Cleaning Hacks for Ovens: Professional Tips for a Spotless Appliance

Cleaning ovens can be one of the most dreaded chores, especially when grease and burnt food build up over time. But with the right techniques, you can get your oven sparkling clean without hours of scrubbing. As professional cleaners, we’ve got the best cleaning hacks for ovens to help you tackle grime efficiently. Whether you’re dealing with tough stains, lingering odours, or just need a quick refresh, these expert tips will make oven cleaning a breeze.

Photo: Liliana Drew

Oven cleaning can feel like a never-ending battle, especially if you cook regularly. Grease, burnt food, and grime build up quickly, leaving your oven looking (and smelling) unpleasant. While store-bought cleaners can help, they often contain harsh chemicals that aren't ideal for every home. That’s why we’ve put together the best cleaning hacks for ovens, straight from professional cleaners. These methods are safe, effective, and will leave your oven sparkling with minimal effort.

Use Baking Soda and Vinegar for a Deep Clean

One of the best natural ways to clean an oven is with a simple baking soda and vinegar solution.

• Step 1: Mix half a cup of baking soda with a few tablespoons of water to form a paste.

• Step 2: Spread the paste inside your oven, avoiding the heating elements.

• Step 3: Leave it overnight (or for at least 12 hours) to break down grease and grime.

• Step 4: Wipe away the dried paste with a damp cloth.

• Step 5: Spray white vinegar over any remaining residue to help lift it off.

This method works wonders for removing stubborn stains without using harsh chemicals.

Steam Clean with Lemon

If you need a quick, effective clean, try this professional hack:

• Fill an oven-safe dish with water and add the juice of two lemons.

• Place it in the oven at 120°C (250°F) for 30 minutes.

• The steam will help loosen baked-on grime, making it easy to wipe away with a cloth.

As a bonus, the lemon will leave your oven smelling fresh!

The Dishwasher Tablet Scrub

If your oven door is covered in greasy streaks, grab a dishwasher tablet.

• Dampen a dishwasher tablet (the solid kind, not the gel variety).

• Gently scrub the glass using the tablet.

• Wipe away residue with a damp cloth.

Dishwasher tablets are designed to break down grease, making them perfect for oven doors.

Cleaning Oven Racks the Easy Way

Instead of scrubbing your oven racks for hours, try this overnight soak method:

• Place the racks in a bathtub or large sink.

• Fill with hot water and add a few dishwasher tablets or a cup of washing powder.

• Leave to soak overnight, then scrub with a sponge and rinse clean.

  
  

Tackle Stubborn Grease with a Scraper

For those extra tough spots, a plastic scraper (or even an old store card) can help lift off stuck-on grime without scratching the surface.

Keep Your Oven Cleaner for Longer

• Wipe up spills as soon as the oven cools.

• Use an oven liner to catch drips and prevent them from baking onto the bottom.

• Give your oven a quick clean every month to prevent heavy buildup.

  
  

With these cleaning hacks for ovens, your appliance will stay in top condition without the stress.