{
  "id": 18095930,
  "title": "The real reason you’re cleaning your oven wrong — and what the experts recommend instead",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/04/the-real-reason-youre-cleaning-your-oven-wrong-and-what-the-experts",
  "topic": "tech",
  "section": "Tech",
  "published": "2026-11-04T08:30:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Tom's Guide",
    "slug": "tom-s-guide",
    "url": "https://www.tomsguide.com/home/the-real-reason-youre-cleaning-your-oven-wrong-and-what-the-experts-recommend-instead"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Cleaning an oven can be a tedious task, but taking shortcuts may harm your appliance. Ecem Uslubaş, a senior product manager at Hotpoint, warns that many people's familiar cleaning methods can damage the oven's surface and performance. She explains that a lot of common practices are based on tradition rather than effectiveness for each surface. Here are six common oven-cleaning mistakes and their safer alternatives.\n\n1. Using the same sponge for all surfaces – Different materials respond differently to abrasives. While a tough sponge works well for cooktops and stainless steel, it can scratch enamel and dull the finish of glass. Uslubaş recommends using a softer cloth for delicate surfaces and only abrasive materials for tougher areas.\n\n2. Allowing spills to bake on repeatedly – Repeatedly reheating spills makes them harder to remove. A quick wipe when the oven is cool prevents the mess from becoming baked-in later. When spills solidify, deep cleaning becomes necessary.\n\n3. Spraying cleaners directly on control panels – Liquid can seep behind buttons or dials, affecting their functionality. Uslubaş advises applying cleaning products to a cloth first, rather than spraying directly on the panels.\n\n4. Assuming all removable parts are dishwasher safe – Ovens have various components, each with specific cleaning requirements. Check the appliance's manual for instructions before removing or washing parts. Some parts may only be suitable for the top rack or require specialized cleaning products.\n\n5. Using aluminum foil to line the oven floor – Foil can interfere with airflow and heat distribution, leading to uneven cooking. Uslubaş suggests using trays or liners designed specifically for the oven, which catch spills without compromising performance.\n\n6. Neglecting door seals and edges – Cleaning the seals and edges is often overlooked, but they play a crucial role in maintaining oven efficiency. Regularly wiping the seal and edges helps preserve hygiene and cooking performance.",
  "summary": "Stop cleaning your oven like this — and what the pros recommend instead.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}