How to Clean a Stove Oven: A Complete Guide

Cleaning your oven regularly keeps it working efficiently and prevents smoke or odors from burnt-on food. Here’s a step-by-step guide for both routine cleaning and deep cleaning.

Before You Start: Safety First

• Turn off the oven and ensure it’s completely cool

• Wear rubber gloves to protect your hands

• Open windows for ventilation if using chemical cleaners

• Remove oven racks and any removable parts

Method 1: Routine Cleaning (Light Soil)

For everyday spills and light buildup:

1. Spot clean spills immediately when oven is cool using a damp cloth with baking soda paste (3 parts baking soda to 1 part water)

2. For general wiping, use warm soapy water and a non-abrasive sponge

3. Clean oven window with vinegar spray and wipe with newspaper for streak-free results

Method 2: Deep Cleaning Options

Option A: Using Commercial Oven Cleaner

1. Choose a well-ventilated time and protect surrounding areas

2. Spray cleaner evenly on interior surfaces (avoid heating elements, thermostats, and door seals)

3. Let sit according to package directions (typically 20-30 minutes)

4. Wipe away grime with damp cloth or sponge

5. Rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove chemical residue

6. Run empty oven at 350°F for 15 minutes to burn off any remaining residue

Option B: Natural Cleaning (Baking Soda & Vinegar)

1. Make a paste of ¾ cup baking soda with ¼ cup water

2. Apply paste generously to interior surfaces, avoiding heating elements

3. Let sit overnight (at least 12 hours)

4. Spray with vinegar to activate bubbling action

5. Wipe clean with damp cloth or plastic scraper for tough spots

6. For stubborn residue, reapply paste and repeat

Cleaning Oven Racks

1. Soak in bathtub with ½ cup dish soap and 2 cups vinegar in warm water

2. Alternatively, place racks in large trash bag with ¼ cup ammonia, seal, and leave overnight

3. Scrub with nylon brush and rinse thoroughly

Cleaning Stove Top

Gas Burners:

• Remove grates and burner caps

• Soak in warm, soapy water

• Clean base with baking soda paste

• Use toothpick to clear clogged burner ports

Electric Coil Burners:

• Ensure burners are completely cool

• Wipe with damp cloth (coils only)

• Clean drip bowls with soapy water

Glass/Ceramic Cooktops:

• Use specialized ceramic cooktop cleaner

• For stuck-on debris, use cooktop scraper at 45° angle

• Polish with vinegar for shine

Maintenance Tips

• After each use, wipe spills while oven is warm (not hot)

• Place a baking sheet on lower rack to catch drips

• Clean monthly if you use oven regularly

• Remove odors by baking citrus peels at 200°F for an hour

What to Avoid

• ❌ Steel wool or abrasive scrubbers on coated surfaces

• ❌ Commercial cleaners on self-cleaning oven interiors

• ❌ Excessive water on electrical components

• ❌ Cleaning oven while still hot

For Self-Cleaning Ovens

1. Remove excess debris first

2. Run self-clean cycle according to manufacturer instructions

3. Ventilate kitchen well (produces smoke)

4. Wipe away ash residue when cool

Frequency: Deep clean every 3-6 months depending on usage. Spot clean spills immediately to prevent tough, baked-on stains.

Regular maintenance will extend your oven’s life and ensure better cooking results!