Five tips for cleaning your oven this autumn

AUTUMN weather calls for lots of cosy nights in with warming homemade grub.

But over time, grease and food debris builds up in your oven, leaving it needing a good clean.

You can call in professionals, or save yourself some money by doing the job yourself with these tips.

LEMON BAKE: Fill a heatproof dish with water and squeeze the juice from half a lemon into it.

Bake on a medium heat for half an hour or until the water starts to boil.

Once the oven is cool enough to touch, the acid in the lemon should have helped cut through the grease and grime, making it easier to wipe off.

SODA SAVIOUR: Heavy duty cleaning products can contain lots of hazardous chemicals.

So before reaching for these, try creating a paste with baking soda and warm water, then apply it all over the inside of the oven.

Leave to work for about an hour and the paste should neutralise acids and break down grease.

SHELF SOAK: If your grill shelves are coated with stuck-on grease, give them a good soak in hot water and soda crystals.

You can use scrunch up kitchen foil to scrub the wires and help get the metal sparkling again.

STAY IN THE LINES: One way of making cleaning super-easy in the future is by lining the bottom of your oven to catch drips and spills.

You can get heavy-duty oven liner, £4, from Dunelm.

SAFE EATING: A clean oven doesn’t just look good, it will also help the appliance heat evenly and work as efficiently as possible, according to Zimbini Nkonjera, cooking category manager at appliance firm Hotpoint.

She said: “Although it may seem tedious, cleaning your oven is crucial in preventing bacteria growth and ensuring safe and healthy cooking.

“The average oven has three components that require regular cleaning.”

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