Cleaning an oven isn’t as challenging or complicated as you might think. It’s a simple procedure that takes time to complete. The following is a step-by-step guide with everything you need to know to clean an oven like a pro.

1. Empty the Oven

Start by removing any racks, pizza stones, and thermometers you have in the oven. The next step is cleaning the oven racks by soaking them in hot water. Add dishwashing liquid to the water for easier cleaning. If your kitchen sink isn’t large enough, soak the racks in the bathtub.

2. Remove Baked-On Residue to Clean an Oven

Gently remove the baked-on residue from the inside of the oven using a plastic scraper or a wooden spatula. Scoop ash and food particles from the bottom of the oven chamber.

3. Clean an Oven Using Baking Soda and Water

If you want to avoid chemicals, make your own homemade oven cleaner using a solution of baking soda and water. Mix the two ingredients until you achieve a thick consistency to make a spreadable paste. Apply the paste inside the oven, steering clear of the heating elements and gas vents. Let the baking soda solution sit for several hours or overnight to allow the mixture to work.

When using store-bought oven cleaners, make sure to have adequate ventilation in the kitchen because the odor can be unpleasant.

4. Wipe the Oven

After you’ve left the mixture to sit, use a damp cloth to wipe off the baking soda solution. When wiping, ash and grease will be removed, along with the paste. After removing all grease and grime, use vinegar to clean the oven walls of remaining residue. If the oven’s interior is still dirty, reapply the mixture and repeat the process.

5. How to Clean an Oven Door

A glass oven door requires a gentler approach than racks and the interior. Don’t use abrasive products. Instead, fill a spray bottle with a white vinegar and water mixture and use it to dampen the glass door. With a dry clean cloth, wipe away the moisture.

Keeping your oven clean will extend its lifespan, make food taste better, and help prevent house fires. Follow the steps above to clean this kitchen appliance.

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