How to properly clean you non self-clean oven
Cleaning a non-self-cleaning oven requires some elbow grease, but it's an important task to maintain the appliance's performance and hygiene. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to properly clean your non-self-cleaning oven:
Safety Precautions: Before you begin, make sure to turn off the oven and disconnect it from the power source to avoid any electrical hazards. Additionally, ensure the oven has cooled down completely before cleaning to prevent burns.
Materials Needed:
- Rubber gloves
- Dishwashing liquid or oven cleaner
- Baking soda
- Water
- Scrubbing sponge or scouring pads
- Plastic or nylon bristle brush
- Old towels or rags
- Plastic or metal spatula
Step-by-Step Cleaning Process:
- Remove Oven Racks: Take out the oven racks and set them aside. You'll clean these separately.
- Create a Cleaning Solution: You have two options for creating a cleaning solution:
- Dishwashing Liquid Solution: Mix a few drops of dishwashing liquid with warm water in a spray bottle.
- Baking Soda Paste: Mix baking soda with a small amount of water to create a thick paste.
- Apply the Cleaning Solution:
- If using the dishwashing liquid solution, spray it evenly over the interior surfaces of the oven.
- If using the baking soda paste, spread it evenly over the greasy and dirty areas inside the oven, avoiding the heating elements.
- Let the Solution Sit: Allow the cleaning solution to sit for at least 30 minutes or longer. This will help loosen up the grease and grime.
- Scrub the Interior: Use a scrubbing sponge or scouring pads to scrub the interior surfaces of the oven. For stubborn stains, use a plastic or nylon bristle brush. Be gentle but thorough to avoid damaging the oven's finish.
- Clean the Oven Racks: Scrub the oven racks separately using the same cleaning solution. You can place them in a bathtub or large basin if needed for easier cleaning. Rinse and dry them thoroughly before putting them back in the oven.
- Rinse and Wipe: If you used a dishwashing liquid solution, rinse the oven interior thoroughly with a damp cloth or sponge. For the baking soda paste, wipe away the paste using a damp cloth or sponge.
- Remove Residue: Use a plastic or metal spatula to gently scrape off any remaining stubborn residue.
- Final Rinse and Dry: Wipe down the interior with a clean, damp cloth to remove any remaining cleaning residue. Dry it with a towel or allow it to air dry.
- Reassemble the Oven: Put the oven racks back in their original positions.
- Dispose of Waste: Dispose of any dirty water and cleaning materials properly.
- Clean the Exterior: Don't forget to clean the exterior of the oven with a suitable cleaner and a cloth.
Remember to follow your oven's user manual for any specific cleaning recommendations, as some ovens may have special coatings that require specific care. Regular cleaning can help maintain your oven's efficiency and extend its lifespan.