensures even toasting of single slices with balanced color and texture.
• Auto Boost: Automatically lifts smaller breads like English muffins and gluten-free slices for easy retrieval.
• Even Toasting: Improves the color and texture of toast, English muffins, and sandwiches.
• Bagel Function: Toasts the cut side of the bagel while warming the outside for a crunchy exterior and soft interior.
• Defrost Setting: Allows for optimal cook time and flavor when toasting frozen breads and waffles.
• Stylish Design: Polished stainless steel with a retro look adds a classic touch to your kitchen.

• Size: Takes up more counter space compared to smaller toasters due to its retro design and 4-slice capacity.
• Manual Cleaning: While the crumb tray is removable for cleaning, it requires manual cleaning rather than being dishwasher safe.
• Limited Color Options: Only available in polished stainless steel, which may not match all kitchen decors.

Conclusion

The Hamilton Beach 24782 Retro Toaster is an excellent choice for those who appreciate a classic design with modern features. Its Sure-Toast One Slice feature ensures even toasting of single slices, while the Auto Boost function makes it easy to retrieve smaller breads without burning your fingers. The toaster’s bagel function provides a great bagel-eating experience, toasting the cut side while warming the outside.

The defrost setting allows for optimal cooking of frozen breads and waffles, adding to its versatility. While it may take up more counter space and requires manual cleaning of the crumb tray, its stylish retro design and reliable performance make it a worthwhile addition to any kitchen. If you’re looking for a toaster that combines style and functionality, the Hamilton Beach 24782 Retro Toaster is a solid choice.

Breville Die-Cast Smart Toaster 4 Slice BTA840XL

Overview

The Breville Die-Cast Smart Toaster 4 Slice BTA840XL in Brushed Stainless Steel combines sleek design with innovative features to provide a premium toasting experience. With 4 extra-wide slots, this toaster accommodates various types of bread, including larger artisanal loaves, thick bagels, and dense pastries. It features one-touch automation with “Lift and Look” and “A Bit More” functions, allowing you to check on your toast’s progress or add extra time without interrupting the toasting cycle.

The bagel function ensures even heat distribution for perfectly toasted bagels, while the defrost function lets you toast frozen items with ease. The toaster offers variable browning control with LED indicators to monitor the toasting progress, ensuring you achieve your desired level of brownness. Cleaning is hassle-free with a front-access crumb tray that slides out for easy disposal.

• Innovative Features: “Lift and Look” allows you to check on toast without cancelling the cycle, while “A Bit More” adds extra time to achieve the perfect toast.
• Extra-Wide Slots: Accommodates a variety of bread types, including thick slices, bagels, and artisanal breads.
• Variable Browning Control: Customize your toast’s brownness level with 5 settings and LED indicators for easy monitoring.
• Automatic Control: Bread is automatically lowered, lifted to check progress, and lifted again at the end of the cycle for perfect toasting.
• Easy Cleaning: Front-access crumb tray simplifies cleaning, eliminating the need to lift the toaster.
• Versatile Settings: Includes settings for Bagel, Defrost, and Fruit Bread to meet different toasting needs.
• Stylish Design: Brushed stainless steel finish adds a modern and elegant look to your kitchen.
• Warranty: Comes with a 1-year limited product warranty for peace of mind.

• Size: Larger footprint compared to smaller toasters due to its 4-slice capacity.
• Price: Higher price point reflects its premium design and advanced features.
• Power Consumption: Requires 1800 watts of power, which may be higher than some other toasters.
• Manual Operation: While automated for most functions, manual intervention may still be required for optimal toasting results.

Conclusion

The Breville Die-Cast Smart Toaster 4 Slice BTA840XL is an excellent choice for those seeking a high-quality toaster with advanced features and a sleek design. Its innovative functions like “Lift and Look” and “A Bit More” ensure you get the perfect toast every time, while the extra-wide slots accommodate a variety of bread types. The toaster’s variable browning control and LED indicators allow you to monitor the toasting progress easily, while the automatic operation simplifies the toasting process.

Although it requires more counter space and is priced higher than basic models, its stylish appearance, ease of use, and reliable performance make it a worthwhile investment for any kitchen. If you’re looking for a toaster that combines functionality with modern design, the Breville Die-Cast Smart Toaster BTA840XL is a solid choice.

How to Maintain Your Commercial Toaster

Regular Cleaning

Regular cleaning is essential to keep your toaster in top condition. Remove and clean crumb trays daily, and wipe down the exterior with a damp cloth.

Inspection and Maintenance

Regularly inspect for any signs of wear and tear. Ensure that all components are functioning correctly and replace any worn parts promptly.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your toaster isn’t working correctly, refer to the manufacturer’s troubleshooting guide. Common issues include uneven toasting and slow operation, often fixed with simple adjustments or cleaning.

Benefits of Using a Commercial Toaster

Efficiency in Food Preparation

Commercial toasters can handle large volumes quickly, reducing prep time and increasing kitchen efficiency.

Consistency in Quality

They provide consistent toasting results, ensuring that every slice meets your establishment’s standards.

Versatility in Usage

From toasting bread to grilling buns and sandwiches, commercial toasters offer versatility that can enhance your menu offerings.

Comparing Top Commercial Toasters

Performance

Evaluate the performance of different models based on speed, consistency, and durability. Feedback from customers and ratings from experts can offer valuable insights.

Value for Money

Consider the features and performance relative to the price. The best toaster for your business should offer good value for the investment.

Customer Reviews

Look at what other users are saying about the toasters you’re considering. Customer feedback can highlight strengths and potential issues.

FAQs 

How long does a commercial toaster last?

With proper maintenance, a good commercial toaster can last anywhere from 5 to 10 years, depending on usage and brand quality.

Can a commercial toaster be used at home?

Yes, but they are typically larger and more expensive than household models. They are best suited for homes with high toasting needs.

What is the average cost of a commercial toaster?

Prices can range from $100 for basic models to over $1,000 for high-end, high-capacity toasters.

Are commercial toasters energy-efficient?

Many modern commercial toasters come with energy-saving features. However, efficiency varies by model and brand.

How do I clean a commercial toaster?

Regular cleaning involves removing and emptying crumb trays, wiping down the exterior, and occasionally cleaning the interior components according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Conclusion

Choosing the best commercial toaster for your business involves considering factors like capacity, durability, speed, and ease of use. Brands like Waring, KitchenAid, Hatco, Star Manufacturing, and Dualit offer excellent options for various needs and budgets. Regular maintenance ensures longevity and consistent performance, making your investment worthwhile. With the right commercial toaster, you can enhance your kitchen’s efficiency and delight your customers with perfectly toasted treats.