Ever wondered how to clean your oven? You’re not alone! It can feel like a huge task, especially if it’s been neglected. But don’t worry, I’m here to assist. We’ve tested all recommended products for the best results.

 

Deep Clean Oven
How to clean oven properly

 

Preperation

Being prepared means having all the necessary tools and supplies ready for cleaning your oven thoroughly. This includes removing oven racks and having a designated space to clean them, such as a bin or bathtub. Placing dishwashing pods with the racks helps to break down grease and buildup effectively. While the pods work their magic, it’s an ideal time to remove large debris from the oven, either manually or with a vacuum. Essential scrubbing tools include the Scrub Daddy Sponge, Razor Blade Scraper, and Microfiber Towels. Once everything is set, you’re ready to move on to the next tip!

Selecting the appropriate cleaner is crucial for effective oven cleaning

When selecting the appropriate cleaner, consider various options available on the market. Some cleaners are more aggressive, while others prioritize eco-friendliness. It’s essential to prioritize what’s best for your family’s needs, whether that means opting for an eco-friendly solution or a more chemically based one. Here are two options that could be suitable for your household:

  • Option #1 – Zep Oven Cleaner: If you’re comfortable with a more potent cleaner, I recommend Zep Oven Cleaner. It effectively cuts through grease and grime, making it perfect for stubborn oven stains. Simply spray it on and let it work its magic.
  • Option #2 – Vinegar, Baking Soda, and Dawn Dish Soap: For a gentler approach, consider using a mixture of vinegar, baking soda, and Dawn Dish Soap. Start by creating an abrasive paste using baking soda and water, then scrub away oven stains and buildup. Follow up with a spray mixture of water, vinegar, and Dawn Dish Soap to degrease the oven.

Regardless of your choice, don’t forget Tip #3 – it’s essential!

Dwell Time

Tip number three might just be the most critical one. Dwell time! What does dwell time mean? Essentially, it’s letting the cleaner sit on the surface for an extended period. Whether you’ve sprayed on your Zep or applied your baking soda paste, don’t hesitate to step away from your oven for 20-30 minutes and let the cleaner work its magic on the grease. The longer you allow the cleaner to tackle the grime and buildup, the simpler it’ll be when you start scrubbing away that grease!

 

Time to start scrubbing!

It’s time to bring out your Scrub Daddy (or Mommy) and razor blade scraper and get to work scrubbing, wiping, and scraping. Once the cleaner has penetrated the grime, it’s time to manually remove the remaining grease. This part may require the most time and effort, but don’t lose hope—you can do it! You might need to repeat the process of applying your chosen cleaner and scrubbing several times to eliminate all residue and remaining grease and grime.

Rinse and Shine

After cleaning the oven thoroughly, use a damp microfiber towel to wipe away any remaining cleaning residue and leftover grease or grime. This step is crucial as you don’t want to leave behind large chunks of baking soda or a pile of oven cleaner when cooking.

Once the oven is thoroughly wiped down, don’t forget about those oven racks you set aside earlier. Use a steel scour daddy and scrub mommy to wipe them down until all the grease is removed. This step should be relatively easy after the dishwashing pods have done their job. Give the racks a quick rinse, and now you’re ready to reassemble your oven.

Deep Clean Oven technique
Before and After