We all love the result of a long Sunday bake—the casseroles, the roasts, and the pies. But we often ignore the aftermath: the burnt cheese on the bottom of the oven and the grease spattered across the glass. While many modern appliances feature a “self-clean” mode, appliance experts often advise against using it due to the extreme heat, which can damage internal components or even melt fuses.
Instead, the best approach is a manual deep clean that breaks down grime effectively without risking your appliance. Whether you prefer natural solutions or heavy-duty store-bought cleaners, this method will restore your oven’s sparkle with just a bit of patience and the right technique.
Ingredients & Tools
Before you begin, gather your “mise en place.” You will need a bathtub or a large plastic bin for the racks, and a specific set of tools to handle different levels of grime.
The Cleaning Agents (Choose One Method):
- The Natural Paste: Baking soda mixed with water, followed by white vinegar.
- The Heavy-Duty Option: Commercial oven and grill cleaner.
The Equipment:
- 1 dishwasher detergent pod (specifically one with enzymes),
- 1 plastic putty knife
- 1 vacuum cleaner (with hose attachment) or hand brush
- 1 razor blade scraper
- 1 scouring sponge (texture-safe; avoid aggressive green/yellow scrubbers),
- 1 pack ultra-fine steel wool (Grade #0000, optional for racks)
- Microfiber towels and paper towels,
- Protective gear: Gloves and safety glasses (especially if using commercial cleaner)
Instructions
1. Soak the Racks
Begin by removing the racks from the oven. These are often difficult to clean due to their many edges and built-up grease. Place the racks in a bathtub or a large plastic bin and fill it with warm water. Drop in a dishwasher pod and let them soak while you clean the rest of the oven. The enzymes in the pod—designed to clean food off plates—work perfectly to break down the grease on the metal grates,.
2. Remove Dry Debris
Before applying any liquid cleaner, remove dry crumbs and burnt food from the bottom of the oven. Use a vacuum cleaner or a brush to clear out loose debris. If you encounter stuck-on bits, such as burnt cheese, use a plastic putty knife to gently scrape them loose before vacuuming them up. This step ensures your liquid cleaner can work directly on the baked-on grease.
3. Apply the Cleaner
Choose your preferred cleaning agent. If using a commercial cleaner, ensure the area is well-ventilated and you are wearing protective gear.
- Application: Spray or spread your cleaner evenly over the interior surfaces, including the ceiling and the bottom. Carefully lift the heating element to spray underneath it, as this area collects significant grime.
- Protect Surfaces: If you have stainless steel accents or sensitive flooring, protect them with towels to prevent etching or damage.
- Wait: Allow the cleaner to sit for 30 minutes to one hour. This dwell time is crucial for emulsifying the grease, making it easy to wipe away later.
4. The Initial Wipe Down
Once the cleaner has done its work, use a damp microfiber towel to wipe down the interior. Rinse your towel frequently to keep it effective. If you chose the baking soda method, this is the stage where you scrub the paste first, then spray vinegar to remove residue,.
5. Tackle Stubborn Spots
For charred areas on the bottom glass or enamel that won’t wipe away, use a razor blade scraper.
- Important: Always lubricate the surface with a little more cleaner before scraping to prevent scratches.
- Technique: Hold the blade at an angle, move slowly, and gently lift the carbon buildup.
For textured surfaces or remaining grime, use a scouring sponge. Avoid standard green and yellow kitchen sponges, as they are too aggressive and can scratch or rust the oven interior.
6. Finish the Racks
Return to your soaking racks. The grease should now be soft. Use a scouring sponge to wipe them clean. If there is heavy buildup, use ultra-fine (#0000) steel wool to buff them clean. Rinse thoroughly and dry.
7. Final Rinse and Polish
Wipe the entire interior of the oven one last time with a clean, damp towel to remove any remaining chemical residue. Follow up with a dry microfiber towel to polish the surface and ensure no moisture is left behind.
Pro Tips
- Avoid Chemical Reactions: If using the natural method, do not mix baking soda and vinegar in the bowl together. This creates a salt water solution that loses its cleaning power. Use the baking soda as a scrubbing paste first, then use the vinegar as a rinse.
- Heating Elements: If cleaner gets on the heating element, simply wipe it off with a damp towel and rinse well.
- Door Removal: Some oven doors can be removed to make reaching the back easier. However, check your manufacturer’s instructions and consider asking for help, as the glass is heavy and can shatter if mishandled.
