Why do my sandwiches stick to the plates?

If sandwiches stick, the non-stick surface is usually too dry, not clean enough, or being scraped with the wrong tool. Stop using the appliance if the coating is peeling, flaking or deeply scratched, because damaged plates can make future use unsafe and difficult to clean.

1. Preheat the sandwich maker fully before adding food. The expected result is better release from the plates.
2. Lightly grease the plates only if the user instructions for your model allow it, then test with a simple sandwich. The expected result is easier release without tearing the bread.
3. Check that you are using wooden, plastic or other non-metal utensils to lift the sandwich. Metal tools can damage the coating and worsen sticking. The expected result is less scraping damage.
4. After the appliance has cooled, wipe away crumbs and food residue with a soft cloth or other gentle method suitable for non-stick surfaces. The expected result is a cleaner plate surface.
5. If the coating is lifting, the surface is rough, or food still welds itself to the plates after basic cleaning and preheating, stop using the appliance and ask the retailer or store where it was purchased for advice.

As prevention, avoid very sugary fillings touching the plates directly, because sugar can harden and bind to the surface.