Oven Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Oven Running Smoothly

If your oven is acting up, the first thing to check is how you look after it day to day. A bit of regular care stops many problems before they start, and it saves you a call to the repair guy. Below are the easiest habits you can add to your routine, plus a deeper clean you’ll do a few times a year.

Everyday Care Makes a Big Difference

Start by wiping spills as soon as the oven cools down. Grease and food bits left to bake on the walls turn into stubborn carbon that can affect heating. A damp cloth with a splash of mild dish soap does the trick – no harsh chemicals needed.

Check the oven door seal weekly. If the rubber looks cracked or the door doesn’t close snugly, heat can escape and the element works harder. A quick visual inspection and a little press along the seal lets you spot trouble early.

Don't overload the oven with heavy pans. Too much weight can warp the racks and interfere with airflow. Use the right size tray for the job and keep the racks level. It’s a small step that helps the oven heat evenly.

Seasonal Deep Clean for Long‑Term Health

Every 3‑4 months give your oven a more thorough cleaning. Remove the racks, soak them in warm soapy water, and scrub with a non‑abrasive pad. For the interior, mix baking soda with a little water to form a paste, spread it on the walls, and let it sit for an hour. The paste lifts baked‑on grime without damaging the coating.

After the paste has worked its magic, wipe it away with a damp cloth and finish with a rinse of vinegar spray. The vinegar reacts with any leftover soda, leaving a fresh smell and a streak‑free surface.

While the oven is cool, take a moment to vacuum the bottom vent and the fan area if your model has one. Dust buildup can cause the fan to whirr louder or overheat. A soft brush or a low‑power vacuum nozzle clears the dust without bending any blades.

Finally, run a short “self‑clean” or heat‑up cycle at a low temperature (around 150°C) for 20‑30 minutes. This burn‑off step dries any residual moisture and helps the oven reach its normal operating temperature faster next time you cook.

Stick to these simple daily checks and a periodic deep clean, and you’ll notice fewer error codes, more even cooking, and a longer lifespan for your oven. If you still see strange smells or the heat doesn’t come on, it’s time to call a professional – but most issues are caught early with the habits above.