Cleaning the inside of your oven may seem like a daunting task, but it’s essential for keeping it looking and functioning optimally. Not only does a sparkling range improve its aesthetic appeal, but it also helps prevent excess smoke, flavor transfer issues, and temperature management problems.
Before you begin, read the manufacturer’s manual for specific instructions on cleaning particular components of your oven. Be sure to heed their advice closely, taking special care not to scratch or burn electric heating elements or gas vents.
Use a baking soda paste.
Baking soda is an ideal alternative to harsh oven cleaners that may irritate the home. It helps clean and remove tough stains from ovens and other hard-to-reach places.
Begin by creating a cleaning paste using baking soda and water. Combine about 1/2 cup of baking soda with several tablespoons of water until you achieve the desired consistency.
Once you achieve the desired consistency, spread it evenly over the interior surface of the oven. Don rubber gloves to protect your hands as you do so, and leave them to sit for 12 hours or overnight without turning on the stove.
Once the time is up, wipe any baking soda with a damp washcloth and scrape away any hard-to-reach spots with a plastic spatula.
If you are unhappy with the results, try spraying a vinegar solution on top of the baking soda paste before wiping it away. The chemical reaction between vinegar and baking soda will create bubbles which should help lift any stubborn stains.
Vinegar and water
If you’re searching for an organic and safe way to clean the inside of your oven, vinegar could be the ideal solution. This acidic solution can dissolve mineral deposits, dirt, and grease without harming anything.
Vinegar has the potential to kill bacteria, making it an excellent disinfectant. But be mindful when using vinegar on surfaces that could become contaminated with food, such as cutting boards, refrigerator shelves, and drawers.
You can also use a solution of vinegar and water to degrease your cooktop. Spray the 1-to-1 solution onto the top and sides of your stove, wait 10 minutes, then scrub with a non-abrasive scouring pad to eliminate any greasy spots or marks.
Vinegar and water are effective, natural cleaning solutions for many surfaces around the home. But it’s essential to remember that it may cause skin irritation if misused, so consult a doctor or pharmacist before using them around your family.
Disinfectant wipes
Have you noticed your oven starting to look dirty? It’s common for burnt-on sauce, greasy drips, and food debris to build up over time.
Thankfully, you can quickly and effectively clean your oven using disinfectant wipes. Disinfectant wipes contain a powerful cleaning solution that eliminates viruses and bacteria on contact.
Some disinfectant wipes must be damp for four minutes, but others can kill germs instantly. Clorox wipes, for instance, can also be used in the oven.
Disinfectant wipes can also be used to disinfect bathroom counters and sinks. They’re especially beneficial when handling raw meat as they are effective against bacteria and viruses. You may even use them on fridge, microwave, and dishwasher handles – remember to thoroughly rinse your hands after using disinfectant wipes on surfaces likely to come into direct contact with food.
Ammonia
Ammonia is an effective cleaning agent that can tackle even the toughest grime, like baked-on grease and gunk. It can disinfect stove burners, microwaves, and ovens with a musty odor or appearance.
To achieve optimal oven cleanliness with this hack, preheat the oven to 150 degrees Fahrenheit and boil a pot of water. Fill an oven-safe bowl on the top rack with one cup of ammonia while filling a heat-safe dish on the bottom shelf with 3-4 cups of boiling water.
Close the oven door and leave ammonia and boiling water inside overnight. The fumes from ammonia will loosen any food debris or grease in your oven, making it easier to wipe away. This method works for both gas and electric ovens alike.