Introduction
When was the last time you cleaned your oven? If you can’t remember, it’s time to give it some attention. A dirty oven can negatively impact your cooking and health. Grease, grime and burnt-on food can release harmful fumes and bacteria into your home. Cleaning your oven is easy, and you can do it with just a few supplies. In this article, we will provide you with an easy-to-use guide that covers everything you need to know about cleaning your oven.
Step-by-Step Guide
Before starting, you should read the oven’s manual to make sure you’re using the right cleaner, and follow the specific instructions outlined in it. Here is our step-by-step guide:
Preparation
First, remove the oven racks and place them in a solution of water and dish soap. Soak the oven racks for about 20 minutes to loosen dirt and grime. While that is happening, prepare the cleaning solution that the oven manual suggests. Wear gloves to protect your skin and follow the instructions on the label.
Cleaning
Apply the cleaning solution to the oven’s interior, paying extra attention to areas with heavy grease and buildup. Then, let the solution sit for around 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the packaging’s instructions. Use a sponge or a cleaning tool to scour the inside of the oven after the waiting time is over. Scrub every nook and cranny to remove all bits of grime and dirt. Repeat this process if harder-to-remove stains remain. Use paper towels to wipe the cleaning foam and debris.
Finishing Touches
Clean the oven window or door, better with glass cleaning solution and a paper towel or the cleaning sponge. Then, once the oven interior is clean and washed, rinse the oven racks and dry them with paper towels. Then, put them back in the oven where they belong. It is essential to dispose of the used paper towels and cleaning materials properly.
Supplies and Equipment List
You don’t want to start cleaning only to realize that you lack a vital supply. So here is what you’ll need:
- Cleaning sponge or scouring pad
- Gloves to protect the skin
- Oven cleaner – check the oven manual for recommended options
- Scraper – a plastic spatula to help you remove the remaining dirt without scraping off the oven surface
- Paper towels
- Bowl, for preparing the cleaning solution
- Oven mitts
Safety Measures
As with any cleaning task, you should take the necessary safety precautions to protect yourself. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Read warning labels on cleaning products carefully, so they are not misused.
- Make sure the oven is turned off and that it has cooled.
- Open windows in the kitchen to reduce the concentration of chemicals.
Environmentally Friendly Tips
You don’t have to use strong chemicals to clean your oven. You might want to try natural agents like vinegar and baking soda instead. These products may not be as strong, but they are safe and effective. Here are some steps to follow:
- Wet the oven surface with a cloth.
- Spray some vinegar over the damp surface.
- Sprinkle baking soda on top of it and scrub the surface with a sponge.
- Rinse the oven surface with fresh water and dry it with a paper towel or a clean cloth.
Address Misconceptions
Many people think that they can just use the self-cleaning function on their oven. The self-cleaning mode can get extremely hot (800 degrees Fahrenheit) and cause the oven to produce toxic fumes. Moreover, some users have reported that the extreme heat caused their oven to malfunction or even break altogether. So, when cleaning your oven, don’t use the self-cleaning mode. Try the methods suggested here instead.
Conclusion
Maintaining a clean oven is critical for your health and your cooking. With the step-by-step guide we have provided, you can make oven cleaning a regular part of your household routine.
