Cleaning your stove sounds as exciting as getting a root canal. It’s one of those tasks we put off until the stove becomes an embarrassing, greasy mess. A clean stove means you’re reducing the risk of a possible stove fire and the lingering smell of burnt food while preheating the stove. In just a few easy steps and with a little elbow grease (pardon the pun), here’s how to clean your stove the environmentally-friendly way.
Step 1: Start cold
Make sure that your oven is cold. Not only do you not want to risk burning yourself, but you don’t want the cleaning solution to splatter all over the kitchen when it hits the hot stove.
Step 2: Prepare the stove
Place some newspaper or a drop cloth right under the stove. This will catch any drippings and save time on cleaning the kitchen floors.
Step 3: Soak the racks
Remove oven racks and let them soak in hot soapy water in the sink.
Step 4: Mix the cleaner
For an effective and chemical-free cleanser, in a bowl mix together equal parts baking soda and hot water until it forms a paste. If your stove is extra dirty, mix in an equal part of salt for added scrubbing power. You can also add a couple of tablespoons of white vinegar or dish soap to the mixture.
For touch ups between major cleanings, fill a spray bottle with hot water and a couple of tablespoons of baking soda and shake well. Spray on grease spots once your oven has completely cooled. Wipe with a damp cloth after five minutes.
Step 5: Apply the cleaner
Put on some rubber gloves and begin applying the paste with a small brush, or toothbrush, to the entire interior of the stove, including the door. Let sit for about five minutes.
Step 6: Scrub the racks
While the paste is doing its magic, scrub the oven racks with a sponge and dish soap to remove any tough bits of caked on food. Rinse thoroughly and set aside on the counter to dry.
Step 7: Scrub the stove
With the toothbrush, or a small brush, begin scrubbing the interior of the stove to remove any stubborn grease spots. You may need to apply a little more paste and apply in a circular motion. With a damp cloth or sponge, begin wiping away the paste, making sure to remove all baking soda residue. Replace the oven racks.
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