Ovens are ground zero for both food and fiascos. It’s all too easy for one to go from gleaming to greasy after you’ve finished a Sunday roast.
Don’t stress over a sticky mess, though – that’s what oven cleaners are for.
Whether you’re deep cleaning (which you should do every 3 months!) or tackling some spilled sauce, we’ve put together our favourite cleaning products for one of the most hardworking appliances in your kitchen.
Looking for the best oven cleaner in Australia? Here are our top picks – and some tips for maintaining your oven as well.
Types of Cleaners | Factors to Consider | Best Overall | Best Heavy-Duty | Best Homemade | Best Non-Caustic | Best Spray | Best Powder | Best Gel | Best Oven & Grill | Best for Baked-On Grease | Best for Oven Glass | Best Exterior | FAQs
Types Of Oven Cleaning Products
When cleaning an oven, everyone has their preferred cleaning method – including commercial products.
There are several types of oven cleaners:
Spray or aerosol: This is the most common (and more “traditional”) type. Modern spray cleaners are typically fume-free and safe to use with proper ventilation and protective equipment.
Foam: These are usually foaming sprays, which apply a cleaning foam to the surface which you can rinse or wipe off. Other products foam up after application, sometimes on contact with water.
Gel: The biggest advantage of gel cleaners is they don’t drip or run off when applied, and there aren’t any particles dispersed in the air. They can be tricker to rinse off, though.
Cream: These are similar to gel products, since they have a thick, “clingy” formula that adheres to surfaces and makes the cleaning process easier. Some even come with their own scrubbing pads or sponges for application.
Powder: You can sprinkle powder-based products on a damp surface or mix them with water to make a cleaning paste. They can be a bit messy to clean up, though, so keep some rags handy.
Sponges: Cleaning sponges or magic erasers are convenient and efficient, especially for quick cleans. However, they’re typically single-use, especially when cleaning a particularly dirty oven.
What to Consider When Buying an Oven Cleaner
When choosing oven cleaning products, there are several factors you need to consider:
INGREDIENTS: Always check the ingredients or components of any cleaner you buy. Many use chemicals like sodium hydroxide, methylene chloride, and other caustic substances to cut through the dirt. Natural or plant-based cleaners are “gentler,” but often need more effort to fully clean your oven.
APPLICATION: Spray cleaners are easiest to use, but they do release aerosolised particles which can trigger allergies or irritation. Many modern formulas are fume-free and safe to use with proper gear and ventilation, but some people will prefer cleaners they can apply with sponges or cloths.
CLEANING TIME: This is also called standing time, or the time needed to leave the cleaner and let it work. Some products need to be left for long periods (even overnight), while others are fast-acting. Check the label so you can estimate how long it’ll take to clean your oven.
SCENT: Many products have added fragrances (usually to mask the fumes), but these can be irritating to some people, especially if you have allergies. Check the label for any info on fumes or scents, and always work in a well-ventilated kitchen when cleaning.
Our Picks for the Best Oven Cleaners
Whether you’re looking for all-natural ingredients or something tough on grime, here are our top picks for an oven cleaner in Australia.
Always test any product on an inconspicuous spot to make sure it won’t damage your oven, and read the product label for instructions and precautions.
Best overall oven cleaner: Ajax Cream Cleanser
Ajax’s Cream Cleanser is powerful, efficient, and easy to use! The biodegradable formula cuts through grease and grime without scratching the oven’s finish.
Moreover, the thick consistency lets it adhere to surfaces and work its magic on tough stains and food debris.
Simply apply the Cream Cleanser with a damp sponge or cloth, working in circular motions. The product wipes off with a damp microfibre cloth, though the heavy “cream” means you might need some elbow grease to get it all off.
Best heavy-duty oven cleaner: Easy-Off Heavy Duty Oven Cleaner
Easy-Off Heavy Duty Oven Cleaner can effectively clean ovens – on the inside. The brand doesn’t recommend you use it on exterior oven surfaces, or on aluminium, chrome, and baked enamel.
However, it’s very effective for tackling stubborn stains, baked-on food, and even grease. If your oven needs a thorough cleaning, Easy-Off is your best bet.
Always make sure you wear protective equipment (rubber gloves and a face mask) and work in a well-ventilated kitchen. If the scent bothers you, try the Fume-Free variation!
Best homemade oven cleaner: Baking soda paste
If you want to skip commercial products altogether, baking soda makes a great natural oven cleaner. (And yes, this works as a pizza oven cleaner as well.)
Simply make a paste out of 3 parts baking soda and 1 part water – a bit of dish soap is optional. Apply with a dampened sponge or cloth, then let it sit for a few hours (or overnight for a deep clean).
Follow with a fresh, damp cloth or paper towel to wipe off the residue. Alternatively, mix equal parts vinegar or lemon juice and water in a spray bottle, and use that to “rinse” the oven afterwards.
Do not use baking soda and vinegar together, as the resulting reaction isn’t very effective for cleaning.
NOTE: You can use washing soda instead, but make sure to wear gloves when cleaning!
Best non-caustic oven cleaner: Scrub Daddy Power Paste
Scrub Daddy has taken the world by storm with its range of cleaning products. The Scrub Daddy Power Paste combines the well-loved Scrub Mommy with a mildly abrasive paste that cleans lots of things – including ovens.
This clay-based cleaner is super effective at removing grease, food residue, and even limescale from surfaces. The dual-texture sponge lets you scrub off stubborn dirt or gently clean a surface as needed.
Moreover, the Power Paste is free of harsh chemicals, instead featuring a non-toxic and biodegradable formula.
It’s easy to rinse off as well – it comes right off with a dampened cloth. And the Scrub Mommy is dishwasher safe, so no trouble cleaning that as well!
Best oven cleaner spray: Dawn Powerwash
One of the biggest advantages of Dawn Platinum Powerwash is that it doesn’t need water to activate! Just spray it onto a filthy oven and let it work its magic.
The fast-acting formula gives you the “power of an overnight soak in minutes.” And of course, no need for any scrubbing – Dawn Powerwash sprays on, then wipes off alongside all the grime.
NOTE: Dawn advises against prolonged contact with aluminium surfaces, since Powerwash can potentially react with aluminium and cause discolouration or damage.
Best powder oven cleaner: Bar Keepers Friend Powdered Cleanser
Bar Keepers Friend is a popular cleaning solution, and for good reason! It works on many materials (including stainless steel and porcelain), and it works well.
Simply sprinkle the powdered cleanser on a damp surface or mix it into a thick paste with some warm water. Let it sit for a minute before wiping it off with a dampened cloth.
You can also use BKF to clean oven racks, trays, and the door.
Best gel oven cleaner: Selleys Oven Plus Heavy Duty Gel
Selleys Oven Plus cleans ovens, cookware, and even bakeware with no scrubbing! This no-fume cleaner works on warm surfaces (not cold!) and comes with its own applicator for ease of use.
This makes it easy to use after you’ve finished cooking – just let the oven temperature come down a bit, first.
If your oven isn’t warm, preheat it to between 50ºC and 90ºC, then switch it off before applying a thin layer of the product. Use a non-abrasive sponge for any stubborn stains.
Note that Selleys indicates this gel is not for use on exterior surfaces, aluminium, and galvanised steel.
Best oven and grill cleaner: Astonish Specialist Oven & Grill Cleaner
You’ll be astonished (ha!) at the effectiveness of this cleaning product. Astonish Specialist Oven & Grill Cleaner uses natural ingredients to “power through grease and burnt-on food” on both your oven and grill.
The product is advertised as vegan and biodegradable, and is even safe to use on vitreous enamel. Simply dampen the included sponge and use it to apply the cleaner to your oven.
You can then rinse the sponge and use it to wipe the surfaces clean. And yes, you can use this oven cleaner on glass as well!
Best oven cleaner for baked-on grease: Ajax Professional Kitchen Power Degreaser
Degreasers are a great cleaning solution for greasy, dirty ovens. This Ajax Professional Degreaser is made especially for kitchens, with a fast-acting formula to make cleaning your oven quicker and easier.
Ajax advertises this degreasing spray as an “expert on baked-on grease,” and it works on more than just your oven! Use it on other greasy surfaces in your kitchen like the stovetop or microwave.
Best of all, the foam trigger even works upside-down – so you can apply it on all surfaces, no problem!
Best oven glass cleaner: Mr. Clean Magic Eraser – Extra Durable
A magic eraser or cleaning sponge is a quick and easy way to clean an oven door without too much trouble!
And one of the best oven cleaners for a glass door is the Mr. Clean Magic Eraser – Extra Durable.
The Extra Durable form has a stronger formula, offering a “powerful clean with water alone.” However, it should be used for oven glass only, as Mr. Clean doesn’t recommend you use it on stainless steel surfaces.
NOTE: Mr. Clean also offers a Magic Eraser Variety Pack, which includes 2 sponges made with Dawn, which are specifically for kitchen cleaning.
Best oven exterior cleaner: Koala Eco Stainless Cleaner
For stainless steel ovens, look no further than the Koala Eco Stainless Cleaner. The biodegradable, plant-based formula works on all stainless steel surfaces in your kitchen, bathroom, and outdoor areas.
It’s easy to apply this Stainless Cleaner with a lint-free cloth. For any crevices and grooves, use a cotton bud or old toothbrush.
This product is a natural disinfectant and antiseptic as well! Plus, the energising peppermint scent deodorises any surface, so your appliances will smell fantastic.
FAQs About Oven Cleaning Products
Check out some tips on maintaining your oven and answers to common cleaning concerns!
What do professionals use to clean an oven?
Professional house cleaners typically have professional-grade cleaners, but many recommend popular oven cleaners like Easy-Off! You can also use a degreaser like Ajax or Dawn Powerwash.
Can you clean baking trays with oven cleaner?
Yes, you can use oven cleaner to clean trays and racks.
However, test any products on your oven racks and trays first! You want to make sure the product won’t damage the finish.
Do not use commercial cleaners on non-stick trays and pans.
Is oven cleaner better than the self-cleaning cycle?
It all comes down to personal preference, but self-cleaning ovens can be a fire risk.
The process superheats your oven to about 500ºC (932ºF) in order to incinerate any food and grease residue. These high temperatures can damage the internal circuitry and surrounding surfaces (such as benchtops).
Using the self-cleaning function also turns your kitchen uncomfortably warm, so you’ll have to open any windows and vents to disperse the heat.
If you do use the self-cleaning function, keep any kids and pets out of the room, and do not leave your oven unattended! Additionally, never use any products during self-cleaning.
Can you use glass cleaner on an oven door?
It’s best not to use commercial glass cleaner on an oven glass door, unless it’s specifically formulated for that task. Any residue could create a fire risk or damage the finish of your oven.
You can use oven cleaner on a glass oven door so long as the product label specifies this. Always check first, as not all products are formulated for use on glass.
What is the dishwasher tablet oven cleaner hack?
A cleaning hack that’s gaining popularity is oven cleaning with a dishwasher tablet.
You’ll need a pressed powder tablet, which you then dip into some warm water until it’s just damp. Then use the tablet to scrub the dirt off your oven, from the interior to the door.
Wipe off any residue with a damp cloth, then dry the surfaces.
How to minimise dirt in an oven?
Ovens see a lot of messes – it’s kind of inevitable. But there are steps you can take to minimise spills, stains, and dirt in between deep cleans with oven cleaners.
Place oven trays, baking sheets, aluminium foil, or oven liners underneath any dish to catch spills and drips while cooking.
Try steam cleaning your oven after every use, or at least once a week. Steam cleaning can lessen the build-up of grease and food particles in the oven.
Alternatively, wait until your oven is still warm but not hot. Use a cooktop scraper to chip off any stuck-on food or grease residue.
And of course, keep an eye on your cooking! That way, you can make sure nothing’s bubbling over and can tackle any mess ASAP – remember, the longer something sits, the harder it’ll be to clean off!
