How to Clean Your Oven Inside and Out – The Ultimate Guide

Have you ever opened your oven, excited to bake something delicious, only to be greeted by greasy buildup, burnt food remnants, and an unpleasant odor? If so, you're not alone! Many people put off cleaning their ovens because it seems like a daunting task. However, maintaining a clean oven is essential for both hygiene and cooking efficiency. In this guide, we’ll walk you through step-by-step instructions on how to clean your oven inside and out using natural and commercial methods. Plus, we’ll share how Taskopus can take care of the hard work for you!   

Why Cleaning Your Oven is Important 

1. A Healthier Cooking Environment 

An unclean oven harbors food residue, grease, and even bacteria. Every time you turn on your oven, these old food particles can create smoke and release unpleasant odors, potentially affecting the taste of your meals. Keeping your oven clean ensures that your food remains fresh and safe to eat. 

2. Improved Cooking Efficiency 

A dirty oven struggles to distribute heat evenly. Built-up grease and debris can interfere with airflow, causing uneven cooking. Have you ever baked a dish only to find it burnt on one side and undercooked on the other? A clean oven ensures proper heat circulation, leading to perfectly cooked meals every time. 

3. Extends Your Oven’s Lifespan 

Grease buildup can cause mechanical issues over time, leading to costly repairs or even the need for a replacement. Regular cleaning keeps your oven in top condition, prolonging its efficiency and lifespan. 

4. Reduces Fire Hazards 

Leftover grease and burnt food particles can become flammable over time. Cleaning your oven reduces the risk of grease fires, ensuring a safer kitchen environment. 

I once ignored my oven for months, thinking a few crumbs wouldn’t hurt. One day, while baking cookies, I noticed smoke filling the kitchen—turns out, the burnt cheese from a previous dish had caught fire! Lesson learned: a clean oven is a safe oven!   

Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Your Oven 

1. Gather Your Cleaning Supplies 

Before you start, make sure you have: 

• Baking soda 

• White vinegar 

• Dish soap 

• Microfiber cloths 

• Scrub brush or sponge 

• Gloves 

• Spray bottle 

• A commercial oven cleaner (optional) 

2. Cleaning the Inside of the Oven 

a. Natural Cleaning Method (Baking Soda & Vinegar) 

• Remove the Oven Racks: Take out the racks and set them aside for cleaning. 

• Make a Cleaning Paste: Mix half a cup of baking soda with a few tablespoons of water until it forms a thick paste. 

• Spread the Paste: Apply the paste inside the oven, avoiding heating elements. Let it sit overnight (or at least 12 hours). 

• Wipe It Down: Use a damp cloth to wipe away the dried paste. 

• Spray Vinegar: Fill a spray bottle with vinegar and spritz the areas where baking soda residue remains. The fizzing action helps lift stubborn grime. 

• Final Wipe: Use a clean, damp cloth to wipe everything down. 

b. Using a Commercial Oven Cleaner 

• Ensure proper ventilation by opening windows or turning on an exhaust fan. 

• Follow the instructions on the cleaner’s packaging. 

• Wear gloves and avoid contact with skin. 

• Wipe away residue with a damp cloth.   

3. Cleaning the Oven Racks 

• Fill a bathtub or sink with warm water and add dish soap or baking soda. 

• Submerge the racks and let them soak for at least an hour. 

• Use a scrub brush or steel wool to remove stubborn grime. 

• Rinse thoroughly and dry before placing them back in the oven.   

4. Cleaning the Oven Door (Glass & Exterior) 

• For the glass window: Mix baking soda with water to form a paste, apply it, and let it sit for 20 minutes before wiping off. 

• For the exterior: Wipe knobs, handles, and buttons with a damp cloth and mild soap. Avoid excessive water on control panels. 

• Final polish: Use a microfiber cloth for a streak-free finish.   

5. Maintaining a Clean Oven 

• Wipe spills immediately to prevent buildup. 

• Use oven liners or aluminum foil to catch drips. 

• Schedule a deep cleaning every 3-4 months for optimal performance.   

Final Thoughts

Let Taskopus Handle the Tough Work!  Cleaning an oven is time-consuming, but it’s worth it for a healthier and more efficient kitchen. If the thought of scrubbing away grease and grime seems overwhelming, Taskopus is here to help!  Our Deep Kitchen Cleaning Service includes thorough cleaning of your oven—inside and out—along with sanitizing countertops, stovetops, and other key areas of your kitchen. Let us do the dirty work while you enjoy a spotless and fresh-smelling kitchen!  Book your professional cleaning today at www.taskopus.ca and experience the Taskopus difference!