Ovens can quickly accumulate grease and grime, but a professional chef has shared a three-ingredient solution that leaves them looking 'new' without harsh chemicals.
The three-ingredient cleaning solution
Reema Dutta Gupta, a professional chef and recipe developer at meal-kit company HelloFresh in Ireland, said: 'You don't need a specialist product to get your oven looking brand new, you just need three ingredients you probably already have at home.'
The solution uses 180g of baking soda mixed with water to form a paste. A splash of vinegar is added to create a foamy solution that tackles tough grime.
Reema said: 'Once you have removed the racks, spread the mixture all over the interior of your oven, avoiding the heating elements. Leave it for a couple of hours, or if you have the time, overnight works best. Then simply wipe away with a damp cloth, and your oven should look brand new.'
How often to deep-clean your oven
Reema recommends giving your oven a deep-clean every six months to keep it in top shape, though this can vary based on usage. She said: 'Every six months or so, your oven will likely benefit from a deep clean, though this can vary depending on how often you use it and the type of cooking you do. Fortunately, it's usually pretty obvious when your oven is due a clean.'
Signs that it is time to clean include blackened racks with burnt-on food or a door that is difficult to see through. Reema added: 'Check to see if the racks are blackened with burnt-on food. Can you barely see through the door anymore, and has it been that way for months? If you answered yes to either of those, it's time to get cleaning.'
Health risks of a dirty oven
Reema warned that burnt-on food can release carbon-based fumes, which could affect the taste of meals and, in poorly ventilated kitchens, could impact health.
