How to Clean an Oven and Best Oven Care Guide

How to Clean an Oven and Best Oven Care Guide
How to Clean an Oven and Best Oven Care Guide

Are you tired of opening your oven and seeing a messy layer of stuck on dirt? Here is the simple solutions that can use to clean an oven.

How Often to Clean the Oven

How often you clean your oven depends on how much you use it and what kind of food you cook in it. Usually, it is recommended to give your oven a deep clean every three to six months. However, If you see lots of spills or smoke when you cook, it is better to clean the oven earlier than usual.

How long does it take to clean an oven?

How long it takes to clean an oven depends on how you do it and how dirty it is. Usually, it can take between 30 minutes to a few hours to clean an oven. If you are using a self cleaning cycle or a commercial oven cleaner, the process may take longer due to the required waiting and rinsing times.

Condition of OvenTime Needed for Cleaning
Lightly soiled1-2 hours
Moderately soiled2-3 hours
Heavily soiled3-4 hours or more
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Remember, these times based on the size of your oven and the cleaning method you use

What You will Need

Before you begin, make sure you have the necessary supplies on hand. Here's a list of items you might need:

  • Baking soda
  • White vinegar
  • Mild abrasive cleaner (for tough stains)
  • Rubber gloves
  • Sponges or scrub pads
  • Microfiber cloths
  • Oven cleaner (if using a commercial product)
  • Garbage bags or old towels (to line the oven floor)

The Best Ways to Clean an Oven

There are several methods to clean an oven. You can use things like natural stuff you have at home, special cleaners you buy, or the self-cleaning setting on the oven. Let's explore each option in detail.

How to Clean an Oven With Baking Soda and Vinegar

Most of people like using this eco-friendly way. Baking soda is like a soft scrub that helps get rid of tough grease and dirt. Vinegar helps dissolve and remove stuck on food particles.

How to Clean an Oven With Baking Soda and Vinegar

Here is how to clean your oven using baking soda and vinegar:

  1. Remove the oven racks and soak them in hot water mixed with dish soap.
  2. In a bowl, Mix the equal amount of baking soda and water in a bowl until it is like a spreadable paste.
  3. Put the paste all over the inside of the oven, making sure not to get it on the heating parts.
  4. Leave the paste there for a few hours or overnight, so it can do its job.
  5. Spray vinegar on the paste. It will make it fizz and bubble up.
  6. Take a wet sponge or scrub pad and use it to clean off the dirt and paste that is come loose.
  7. Wash the inside with fresh water and dry it with a soft cloth.
  8. Clean the oven racks separately using the same baking soda and vinegar solution.

How to Clean an Oven With Commercial Oven Cleaner

Commercial oven cleaners can be an effective solution. These cleaners usually have strong chemicals that can break down baked on messes. However, it is important to use them with caution and follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully.

How to Clean an Oven With Commercial Oven Cleaner

Here's how to clean your oven using a commercial oven cleaner:

  1. Remove the oven racks and any bits of food or dirt inside the oven.
  2. Cover the bottom of the oven with old towels or garbage bags to keep it safe.
  3. Apply the oven cleaner liberally to the interior surfaces, following the product's instructions.
  4. Leave the cleaner there for a few hours or overnight, so it can do its job.
  5. Take a wet sponge or scrub pad and use it to clean off the dirt and paste that is come loose.
  6. Wash the inside with fresh water and dry it with a soft cloth.
  7. Clean the oven racks separately using the same oven cleaner or a dedicated rack cleaner.

How to Use the Self-Cleaning Feature on an Oven

A lot of new ovens have a special self-cleaning mode. It gets really hot and burns away all the dirt and grease inside. Even though it is easy, this way of cleaning can make bad smells. So, only do it in a place with good airflow.

Here is how to use the self-cleaning feature on your oven:

  1. Remove the oven racks and any loose bits of stuff from inside the oven
  2. Look at your oven's manual to find out exactly how to use the self-cleaning mode.
  3. Start the self-cleaning mode. It might take a few hours to finish.
  4. After the cleaning is done and the oven cools down, use a wet cloth to wipe off any leftover ash or dirt.
  5. Clean the oven racks separately using a mild abrasive cleaner or the baking soda and vinegar solution.

How to Clean Every Part of Your Oven, From the Racks to the Door Glass

How to Clean the Inside of the Oven

How to Clean the Inside of the Oven

We have already covered the main methods for cleaning the oven interior, But let's look more closely at some parts that might need extra cleaning.

If there are really tough stains or grease stuck on, you may need to use a gentle scrubbing cleaner or a special oven cleaner. Apply the cleaner directly to the affected area and leave it for the recommended time before scrubbing and rinsing.

Do not forget to clean the heating elements and the oven's interior glass as well. Use a damp cloth or sponge to gently wipe down these areas, being careful not to submerge or soak the heating elements.

How to Clean Oven Racks

How to Clean Oven Racks
  • Soak the racks in a tub or sink filled with hot water and dish soap, leave it for several hours or overnight. Scrub with a sponge or brush to remove any remaining grime.
  • Create a baking soda and vinegar solution and paste it on the rack , leave it for a few hours before you start scrubbing them.
  • Use a dedicated oven rack cleaner or a commercial oven cleaner, following the product's instructions.

How to Clean the Oven Door

How to Clean the Oven Door
  1. Remove the oven door according to your oven's manual instructions.
  2. Use a mild glass cleaner or a vinegar based solution to wipe down the interior and exterior glass surfaces.
  3. For the door frame and handles, use a damp cloth or sponge with a mild detergent or baking soda solution.
  4. Dry the door before reinstalling it.

How to Clean Oven Knobs and Handle

Don't forget about the knobs and handles! These areas can easily pick up grease and grime from dirty hands. Use a damp cloth or sponge with a mild detergent or baking soda solution to wipe them down.

Tips to Keep Your Oven Clean Longer

After clean the oven you will want to keep it that way for as long as possible. Here are some tips to help you maintain a cleaner oven:

  • Avoid using high temperatures or broiling for extended periods, as this can cause food splatters and smoke.
  • Place a baking sheet or oven safe dish on the rack below the one you are cooking on to catch any drips or spills.
  • Keep the oven door closed as much as possible during cooking to prevent grease and food particles from escaping.
  • After each use, give the oven a quick wipe down with a damp cloth or paper towel to remove any loose debris or spills.

The below video will show you 5 Tips to Clean Your Oven Like a Pro

5 Tips to Clean Your Oven Like a Pro