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Sarita here, from Saturday Morning Cleaning Company.
Today, let’s talk about one of the most used and often neglected appliances in our homes: the oven. A clean oven not only looks better but also functions more efficiently and can even improve the taste of your food. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into the secrets of a sparkling oven.
Preparation is Paramount
Before you begin, safety first. Ensure your oven is completely cool and unplugged or that the circuit breaker is switched off. Remove the oven racks and any loose items inside. Protect your floor by placing old newspapers or a drop cloth beneath the oven. Gathering your supplies will make the process smoother. You’ll need oven cleaner (choose one suitable for your oven type, especially if it’s self-cleaning), rubber gloves, sponges, scrub brushes, a scraper, and a bucket of warm, soapy water.
Tackling the Oven Racks
While the oven cleaner works its magic inside, let’s focus on the racks. For a light cleaning, soaking them in hot, soapy water for a while might suffice. For tougher grime, however, a more aggressive approach is needed. Apply a generous amount of oven cleaner to the racks, ensuring they are fully coated. Place them in a large plastic bag, seal it tightly, and let them sit for a few hours or overnight. The fumes from the cleaner, confined in the bag, will help break down the grease. When time is up, put on your gloves, take the racks out, and rinse thoroughly with water. Use a scrub brush to remove any remaining residue.
Inside the Oven
Now for the inside. Start by removing any old loose food or baked on grease at the bottom of the oven. Then, apply the oven cleaner as per the manufacturer’s instructions. Be sure to cover all interior surfaces, avoiding the heating elements directly if possible. Close the oven door and let the cleaner work for the recommended time. During this time the cleaner breaks down baked-on grease and grime.
Once the time is up, put your gloves back on and use a damp sponge or cloth to wipe away the cleaner and loosened dirt. You might need to scrub a bit for particularly stubborn spots. A plastic scraper can also be helpful but, be gentle to avoid scratching the oven’s surface. For corners and edges, a toothbrush can be clutch.
Don’t Forget the Door
The oven door often gets splattered and overlooked. If your oven door has a glass window, use a specialized glass cleaner after removing the heavy grime. Pay attention to the edges and seals around the door; they can trap grease and crumbs. Use a damp cloth to clean these areas thoroughly.
The Finishing Touch
Once you’ve wiped everything clean, rinse all surfaces with a damp cloth to remove any remaining cleaner residue. Dry everything with a clean, dry cloth. Replace the racks and turn on the oven at a low temperature for about 15 minutes to ensure it is completely dry. This step will also eliminate any lingering odors from the cleaner.
Regular Maintenance
To prevent build-up, regular maintenance is key. Wipe up spills as soon as they happen and give your oven a quick clean every few weeks. By incorporating these tips into your cleaning routine, you’ll ensure a sparkling clean oven and a more enjoyable cooking experience.
