Cleaning the oven can be a daunting task, with stubborn grease and food particles seemingly impossible to remove. Many individuals give up and accept their dirty, germ-ridden ovens. However, for those who refuse to surrender, this guide offers natural cleaning methods that surpass store-bought alternatives. Discover the effectiveness of natural cleaners and say goodbye to a dirty oven.
Step 1: Unplug the Oven
Prior to beginning the oven cleaning process, it is of utmost importance to prioritise safety. To begin with – unplug the oven from the power source. This simple yet crucial step eliminates the risk of electrocution and ensures a safe working environment. Never attempt to clean a plugged-in appliance, as it poses a serious hazard. By disconnecting the oven from the power supply, you create a protective barrier, mitigating any potential accidents or electrical mishaps.
Always exercise caution and double-check that the oven is indeed unplugged before proceeding further. Confirm that the power cord is completely disconnected from the outlet or power strip. Additionally, make sure the oven’s control panel is switched off to prevent any unexpected activation during the cleaning process.
Step 2: Prepare the Cleaner
The key to successful oven cleaning lies in the choice of cleaning solution. While various store-bought cleaners exist, most are either toxic or insufficient against stubborn grease. Instead, opt for a homemade natural oven cleaner. You only need two ingredients: white vinegar and baking soda.
To prepare the cleaner, dilute the baking soda with a small amount of water to form a paste-like consistency. The baking soda’s corrosive properties effectively combat grease and tough stains, making it an ideal cleaning agent. Additionally, white vinegar acts as a potent disinfectant. It is best used undiluted for maximum effectiveness.
Step 3: Clean the Top
Initiate the cleaning process by focusing on the top of the oven. Begin by removing small parts, such as drip pans and coil rings, from the stovetop. Soak these parts in a mixture of warm water and dish soap to loosen any built-up grime. This makes it easier to clean at a later point in time.
Next, sprinkle the diluted baking soda mixture over the burner openings and the surrounding areas. The baking soda will help break down grease and stubborn stains, making them easier to remove. Afterwards, drizzle white vinegar onto the baking soda. This combination will create a reactive solution, resulting in a foaming action. Allow the solution to sit for approximately 10-15 minutes, allowing it to penetrate and loosen the dirt and grime.
Using a sponge with a rough surface, gently scrub the top of the oven, focusing on the areas with stubborn residue. Pay close attention to the burner openings and the spaces in between. The abrasive texture of the sponge, combined with the baking soda and vinegar solution, will effectively remove any remaining stuck particles.
Once the scrubbing is complete, rinse the top surface thoroughly with warm water, ensuring that all cleaning residue is removed. Use a clean cloth or paper towel to dry the surface out.
Step 4: Clean the Bottom
After successfully cleaning the top, it’s time to address the bottom of the oven. Lift the stove top to access the area underneath. If there is any loose debris or crumbs, remove them before proceeding.
Spray the baking soda and vinegar solution onto the bottom surface of the oven. The combination of these two ingredients will produce a fizzing and foaming reaction, which helps to break down tough stains and grease. Allow the solution to sit for approximately 15-20 minutes, giving it ample time to penetrate and dissolve the grime.
Using a damp cloth, wipe the bottom surface, paying attention to the areas with stubborn residue. The combination of the baking soda and vinegar solution should have loosened the dirt, making it easier to remove. Rinse the cloth frequently to prevent transferring the loosened dirt back onto the surface. Once cleaned, dry the area with a clean cloth.
Step 5: Inside the Oven
Cleaning the interior of the oven poses the greatest challenge due to accumulated grease and food residue. To tackle this task effectively, start by removing any removable oven racks and trays. Soak them in a mixture of warm water and dish soap to loosen any stubborn grime. To remove any leftover residue, scrub them with a sponge or brush. Set them aside to dry after properly rinsing them.
Next, spray the interior of the oven with the baking soda and vinegar solution, making sure you cover all areas with accumulated grease and food residue. It is advisable to do this step in the evening or before going to bed to allow the solution to work overnight.
In the morning, respray the oven with the baking soda and vinegar solution to reactivate its cleaning properties. Using a sponge or non-abrasive brush, scrub the interior surfaces, paying close attention to areas with stubborn stains. Focus on the walls, floor, and door of the oven. For particularly stubborn stains, allow the solution to sit for a few minutes before scrubbing.
After thoroughly scrubbing the interior, wipe away the loosened dirt and grime with a damp cloth. Rinse the cloth frequently to prevent smearing the dirt around. Continue wiping until the interior is clean and free from residue.
Step 6: The Finishing Touch
To complete the cleaning process, it’s time for the finishing touch. Spray the entire oven interior and surfaces with white vinegar once again, ensuring to cover all areas. This final step helps to disinfect the oven naturally, eliminating any remaining germs or bacteria.
Using a clean cloth, wipe down all surfaces of the oven, including the walls, floor, door, and racks. The vinegar will help remove any remaining cleaning residue while leaving behind a fresh and clean scent.
Of course, you don’t always have the time to clean your oven yourself. In situations where you need help – you can always opt for professional oven cleaning.
Conclusion
With this comprehensive guide to naturally cleaning your oven, you can bid farewell to the hassle of stubborn grease and dirt. Embrace the power of homemade solutions, harnessing the corrosive qualities of baking soda and the disinfecting properties of white vinegar. Achieve a naturally clean and germ-free oven, transforming a once-dreaded chore into a satisfying endeavour. Enjoy a sparkling oven that not only looks pristine but is also free from harmful chemicals.
