Keeping your oven clean is an essential part of its maintenance, even if you’re careful. Over time, accumulated food particles can lead to unpleasant burning smells when heating up. Here are some vital oven cleaning tips for a spotless and efficient appliance:
Immediate Action
Ignoring spills in your oven is a big mistake. Tackle any spills right away, as the warmth of the oven helps in easier stain removal compared to once it’s dried and set.
Exploring Unconventional Methods
If conventional cleaning methods aren’t cutting it, try some novel approaches. Some people find crumpled newspaper more effective than a sponge for cleaning the oven. Others use nail files to remove stubborn stains, or even a mix of salt and lemon juice to combat grease.
Self-Cleaning Ovens
Opinions on self-cleaning ovens vary. If you use this feature, adhere strictly to the manufacturer’s instructions. Despite its convenience, regular hand washing, especially of the oven door, is advisable to reduce wear and tear.
Steam Cleaning Ovens
For ovens with a steam cleaning function, add a little water to the oven’s bottom and run the steam cycle. The steam helps loosen grime, making it easy to wipe away after the cycle without harsh scrubbing.
Textured or Continuous Cleaning Ovens
These ovens have a special surface that gradually burns off spills. Regular wiping with a damp cloth is enough, and abrasive cleaners or chemicals should be avoided.
Manual Oven Cleaning
For ovens without self-cleaning features, choosing a reputable oven cleaner and following its instructions is key. Ensure your kitchen is well-ventilated during the process. Alternatively, for a greener option, use a paste of baking soda and water, leaving it overnight. Wipe off the dried paste, and use vinegar to remove any residue. This creates a foam for additional scrubbing power. Finish with a damp cloth and allow the oven to air dry.
Cleaning Oven Racks
Remove metal racks and soak them in hot, soapy water for a couple of hours. Scrub with a brush, rinse, and dry before reinserting them.
Regular cleaning not only maintains your oven’s efficiency but also extends its lifespan and simplifies future repairs.
