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**How I Keep My Oven Clean in 5 Minutes (and Why It Works Better Than Spending Hours on It)**
Cleaning an oven can often feel like one of the most dreaded household chores. The greasy build-up, baked-on food, and tough-to-reach spots can make it seem like a daunting task. But what if I told you there’s a way to keep your oven spotless without spending hours scrubbing away? That’s right! I don’t clean my oven for more than five minutes, and it works like a charm—leaving my oven cleaner than even some of the more traditional methods. Here’s how I do it, and why it’s become my go-to cleaning hack.
### The Secret to My 5-Minute Oven Cleaning Method
One of the best-kept secrets to my quick oven cleaning is simple, effective products and smart techniques that allow me to clean without breaking a sweat. The key is consistency—cleaning small messes as they happen, and using the right tools for the job. Here’s how I do it:
**1. Spot Clean After Every Use**
The biggest time-saver for me has been cleaning as I go. After I’ve finished cooking, I take a few minutes to wipe down the oven while it’s still warm (but not too hot!). If there’s any spilled food or grease, I can quickly wipe it away with a damp cloth or sponge. This prevents stains from setting in and reduces the need for deep cleaning sessions down the road. Spending just 2-3 minutes immediately after cooking can make a huge difference.
**2. Baking Soda and Vinegar: The Dynamic Duo**
For the tougher messes, I use a simple combination of **baking soda** and **vinegar**. Here’s how I do it:
– **Baking Soda Paste**: I mix 1/4 cup of baking soda with a few tablespoons of water to form a thick paste. I apply this paste to areas that need extra attention, like any stubborn grease or food stains.
– **Let It Sit**: I leave the paste on the stains for about 10-15 minutes. This allows the baking soda to break down the grime, making it easier to wipe away. The longer you wait, the better it works, but I keep this step brief to save time.
– **Vinegar Spray**: After the paste has set, I spray a bit of vinegar over it. The combination of baking soda and vinegar creates a fizzy reaction that lifts grime and grease. I then wipe it all away with a damp cloth.
– **Final Wipe**: A final pass with a clean cloth or sponge ensures that all the residue is gone, leaving the oven sparkling clean.
