It is pretty apparent that most of us cook at home multiple times per week. Now, if this is the case, then you already know that nothing is worse than opening your oven door and seeing old, baked-on spills and dirty oven walls. But, this doesn’t have to spell a disaster! It just gives you an opportunity to make your cooking process cleaner and more enjoyable. You will now be more motivated to give your oven a good cleaning. Here are some tips to make it easier on you overall!
All Ovens
No matter which type of oven you own, you can bet it will benefit from a thorough washing of its racks. Using rubber gloves to protect your hands, remove the racks and soak them in hot, soapy water. Adding a handful of dishwasher powder to the soaking water helps loosen all the burned-on bits. Not sure where to do all this cleaning? A great place to do this is in your bathtub but be sure to line it first with towels to prevent scratching of the tub surface.
Self-Cleaning Ovens
If your oven is a self-cleaning oven, follow the directions established by the appliance’s manufacturer for cleaning your oven. Generally, you will need to set your oven to the clean cycle, which locks the door. The cleaning cycle usually takes several hours. Then, when the oven has cooled again, use a sponge or washcloth to wipe up the remaining residue. Remember, never use oven cleaner on a self-cleaning oven!
Non-Self-Cleaning Ovens
A simple trick to get spills and stains to come up easily is to place 1/2 cup of ammonia into a small glass bowl. Place the bowl in a cool oven, close the oven door, and leave the bowl in the oven overnight to loosen baked-on spills. Alternatively, you can use oven cleaner, following the directions on the bottle. Then use a sponge or washcloth and a solution of 1/2 cup vinegar to 1/2 cup hot water. Rub away any spills or greasy stains. Dry with a soft cloth.
Oxford at Sonterra Apartments in San Antonio, Texas