3 Simple Ways to Get a Clean Oven

It seems like we are constantly cleaning our kitchen – cleaning dishes and tidying the countertops.  However, how often do you think about making sure you have a clean oven?

Your oven can collect a lot of tough grease when you use it, and it can be difficult to clean.  If you have tried to get a clean oven using soap and water, you can appreciate how tough it is!

But all is not lost!  It is possible to have a clean oven, using things that you already have at home.

Let’s talk about WHEN and HOW you should clean your oven.  You will see how easy it is to have a clean oven!

clean oven

When Should I Clean my Oven?

Like most cleaning tasks, the longer you leave this, the harder it will be to do properly.  Therefore, plan on cleaning your oven every three to six months for the best results.

You can also spot clean the inside of your oven on a monthly basis.  The outside of your oven can be cleaned much more regularly, as often as you see a mess.

clean oven

How to Get a Clean Oven

Of course, your oven may have a self-clean feature.  If that is the case, follow your manufacturer’s instructions.

How does the self-cleaning function work? It heats your oven to an incredibly high temperature (800 degrees Farenheit) so that any food and grease is incinerated.

The food and grease will burn and leave a small pile of ash behind.  This can be wiped away with a cloth.

Even if your oven has a self-clean feature, you may opt not to use it.  It can have a terrible smell to it, which is not practical if you have any sensitivities or if you are having guests come over.

Additionally, the self-cleaning feature will leave your house very hot as the oven is heating up to high temperatures.  This may not be the best option during the warm summer months.

It will also take between four and five hours to complete the self-cleaning function.  Depending on your family, that may be a long time to be without an oven.

If you either do not have a self-cleaning function, or do not want to use it, you can clean your oven with some household items.

What You Need

  • A chemical store-bought oven cleaner; or
  • Baking soda, vinegar, and water; and
  • A sponge or microfiber cloth

Using a Store-Bought Oven Cleaner

If you are using a store-bought oven cleaner, you need to remember you are working with strong chemicals.  Keep your windows open while cleaning your oven and use gloves and a face mask to protect yourself.

Remove any large pieces of food before beginning.  Spray your choice of cleaner evenly throughout the inside of your oven and let it set for at least 30 minutes.

Once that time is up, wipe away with a cloth.  You will see how easily the dirt and grime comes out!

Using a DIY Cleaner

You will want to make a paste using baking soda and water in an oven-safe bowl.  For extra cleaning action, add some vinegar!

Spread that paste throughout your oven, putting more on particularly messy areas.  Then, heat your oven to 400 degrees Farenheit and leave the leftover mixture in the bowl for about 45 minutes.

Next, wipe the oven with a non-abrasive sponge or microfiber cloth.  The mess will come up easily!

clean oven

That is all there is to it!  Now, you will have a clean oven and can focus on other areas!