This is totally news to me!

1. Start by preheating your oven to 150°F (65°C) and then turn it off.

2. Place a pot of boiling water on the bottom rack of the oven.

3. On the top rack, place a shallow dish containing about half a cup of ammonia.

4. Close the oven door and let it sit overnight. The ammonia fumes will work to loosen the grime.

5. The next morning, open the oven door to allow it to air out for a few minutes.

6. Remove the ammonia and water containers.

7. Wipe down the interior of the oven with a damp cloth or sponge. The grime should come off easily.

8. For any remaining spots, use a mixture of baking soda and water to scrub them away.

While ammonia is an effective cleaning agent, it is important to handle it with care. Always ensure the area is well-ventilated when using ammonia to avoid inhaling the fumes. Wear gloves to protect your skin, and never mix ammonia with other cleaning agents, especially bleach, as this can produce toxic gases. Keep ammonia out of reach of children and pets, and store it in a cool, dry place.

To keep your oven clean with minimal effort, try to wipe up spills as soon as they occur. Use oven liners to catch drips and crumbs, and consider using a baking sheet to catch overflow from dishes. Regularly check and clean the oven racks separately to prevent buildup. By maintaining a regular cleaning schedule, you can prevent the need for deep cleaning sessions.

Q: Can I use this method for self-cleaning ovens? A: Yes, but it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for self-cleaning ovens and use the ammonia method as a supplementary cleaning technique. Q: Is it safe to leave ammonia in the oven overnight? A: Yes, as long as the oven is turned off and the kitchen is well-ventilated. Q: What if I can’t stand the smell of ammonia? A: You can try adding a few drops of essential oil to the water to help mask the smell.

With my nana’s simple trick, cleaning your oven no longer has to be a daunting task. By using the water and ammonia method, you can achieve a sparkling clean oven with minimal effort and without resorting to harsh chemicals. This method not only saves you time and energy but also ensures your oven is ready for your next culinary adventure. Give it a try and enjoy the satisfaction of a clean, fresh oven.