Cleaning the outer oven glass is likely part of your kitchen routine, but when was the last time you paid attention to the inside of the glass? Between food splatters and airborne grease and oil, the glass quickly becomes clouded and sticky. Over time, and usually only when you're trying to spy on your baking food, you'll notice that you can barely see through the build-up. Try not to let it get that bad with these tips for maintaining your oven's glass door.

Cleaning an Oven Glass Door in 6 Steps

1. Let the oven cool. If it's a hot oven, make sure it's completely cool before starting the cleaning process to avoid burns or injuries. If you keep the oven door open to vent after using it, it may take an hour for the oven door glass to cool off.
2. Remove loose food particles. Use a soft brush or cloth to remove any bits of grime or stuck-on food from the oven window.
3. Apply a cleaning solution. Spray or apply an oven-safe cleaning product or paste to the dirty oven door. A baking soda solution that combines baking soda and vinegar or a natural degreaser are effective if the door doesn't have heavy grease buildup. If you do have greasy oven glass, a commercial oven cleaner (like Easy-Off Oven Cleaner) is better for deep cleaning stubborn residue. We like to avoid harsh chemicals when we can, but it really involves wiping down the panes of glass and cleaning the oven regularly (like, after every other use).
4. Let the cleaning solution sit. Let it settle into the buildup on the oven glass window for 5-15 minutes.
5. Scrub the door (gently!). Use a non-abrasive sponge or scrubbing pad to gently scrub the glass panel, focusing on areas with baked-on grease and stubborn stains. Avoid using abrasive materials (like a steel wool pad) that could scratch the glass.
6. Rinse off the cleaner and dry with a clean microfiber cloth. Wipe down the glass door with a damp cloth to remove the cleaning solution. Then, dry it thoroughly with a clean towel or lint-free microfiber cloth to achieve a streak-free shine.

Won't a self-cleaning oven clean its glass door?

Technically, yes, but also no. Confused? While the heat generated during the self-cleaning cycle can help reduce buildup on the glass door, it can leave some residue on the surface of the glass. It can actually make it look like your glass is more yellowed or bronzed in color. In general, the self-cleaning function is more effective for the interior surfaces and oven racks, so you'll probably still need to clean a glass oven door manually before or after a self-cleaning cycle.

Do any natural cleaners work better than chemical cleaners?

The effectiveness can vary depending on whether or not it's a light stain or baked-on stain. Natural cleaners, such as vinegar, baking soda, lemon juice, and hydrogen peroxide, are often preferred by those who prioritize environmentally friendly and non-toxic cleaning solutions; however, commercial oven glass door cleaners, especially those specifically formulated for heavy-duty degreasing, can sometimes offer more potent and efficient cleaning power for tackling stubborn stains and tough grime. They may contain ingredients that effectively break down grease, dissolve mineral deposits, and kill bacteria and viruses.

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Can I use vinegar to clean the oven glass door?

Yes, vinegar can be an effective natural cleaner for oven glass doors, but it works better on light buildup than difficult stains. Mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle and apply it to the glass. Let it sit for a few minutes before wiping it off with a damp cloth.

How often should I clean my oven glass door?

It depends on how often you use it. If you bake in the oven several times a week, aim for once a week. If you use it sporadically throughout the month, do it less frequently. The goal is to clean it often enough that it never becomes covered with a baked-on grease.

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Is it safe to use a razor blade to clean oven glass?

While some people recommend using a razor blade to remove tough stains or baked-on food from oven glass, be very cautious to avoid scratching or damaging the glass surface. If using a razor blade, ensure it's held at a shallow angle and used with gentle pressure. Alternatively, use a plastic razor blade, or try other cleaning methods.