Steam cleaning your oven can eliminate burning and odors from the baking process.
As important as it is, oven cleaning is one of those tasks that many homeowners would rather put off. Elbow deep in grease and stuck-on grime, it’s not a way most people are willing to spend the little free time they have. Oven cleaners can help loosen the mess, but many contain toxic chemicals such as sodium hydroxide, ethylene glycol and methylene chloride.
In terms of safety and effectiveness, steam cleaning is often considered the best way to clean an oven. Learn how to use the top plate, a convenient steamer and built-in steam cleaning.
How to Clean Your Oven with Baking Pan Steam
There are several ways to clean your oven using the power of steam, but some methods do not require special tools or high-end oven settings. You can steam clean your oven using a wide oven-compatible baking sheet.
What you’ll need.
- Casserole dish
- water
- Vinegar
- Sponge
- Scrubbing brush
- Baking soda
Step 1: Fill the casserole with water and vinegar and place it in the oven
The first step in using a casserole dish to clean your oven is to fill the casserole dish with water and vinegar. You should fill the casserole dish with about 1 cup of vinegar and the rest of the casserole dish with tap water. Place the casserole on the middle rack of the oven and close the oven door.
Step 2: Turn the oven down to 450 degrees F and wait 45 minutes.
Next, turn on the oven and set it to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. As the water and vinegar mixture heats, it will create steam to loosen the grease and bake the spills. Leave the oven on for about 45 minutes to create enough steam.
Step 3: Turn off the oven and remove the casserole.
After 45 minutes, turn off the oven. Remove the casserole dish and carefully pour in any remaining liquid. Allow the oven to cool before attempting to wipe it clean.
Step 4: Wipe down the inside of the oven with a sponge or scouring pad.
Once the oven has cooled completely, wipe off any grease or grime with a damp sponge. The steam should have removed the dirt, but you may need to use a scrubbing brush in some areas. You can also scrub baking soda with a scrubby to help remove stains.
How to Clean an Oven Range with a Handheld Steamer
If you have a handheld steamer, you probably already know how versatile this tool can be. In addition to using a steamer to clean grout, toilets and mattresses, you can also use it to clean your oven. Read on to learn how to clean the inside of your oven with a handheld steamer.
What you’ll need.
- Handheld Steamer
- Distilled water
- Sponge
- Cleaning Cloth
Step 1: Fill a convenient steamer with distilled water and install the correct attachments.
First, make sure the steamer is ready for use. To do this, fill the tank with distilled water and select the correct attachment to clean the oven. Depending on the steamer, look for a scraper or brush attachment specifically designed for cleaning hard surfaces. Before you begin cleaning the oven, you will also need to remove the shelves to clean the workspace. These can be cleaned separately.
Step 2: Adjust the heat and pressure to open the steamer and move it into the oven.
Consult the steamer’s instruction manual to determine the ideal heat and pressure settings. Then open the steamer and move it slowly inside the oven (it should be closed and completely cooled). The hot steam should loosen any grime that has been toasted.
Step 3: Pause while working to wipe away any loose dirt and moisture.
Periodically pause the steamer and wipe down the inside with a sponge or cleaning cloth to remove any condensation from the steamer. This will also help you determine how much steam is still needed. Continue steam cleaning and wiping until you are satisfied with the results.
How to Steam Clean a Built-in Oven
Preparation.
- Oven with Steam Clean setting
- Cleaning Cloth
- Sponge
- Distilled water
Step 1: Empty the oven to remove grease and food.
Before using the steam clean feature, the oven must be emptied while it is still cool. Remove the cookware and pans and the baking sheet. Then use a cleaning cloth or sponge to loosen any food stuck in the oven.
Step 2: Fill the water tank with distilled water and activate the steam clean setting.
Ovens with self-cleaning features will have a water tank somewhere in the bottom of the oven. If you are unsure of the location of the water tank, refer to the Oven Use and Maintenance Guide. Pour approximately 1 cup (or manufacturer’s recommended amount) of distilled water into the water tank. Select the steam cleaning setting, which usually takes 10 to 30 minutes, but may vary depending on the oven model, so allow plenty of time for cleaning.
Step 3: Allow the oven to cool and then wipe up any liquid or debris.
Once steam cleaning is complete, allow the oven to cool completely. Then, using a sponge or rag, wipe away any debris or moisture that has fallen out.
Final Thoughts
Steam cleaning is an effective way to remove stains and spots without exposing yourself or others to harmful chemicals. The above methods are viable options for anyone who wishes to steam clean their oven, regardless of tools or specific equipment. When steam cleaning, always allow the oven to cool completely before wiping to avoid burns or injury.
