Why should a waffle baker with a non-stick coating be kept open when not in use?

Keeping a waffle baker with a non-stick coating open when not in use is important primarily to prevent damage to that coating. When the appliance is closed while still warm, moisture and heat can become trapped inside. This environment can lead to degradation of the non-stick surface over time, potentially causing the coating to warp, peel, or lose its effectiveness. By leaving the waffle baker open, you allow it to cool down more effectively and reduce the risk of damaging the non-stick layer, thereby extending the life of the equipment and maintaining optimal cooking performance.

In this context, the other options, while they might have some relevance, do not directly address the issue of the non-stick coating. For instance, airflow and cooling can play a role in equipment maintenance, but the primary concern with a non-stick surface is the potential for damage when heat and moisture are trapped.