How to Clean Your Oven, Top to Bottom

It’s definitely much more fun to use the oven rather than clean it. The grease, grime, and spilled-over food make the experience less than desirable. However, it’s a necessary evil. Experts recommend cleaning your appliance once every three months on average. While some ovens have a self-cleaning function, others require good ‘ol elbow grease. Here is the best and most effective way to clean your oven. 

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How to Clean the Inside of an Oven

Drippings, scorch marks, and soot can make the interior of your oven an intimidating task, but it can be easily handled if you approach it step-by-step. Before you begin, open your windows and put on a pair of kitchen gloves to avoid skin irritation from the cleaning supplies. 

Next, remove the oven racks and apply your preferred cleaning solution, such as Easy Off, to the interior. If you want a chemical-free option, mix baking soda and water to form a paste, adding distilled white vinegar as needed for added power. Let the cleaning solution sit for 30 minutes before wiping away the remainder with a microfiber cloth.

How to Clean the Oven Racks

The best way to clean oven racks is to soak them in a bathtub or large sink. Fill the tub with boiling water to cover the racks, and add a one-fourth cup of dish soap or laundry detergent. Let the racks soak for a few hours or overnight before scrubbing away any remaining dirt. Make sure to place an old towel at the bottom of the tub to prevent the grease from staining.

For stubborn stains, completely cover the spot with a combination of one part baking soda and two parts white vinegar and let it sit overnight.

How to Clean the Outside of an Oven 

Cleaning the outside of the oven is just as simple as cleaning the inside. Start with the top of the oven. Electric and range stove tops can be cleaned with one part baking soda and two parts water — simply let sit for 20 minutes before scrubbing with a non-abrasive cleaning tool. Wipe stainless steel exteriors with soapy water and a soft cloth to avoid smudges and scratches, or use a stainless steel cleaner.

Start with the door. Spray glass cleaner like Windex onto the oven door and wipe away with a paper towel or microfiber cloth. For a chemical-free option, apply a homemade solution of one part baking soda to two or three parts water and let it sit for 20 minutes before wiping it away.

Don’t forget the knobs, which get surprisingly dirty. Spray a cleaning solution onto a microfiber rag to scrub away any grime. Avoid spraying cleaner directly onto the knobs, as it could seep through the crevices and short the system. 

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