As a kitchen is the heart of a home, an oven is the heart of the kitchen. Delicious meals and endless memories this what a well functioning oven helps you create. If you are a regular user then stubborn food residues, distinct odor, grime and grease are problems that are most common to face. Thorough cleaning is the only way to maintain the health of your appliance and ensure optimal functioning.
While hearing the term cleaning, your mind may start to overthink and overcomplicate this simplest of tasks. Here is a fuss-free way to get your oven all cleaned up in a step-by-step manner. Let’s get started and find out how to do it:
How Often Should You Clean the Oven?
Cleaning an oven depends on how often it is being used. For frequent users, opting for a professional oven repair service or performing a good scrub every three months is enough. If you are using the oven only once or twice a year, clean-up will do the job. People use plenty of homemade methods for cleaning ovens, and the most common material that one uses is baking soda.
It takes around 12 hours or overnight to get rid of all issues, which means a longer waiting time. Spotting and cleaning a stain whenever there is a spill is another way to deal with the problem. But now that all of these options are out of the question, the following guide will help you in dealing with the problem better:
What Materials Will You Need to Clean Your Oven?
Here are a few things that you can either get from raiding your kitchen or from the market.
- Rubber or nitrile gloves and face mask
- Plastic sheets, newspaper, or old towels
- Glass cleaner
- Your Preferred Cleaners for oven
- Plastic scraper or old plastic spatula
- A mixing bowl
- Sponges and nonabrasive clothes
Best Way to Clean Oven: Step-by-Step Guide
Now that you have gathered all the materials, here is the best way to clean oven procedure:
1. Removing and Soaking:
Begin by carefully removing all oven racks. Place the racks in a large sink or bathtub filled with hot water, dish soap, and a cup of vinegar. Let them soak for at least an hour or overnight for stubborn grime.
2. Clean Up Burnt Food:
In a spray bottle, mix equal parts water and white vinegar. Generously spray the inside of the oven with the vinegar solution. Sprinkle baking soda liberally over the entire oven interior, including the bottom, sides, and door. Close the oven door and let the baking soda and vinegar mixture sit overnight. The combination will create a fizzing action that helps loosen stubborn baked-on food.
3. Wipe Up the Inside of the Door:
Wipe away any loose baking soda and food particles with a damp cloth during oven cleaning. Use a sponge or cloth to gently scrub away any remaining grime. You may need to reapply the baking soda paste to stubborn areas. Wipe down the entire oven interior with a clean, damp cloth to remove all traces of baking soda and vinegar.
4. Clean the Outside:
Use a damp cloth to wipe down the outside of the oven, including the door and handles. Gently wipe the control panel with a slightly damp cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners. For extra shine, you can polish the oven door with a glass cleaner.
5. Attach Everything Back:
After you have finished cleaning the interior of your oven, the last step is to put the racks and trays back to their original position. Your oven is ready to use and has been cleaned up.
Tips to Keep in Mind While Cleaning an Oven
An oven cleaning can feel like a daunting task, but with the right approach, it becomes manageable and effective. Here are some essential tips to keep in mind:
Choose the Right Cleaning Method
- Self-Cleaning Mode: If your oven has a self-cleaning feature, follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Ensure the room is well-ventilated to avoid smoke and odors.
- Homemade Solutions: Use a mixture of baking soda and water for a natural cleaning option. Let it sit overnight for tough stains.
- Store-Bought Cleaners: Opt for non-toxic oven cleaners for efficiency. Always read the label for safety instructions.
Safety First
Wear rubber gloves to protect your hands from harsh chemicals. Turn off the oven and ensure it is cool before cleaning. Keep the kitchen well-ventilated to avoid inhaling fumes.
Scrub Gently
The best way to clean oven is by avoiding using abrasive scrubbers that can damage the oven’s surface. Use soft sponges or microfiber cloths to remove grease and grime.
Avoid Spraying Heating Elements
Be careful not to spray cleaning products directly onto heating elements. Instead, use a damp cloth to wipe them gently.
Regular Maintenance
Wipe spills immediately to prevent them from hardening. Schedule a thorough cleaning every few months to keep your oven in top condition.
Rinse Thoroughly
After scrubbing, ensure all cleaning residues are wiped away to avoid unpleasant smells during the next use.
Test Before Use
After cleaning, run your oven at a low temperature for 10–15 minutes to burn off any lingering residue.
Conclusion:
An oven cleaning process involves patience and attention to detail. A clean oven will not only enhance the proper functioning of a kitchen but will also ensure that a healthier environment is created where the food is being prepared. By considering all the steps mentioned above you can keep your oven in a well functioning condition for a longer span of time.
