If you’re like most homeowners, you use your oven consistently. Since you depend heavily on this appliance to help prepare your meals every week, it is practical to make sure you clean it as often as necessary. So, what frequency is recommended for cleaning your oven? Our expert chefs at Loukinens’ on 4th can give professional advice, as they know the value of a clean workspace and how essential it is to produce quality meals.
Regular Cleaning is Important
Any appliance that helps you prepare food requires routine maintenance to ensure your meals are properly cooked and safe to eat. If your oven is dirty, its efficiency and quality can decrease because it has to work harder to cook your food when excess residue is built up in its interior. This can also cause your food to taste strange or unpleasant, so consider these signs that your oven needs proper cleaning. Working through build-up can put unnecessary strain on your range and cause problems like failure to work adequately or even a grease fire. It is recommended to clean your oven deeply once every three months.
Choose the Best Way to Clean Your Oven
Depending on the type of appliance you use, there are several different ways to approach the task of cleaning your oven. If you have a self-cleaning oven, you can certainly use that feature, but follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Your oven will heat to 800 degrees and turn the grime coating the interior into powder, which can be more easily wiped away with a damp towel. Use it sparingly, as it adds strain to your appliance, and if there’s too much residue, it could become a potential fire hazard. You may also have a steam-clean option. If you have a textured oven, wipe it down regularly with gentle cleaners or let the racks and grates soak in boiling water. For more tips, visit our blog page.
Address Messes Quickly
When cooking in the oven, some food residue may spill. Do not attempt to clean it until your oven has cooled off, but you shouldn’t leave it too long. Address the mess quickly and wipe away any residue before it has time to stick even more to the oven’s interior. The longer you leave it, the harder it will be to scrub it off. Try soaking the rack in hot water if the spot can’t be wiped away. If the spot is on the side, use a gentle cleaner or dish soap and scrub it with a stiff brush. However, if you think the mess will be there tomorrow and you’re hungry now, come down to Loukinens’ on 4th or call us at 217.670.1363 to see what’s special on the menu tonight.
Clean Your Oven as Needed
A significant rule of thumb with any appliance in your house is to clean it as needed, depending on how often you use it. If you use your oven every day, it may need more regular attention. Try doing a modest cleaning every month. If you notice smells that linger, food that tastes strange, or your oven smoking, consider those signs that it is time for a deep clean. Take good care of your oven, and it will continue to serve you well. Our experienced chefs have many tips and expert advice. When you’re tired of cooking at home, treat yourself to a night out and contact us for details or reserve space for your party.
