Tips help keep your oven sparkling clean

Last week, I wrote an article on self-cleaning ovens. This week', I thought I would explore continuous-cleaning ovens.

Continuous-cleaning ovens are made with a rough, porous interior surface designed to resist stains and partially absorb grease. It also spreads spills out so that they can oxidize easily when the oven has been heated. These ovens usually do not get crystal clean. The oven should be wiped out periodically with a nylon pad and water.

Oven racks and the broiler pan should be washed by hand, soaking them in hot, soapy water with a little ammonia usually works well. For tough grime, use a nylon pad.

If large spills do occur, they can seal the surface, preventing the oxidation process. If this should happen, while the oven is still warm and the spill is still soft, blot up the food using paper towels or a damp sponge. Don't rub because the pores will become clogged. Spray an all-purpose cleaner on the spill to soften it, then use a nylon brush or nylon scrub pad to break the spill loose and then wipe away. Rinse the oven with cold water and sponge. Be careful not to let the water run down the burner assembly below on gas ranges.

If you hate scrubbing oven racks like I do, place the rack into a plastic bag and add one cup of ammonia and then seal the bag up tight. Let it sit overnight. When you open the bag the next morning, back up and let it air out. Hose down the rack with a hose.

Note: Ammonia will discolor racks that have a high nickel content. Check with the manufacturer before using ammonia. If I don't have the stove manual, I usually test first by applying ammonia to a small area to see what happens.

Never apply all-purpose cleaner to a hot oven. If you do, it will leave a hard-to-remove chalky stain. Never use oven cleaners or powdered cleaners on this type of oven. They will clog the oven pores. Never use steel wool, it will remove the finish.

If you are allergic to any of the above products, please don't use them. Always test fabrics and paints before using any chemical compound. Please remember to wear rubber gloves to protect your hands and eye protection for your eyes.

If you would like to share a cleaning idea or concept with the reading audience, call Ed Madan at Northwest Environmental Services (255-2266) or send them to Bonner County Daily Bee, 310 Church St., Sandpoint, ID 83864, Attn: What Would Ed Do?

Copy written by Edmond E. Madan, certified executive housekeeper and certified fire, water and mold remediation contractor. Ed is chief executive officer of Northwest Environmental Services, which specializes in commercial, residential construction, and crime scene decontamination and cleanup.