Cleaning your oven might not be your favourite task, but it’s an important one. A clean oven improves performance, enhances food flavour, and ensures safety by preventing grease buildup that can become a fire hazard. Follow this smart and easy guide to keep your oven in top condition.
Why cleaning your oven matters
- Better Performance: A clean oven heats more efficiently, reducing cooking times and energy use.
- Improved Taste: Burnt-on grease can create unpleasant odours that affect your food.
- Safety First: Built-up grime can become a fire risk.
What you’ll need
- Rubber gloves
- Baking soda
- White vinegar
- Warm water
- Spray bottle
- Soft sponge or cloth
- Scraper or plastic spatula
- Old toothbrush (optional)
- Newspaper or an old towel (to protect flooring)
Step-by-step guide to cleaning your oven
1. Start with a cool oven
Make sure the oven is switched off and completely cool before cleaning. Remove racks and accessories, and place a newspaper or towel beneath the oven to catch any spills.
2. Apply a natural cleaning solution
- Mix 1/2 cup of baking soda with a few tablespoons of water to form a spreadable paste.
- Spread the paste over the oven’s interior, avoiding heating elements.
- Let it sit for at least 12 hours or overnight to loosen grime.
3. Clean the oven racks
- Soak the racks in warm, soapy water for several hours.
- Scrub with a sponge or toothbrush to remove grease.
- Rinse and dry thoroughly before placing them back.
4. Wipe down the interior
- Use a damp cloth to remove the baking soda paste.
- Spray white vinegar onto any remaining residue to help break down stubborn spots.
- Wipe thoroughly with a clean, damp cloth.
5. Clean the oven door
- Mix equal parts water and vinegar in a spray bottle.
- Spray onto the oven door glass and wipe with a soft cloth.
- Buff with a dry cloth for a streak-free finish.
6. Reassemble and final touches
- Return the racks and accessories once they are dry.
- Turn on the oven for a few minutes to remove any lingering odours.
What NOT to do when cleaning your oven
- Don’t use harsh chemicals: They can damage the oven’s interior and leave harmful residues.
- Avoid scrubbing heating elements: Direct contact can damage sensitive parts.
- Don’t ignore regular maintenance: Neglecting cleaning can lead to difficult-to-remove grime.
Quick tips for easy oven maintenance
- Wipe spills immediately after the oven cools down to prevent build-up.
- Use an oven liner to catch drips and crumbs, making clean-up easier.
- Schedule a deep clean every three months to keep your oven running efficiently.
Cleaning your oven doesn’t have to be a hassle. With these simple steps, you can keep it in excellent condition, ensuring delicious meals and a safer kitchen environment.
Find Your Next Oven at Comet
Are you thinking about upgrading your oven? Look no further!
Take advantage of our flexible financing options, including Klarna Pay in 3 and PayPal Credit, to spread your payments over three interest-free instalments. Or choose Snap Finance for extended payment plans up to 48 months. Shop now and discover the perfect oven to complement your kitchen and cooking needs!