Get to know your range oven
The freestanding range usually includes a backguard that needs to be dusted. Then, there are slide-in ranges that fit flush within your kitchen counters. The front panels should be cleaned regularly, especially if you have pets trying to get to the delicious chicken soup sitting on the burner. Depending on how the oven was installed, both freestanding and slide-in ranges may have gaps between them and adjacent appliances or counters. These cracks as well as any separation from the ground are common cleaning blind spots.
Cleaning an electric stovetop
While the two different types of stovetops, gas and electric, require their own cleaning methods, the first step is the same: make sure it has been completely shut off and given enough time to cool down. Unlike traditional gas stovetops that have coils, electric stovetops usually have a smooth glass surface, making it difficult to predict the heat level. Avoid accidental burns by using the heat detection panel that lets you know when it’s safe to touch the surface.
Wipe away any remaining grease with a cloth soaked in a mixture of vinegar and baking soda. If your stovetop calls for more heavy-duty cleaning, you can let this natural cleaning solution sit on stubborn food scraps or oil stains for a couple of minutes, then continue wiping. A soft sponge may be helpful but avoid scrapers or cleaning brushes that may damage the glass.
Cleaning a gas stovetop
Cleaning the oven racks
Start cleaning by taking the racks out of the oven. Wipe them down with warm, soapy water. If your racks still have last night’s buttery mac and cheese or burnt garlic attached, consider soaking them in soapy water for a few minutes before scrubbing down. While waiting for the racks to fully dry, check the inside of the oven for any lingering food pieces. Then, spray the interior with (you guessed it!) a mixture of water, vinegar, and baking soda. Remember to wipe down the rack hooks as well.
Cleaning the oven exterior
Even though the outside of the oven doesn’t see nearly as much action as the inside, it is pit-stop number one for fingerprints, pet licks, and dust. While wiping the oven door, controllers, panels, and edges with a vinegar-mixed solution usually does the trick, you should always check the manual for the recommended method. Depending on the material of the exterior, a light, soapy water mixture may also work. In some cases, you might want to opt for special stainless steel cleaner. Some panel caps can be removed for easier cleaning. Don’t forget to dust behind the oven handles too!
Cleaning under the oven
Ever peak under your oven and squeal in horror at the layers of dust that have accumulated? If you have an oven range that didn’t quite fit between your counters, this is a must clean area. The easiest way to get at these tiny cracks is by using a vacuum extension. If that doesn’t work, check to see if your range is safely moveable. If it’s not hooked up to a gas source, you may be able to unplug it. Then, push the range forward and vacuum under.
Using the oven’s self-cleaning features
Since these features provide an intensive cleaning of the oven, they should only be used for deep cleans versus a regular cleaning tool. Make sure you read and follow the manual’s instructions for safety practices when using this feature, including how often it should be used.
How often should you clean an oven?
When it comes to the oven interior, you should do this every 3 months or so, more often if it’s particularly soiled with burnt food particles and less if you use it less than average. For the exterior, give it a wipe down after each use, and a scrub as food accumulates or at least once a week.
We often think of cleaning as a troublesome task. But oven cleaning is the best way to show care for an appliance that has fed our family and friends, breathing life into our kitchens.
If you’re looking for a new kitchen centrepiece, check out Best Buy’s collection of ranges and ovens.