A clean oven isn't just more pleasant to use – it's more efficient and can even make your food taste better! Yet we often put off this essential task, unsure of the best approach or daunted by what seems like a challenging job.
If your oven is due a clean, we have all the advice you need. In this guide, we explore various methods to clean your oven effectively, including quick solutions and natural alternatives that don't require endless scrubbing.
Let’s get started!
How to clean oven glass for a crystal-clear view
That grimy oven door can make it impossible to check on your cooking without opening the door and losing heat. For sparkling clean glass, there’s a simple solution.
- Create a paste using baking soda and water.
- Apply this generously to the glass and leave for 20 minutes.
- Wipe away with a damp cloth, then use a glass cleaner for a final polish.
- For stubborn marks, a plastic scraper can help remove baked-on debris without scratching the surface.
Cleaning oven racks and grates
Knowing how to clean oven racks properly can transform your cleaning routine.
- Remove the racks and place them in a large sink or bathtub lined with old towels to prevent scratching.
- Soak them in hot water with biological washing powder for several hours or overnight. Most grease and grime will then wipe away easily.
- For particularly stubborn spots, a non-abrasive scrubber will help shift remaining residue.
How to clean oven trays effectively
There’s a simple method for cleaning oven trays – and you’ll likely already have the products you need to hand!
- Line your sink with foil, fill with very hot water, and add a dishwasher tablet.
- Submerge your trays and leave them for at least two hours.
The combination of the hot water and cleaning agents will help dissolve tough grease, making it much easier to wipe away afterwards.
Natural cleaning solutions for ovens
Learning how to clean oven with baking soda can save you money and avoid harsh chemicals.
- Mix baking soda with water to create a thick paste.
- Remove the racks and spread the paste throughout your oven, avoiding the heating elements.
- Leave for a few hours, or ideally overnight, then wipe away with a damp cloth.
- For extra cleaning power, spray with white vinegar before wiping – the reaction of the vinegar combined with the baking soda helps lift stubborn grime.
How to clean an oven quickly
Short on time? Sometimes you need to know how to clean an oven quickly.
While deep cleaning is important, there are effective shortcuts for busy days, or for quicker cleans to keep on top of any grime.
- Remove any loose debris, then place a heat-safe bowl of water with lemon slices in the oven.
- Heat at 200°C for 30 minutes – the steam will help loosen dirt and grease.
- Once cool, wipe down with a damp cloth.
This method is particularly effective for lighter cleaning between deep cleans.
How to clean an oven without scrubbing
Discovering how to clean oven without scrubbing can revolutionise your cleaning routine. One popular method involves placing a heat-safe dish of water and two dishwasher tablets in your oven at 150°C for an hour. The steam combined with the cleaning agents helps soften stubborn grease, making it easier to wipe away once cool.
Cleaning the space between oven glass
Many people wonder how to clean between oven glass without disassembling the door. While some ovens have a removable panel allowing access, others require more creative solutions.
A long, thin cleaning cloth attached to a wooden spoon can help reach these tricky areas. However, if you're unsure about accessing this space, consider consulting your manual or a professional to avoid damage.
Professional oven cleaning tips
For the best results, keep these professional tips in mind:
- Always ensure your oven is completely cool before cleaning
- Test cleaning solutions on a small area first
- Never mix different cleaning products
- Keep the room well-ventilated while cleaning
- Protect your hands with suitable gloves
- Clean spills quickly to prevent baked-on stains
Regular oven maintenance for easier cleaning
Prevention is better than cure when it comes to oven cleaning. To keep on top of your oven cleaning between deep cleans, stick to the following tips:
- Place a heat-proof tray or removable oven sheet on the bottom shelf to catch drips and spills.
- Clean up spills straight away (as soon as the oven is cool enough!).
- Consider using roasting bags when cooking particularly messy dishes, and always cover food that might spit during cooking.
A quick wipe after each use prevents build-up, while a deeper clean every few months keeps your oven working efficiently. Remember that a clean oven not only looks better but also works more effectively and can help reduce energy consumption.
Looking for an oven that's easier to maintain? Explore Hoover's range of modern ovens, featuring innovative cleaning technologies that make maintenance simpler than ever. With the right appliance and regular care, you can enjoy perfect cooking results in a beautifully clean oven.