Have you ever opened your oven and instantly regretted it? The grime, the smell, and the mystery splatter from 3 years ago can make you suddenly want to order takeout instead of spending another minute in your kitchen.
But don’t stress, because there’s a way to fix it without wasting your afternoon. And yes, you can absolutely do it with what’s already in your kitchen.
Gather Your Supplies
Before we dive into the satisfying part, let’s get your cleaning supplies sorted. No one wants to be elbow-deep in grease only to realise the sponge is still under the sink.
First off, grab some bicarb and white vinegar. Together, these two kitchen staples pack a serious punch against baked-on grime.
Get a few microfibre cloths, too. They’re gentle on your oven’s surfaces and brilliant at picking up gunk without leaving streaks. If you’ve got a sponge with a bit of grit as well, hang onto that for stubborn spots.
And don’t chuck that old toothbrush just yet. It’s perfect for the fiddly corners you can’t reach. Finally, don’t forget to get a mixing bowl for your paste and a good pair of gloves unless you fancy smelling like vinegar for the next three days.
Once you have everything within reach, this task will feel a lot less like a chore and a lot more like a kitchen glow-up.
Prep the Unit
Your safety should always come first. So, make sure your oven has completely cooled down before you begin. We’re going in hands-first, and you don’t need third-degree burns slowing you down.
Once it’s safe to touch, take out all the racks and trays. You’ll give those a proper clean later, so set them aside somewhere out of the way.
Next, pop a towel on the bottom of the oven to catch any crumbs or paste that might wander. If you’re using an electric oven, cover the top and bottom heating coils with foil to keep them safe from drips.
Got a gas model? Take extra care with the burners and ignition points. You can cover them, too, but don’t press the foil down. Those bits are delicate, and you don’t want to break anything five minutes into feeling productive.
Make Your Paste
Now, it’s time for the fun part: playing chemist! Grab that bowl and mix together bicarb and water until you get a thick, gloopy paste that spreads like toothpaste.
If you want to make it a little fancy, add a few drops of lemon or lavender essential oil. It’ll make your oven smell less like burnt lasagne and more like a spa, plus the oils will help cut through grease.
You can even prepare extra and keep it in an airtight container. You’ll thank yourself the next time you spot a spill. And yes, it can stay effective for weeks, as long as you don’t forget it behind the soy sauce.
Apply the Mix
It’s time to put your mixture to the test. Grab a spatula, an old credit card, or whatever tool you’re emotionally ready to part with, and start spreading that paste around the inside of your oven.
Start from the top corners and work your way down, since this will prevent you from missing any areas.
Focus on those dark, crusty spots around the base and sides and apply a thick layer there. Now, give your mix at least 30 minutes to work its magic. If you’re dealing with years of buildup, you can make a cup of tea and give it an hour to marinate.
Last but not least, keep your leftover paste nearby since some stubborn sections might need a second round.
Wash the Racks
While your oven is having its little soak, let’s deal with the racks you pulled out earlier. You don’t need scary chemicals here. Instead, just fill your sink with hot water and add a squeeze of dish soap. Now, dunk the racks in and leave them for about an hour.
After this is done, you’ll be able to wipe away most grime easily with your sponge. However, if a few crusty bits are clinging on for dear life, go in with a bit of steel wool. Just double-check that your racks can handle it. No one wants to end up with scratched chrome or ugly patches.
Once you’re done, rinse them with warm water and dry them well with a fresh towel to prevent rust.
Wipe Down the Appliance
Once the mixture has worked its magic, grab a slightly damp towel and begin wiping your unit. We recommend that you go from the top down so you don’t smear dirt all over places you’ve already cleaned.
If you discover any stubborn residue spots, a soft sponge will help you remove them without damaging the surface. Use gentle circular motions as the surface is more delicate than you think.
Take your time removing every last bit of paste from the corners and around the door seal, because any leftovers will bake into crusty artwork the next time you fire up your oven. Once it’s all clean, give it a final buff with a dry cloth.
When you’re done, step back, admire your handiwork, and maybe send your friends a picture. That sparkle is absolutely worth the effort.
Make the Sparkle Last
Now that your oven is gleaming like it’s fresh out of the showroom, let’s talk about keeping it that way. First off, grab a spray bottle, mix equal parts water and white vinegar, and give the interior a quick spritz after heavy use. This will work wonders for preventing grease buildup.
It’s also a good idea to create a mini cleaning station nearby. Keep a few soft microfibre towels in a drawer and jump on spills right away. Those little drops of sauce or falling crumbs are much easier to wipe away when fresh.
If you can’t commit to this, place a tray on the bottom rack instead to catch drips before they become stubborn smudges.
Finally, mark your calendar for a deep treatment every three months, but don’t worry too much about it, as these minimalist daily habits will make these big cleaning sessions a breeze.
Call In Specialised Oven Cleaning Services
Sometimes, even the best DIY methods aren’t enough. So, if your appliance is still throwing smoke signals or there are stains that refuse to budge no matter how hard you scrub, it might be time to wave the white flag and call in a professional.
A reputable oven and BBQ cleaning service can handle the kinds of messes regular scrubbing just can’t touch, without damaging your appliance in the process.
For the best results, look for companies with solid reviews, fully insured staff, and a track record of using safe, sustainable products. If their website makes vague promises but never mentions technique, keep scrolling.
A decent company will give you a clear quote and even throw in some tips to keep things tidy between visits.
Conclusion
See? That wasn’t nearly as painful as you thought. So, go on and take in the satisfaction of your gleaming handiwork.
Now that your oven is immaculate, you won’t have to put up with smoke, strange odours, or smudges anymore. Time to make something delicious and enjoy it with the entire family!
