Prepare For Hosting the Holidays with these Oven Cleaning Tips
Before the turkey goes in, make sure your oven is up for the challenge. The holiday season is one of the busiest times for your kitchen, and a clean, well-functioning oven can make all the difference when you’re cooking for family and friends.
Here’s how to get your oven spotless and holiday-ready — safely and efficiently.
How Often Should You Clean Your Oven?
Ideally, the inside of your oven should be cleaned once every three to six months, depending on how frequently you use it. Regular cleaning not only keeps your food tasting great but also prevents smoke, lingering odors, and uneven heating. Also, following any spills once your oven cools down, wipe up any spills as soon as it’s safe to do so — it’ll prevent messes from baking in and make your next clean much easier.
What Should I Use to Clean?
Avoid using strong chemical cleaners or oven sprays — they can corrode your oven’s enamel surface and leave behind unpleasant fumes.
Instead, go natural:
- Mix baking soda and water into a paste.
- Spread it over the interior surfaces.
- Let it sit overnight, then wipe clean with a damp cloth.
- Spray white vinegar to help lift stubborn spots and add shine.
This method is gentle, effective, and safe for both you and your oven.
What Should I Clean?
Oven Racks – Remove your oven racks and soak them in hot, soapy water for a few hours. A sprinkle of your baking soda mixture can help loosen up grease and burnt-on residue.
Use a soft sponge or brush to scrub, rinse thoroughly, and dry before placing them back inside.
Once the inside is spotless, give attention to the parts you see and touch most often:
Clean the doors and knobs – Wipe down the oven door handle, knobs, and control panel with a mild dish soap solution. For stainless steel, use a microfiber cloth to prevent streaks, and dry with a soft towel for a polished look.
Shine the oven window – For the glass, spray a mix of vinegar and water and let it sit for a few minutes. Wipe clean for a streak-free finish. If grime is stubborn, apply a thin layer of the baking soda mixture, let it rest, then gently scrub and rinse.
Use the self-clean function (if available) – If your oven has a self-clean cycle, this is the time to use it. Run it well before your holiday cooking so any heat or odors can dissipate. Be sure to crack a window or turn on your hood for good ventilation. Always follow your oven manufacturer’s self-cleaning instructions — some models require you to remove racks and rails, while others have specially treated racks that can stay in during the cycle. If so, remove racks first, and when the cycle is done, wipe out the remaining ash with a damp cloth.
KAM COMMENTS:
A little cleaning and care this fall will help your oven perform its best — cooking evenly, efficiently, and ready for all the holiday feasts ahead. And if it needs a little extra attention, our KAM Service Team is here to help. Appointments fill up quickly this time of year, so reach out early to make sure your oven is ready for every festive meal.