Cleaning an oven can be a chore, but with the right approach and some elbow grease, you can make it shine again. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to clean your oven:
Gather the necessary supplies
You will need rubber gloves, a face mask, a drop cloth or old towels to protect the floor, a bucket of warm water, a sponge or cloth, baking soda, vinegar or dish soap, and a scrub brush or non-abrasive sponge.
Safety first
Make sure the oven is turned off and completely cool before starting the cleaning process. It’s also a good idea to open windows or turn on the ventilation in the kitchen for proper air circulation.
Remove oven racks and other removable parts
Take out the oven racks, baking trays, and any other removable parts and set them aside. These will be cleaned separately.
Create a baking soda paste
Mix about 1/2 cup of baking soda with a few tablespoons of water in a small bowl. Adjust the amounts until you have a spreadable paste. Baking soda is a natural cleaner that helps break down grease and food residues.
Alternatively, numerous oven cleaning products are available to buy, many of which contain toxic chemicals. Please ensure you follow the instructions closely and wear the recommended safety equipment.
Apply the baking soda paste
Put on your rubber gloves and use a sponge or cloth to spread the baking soda paste all over the interior surfaces of the oven, focusing on areas with heavy buildup or stains. Avoid applying the paste on heating elements, such as the oven’s heating coils.
Let it sit overnight
Close the oven door and let the baking soda paste sit for at least 12 hours or overnight. This allows the baking soda to work on loosening the grime and grease.
Wipe down the oven interior
After the waiting period, dampen a sponge or cloth in warm water and use it to wipe down the oven interior. The baking soda paste should have loosened the dirt, making removing it easier. For stubborn areas, you can use a non-abrasive scrub brush or sponge.
Rinse thoroughly
After wiping down the interior, dampen a clean cloth or sponge with fresh water and thoroughly rinse away any remaining baking soda residue.
Clean the oven racks
While the oven interior is drying, clean the oven racks separately. You can use a sink, bathtub, or large basin filled with warm water and dish soap. Let the racks soak for a while, then scrub them with a sponge or brush to remove any remaining grime. Rinse them thoroughly and dry them before putting them back in the oven.
Address stubborn stains
If stubborn stains or residues are still inside the oven, use a vinegar and water solution. Mix equal white vinegar and water in a spray bottle, then spray the solution onto the stains. Let it sit for a few minutes before wiping it away with a damp cloth.
Clean the oven exterior
Remember to clean the exterior as well. Use a damp cloth or sponge with a mild dish soap solution to wipe down the oven door, knobs, and control panel. Dry everything thoroughly.
Final touches
Once the oven is completely dry, you can put the racks and other removable parts back in place. Dispose of the drop cloth or old towels, and clean any remaining mess on the floor.
That’s it! Following these steps should help you achieve a clean and fresh oven. Remember to consult your oven’s user manual for any specific cleaning instructions or precautions the manufacturer recommends.
Does This Sound Too Difficult?
Oven cleaning is a complicated process that can be messy and potentially harmful if not done correctly. If you want to avoid the stress and mess of DIY oven cleaning, contact an experienced and professional oven cleaning company.
Here are some steps on how to select the best oven cleaning company for your requirements –
Research local companies
Start by researching oven cleaning companies in your area. Look for companies that specialise in oven cleaning and have positive customer reviews. You can check online directories and search engines or ask friends, family, or neighbours for recommendations.
Check credentials and experience
Look for licensed, insured, and certified companies. A professional oven cleaning company should have trained technicians who handle different ovens and cleaning methods. Check their website or contact them directly to inquire about their credentials and experience in the industry.
Read customer reviews and testimonials
Look for reviews or testimonials from previous customers. Websites like Google, Yelp, or specialised cleaning review platforms can provide insights into the company’s quality of service. Pay attention to both positive and negative feedback to get a balanced view.
Request quotes
Contact multiple oven cleaning companies to request quotes. Provide details about your oven’s size, type, and any specific requirements you have. Compare the prices and services offered by different companies. Remember that the lowest price may not always be the best option, so consider the overall value and reputation of the company.
Inquire about the cleaning process
Ask the companies about their cleaning process. A reputable company should use safe and environmentally friendly cleaning products. Inquire about the techniques they use, the time required for the cleaning, and whether they disassemble any parts of the oven for a thorough cleaning.
Check for guarantees and warranties
Find out if the company offers any guarantees or warranties for their services. A reliable company will stand behind their work and provide customer satisfaction guarantees. This ensures they will address any issues or concerns arising after the cleaning.
Seek references
If you want extra assurance, you can request references from the company. Contact a few of their past customers to inquire about their experience with the oven cleaning service. This can give you firsthand information about the company’s reliability, professionalism, and quality of its work.
Consider additional services
Some oven cleaning companies may offer services like cleaning other kitchen appliances, range hoods, or BBQ grills. If you have other cleaning needs, choosing a company that can provide a comprehensive cleaning solution might be convenient.
Book the service
Once you have gathered all the necessary information, compare the options, and choose the oven cleaning company that best meets your requirements and budget. Contact the chosen company to book the service at a convenient time for you.
By following these steps, you can select a reliable oven cleaning company that will efficiently and effectively clean your oven, ensuring it operates at its best.
