Gina Heslop
A grimy oven can be a kitchen eyesore, affecting both its appearance and the taste of your food. Luckily, there are eight proven methods to tackle even the dirtiest ovens and restore their shine. Bid farewell to stubborn grease stains and welcome back a sparkling oven.
1. Preparation is Key: Start by taking out the oven racks and clearing any loose debris. Soak the racks in warm, soapy water to make cleaning them easier later.
2. Homemade Cleaning Solution: Create a cost-effective and eco-friendly cleaning solution by mixing equal parts of baking soda and water into a paste. Apply this paste to the oven’s interior, avoiding the heating elements. Let it sit overnight, allowing it to break down grease and grime.
3. Use Vinegar: Vinegar is a natural degreaser. After letting the baking soda paste sit, spray the oven’s interior with white vinegar. The chemical reaction between the baking soda and vinegar will help lift away grease.
4. Scrubbing Power: Now it’s time for some elbow grease. Use a scrubbing pad or an old toothbrush to scrub away the loosened grime. Be persistent but gentle to avoid damaging the oven’s surfaces.
5. Steam Cleaning: If you have a steam cleaner, it’s perfect for this task. Steam not only loosens dirt but also sanitizes. Run the steam cleaner along the oven’s interior, focusing on stubborn spots.
6. Rinse and Dry: Once you’re satisfied with the cleanliness of your oven, rinse the interior thoroughly with warm water. Use a clean cloth to wipe away any residue, ensuring that all cleaning agents are removed.
7. Reassemble and Test: After your oven has completely dried, reassemble the racks and any other components you removed. Test your oven at a low temperature to ensure there are no lingering odors from the cleaning process.
8. Regular Maintenance: To prevent future grease buildup, make it a habit to wipe down spills and splatters as they happen. Regular maintenance will save you from tackling tough stains later on.
