Step 1: Turn Off and Cool Down the Oven
The first step is essential for safety. Always ensure that the oven is completely off and has cooled down before starting the cleaning process. Never attempt to clean a hot oven to avoid burns or injuries. Wait until the oven is at room temperature before you begin.
Step 2: Remove Oven Racks and Clean Them Separately
Before focusing on the glass door, take out any oven racks. Cleaning the racks separately will allow you to work more freely inside the oven without worrying about knocking them into the glass door.
You can clean the racks by soaking them in hot, soapy water for 15-20 minutes. If they are particularly dirty, you can add some baking soda to the water for extra cleaning power. After soaking, scrub the racks with a sponge or brush, rinse them, and set them aside to dry.
Step 3: Create a Baking Soda Paste
The key to cleaning the inside glass of the oven is a baking soda paste that helps break down grease and grime without scratching the glass. Here’s how you can make it:
Mix the Paste: In a small bowl, mix ½ cup of baking soda with a few tablespoons of water. Stir the mixture until it forms a thick paste. If needed, add more water or baking soda to reach the desired consistency.
Apply the Paste to the Glass: Use a spoon or a spatula to spread the paste evenly over the inside glass of the oven door. Focus on areas that have visible grease buildup or stains. Make sure to cover the entire surface for maximum effectiveness.
Step 4: Let the Paste Sit and Soak
Once the baking soda paste is applied, let it sit for at least 15-20 minutes. For more stubborn stains, you may want to leave it on for up to an hour. During this time, the baking soda will work its magic by loosening the baked-on grease and grime, making it easier to remove.
Step 5: Spray with Vinegar Solution
After allowing the baking soda paste to sit, the next step is to activate it with vinegar. Fill a spray bottle with equal parts white vinegar and water. Spray this mixture over the baking soda paste. You’ll notice the paste fizz and bubble as the vinegar reacts with the baking soda. This fizzing action helps lift the dirt and grease.
Step 6: Scrub the Glass
Once the paste has bubbled, use a microfiber cloth or sponge to gently scrub the glass. For stubborn spots, you can use an old toothbrush to scrub into any grooves or small areas between the glass panels. If the grease is particularly stubborn, use a plastic or wooden scraper to gently remove it without scratching the glass.
Step 7: Wipe Down the Glass
After scrubbing, wipe down the glass with a clean, damp microfiber cloth to remove all of the baking soda paste and vinegar solution. You may need to rinse the cloth a few times to fully remove any residue.
Step 8: Clean Between the Glass Panels (Optional)
If your oven has double glass panels, you might notice that grease has accumulated between them. While this is a bit trickier to clean, you can use a special oven cleaning tool designed for reaching between the glass panels. Alternatively, you can carefully use a toothbrush or scraper to reach any small gaps and loosen any dirt.
If the dirt between the panels is too tough to remove, it may be necessary to contact a professional to disassemble the door and clean it properly.
Step 9: Dry and Reassemble
Once the inside glass is clean and free of residue, use a dry microfiber cloth to wipe down the glass, removing any remaining moisture. Afterward, carefully reassemble the oven racks and close the oven door.
Tips for Maintaining Clean Oven Glass:
- Regular Cleaning: To prevent grease and food from building up on the glass, try to clean the oven glass regularly, especially after big cooking sessions.
- Avoid Abrasive Cleaners: Never use harsh, abrasive cleaners or scouring pads, as these can scratch or damage the glass surface.
- Use a Drip Tray: Consider using a drip tray or oven liner to catch spills and food splatters before they make it to the glass.
- Leave the Door Open After Use: After cooking, leave the oven door slightly open to allow the interior to dry out. This helps prevent the buildup of moisture that can lead to streaks and odors.
Conclusion
Cleaning the inside glass of the oven doesn’t have to be a difficult or time-consuming task. By following these simple steps using natural ingredients like baking soda and vinegar, you can easily remove built-up grease, grime, and food stains, leaving your oven glass sparkling clean. The best part is that this method is non-toxic, safe, and effective, ensuring that your kitchen looks fresh and your oven functions optimally.
Now that you know how to clean your oven glass like a pro, everyone will be asking how you managed to achieve such great results!
