Cleaning your oven doesn’t have to involve harsh chemicals or hours of scrubbing. With the steam cleaning method, you can tackle baked-on grease and stubborn stains effortlessly, leaving your oven sparkling clean. This technique is eco-friendly, budget-friendly, and incredibly easy to do, making it a go-to option for anyone looking to refresh their oven without much hassle.
Follow this step-by-step guide to learn how to steam clean your oven at home.
What You’ll Need
- A heatproof dish or large oven-safe pot (like the one in the picture)
- Water (about 2-3 cups)
- White vinegar (optional, for added grease-cutting power)
- A clean cloth or sponge
Steps to Steam Clean Your Oven
Steps to Steam Clean Your Oven
- Prepare the Oven
- Remove the oven racks, and set them aside to clean separately. If there are any large pieces of food debris, gently scrape them off with a spatula.
- Fill Your Oven-Safe Dish
- Pour 2-3 cups of water into the oven-safe pot or dish. For extra cleaning power, add about 1/4 cup of white vinegar to the water.
- Position the Dish in the Oven
- Place the dish or pot on the middle rack of the oven.
- Heat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and let it run for about 20-30 minutes. As the water heats, it will create steam that loosens grease and grime from the oven’s interior.
- Cool and Wipe
- After the time is up, turn off the oven and allow it to cool for about 15 minutes. Once it’s safe to touch, use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe away the loosened dirt. You’ll notice how easily the stains lift off!
- Clean the Oven Racks
- While the oven is cooling, soak the racks in warm, soapy water. Scrub them with a brush or sponge, rinse, and let them dry before putting them back in the oven.
Tips for Best Results
- Tough Spots: For stubborn stains, dip your sponge in a mixture of baking soda and water, then gently scrub.
- Regular Maintenance: Steam clean your oven every few months to prevent heavy buildup.
- Vinegar-Free Option: If you prefer not to use vinegar, just use plain water—it works great, too!
