Here’s a simple old-fashioned trick for cleaning an oven

3. Oven preheating

Begin by preheating your oven to a low temperature between 90 and 95°C (approximately 195 to 203°F). This temperature range is crucial: it’s low enough to prevent any damage to the oven’s interior components but sufficient to produce steaming action when combined with hot water.

Avoid setting the oven higher than 95°C as excessive heat may cause the cleaning capsule’s ingredients to degrade too quickly or produce unpleasant odors. Allow the oven to reach the set temperature fully before moving on to the next step.

4. Steam cleaning process

While the oven is heating, fill your oven-safe dish or pot with hot tap water—enough to create a good volume of steam but not so much that it risks spilling when moved. Drop the dishwashing liquid capsule into the water. The capsule will begin dissolving, releasing enzymes and degreasing agents that enhance the steam’s ability to loosen baked-on grime.

Once the oven has reached the target temperature, carefully place the dish on the middle rack. Close the oven door and let the steam work for about one hour. During this time, the steam penetrates every corner of the oven interior, softening grease and stuck-on food residues. This gentle steaming action makes the subsequent cleaning effortless and avoids damaging the oven’s surfaces.

5. Post-clean wiping

After the hour has passed, turn off the oven and allow it to cool slightly for a few minutes—but not completely. Be cautious when opening the door, as hot steam can escape rapidly and cause burns.

Using a damp microfiber cloth or soft sponge, wipe down the interior surfaces of the oven. The grease and residues should come off easily without the need for scrubbing. If there are any remaining spots, a second wipe or a gentle rub with the cloth is usually enough to restore a clean surface.

Dispose of the used water and capsule remnants safely, and dry the oven interior with a clean cloth before replacing racks and trays.

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