How to Deep Clean Your Oven for a Successful Bond Inspection

Moving out of your rented property as a tenant can be an overwhelming job to do. That’s because you will need to pay attention to multiple factors. But it doesn’t mean that you should ignore end-of-tenancy cleaning. You must deep clean the property before the bond inspection. During deep cleaning, you should pay extra attention to the oven. Then you will not leave behind any reason for your landlord to hold onto your security deposit. With that in mind, let’s take a look at the steps you must follow for oven cleaning. 

Why should you clean the oven? 

You often use your oven when renting the property. Sometimes, you may be using it on a daily basis. As a result, it accumulates a lot of grease and grime. During bond inspection, you should expect the landlord to look at the condition of your oven as well. If the landlord decides that your oven is not clean enough, the cost of cleaning will be deducted from your security deposit. That’s because the landlord will have to spend more on cleaning the oven. Otherwise, it will not be possible to rent the same unit to a new tenant. 

Your oven can accumulate stubborn grime, baked-on food, and unpleasant odours over time. However, with the right techniques and a little elbow grease, you can restore your oven to its former glory. This can increase your chances of passing the inspection with flying colours. With that in mind, let’s learn some oven-cleaning tips that you can follow during end-of-lease cleaning. 

Gather Your Arsenal: Essential Cleaning Supplies 

Before you get started with oven cleaning, you must have all cleaning supplies in hand. Without the right cleaning supplies and tools, you can’t expect to end up with a perfect job. Here are the oven-leaning products and tools that you should get. 

• Baking soda 
• White vinegar 
• Dish soap 
• Microfiber cloths 
• Rubber gloves 
• Oven cleaner 

Having these supplies readily available will make the cleaning process more efficient and effective.

Preparing the Oven Racks: A Soak in Soapy Water 

The oven racks often bear the brunt of spills, splatters, and baked-on messes. To tackle these stubborn stains, you need to remove the racks. Then you must place them in a large sink or bathtub filled with hot and soapy water. This is one of the best oven-cleaning hacks to keep in mind. It is better to wear rubber gloves throughout the process. 

Next, allow the oven racks to soak for at least an hour. But you must leave it overnight if the grime is particularly stubborn. This will loosen the baked-on residue, making it easier to scrub off later.

Sweep Away Loose Debris: A Clean Slate 

Before you get into the deep cleaning process, it’s essential to remove any loose food particles. This includes crumbs or debris from the oven’s interior as well. This is where you need to use a soft-bristled brush or a vacuum cleaner with a hose attachment. Then you can sweep away any loose debris. It will ensure a clean slate for the next steps.

Baking Soda Paste: A Natural Powerhouse 

Baking soda is a natural and effective cleaning agent. Therefore, you can use it for proper oven maintenance during move-out cleaning. Baking soda can tackle even the toughest baked-on messes. 

Create a paste by mixing baking soda with water until it forms a spreadable consistency. By using a non-abrasive sponge or cloth, apply the paste generously to the oven’s interior surfaces. This includes the walls, door, and even the bottom. Let the paste sit for at least 30 minutes to allow it to work its magic.

Vinegar Spray: The Grime-Busting Solution 

White vinegar is a versatile and eco-friendly cleaning solution. It can help dislodge stubborn grime and cut through grease. For that, you should fill a spray bottle with equal parts white vinegar and water. After letting the baking soda paste sit, spray the vinegar solution liberally over the treated areas. The chemical reaction between the baking soda and vinegar will create a satisfying fizzing action. This will help you to break down the grime. 

Since vinegar is an all-natural solution, you don’t need to think twice before using it for oven cleaning. It is a better alternative than the chemical cleaners available. That’s why you must include vinegar in your rental cleaning checklist. This is one of the things that you should do weekly.  

Knob Care: Overlooked but Essential 

While focusing on the oven’s interior, don’t forget about the knobs and control panel. These areas can accumulate grease, grime, and food splatters over time. That’s why you should thoroughly clean them. 

For cleaning the knob, you should use a damp microfiber cloth and a small amount of dish soap. Or else, you can even use an oven cleaner to gently wipe down the knobs and control panel. Make sure to ensure that they are clean and free of any buildup. If you are using an oven cleaner, you must ensure that it has nontoxic ingredients. Then you can perfectly clean it without any problems. 

Streak-Free Glass Door: A Sparkling Finish 

The oven door is often the most visible part of the appliance. Therefore, it is essential to make sure that your oven door is perfectly clean as well. If you don’t consider this in your property cleaning checklist, you may not be able to pass the cleaning inspection.

Start by wiping down the glass with a damp microfiber cloth to remove any loose debris. For stubborn stains or baked-on grime, create a paste with baking soda and water. Then you can gently scrub the affected areas with a non-abrasive sponge or cloth. Last but not least, you should rinse thoroughly and buff the glass dry with a clean and dry microfiber cloth. This can help you to prevent streaks.

Hidden Hotspots: Tackling Germ-Laden Areas 

While focusing on the visible areas of the oven, don’t overlook the hidden nooks and crannies. Such areas can harbour germs and unpleasant odours. You need to use a soft-bristled brush, or a cotton swab dipped in a mild cleaning solution to reach such areas. A few examples of such areas include oven vents, crevices, and corners. While doing that, pay special attention to the door gasket as well. That’s because this area can accumulate food particles and grease over time.

Finishing Touches: Restoring Shine and Freshness 

Once you complete the deep cleaning process, it’s time to add the finishing touches. You can reassemble the oven racks and give them a final rinse. Or else, you can wipe it down to remove any remaining residue. You may also use a clean, dry microfiber cloth to buff the oven’s interior surfaces. This will ensure a streak-free finish. By always following this tip, you can ensure that all appliances you have on your property are clean as well. 

To eliminate any lingering odours, consider placing a small bowl of baking soda. You can also use a freshly cut lemon inside the oven. Allow it to sit for a few hours before removing it. This will help absorb any unpleasant smells and leave your oven smelling fresh and clean.

Maintenance Matters: Keeping Your Oven Spotless 

Deep cleaning the oven is something you must do before moving out. But you should also take a look at regular maintenance activities. For example, you can quickly wipe down the interior surfaces with a damp cloth after every use. You may also consider using a paper towel. It will help you to prevent spills and splatters from baking. Consider using oven liners or foil to catch drips and make cleanup easier.

Additionally, schedule regular deep cleanings every few months. This will help you to prevent the buildup of grime and ensure your oven stays in top condition.

Final words 

Following these tips can increase your chances of passing the bond inspection with flying colours. Having a clean oven will impress the property manager. I will also create a more pleasant and hygienic cooking environment for you as a tenant. Experience the power of elbow grease and natural cleaning solutions. Then your oven will shine like never before.

However, oven cleaning might not be something that you can manage on your own. In such situations, you may consider seeking expert help. That’s where Affordable Cleaning and Gardening Services can help. We are experts in end of lease cleaning. Our cleaning experts will not just help you to clean the oven. Instead, we will ensure the cleanliness of your entire property. Feel free to go ahead and get in touch with us for your cleaning needs today.