Cleaning the oven and stove can seem like an overwhelming chore. However, with some helpful tips and tricks, you can make this task much more manageable. Here are some of my best tips for making oven and stove cleaning easier:
Use Preventative Measures
The best way to reduce oven and stove cleaning is to prevent messes in the first place. Here are some ways to do that:
Use Parchment Paper or Foil
Line baking sheets with parchment paper or aluminum foil before cooking. This will prevent food from getting baked directly onto the pan. Parchment paper is reusable, while foil should be replaced each time.
Use the Stovetop Covers
If your stove came with plastic covers for the burners, use them! They will prevent splatters and spills from getting down into the burner.
Wipe Spills Quickly
Don’t let spills bake onto the oven or stove – wipe them up immediately with a damp cloth. Burnt-on stains are much harder to remove.
Clean After Each Use
Do a quick wipe-down of the oven or stove after each use. Get into the habit of cleaning up any spills or grease spots while they are still fresh.
Use the Right Cleaning Tools
Having the proper tools can make cleaning the oven and stove much easier. Here are some must-have cleaning tools:
Steel Wool or Abrasive Pads
For stuck-on grease and burnt-on stains, use steel wool or abrasive pads to scrub. Be sure to avoid using these on non-stick surfaces as they can damage the coating.
All-Purpose Cleaner
An all-purpose cleaner like Fantastik or Method All-Purpose Cleaner will cut through grease on the stove and oven surfaces. Spray or wipe it on and let it sit before wiping away.
Oven Cleaner Spray
For the oven interior, use a heavy-duty oven cleaner spray. Make sure to open windows, turn on fans, and follow directions carefully when using the caustic spray.
Grout Brush
A grout brush with stiff bristles is perfect for scrubbing the oven racks, grates, and getting into crevices.
Microfiber Cloths
Microfiber cloths remove grease very well without leaving behind lint or residue. Have some on hand for wiping down appliances.
Use Baking Soda and Vinegar
For a non-toxic cleaning option, baking soda and vinegar work very well to clean ovens and stoves. Here are effective ways to use them:
Baking Soda Paste
Make a paste with 3 parts baking soda to 1 part water. Spread onto oven surfaces and let sit for 15 minutes before wiping clean with a damp cloth. The paste works well on burned on stains.
Vinegar Soak
Allow oven grates or burner covers to soak in full-strength white vinegar to loosen baked-on food. After 30-60 minutes, scrub with steel wool to remove gunk.
DIY Oven Cleaner
Make a DIY oven spray cleaner by mixing 1 cup baking soda, 1/4 cup dish soap, 1/4 cup vinegar and 2 cups hot water in a spray bottle. Spray oven surface, let sit 20 minutes, then wipe clean.
Check Oven and Stove Manuals
Oven and stove manufacturers often provide cleaning instructions and recommendations in their manuals. Be sure to consult your appliance manuals for any special cleaning procedures or precautions for your models. The manual may provide insights that are specific to your oven and stove.
Thoroughly cleaning the oven and stove doesn’t need to be a dreaded chore. With some simple prevention and the right tools and techniques, you can make this task much easier. Use these tips to keep your oven and stove sparkling clean.
