A dirty oven can be an eyesore and affect the flavor of your food. Here are 8 effective tips to degrease a very dirty oven:

1. **Preparation**: Remove racks and debris, soak racks in soapy water.

2. **Homemade Cleaning Solution**: Make a paste of equal parts baking soda and water, apply to oven interior, and let it sit overnight.

3. **Use Vinegar**: Spray the interior with white vinegar after the baking soda paste sits.

4. **Scrubbing**: Use a scrubbing pad or toothbrush to scrub away loosened grime gently.

5. **Steam Cleaning**: If you have a steam cleaner, use it to sanitize and loosen dirt.

6. **Rinse and Dry**: Rinse thoroughly with warm water and wipe away residue.

7. **Reassemble and Test**: Once dry, reassemble components and test the oven at low temperature.

8. **Regular Maintenance**: Wipe spills as they occur to prevent future buildup.

**FAQs**:
– Avoid harsh commercial cleaners; homemade solutions are gentler.
– Ideally, deep clean every 3-6 months; maintain regularly.
– Self-cleaning function generates heat and odors; ventilate well.
– For stubborn stains, repeat baking soda and vinegar or use specialized oven cleaner.
– Handwash oven racks; dishwasher may damage them.
– Use aluminum foil cautiously, avoiding heating elements.

With these tips, you can restore your oven to a spotless, gleaming state and ensure it serves you well in your culinary adventures.