Oven Cleaning Hacks
Hate to clean where you cook? So do I, but things can be easier when you have shortcuts like these oven cleaning hacks that get the job done fast. From built-on dirt to regular upkeep, you can make oven cleaning less of a chore and more of a quick approach to routine care.
Looking for home cleaning tips to tackle the mess in your oven? We’ve got you covered with simple and effective solutions.
Cleaning your oven might be one of the most dreaded chores in the kitchen. Maybe it’s the layers of baked-on grease, the stubborn food spills, or the sheer amount of elbow grease it usually takes to make it clean. More often than not, I find myself turning a blind eye to the messes that are hiding behind the door.
Here’s the thing about ovens—they’re pricey to replace. But keeping them clean on a regular basis can help them last longer, so tackling this chore is actually a smart way to save money.
How Often Should You Clean Your Oven?
It’s recommended to clean your oven at least once every three months, but this can vary depending on how often you use it and the type of cooking you do.
If you use your oven frequently, especially with greasy or messy foods, then a monthly deep clean may be necessary. On the flip side, if you rarely use your oven, then a cleaning every six months should be enough.
Self Cleaning Ovens
If you have a self-cleaning oven, then consider yourself lucky. These ovens have a special feature that heats up to extreme temperatures, burning off any leftover food or grease.
Just a heads-up, though—it can get smoky and a bit smelly, so be sure to crack some windows and switch on the fans to keep things aired out.
Different Oven Cleaners
No self-cleaning oven? No worries. There are tons of budget-friendly oven cleaners out there that can work wonders and have your oven looking brand new in no time.
Store Bought Cleaners
Most store-bought cleaners contain chemicals, and in some cases, this might be your best option.
- Spray on Cleaner – This is the easiest to use because you just spray it on, wait a few minutes, and then wipe away the grime.
- Gel Cleaner- This is thicker than the spray-on cleaner so it can stick to the sides of your oven without dripping down too quickly.
- Foam Cleaner -This type of cleaner expands as soon as you spray it on, which makes it easier for the product to get into all those hard-to-reach areas.
- Oven Cleaning Kit – If you want everything you need in one package, then opt for an oven cleaning kit. These typically come with a cleaner, brush, and scraper to make the job even easier.
409 Fume Free Oven Cleaner 19oz Aerosol, Fresh Scent, Cuts Through Grease & Grime on Contact, A Powerful Clean You Can Trust, Fresh Scent, 19 Oz | Grill Cleaner, Stove Top Cleaner
Easy-Off Fume Free Oven Cleaner Spray, Lemon, 24oz, Removes GreaseZep Commercial Grill And Oven Cleaner
DIY Oven Cleaners
If you prefer to use natural ingredients or just want to save some money, there are plenty of homemade oven cleaners that can do the trick.
- Baking Soda and Vinegar – This combination is a powerful cleaner that can remove even the toughest stains and grease. Simply mix baking soda and vinegar to create a thick paste, spread it on the oven walls and let it sit for at least 30 minutes before scrubbing away.
- Lemon Juice – The acid in lemon juice works as a natural degreaser, making it perfect for cleaning your oven. Mix lemon juice with water or baking soda to make a paste and use it to scrub away grime.
- Salt – If you have stubborn stains or burnt-on food, sprinkle some salt over the area while the oven is still warm. Let it sit until the oven cools down, then wipe away with a damp cloth.
- Hydrogen Peroxide – This household staple can also be used to clean your oven. Mix it with baking soda to create a paste, apply it to the affected areas and let sit for 15 minutes before wiping away.
Arm & Hammer Baking Soda, 12lbRealemon, Juice 100% Lemon Conctrt – 48 Fl Oz (Pack of 2)Heinz White Vinegar, 1 gallon
Oven Cleaning Hacks
Cleaning an oven might seem like a big task, but with the right tips and a little know-how, it’s easier than you think to get it looking spotless again.
1. Gather Your Supplies
To start, make sure you have everything you need on hand:
- Oven cleaner – Use either store-bought or a DIY option.
- Rubber gloves
- Microfiber cloths or sponges
- A small bowl
- Plastic scraper or spatula
- Trash bag or plastic sheeting – To protect your floor while cleaning.
2. Empty the Oven
Not an oven cleaning hack but an important step is to remove all racks, trays, and thermometers from inside the oven. Set aside to clean later.
3. Protect Your Floor
Place a trash bag, some old towels, or plastic sheeting under your open oven door. This will protect your floor from any drips or spills while you clean.
4. Choose Your Cleaning Method
You can decide between a store-bought oven cleaner or a homemade option:
- Store-bought cleaner: Great for tough grime, especially grease. Be sure to read the product’s instructions before you start and wear any protective wear if needed.
- DIY cleaner: Mix ½ cup of baking soda with a few tablespoons of water to make a thick paste. You can also add a splash of vinegar for extra cleaning power. You can also use any of the DIY options listed above.
5. Apply the Cleaner
Spread your cleaner of choice (commercial or DIY) all over the walls, base, and back of the oven. Be generous in areas with visible stains or caked-on food. Avoid applying too much to the heating elements so they don’t get damaged.
For best results:
- If using a store-bought cleaner, follow the recommended wait time on the label.
- For a baking soda paste, allow it to sit overnight, or at least 8-10 hours, to break down stubborn grime.
6. Clean the Oven Racks
While you wait for the cleaning solution to do its thing, clean the racks:
- Submerge them in a bathtub or large sink filled with hot, soapy water.
- Add half a cup of white vinegar and a sprinkle of baking soda for extra cleaning power.
- Allow them to soak for a few hours, then scrub them with a non-abrasive sponge. Rinse and dry thoroughly.
Oven Cleaning Hack: If your racks are really dirty, put them into a trash bag, add 1/4 of ammonia, and let sit overnight. The next day, rinse and use a brush to remove any leftover grime.
Get tips on how to clean a toaster oven for more shortcuts for the kitchen.
7. Wipe Down the Oven
Once your cleaner has had time to work, grab a damp cloth or sponge and start wiping the inside of the oven. Use a plastic scraper or spatula to gently lift off any tough residue. Don’t forget to rinse your cloth often to avoid spreading grime around.
For stuck-on dirt, you can spray a little vinegar and water mixture directly onto the area and scrub gently until it’s gone.
8. Rinse and Dry
After you’ve removed all the cleaner and grime, give the interior a final wipe-down with a clean, damp cloth to remove any residue. Then, use a dry microfiber cloth to buff everything dry and leave your oven gleaming.
9. Clean the Glass Door
To clean the oven door, follow these steps:
- Use a mix of baking soda and water (or store-bought glass cleaner) to remove streaks and stains.
- Apply the mixture, scrub gently, and then wipe clean with a damp cloth.
- For tough grime, you may need to leave the mixture on the glass for 15-20 minutes before wiping it away.
10. Reassemble the Oven
Place the cleaned racks and trays back into the oven. Take a moment to make sure everything is securely positioned.
11. Optional
After cleaning, place a small bowl of water mixed with a teaspoon of lemon juice in the oven. Heat it at 200°F for 15 minutes. This will leave a refreshed, clean scent.
Regular Maintenance for Easy Cleaning
The trick to making oven cleaning less of a hassle? Keep up with little touch-ups between those big deep cleans. It’s easier to manage and stops dirt and grime from piling up too much.
- Use a damp cloth to wipe down the interior of your oven after each use. This will help prevent food and grease from building up and becoming harder to remove.
- Place a sheet of aluminum foil or an oven liner on the bottom rack to catch any spills or drips. This will make cleanup much easier, especially for messier dishes like casseroles or pies.
- If you have a self-cleaning oven, run it once every few months to keep it in top condition. Just be sure to remove the racks beforehand as they can get damaged during the cleaning cycle.
Safety Tips
When cleaning your oven, it’s important to take safety precautions to protect yourself and your appliance.
- Wear protective gear – Oven cleaners can contain strong chemicals that can irritate your skin or eyes, so make sure to wear gloves and goggles while using them.
- Ventilate the area – Open windows or turn on fans when using chemical cleaners in an enclosed space to avoid inhaling fumes.
- Test a small area first – Before using any cleaner, test it on a small, inconspicuous area to make sure it doesn’t damage your oven’s finish.
- Keep children and pets away – Make sure to keep children and pets out of the kitchen while cleaning your oven to prevent accidents.
Taking care of your oven with a little regular upkeep and quick clean-ups can make your life so much easier.
With these simple oven cleaning hacks, keeping your oven fresh and sparkling doesn’t have to be a chore. Put this on your cleaning routine and never avoid your oven again.
