Removing smoke smell from an electric oven is a straightforward process that involves cleaning and deodorizing. Follow these steps to eliminate the smoke odor:
Safety First: Ensure the oven is unplugged and cool before starting the cleaning process.
Remove Oven Racks: Take out the oven racks and set them aside. You can clean them separately using dish soap and warm water.
Clean Oven Interior: Wipe down the inside of the oven with a damp cloth or sponge to remove any loose debris or residue. For tougher stains, you can create a paste of baking soda and water, apply it to the stained areas, and let it sit for a few hours or overnight. Then, scrub away the stains with a non-abrasive sponge.
Clean Oven Door: Pay special attention to the oven door, as it might have accumulated more smoke residue. Use a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and water to clean the glass both inside and outside. Wipe it down with a clean cloth afterward.
Ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation in your kitchen while cleaning. Open windows or use a fan to circulate fresh air and help dissipate any lingering odors.
Deodorize: To eliminate the remaining smoke smell, there are a few methods you can use:
a. Baking Soda: Sprinkle baking soda on the oven floor and any areas with lingering odor. Leave it overnight or for a few hours, then wipe it off with a damp cloth.
b. Citrus: Cut a lemon or orange in half, place the halves on an oven-safe dish, and bake them for about 30 minutes at a low temperature (around 250°F or 120°C). The natural citrus scent will help neutralize the smoke odor.
c. Coffee Grounds: Spread dry coffee grounds on an oven-safe tray and place it in the oven. Let it sit for a few hours or overnight to absorb the smoke smell.
d. Activated Charcoal: Activated charcoal is known for its odor-absorbing properties. Place some in an oven-safe dish and leave it in the oven for several hours.
Final Wipe Down: After deodorizing, wipe down the oven interior once again with a damp cloth to remove any residue from the deodorizing agents.
Reinstall Oven Racks: Clean the oven racks you set aside and reinsert them into the oven.
Remember to avoid using harsh chemicals, abrasive scrubbers, or overpowering cleaning agents inside the oven, as these might leave behind undesirable fumes or tastes in your food. Regularly cleaning your oven and avoiding burning food excessively can help prevent future smoke odors.