Let’s be honest — cleaning the oven is not fun.
You open the door and get hit with that familiar wave:
Burnt cheese. Dripped sauce. Grease that’s fused to the glass like it’s part of the design.
And the thought of scrubbing it all off?
It’s enough to make you order takeout and skip dessert.
But here’s the good news:
You don’t need to suffer through hours of elbow grease.
You don’t need to breathe in fumes.
You don’t even need to use the self-cleaning cycle (which can smoke up your kitchen like a small fire drill).
Thanks to Taste of Home’s Test Kitchen and other kitchen experts, we now know the most effective, safest, and easiest way to clean your oven — and it all starts with one standout product.
The #1 Recommended Product: Easy-Off Fume Free Oven Cleaner
After testing dozens of oven cleaners, Taste of Home’s Test Kitchen found that Easy-Off Fume Free Oven Cleaner consistently delivered the best results — especially on baked-on grease, carbonized spills, and sticky residue.
Why it works:
Uses a gel formula that clings to vertical surfaces (no dripping!)
Breaks down grime overnight with minimal scrubbing
Marketed as “fume free” — though experts recommend cracking a window for ventilation
Safe for most oven types (but never use on self-cleaning ovens during a cycle)
Step-by-Step: How to Clean Your Oven Like a Pro
Step 1: Remove Racks
Take out oven racks and soak them in warm, soapy water (add ½ cup baking soda for extra power)
For tough buildup, sprinkle baking soda, spray with vinegar, let sit 30+ minutes, then scrub
Pro Tip: Place racks in a garbage bag with soapy water — seal and let soak overnight.
Step 2: Spray the Oven Interior
Shake the Easy-Off Fume Free can well
Spray evenly on oven walls, floor, ceiling, and door — avoid heating elements
Don’t overspray — a thin, even coat works best
Safety note: Wear gloves and open a window. Even “fume-free” cleaners release some odor.
Step 3: Let It Sit Overnight
Close the oven door
Let the cleaner work its magic for 8–12 hours
No scrubbing yet — let the chemicals break down the grime
This is the secret: time does the work, not your arms.
Step 4: Wipe Clean
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