Cleaning the inside of an oven is a task that many dread, but it’s essential for maintaining a functional and hygienic kitchen. While companies like Live Clean Today offer professional cleaning services (Visit website), you can also achieve great results with some elbow grease and the right techniques. Here’s a short guide to effectively cleaning your oven.
Gather Your Cleaning Supplies
Before you begin, gather all the necessary supplies. You’ll need a pair of rubber gloves, a non-abrasive scrubbing sponge or brush, baking soda, white vinegar, a spray bottle, and some old rags or paper towels.
Remove Oven Racks
Take out the oven racks. These can be cleaned separately in your sink or bathtub. Soak them in hot, soapy water for a few hours, then scrub with a scouring pad to remove grime and food particles.
Make a Baking Soda Paste
Mix half a cup of baking soda with a few tablespoons of water to create a paste. The consistency should be spreadable, not too runny or too thick.
Apply the Paste Inside the Oven
Wearing your gloves, spread the baking soda paste all over the interior surfaces of your oven, avoiding the heating elements. Focus on areas with built-up grime. The baking soda is non-toxic and effectively breaks down grease and dirt.
Let It Sit
Allow the baking soda paste to sit for at least 12 hours, or overnight. This gives it time to break down the tough stains and burnt-on food.
Wipe Down the Oven
After the waiting period, take a damp rag or sponge and wipe out as much of the dried baking soda paste as possible. For tougher spots, use a plastic spatula or scraper – this helps to lift the grime without scratching the oven’s surface.
Spray Vinegar
Put white vinegar in a spray bottle and spritz it over the areas where you still see baking soda residue. The vinegar will react with the baking soda and foam, making it easier to wipe away.
Final Wipe-down
With a clean, damp cloth, wipe down the entire oven. You may need to rinse the cloth several times to remove all the residue. Continue this process until the oven is clean and residue-free.
Clean the Oven Window
Make a fresh batch of baking soda paste and apply it to the oven window. Let it sit for about 30 minutes, then wipe it off with a damp cloth.
Reassemble the Oven
Once everything is clean and dry, replace the oven racks. Your oven should now look and smell fresh.
Regular Maintenance
To prevent the buildup of grime, it’s a good idea to wipe up spills as soon as they happen and give your oven a quick clean regularly.
Cleaning the inside of an oven doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With these simple steps, you can efficiently remove grease and burnt-on food, leaving your oven looking like new. For those who prefer a professional touch, cleaning services can provide a thorough and hassle-free cleaning experience. Regular cleaning not only improves the performance of your oven but also ensures a healthier cooking environment.