When you’re lying on the couch, productivity usually takes a backseat to figuring out which Netflix show to stream. But what if we told you there’s a way to clean the oven while you’re sprawled out on the sofa? It sounds hard to believe, but ovens aren’t actually that difficult to clean. It takes only…
A Sour Solution With Sweet Results
Steam cleaning is one of the most effective ways to remove built-up gunk in your oven. Whether a cheesy pizza dripped onto the grates or a casserole bubbled over and made a mess, steam can loosen food residue to make it easier to wipe away. But for a truly effective clean, add a bit of distilled white vinegar.
Begin by preheating the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. While the appliance heats up, fill a deep, oven-safe baking dish with about 2 inches of water and 3/4 to 1 cup of distilled white vinegar for extra oomph. Once the oven reaches the desired temperature, place the dish on the middle rack, shut the door, and wait for the mixture to boil. In general, this takes about 10 to 20 minutes, but it’s a good idea to check periodically for bubbling through the oven window. Once it begins to boil, turn off the heat and let the mixture steam for 30 minutes. Keep the door firmly shut to prevent steam from escaping — but otherwise, you’re free to relax on the couch for the next half-hour.
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Cool Down, Then Clean Up
After 30 minutes, return to the kitchen, open the oven door, and remove the dish. Head back to the living room to relax for another 30 minutes while the oven cools. Once it’s cool to the touch, it’s time to get off the couch and get to work.
Use a microfiber cloth to wipe down the oven’s interior. You’ll be surprised by how easily the gunk clears away thanks to the steam. For an even deeper clean, mix a 50-50 solution of water and distilled white vinegar in a spray bottle to use as you wipe. Steam is often enough on its own, but a spray bottle is a great backup for stubborn spots. After a little light scrubbing, your oven should look as good as new.
