YOU COOK, WE CLEAN!
YOU COOK, WE CLEAN!
Cleaning the oven is often the most-hated job, but it is also necessary for the hygiene, safety, and longevity of your appliance. Regular oven maintenance doesn't have to be a chore. Simply incorporating some basic habits in your daily life, you can ensure that your oven remains clean for longer and reduce the need for frequent deep oven cleaning services. Check out some ideas here that would ensure that you get a clean oven between professional cleanings.
The frequency of cleaning depends on how often you use your oven. For most people, cleaning the oven every six months is sufficient. If you cook or bake regularly, consider cleaning it every three to four months. Regular maintenance prevents the buildup of grease and food residue, which can cause damage and attract harmful bacteria.
Here are some oven care and maintenance tips:
Immediate Actions After Cooking
Wiping Spills Promptly: One of the most effective ways to keep your oven clean is to wipe up spills and splashes as soon as they happen. Food spills can quickly bake onto the oven surface, becoming difficult to remove later. Waiting for the oven to cool slightly before wiping can make the task easier, but don't wait too long. Use a soft sponge or cloth dampened with warm water to wipe away fresh spills. For tougher spills, add a few drops of mild dish soap to the water.
Dealing with Dripping Foods: Some foods drip more easily, especially when roasting meat or baking a pie. To reduce mess, put a baking tray on the rack below to catch drips. You can cover the tray with foil for easier cleanup.
Regular Cleaning Practices
Baking Soda Paste: For ordinary enamel linings and oven doors, use a non-toxic oven cleaning solution like homemade paste of bicarbonate of soda and water. This method is safe for your oven and the environment. Mix bicarbonate of soda with water to form a paste, apply it to the oven surfaces, and let it dry. The paste creates a protective coating that absorbs grease, making future cleaning easier.
Steam Cleaning: Before using any cleaning products, place a bowl of water in the oven and heat it on high for 20 minutes. The steam helps loosen dirt and grease. Wipe away the condensation before you start cleaning.
Cleaning Oven Racks: Oven racks can accumulate baked-on food and grease. To clean them, remove the racks and spray them with an oven cleaner. Let them sit overnight on a plastic sheet or newspaper. The next day, wipe away the dirt with a cloth, then rinse and dry the racks. Alternatively, soak the racks in warm, soapy water and scrub them with a non-chemical cleaner.
Eco-Friendly Cleaning Solutions
Bicarbonate of Soda and Water: Create an eco-friendly cleaning solution with bicarbonate of soda and water. Apply the solution evenly on the interior surfaces of your oven, avoiding heating elements and electrical components. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes, or longer for tougher stains. Scrub gently with a non-abrasive pad or old toothbrush, then wipe clean with a damp cloth.
Vinegar and Water: Vinegar and water is another excellent option for an eco-friendly cleaning solution. Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray the mixture onto the oven surfaces and let it sit for a few minutes. Wipe clean with a damp cloth. For stubborn stains, sprinkle bicarbonate of soda on the stain before spraying with vinegar. The fuzzy action helps lift the grime.
Citrus Cleanse: After baking, while the oven is still warm (but not hot), do a citrus cleanse. Place citrus peels in the oven for about 20–25 minutes. Then, turn the oven off and allow it to cool, and wipe away the grease with a rag or sponge.
Prepare the Oven: Remove the oven racks and any loose debris. Protect your kitchen floor by laying down newspaper or an old towel.
Apply Cleaning Solution: Choose your preferred cleaning solution, whether it's a commercial oven cleaner or a homemade mixture. Apply it to the interior surfaces of the oven, avoiding the heating elements.
Let it Sit: Allow the cleaning solution to sit for the recommended time. This allows the solution to penetrate and loosen the grime.
Scrub and Wipe: Use a non-abrasive scrubbing pad or cloth to scrub away the loosened grime. Wipe the surfaces clean with a damp cloth, rinsing and repeating as needed.
Clean the Racks: Clean the oven racks separately, using the methods described earlier.
Dry and Reassemble: Ensure all surfaces are dry before reassembling the oven. Replace the racks and any other removable parts.
Fire Hazards: Grease and food particles can accumulate and create a fire hazard. Regular cleaning reduces the risk of ignition.
Smoke and Fumes: Neglecting oven cleaning can lead to smoke and fumes during use. Cleanliness ensures safe and healthy cooking.
Use Oven Liners: Consider using disposable or reusable oven liners to catch spills and drips. These liners make cleaning easier by preventing food from baking onto the oven floor.
Self-Cleaning Ovens: Self-cleaning ovens can save time and effort. Run the self-cleaning cycle every few months to maintain the oven's condition. Before starting the cycle, do a quick pre-clean to remove large pieces of food. After the cycle, wipe away any remaining ash with a damp cloth.
Professional Cleaning: Even with regular maintenance, looking for professional “oven cleaning service” is beneficial. Professionals have the tools and expertise to remove stubborn grime and restore your oven to its best condition. Schedule professional cleaning as needed, depending on your usage and maintenance habits.
By following these tips, you can maintain a clean and safe oven between professional cleanings. Regular maintenance not only extends the life of your appliance but also ensures a hygienic cooking environment.
The Professional Oven Cleaner is a family-run, trusted oven cleaning service covering Hemel Hempstead, St Albans, Watford, Berkhamsted, Tring, and surrounding UK areas. We specialise in bringing ovens back to life, no matter how tough the grease and grime, using non-toxic, eco-friendly cleaning solutions that allow you to use your oven immediately after cleaning. We offer a hassle-free, reliable service with non-caustic, safe solutions. If you are looking for an “oven cleaning company,” The Professional Oven Cleaner is a great option.
Contact us today for more information on how we can get your oven looking brand new!