How to Clean the Oven: Manual, Self-Cleaning & Steam Tips

How Often Should You Clean Your Oven?

In general, giving your oven a deep clean every three months can maintain peak performance. However, if you cook frequently, especially greasy or roasted dishes, you may need to clean your oven more often. Over time, baked-on grease and food spills can create smoke, odors, and uneven heat distribution.

To make this process easier, wipe up messes and spills as soon as the oven has cooled. Preventive maintenance is the best way to reduce the frequency of deep cleaning and extend the lifespan of your oven.

Supplies You Need For Manual Oven Cleaning

Before you start scrubbing the oven, make sure you’ve got the right tools on hand. These basics will help you tackle grime without damaging your oven’s interior.

Here’s what you’ll need to clean the oven:

• Rubber gloves
• Soft cloths or microfiber towels
• Non-abrasive sponge or scrub brush
• Plastic or silicone spatula
• Spray bottle
• Old newspaper or towels to protect your floors
• Bucket of warm water for rinsing

Top 4 Method For Oven Cleaning

From all-natural pastes to built-in steam settings, these four tried-and-true cleaning techniques will leave your oven spotless:

1. Natural DIY Cleaner

A DIY oven cleaner made from baking soda and vinegar is a safe, eco-friendly option that’s tough on grime. Perfect for households with kids or pets, this method avoids harsh chemicals and is surprisingly effective.

2. Store-Bought Oven Cleaners

Commercial oven cleaning products are fast-acting and ideal for tackling heavy grease or burnt food. Look for formulas labeled “fume-free” for safer indoor use, and always follow the manufacturer’s safety guidelines.

3. Oven Self-Cleaning Mode

Modern ovens often come with a self-cleaning feature that uses high heat to incinerate residue. This high-temp cycle turns grease and debris into ash you can easily sweep out once cooled.

4. Steam Cleaning Function

Many newer ovens offer a steam clean oven setting, which uses water and low heat to soften spills and splatters for easy wipe-up. It’s a faster, less intense version of self-cleaning and great for regular upkeep.

When to Stop Cleaning and Consider Replacing Your Oven

If your oven still looks (and smells) grimy, no matter how hard you scrub, it may be time for a replacement. Frequent smoking, inconsistent temperatures, and worn-down interior coatings are all signs your oven may be past its prime.

Upgrading to a modern electric range doesn’t just improve your kitchen’s appearance—it streamlines your cooking routines. Electric ovens ensure consistent heat, fewer fumes, and easier cleaning features like steam or self-cleaning functions. Investing in a new range can save you time, boost energy efficiency, and give your kitchen the fresh start it needs.

Maintenance Tips to Keep Oven Clean

Failure to comply with range hood building codes can result in a variety of serious consequences, including fire hazards and decreased property value. Here's a more detailed look at the potential risks associated with non-compliance with range hood codes:

• Wipe up spills as soon as the oven cools down
• Use a heatproof liner or baking sheet to catch drips and splatters
• Cover dishes that are likely to bubble over or splatter
• Each week, wipe down the oven’s interior with warm, soapy water
• Soak and scrub oven racks regularly to prevent buildup
• Use the steam-clean or self-clean function between major cleans
• Avoid placing food directly on the oven floor
• Leave the door open after cooking (once it’s safe) to dry out moisture and reduce odors