Let’s face it, cleaning the oven is nobody’s favourite task. It’s one of those jobs that often gets pushed to the bottom of the to-do list until the smoke detector goes off every time you cook. But a clean oven doesn’t just look better – it works more efficiently, smells fresher, and can even improve the taste of your food. The good news? It doesn’t have to be a major chore. You can make your oven sparkle without hours of scrubbing with a few clever tricks and some natural ingredients. Here are 10 oven cleaning tips that actually work.
1. Start with a Safety Check
Before you begin, make sure your oven is completely switched off. Unplug it or turn it off at the mains if possible. Let it cool down fully before you start cleaning. Safety always comes first, especially when dealing with electrical appliances and strong cleaning agents.
2. Remove and Soak the Racks
Take out all the oven racks and set them to soak in a sink or bath filled with hot, soapy water. For an extra cleaning boost, sprinkle some bicarbonate of soda over the racks and spray with white vinegar. Leave them to soak for at least an hour – or overnight for really stubborn grime. A quick scrub with a sponge or brush afterwards should remove any remaining residue.
3. Make a Natural Cleaning Paste
Forget harsh chemicals. Mix a few tablespoons of bicarbonate of soda with a small amount of water to create a thick, spreadable paste. This natural mix is gentle but effective and won’t fill your kitchen with unpleasant fumes.
4. Apply the Paste Generously
Spread the bicarbonate paste all over the inside of your oven, avoiding the heating elements. Focus on areas with visible grease and burnt-on food. Let it sit for at least 12 hours, or overnight if you can. The longer it rests, the easier the grime will be to remove.
5. Tackle Tough Spots with Vinegar
Once the paste has done its job, spray white vinegar over the surfaces. The reaction between the vinegar and bicarbonate of soda creates a fizzing effect that helps lift away stubborn stains. It’s oddly satisfying and highly effective.
6. Use a Plastic Scraper or Spatula
Gently scrape away the loosened grime with a plastic scraper or spatula. Avoid using metal tools, as they can scratch the interior surfaces. Take your time and work methodically – you’ll be amazed at how much gunk comes off.
7. Clean the Glass Door Separately
The oven door often collects splashes and drips that turn into hard, greasy marks. Use your bicarbonate paste or a mild degreasing spray to clean the glass. For really baked-on stains, a careful scrape with a razor blade scraper can help – just be sure to use it gently to avoid scratching the glass.
8. Don’t Forget the Oven Seals
Use a damp cloth and a little washing-up liquid to wipe around the rubber seals on the door. Be gentle and avoid soaking them, as too much moisture can damage the seals over time. Keeping this area clean helps the oven door close properly and improves overall efficiency.
9. Rinse and Wipe Everything Down
Use a clean, damp cloth to wipe away all the remaining paste and grime from the oven interior. You may need to rinse and repeat a few times to get every last bit. Follow with a dry microfibre cloth to leave the surfaces streak-free and shiny.
10. Keep It Cleaner for Longer
Once your oven is spotless, keep it that way by using non-stick oven liners on the bottom of the oven. These catch spills and crumbs and are easy to remove and clean. Also, try to wipe up any drips or splashes after each use (once the oven has cooled). A little upkeep goes a long way.
Bonus Tip: Try the Self-Cleaning Function
If your oven has a self-cleaning feature, this can be a useful option for deep cleans. It works by heating the oven to a very high temperature to burn off residue. Just be aware that it produces a strong smell and the oven will be out of action for a few hours. Always check the manufacturer’s instructions before using this function.
Conclusion
Cleaning your oven might not be the most glamorous job, but it’s definitely one of the most satisfying. With these ten simple tips, you can ditch the grime and enjoy a kitchen that looks and smells fresher. Best of all, you won’t need to rely on harsh chemicals or expensive cleaners.
Have you tried one of these methods? In the comments, let us know how it worked for you, and feel free to share your own oven-cleaning hacks!