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How to Get Rid of Smell in Oven: Step-by-Step Guide

Reviewed by Zac Kieffer

Updated: September 19, 2025

Eliminate oven odors easily with our step-by-step guide. Discover how E-Cloth makes cleaning simple and effective.

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How to Get Rid of Smell in Oven

Tools:

- E-Cloth
- White vinegar
- Baking soda
- Lemon juice
- Bowl (for holding vinegar or lemon juice and water mixture)

Ventilate and Cool Down

Open windows and the oven door to let fresh air in and stale odors out.
Allow the oven to cool completely before cleaning, ensuring you don’t burn yourself.

Clean the Oven Interior

Remove any food debris by wiping down the interior surfaces with a soft cloth or sponge.
Dampen a cloth with a solution of equal parts water and white vinegar; wipe all surfaces thoroughly.
If odors persist, sprinkle a thin layer of baking soda on the surfaces, let it sit for 15–20 minutes, then wipe it off with a damp cloth.

Neutralize Lingering Odors

Place a bowl filled with water and a few tablespoons of vinegar or lemon juice in the oven.
Heat the oven to a low setting (around 200°F/90°C) for about 30 minutes to help bake out residual smells.
Turn off the oven and let it cool with the bowl inside before removing it.

Wipe Down Oven Door and Seals

Clean the oven door and its seals with the vinegar solution to remove built-up grease and residue that can trap odors.
Dry these areas with a clean towel, ensuring no damp spots can develop mildew or persistent smells.

Safety Precautions

Unplug or turn off the oven at the circuit breaker before cleaning to avoid electrical hazards.
Wear gloves to protect your skin from hot surfaces, cleaning agents, and sharp edges inside the oven.
Never mix cleaning chemicals (like vinegar and commercial oven cleaners), as this can create toxic fumes.
Ensure the oven is completely cool before starting to prevent burns.
Avoid excessive water near electrical components or heating elements to prevent short circuits.
Use non-abrasive tools (soft cloths or sponges) to avoid damaging oven surfaces and seals.
Keep the area well-ventilated throughout the process to disperse any fumes or odors safely.

How to Maintain Cleanliness How to Get Rid of Smell in Oven: Extra Tips

Regular Cleaning Routine

Wipe Down Surfaces: After each use, give the interior a quick wipe with a damp cloth to prevent grease buildup.
Schedule Deep Cleans: Set a weekly or biweekly reminder to clean oven walls, floors, and door edges.
Clean Spills Immediately: The longer spills sit, the harder they are to remove and the more they contribute to lingering smells.

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Use Natural Deodorizers

Baking Soda Paste: Mix baking soda with water and apply to stubborn grime to neutralize odors.
Vinegar Rinse: Wipe down surfaces with diluted vinegar, which cuts grease and clears out smells without harsh chemicals.
Lemon Juice: For a fresh scent, wipe interiors with lemon juice. It’s a natural deodorizer and adds a subtle, fresh aroma.

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Deep Cleaning for Smell Elimination

Remove Racks: Take out racks and immerse them in a sink filled with warm water and dish soap for a thorough clean.
Clean Oven Door and Seals: Pay special attention to the edges and seals, where food particles accumulate and cause odors.
Use a Steam Clean: If your oven supports it, run a steam clean cycle to loosen baked-on residues that harbor smells.

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Preventive Maintenance Tips

Regular Inspection: Check for any food residue or grease buildup after each use; prevention is key.
Proper Ventilation: Always let your oven cool with the door slightly ajar before closing it fully to avoid trapped moisture and smells.
Maintain Temperature Control: Use the correct oven settings to avoid burning food, which can contribute to persistent bad odors.

Common Mistakes When Cleaning How to Get Rid of Smell in Oven

Skipping Decluttering

Jumping straight into cleaning without removing clutter can make the process much harder and less effective.
Dirt and dust often hide behind or under unnecessary items; failing to declutter leaves grime untouched.
Cleaning around clutter wastes time and doesn’t address the real mess.

Using the Wrong Cleaning Products or Tools

Applying harsh chemicals to delicate surfaces like wood or glass can cause permanent damage.
Choosing generic rags or paper towels instead of microfiber can leave streaks and residue behind.
Ignoring the manufacturer’s recommendations for cleaning tools shortens the lifespan of your furniture and surfaces.

Inconsistent Cleaning Routine

Letting chores pile up by skipping regular cleaning sessions turns simple tasks into overwhelming projects.
Infrequent cleaning leads to buildup of dirt, dust, and allergens, making your environment less healthy.
Lack of a set schedule often causes important areas (corners, under furniture) to be forgotten.

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How Often to Clean How to Get Rid of Smell in Oven

Assess Your Oven Usage

If you use your oven frequently (several times a week), aim for a deep clean every 4–6 weeks. Regular cleaning stops grease and food spills from turning into lasting smells when heated.
For moderate use (about once a week), thorough cleaning every 6–8 weeks is generally sufficient to keep odors under control.
If your oven sees only occasional use, consider giving it a full cleaning every 2–3 months to prevent residue buildup that can later contribute to unpleasant smells.

Incorporate Routine Wipe-Downs

A quick wipe-down after each use—once the oven has cooled—prevents food splatters from hardening and becoming sources of odor when reheated during subsequent cooking sessions.
This regular maintenance minimizes the risk of stubborn, baked-on grime that requires a more intensive cleaning process.

Why This Frequency Works

Frequent cleaning breaks the cycle of buildup that traps grease and food particles, which are the primary culprits behind persistent odors.
By addressing spills and residue early, you reduce the chances of having to deal with a deep, time-consuming clean in the future.
Maintaining a regular cleaning routine not only keeps your oven odor-free but also ensures better performance and longevity of your appliance.

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