1. Cleaning the oven using baking soda and vinegar
One of the popular methods of cleaning the oven is using baking soda and vinegar. It is a natural and eco-friendly technique that does not require the use of harsh chemicals. To clean the oven, you will need baking soda, vinegar, a spray bottle, and a cloth.
Step 1: Remove the oven racks
Remove the oven racks and soak them in warm water with detergent. This will loosen dirt and grease and make it easier to clean.
Step 2: Make a paste of baking soda and water
Mix half-cup of baking soda with a few tablespoons of water to make a paste. Apply this paste generously on the areas in the oven that are covered with dirt, grease, and any other stains you want to clean.
Step 3: Let it sit for a few hours
Allow the paste to sit on the oven’s surface for a few hours, preferably overnight. This will give time for the baking soda to loosen the dirt and stains.
Step 4: Remove the paste
Using a damp cloth, remove the paste from the oven’s surface. You can also use a sponge for outer cleaning. Be sure to clear all the baking soda residue left over in the surface.
Step 5: Spray vinegar
Spray vinegar all over the oven to remove any remaining baking soda residue. Vinegar will not only help clean but also disinfect the oven and remove any unpleasant odors.
Step 6: Wipe clean
With a clean damp cloth, wipe the oven’s surface to remove all the baking soda and vinegar residue finally.
2. Using a commercial oven cleaner
If you have a busy schedule or prefer not to use baking soda and vinegar, you can opt to buy commercial oven cleaners. These cleaning agents are specially formulated to dissolve grease and dirt from ovens, and they are available in most supermarkets.
Step 1: Follow the instructions on the product
Read and follow the manufacturer instructions. Different brands come with different directions that might make a difference in the application.
Step 2: Preparation
Before applying the oven cleaner to the oven’s surface, it’s best to remove the oven racks and wipe the surfaces as needed to ensure its safety.
Step 3: Wear gloves
Be sure to wear gloves to protect your hands while applying the commercial oven cleaner as some products have harsh chemicals.
Step 4: Apply the cleaner generously
Apply the oven cleaner generously as directed, depending on the product. Spray or wipe it onto the oven’s interior, avoiding heating elements.
Step 5: Wait for the required hours
Allow the oven cleaner to sit for the prescribed time mentioned on the cleaner’s label to dissolve the dirt and grease.
Step 6: Wipe the oven
Using a clean cloth, wipe the oven’s surface to remove the oven cleaner and any accumulated dirt or grime.
Step 7: Rinse the oven
Finally, rinse the oven with water to wash off any remaining oven cleaner residue.
In conclusion, whoever home cook knows that keeping an oven clean can be stressful. But with the above methods and a little patience, you can achieve a clean oven with less effort and expenses. You must be careful when using any cleaning method that you don’t ham the oven’s functionality with the cleaning elements you choose. Always read the manufacturer’s instructions and follow the steps correctly to ensure the best results. A clean oven is critical for good health and better cooking, and regular cleaning can prolong the oven’s lifespan and ensure it continues to perform optimally.