Cleaning your oven might not be the most enjoyable task, but it’s a necessary one. A grimy oven not only looks unappetizing but can also create unpleasant odors and affect the taste of your dishes. Plus, a dirty oven can make it difficult to achieve even cooking. If you’ve been putting off cleaning your oven, don’t worry! We have some foolproof methods that will leave your oven looking brand new.

Method 1: The Self-Clean Option

The self-clean cycle is a simple and time-saving way to clean your oven. According to Paul Bristow, the executive director of built-in cooking at GE Appliances, the oven is heated to a high temperature, which incinerates the food residue and turns it into ash. All you need to do is wipe away the ash with a damp cloth. Just remember to let the oven cool down before cleaning.

While the self-clean option is convenient, it does have some downsides. It can lock your oven for several hours, raise the kitchen temperature, and produce an unpleasant smell. Also, it may not remove tough stains and grease completely. Stubborn spots might require another cycle or some extra scrubbing.

Method 2: Store-Bought Oven Cleaner

If you prefer using commercial products, you can find oven cleaners easily in stores. Start by removing any big pieces of food or loose ash. Then, spray the cleaner inside the oven and let it sit for about 30 minutes before wiping it away. Make sure to open windows and wear gloves and a face mask while cleaning due to the strong chemicals.

Method 3: Baking Soda and Vinegar

For those who want to avoid harsh chemicals, you can make your own cleaning solution using vinegar, baking soda, and water. Mix baking soda with water to create a paste and spread it generously over the interior surfaces of the oven. Let it sit for at least 20 minutes to break down any burnt-on food. To boost the cleaning power, spray vinegar over the baking soda paste and leave it for another 20 minutes. Scrub the oven using non-abrasive pads and finish by wiping it down with a damp microfiber cloth.

Method 4: Baking Soda and Lemons

If you prefer a fresh citrusy scent, you can use baking soda and lemons to clean your oven. Sprinkle baking soda all around the inside of the oven and scrub it with water to ensure it’s evenly spread. Let it sit for about 10 minutes. Next, mix the juice from two large lemons or half a cup of citric acid with warm water. Use this mixture to wash away the baking soda. Rinse the oven with the lemon water to leave a pleasant scent.

Method 5: Steaming

Steaming is a DIY alternative to the self-clean cycle. Place a pan of water in the oven and set it to 225 degrees Fahrenheit for at least 15 minutes. After it cools down a bit, add some dishwashing soap to the water. Use this soapy mixture along with a nylon sponge or non-scratch wool pad to scrub away the grime. Don’t forget to clean the entire interior of the oven.

Bonus Tips for Oven Cleaning

• Always make sure the oven is completely turned off and cooled down before cleaning.
• Wear protective gloves and clothes, especially when using strong cleaning agents.
• Remove any large pieces of dirt or food residue by hand before applying the cleaner.
• Use a toothbrush to clean hard-to-reach spots like corners and crevices.
• For stubborn grease build-up, apply a mixture of baking soda and vinegar, leave it overnight, and then wipe it away with a sponge.
• If you have a gas oven, be careful not to let the cleaner drip into the gas burner. Cover the bottom vent with foil while cleaning and remove the foil before using the oven again.

How to Clean Oven Racks

Regardless of the cleaning method you choose for your oven, tackle the metal racks separately. Take them out and soak them in a solution of boiling water and dishwasher soap. After about two hours, give the racks a good scrub with a stiff brush or steel wool. Rinse and dry them before putting them back into your freshly cleaned oven. Remember, only use steel wool on the racks, not on the oven’s interior, as it could damage the finish.

How to Clean Oven Knobs

Gently wipe down the oven knobs with a damp microfiber cloth. If needed, add a bit of soap. Avoid spraying them directly; instead, spray the cloth. Applying cleaner directly to the knobs can cause a short in the control panel.

How to Clean Glass Oven Doors

Create a paste using baking soda and dishwashing soap. Spread it on the inner glass of the oven door and let it sit for at least thirty minutes. Use a non-abrasive sponge to clean off the paste. For the outer glass, use white vinegar or glass cleaner and scrub with a non-abrasive sponge. Rinse with a wet cloth. Avoid using harsh scrubbers or scouring pads that could scratch the glass surface.

Cleaning your oven doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With these easy and effective methods, you can have a sparkling clean oven in no time!