Ahh, the oven clean. The job that everyone dreads! It’s likely that your oven is one of the most used appliances in your student home. Therefore, it’s going to need looking after. All those splatters of curry sauce, oil spills and chip grease take their toll over time. So, if you don’t give your oven a regular once over, it’s going to get gross. And, it may even mean that you lose some of your deposit when you move out.
So, I hear you ask, what is the easiest way to clean it? Well, here we have a few simple hacks on how to get your oven looking as good as new:
Make your own oven cleaner
If you want to save money on oven cleaning products without the harsh chemicals too, then make it yourself! You can create a DIY natural cleaner very easily using vinegar, baking soda and water.
Make a smooth paste using these three ingredients mixed together and then apply it to the oven’s interior surfaces. Give it about 20-30 minutes to soak in and break down the grease. Then, use a non-abrasive pad to give it a gentle scrub. Finish up by wiping down with a damp microfiber cloth to clear out the last of the grub.
Remember to always wear a pair of rubber gloves when cleaning the oven!
Cleaning the shelves & racks
When it comes to cleaning the shelving and racking from your oven, it’s always best to remove them completely. Soak them in a sink-full of hot water, mixed with a little dishwasher detergent, for about an hour. This should loosen off most of the baked-on food.
Next scrub away what’s left with a scrunched-up ball of silver foil, or a scouring pad. Rinse with cool water and then leave to dry before placing back in the oven.
Cleaning the glass oven doors
The glass door on your oven requires a gentler approach as it can become scratched if aggressively scrubbed with a scourer or harsh cleaning products.
So, mix some baking soda and water to make a thick paste. Spread this paste generously all around the glass and then let it sit for about 20-30 minutes. Next, gently wipe up the paste with a microfiber cloth, rinse thoroughly with water, and buff it dry.
For extra sparkle, use a bit of diluted vinegar and a soft cloth to rub over the glass.
Still don’t fancy it? Get someone else to do it!
If you really can’t be bothered with all the grease and faff? The only other option is to pay someone else to do it.
If you do go down this route, make sure you choose a reputable oven cleaning company and get a quote first before you confirm the job. The average cost could be anywhere from £25 – £45 for a full oven clean.
Happy oven cleaning!