In this guide, we’ll look at the most effective types of oven cleaners and how to choose the right one for your kitchen.
Baking soda and vinegar
Baking soda and vinegar are two of the most popular natural oven cleaning products. When combined, they help loosen grease and burnt residue without the need for strong chemicals.
To use this method, mix baking soda with a small amount of water to form a paste. Spread the paste across the interior surfaces of the oven and leave it for several hours or overnight.
After the paste has had time to break down grease, spray white vinegar over the surface. The mixture will fizz slightly, which helps lift stubborn dirt so it can be wiped away with a cloth or sponge.
This method is especially useful for light to moderate oven cleaning and is a good option if you prefer chemical-free cleaning solutions.
Washing up liquid
Washing up liquid is another gentle but effective option for cleaning ovens, particularly when dealing with light grease or recent spills.
Because washing up liquid is designed to break down oils and grease on dishes, it can also help dissolve cooking residue inside an oven.
To clean with washing up liquid, mix a few drops with warm water and use a sponge or cloth to wipe the oven interior. This method works best for maintenance cleaning rather than removing heavy carbon buildup.
You can also soak oven racks in warm water with washing up liquid to help loosen grease before scrubbing.
Commercial oven cleaners
If your oven hasn’t been cleaned for a long time or has heavy burnt-on grease, a commercial oven cleaner may be the most effective option.
These cleaners are specifically designed to dissolve stubborn grease and carbon deposits. Most products are sprayed onto the oven interior and left to work for a period of time before being wiped away.
Because many oven cleaners contain strong chemicals, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Wearing gloves and ensuring good ventilation is usually recommended.
Some modern oven cleaners are designed to work on cold ovens and produce fewer fumes, which can make the cleaning process easier.
Oven cleaning kits
Some retailers sell complete oven cleaning kits that include specialised cleaning solutions, brushes and scrapers designed specifically for ovens.
These kits can be helpful for tackling stubborn grease in difficult areas such as oven door glass or corners inside the oven cavity.
However, they still require time and effort to use properly, particularly if the oven has heavy buildup.
Professional oven cleaning products
Professional oven cleaners use specialised cleaning products and equipment designed specifically for kitchen appliances.
Many professionals remove racks and trays and place them in heated dip tanks filled with powerful degreasing solutions. This process helps dissolve stubborn carbon and grease much more effectively than most household products.
The oven interior is then cleaned using professional tools and food-safe cleaning products designed to restore the appliance without damaging its surfaces.
If your oven is heavily used or hasn’t been cleaned for a long time, a professional service can often achieve results that are difficult to replicate with standard products.
You can book professional oven cleaning if you'd prefer to leave the job to an experienced specialist.
How to choose the best oven cleaner
The best oven cleaner for your home will usually depend on the condition of your oven and your personal preferences.
- For light grease: Washing up liquid or baking soda often works well.
- For moderate buildup: Baking soda and vinegar or specialist oven cleaners may be more effective.
- For heavy carbon deposits: Commercial oven cleaners or professional cleaning services are usually the most effective solution.
Whichever option you choose, cleaning your oven regularly will prevent grease buildup and make future cleaning much easier.
If you’d rather avoid the hassle of scrubbing burnt-on grease yourself, professional oven cleaning can restore your oven quickly and safely.