Cooking can be fun, but sometimes things get a little too crispy in the oven, right? If you’ve ever opened your oven door to find burnt food stuck to the racks or bottom, you know how frustrating it can be. Don’t worry though, I’ve got you covered! In this article, I’ll show you how to easily remove burnt food from your oven with simple steps and natural cleaning tips. Let’s dive right in!
How to Remove Burnt Food from Oven Racks and Walls
When food burns in your oven, it can leave tough stains and unpleasant odors. But don’t fret—there are easy and effective ways to remove it. First, we’ll talk about how to deal with burnt food stuck on oven racks and walls. Follow these simple steps, and your oven will look and smell fresh in no time.
Step 1: Remove Oven Racks
Before you begin cleaning, you should take the oven racks out. This will make the cleaning process much easier and prevent you from accidentally scratching the oven surface. Place the racks in your sink or bathtub, and get ready to clean them. Be sure to remove any large food particles first. It’ll make the cleaning process faster and more effective.
Step 2: Soak the Racks
Once the racks are out, soak them in warm, soapy water. This helps loosen the burnt food stuck to the racks. You can use regular dish soap for this. Let the racks soak for at least 15 to 30 minutes. If there are stubborn spots, you can add a bit of baking soda to the water to help with tough stains.
Step 3: Scrub the Racks
After soaking, use a soft brush or a sponge to scrub away the burnt food. Avoid using anything too rough, like steel wool, as it can scratch the metal. If there are still stubborn burnt areas, sprinkle some baking soda directly on the spots and scrub again. Baking soda is a natural abrasive, which works wonders for loosening stuck-on food.
Step 4: Clean the Oven Walls
While the racks are soaking, it’s time to clean the oven walls. Start by wiping down the inside of the oven with a damp cloth. This will remove any loose crumbs or debris. For burnt-on food, you can make a simple paste using baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the affected areas, and let it sit for 15 to 30 minutes. The baking soda will break down the burnt food, making it easier to scrub away.
Step 5: Use a Non-Toxic Oven Cleaner (Optional)
If you want to speed up the process, you can use a store-bought oven cleaner. However, many commercial oven cleaners contain harsh chemicals, so make sure to choose one that is non-toxic and safe for use around food. Always follow the instructions on the cleaner’s label.
Step 6: Wipe Down and Rinse
Once the burnt food has been scrubbed away, use a clean, damp cloth to wipe down the oven walls and remove any leftover cleaner or baking soda paste. Rinse the oven racks as well to remove any soap residue. Dry everything with a clean towel before putting the racks back into the oven.
Step 7: Clean the Oven Door
Don’t forget the oven door! If there is any burnt food stuck on it, you can clean it with the same baking soda paste or a gentle glass cleaner. Use a soft cloth or sponge to scrub the door, paying special attention to the corners and edges. Make sure to wipe it clean afterward with a damp cloth.
By following these simple steps, you can easily remove burnt food from your oven racks and walls, leaving your oven looking as good as new!
How to Get Rid of Burnt Smells in Your Oven
Burnt food isn’t just about the mess—it also leaves an unpleasant smell that can linger in your oven for days. If your oven smells like something’s been charred inside, there are a few easy ways to get rid of the odor. Let’s go over some simple methods to freshen up your oven after a cooking mishap.
Step 1: Ventilate the Area
Start by opening all the windows in your kitchen and turning on any fans to help ventilate the space. This will help get rid of the burnt smell faster. You can also place a bowl of white vinegar or activated charcoal in the oven to help absorb odors. Leave it in the oven for an hour or two.
Step 2: Use Baking Soda and Water
Baking soda is a great natural deodorizer. You can mix a few tablespoons of baking soda with some warm water and wipe down the oven’s interior. This will not only help with the smell but also remove any remaining grease or food particles. If you want a stronger effect, sprinkle some dry baking soda on a damp sponge and wipe down the oven with it.
Step 3: Try Lemon and Vinegar
For a fresh and clean scent, you can use lemon and vinegar. Cut a lemon in half, and place the halves in a small oven-safe bowl. Add about ½ cup of water and a tablespoon of vinegar. Place the bowl in the oven and set the temperature to 250°F (121°C). Let the mixture heat up for 30 minutes to an hour. The steam will help eliminate the burnt smell and leave a refreshing lemon scent behind.
Step 4: Run a Cleaning Cycle (If You Have a Self-Cleaning Oven)
If you have a self-cleaning oven, you can use that feature to remove both the burnt food and the smell. The self-cleaning cycle uses high heat to burn off food particles and grease, leaving behind a fine ash. Once the cycle is complete, just wipe down the inside of the oven with a damp cloth to remove the ash. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for using the self-cleaning function safely.
Step 5: Use Natural Air Fresheners
To help mask any remaining odors, you can place natural air fresheners around the kitchen. Essential oils, such as lavender, eucalyptus, or citrus, can be used in a diffuser to freshen up the air. Alternatively, you can place a bowl of baking soda with a few drops of essential oil near the oven to absorb the smell.
By following these simple steps, you can get rid of burnt food odors in your oven and keep your kitchen smelling fresh and clean.
Cleaning a burnt oven might seem like a big job, but with these simple steps, it’s easy to tackle. I hope you now feel confident about removing burnt food and odors from your oven without stress.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to use baking soda to clean the oven?
Yes, baking soda is completely safe to use for cleaning your oven. It’s non-toxic and a natural abrasive that helps scrub away burnt food without causing damage to your oven.
Can I use a commercial oven cleaner for burnt food?
Yes, you can use a commercial oven cleaner, but make sure it’s safe for the type of oven you have. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and choose a non-toxic option for safety.
Do I need to wear gloves when cleaning burnt food in the oven?
It’s not necessary to wear gloves, but it can protect your hands from harsh chemicals if you’re using a commercial cleaner. Gloves can also help if you have sensitive skin.
Is it okay to use steel wool on oven racks?
It’s better not to use steel wool on oven racks, as it can scratch the surface. Stick to softer sponges or brushes for cleaning.
Can I clean the oven while it’s still warm?
It’s best to let the oven cool down before cleaning it. Cleaning a hot oven can be dangerous, and the heat may make it harder to remove burnt food.
Is it safe to clean an oven with vinegar?
Yes, vinegar is a safe and natural cleaning option for your oven. It helps cut through grease and odors without harmful chemicals.
Do I need to remove all the food before cleaning the oven?
Yes, it’s best to remove all food and crumbs from the oven before cleaning. This helps prevent any food from burning further while cleaning and ensures a more thorough clean.
Can I use lemon to clean a burnt oven?
Yes, lemon works well to remove burnt smells and grease from your oven. It’s a natural and refreshing way to freshen up your oven without harsh chemicals.