4 Common Oven Cleaning Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

It’s no secret that oven cleaning is one of the most dreaded household tasks. Nobody enjoys getting down on their hands and knees to scrub baked-on food off the oven shelves.

Unfortunately, if your oven isn’t cleaned regularly, it can become a breeding ground for bacteria. In this article, we will discuss four common oven cleaning mistakes and how to avoid them.

1. Spraying The Knobs With Cleaner

One of the most common oven cleaning mistakes is spraying cleaner directly onto the knobs. Not only can this damage the paint or finish, but it can also cause the knob to become slippery and difficult to grip.

The best way to clean the knobs is by using a soft cloth dampened with warm water. Be sure to avoid getting any water inside of the electrical components at the back of the knob.

If your oven has removable knobs, be sure to take them off and clean them separately. Many powder coating ovens come with a special brush designed for cleaning knobs.

2. Not Cleaning The Rust On The Racks

If you don’t clean the rust on the racks, it can quickly build up and become difficult to remove. The best way to clean the rust is by using a wire brush.

Be sure to wear gloves when cleaning rusty areas, as oven cleaning products can cause skin irritation.

Also, be sure to wash the racks thoroughly after cleaning them with a wire brush, as any remaining particles will end up in your food.

3. Not Taking Out The Racks When Cleaning

Another common oven cleaning mistake is not taking out the racks when cleaning. This can result in dirty water and cleaner runoff getting inside of the oven.

The best way to avoid this is by taking out the racks and placing them in a bathtub or sink. Be sure to rinse them thoroughly after cleaning.

If you don’t have a place to soak the racks, be sure to at least give them a good scrub with a brush before putting them back in the oven.

Some people like to use an oven cleaner product on the racks, but it’s important to read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully, as some products can damage their finish.

Also, never put any type of metal utensil (e.g., wire brush) directly onto the oven racks, as it can leave scratches.

4. Not Treating The Oven Door With Care

The oven door is one of the most important parts of the oven. It’s also one of the most difficult to clean.

One common oven cleaning mistake is using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials on the door. This can damage the finish and make it difficult to keep clean.

The best way to clean the oven door is by using a soft cloth dampened with warm water. Be sure to avoid getting any water inside of the electrical components at the back of the knob.

If your oven has a glass window, be sure to use a non-abrasive cleaner or glass cleaner to clean it.

Never use an oven cleaner on the outside of the oven door, as it can cause discoloration or damage the finish.

Avoid These Oven Cleaning Mistakes

As you can see, you should avoid these oven cleaning mistakes to keep your oven in great condition. Overall, regular oven maintenance is the key to a healthy and long-lasting oven.

Do you want to learn more about oven cleaning mistakes? If so, check out more helpful articles from our blog.