A side-by-side test of two popular oven cleaners has revealed a clear winner, with the cheaper product outperforming its rival. The test, conducted by a consumer reporter, pitted Elbow Grease Oven and Grill Cleaner against Mr Muscle Oven Cleaner on a badly stained oven.
The 400ml Elbow Grease spray, costing £1.69 from Home Bargains, was applied to one side of the oven, while the 300ml Mr Muscle spray, priced at £4 from Sainsbury's, was used on the other. Both products were left to sit for 30 minutes as instructed, then wiped away with soapy water.
On the first application, both sprays removed grease but left burnt-on stains. After five rounds of reapplication, the Elbow Grease side was spotless, while the Mr Muscle side still showed some stains, particularly on the sides. The reporter noted that the Elbow Grease spray had a finer mist, allowing quicker and more even coverage, and that its foam turned a darker brown, indicating it lifted more grease.
Despite the price difference, Elbow Grease proved more effective and offered better value, with more product for less money. The test underscores that for stubborn baked-on stains, multiple applications may be necessary regardless of the product.
