Ovens can get filthy quickly if you cook a lot in your home. Many homeowners disregard their oven's condition; over time, it can be a sight if not cleaned properly. So, how to clean the oven the right way? The stove may be the first place to start if you want a clean kitchen environment. Busy Bee Cleaning Company is here to walk you through how to properly clean your oven and other appliances so that everything works efficiently. Read on for more!
Why Clean Your Oven?
Ovens are used to heat and cook things over a long period of time, but most people don't automatically think this appliance can get dirty. Ovens can get quite messy, and a lot of the time, they can affect their usage while also having a risk of fire if you don’t know how to clean a kitchen oven on a routine basis. A clean oven not only operates more efficiently, saving you time and energy, but it also is safer for your household from accumulated grease and food debris. Plus, it minimizes unpleasant odors and smoke when you cook.
Easy Oven Cleaning Methods
So now that you know cleaning your oven is imperative, here are some easy steps to clean it properly.
Vinegar and Baking Soda
One of the easiest methods to thoroughly clean out your oven is to use baking soda and vinegar to make a sort of cleaning paste that helps remove grime and harsh surfaces. Once you get the paste to the consistency of your liking, you scrub it into the sides of the oven and wipe away the dirt remnants.
Here is how to make the vinegar and baking soda cleaning paste:
- Mix 1/2 cup of baking soda with a few tablespoons of water to create a thick paste.
- Spread the paste over the oven's interior, avoiding the heating elements.
- Allow it to sit overnight.
- Wipe away the paste with a damp cloth, using a little vinegar spray to remove any residue.
Commercial Oven Cleaners
If you want to avoid making the cleaning paste mentioned above, try the heavy-duty oven cleaners you can get at the grocery store. They are just as effective and are easy to use. We recommend you follow all the instructions or guidelines on whatever cleaning solution you buy because they can contain strong chemicals. Also, when applying the cleaner, avoid the heating elements as long as possible so the solution can sit for the recommended time. The last thing you want to do is to instantly start cooking food with the pungent chemical cleaner, still meditating in the oven.
Water and Lemon Juice Solution
Are you wondering how to clean out an oven with just simple ingredients? If oven cleaners are too chemical for you, try the lemon juice and water solution to clean out your oven correctly. This mixture is perfect for light stains and makes your kitchen smell fresh. Here is how to make it:
- Mix lemon juice and water in equal parts and place in an oven-safe dish.
- Heat the oven to 250°F (120°C) and leave the dish inside for 30 minutes.
- Wipe down the interior with a damp cloth after it cools.
Warm Water and Dish Soap
Simple dish soap and warm water can also be a simple solution to keeping your oven clean. Some stains are easier to eliminate than others, so we recommend trying this first before diving into the other methods.
How to Use:
- Mix a few drops of dish soap with warm water.
- Use a sponge to scrub any light stains and spills.
- Rinse and wipe dry with a clean cloth.
Stainless Steel Cleaner
It's important to know if your oven is stainless steel or not. If it is, there are specific cleaners that can help maintain the steel's shine and longevity. Make sure you watch for those, and when you find one you like, you apply it based on the instructions. Before applying, make sure to do things like remove the racks and rinse the inside out thoroughly so that whatever food you cook isn't ruined with the chemicals to clean the space out.
Safety Tips
Some probably think cleaning out an oven is easy work, but there are a lot of risks at play when you don't clean it or if you need to clean it out correctly. Busy Bee Cleaning Company's tips for being super safe is to obviously make sure the stove is off and completely relaxed before you start cleaning. Have protective gloves or even goggles on so that the chemicals these cleaners have don't affect you.
Then, open some windows. Ventilation is crucial so you're not inhaling these cleaning fumes and can breathe safely. Finally, keep pets, kids, and elderly members away from the kitchen while cleaning. You don't want these groups of individuals exposed to harsh chemicals because it can affect them more than others. If you're worried about deep cleaning out your oven or can't seem to get a specific stain, call in the professionals. Busy Bee Cleaning Company has dealt with a fair share of tough stains, and we can clean your oven correctly.
Avoid These Oven Cleaning Common Mistakes
- Ignoring Safety Precautions: Always prioritize safety by wearing gloves and ensuring proper ventilation.
- Using Wrong Tools: Avoid metal scrapers or harsh brushes that can scratch the oven’s interior.
- Skimping on Rinse: Ensure all cleaning residues are thoroughly rinsed to prevent chemical smells during subsequent use.
- Neglecting Regular Cleaning: Regular maintenance prevents buildup and makes deep cleaning more manageable.
- Forgetting to Test: Always test homemade solutions on a small spot to avoid damaging finishes.
Summary
Overall, having your oven cleaned out correctly can take more steps than initially thought but is super worth it if done right. An oven free of grime and residue is crucial for efficient cooking and a pleasant kitchen atmosphere. Regular cleaning using these methods will extend the life of your appliance and ensure every meal is perfectly cooked. If you feel overwhelmed or pressed for time, consider hiring professionals like Busy Bee Cleaning Company. We offer thorough oven cleaning services as well as other house cleaning services. Please reach out to us today for a deep cleaning appointment!
