Reduce the browning control dial. Thin or white bread toasts faster than thick sourdough or dense farmhouse bread.
Use a damp cloth; for stainless steel, a bit of white vinegar can remove fingerprints. Burnt Toaster
Health agencies like the UK Food Standards Agency suggest toasting bread to a golden yellow/brown color rather than black. Reduce the browning control dial
Slide it out, wash with soapy water, and dry thoroughly. for stainless steel