How to Clean an Oven Tray: 7 Easy Ways to Make It Sparkle Like New

Thursday, December 26, 2024  Read time4 min

1. How to Clean a Standard Oven Tray

  • Wear Protective Gloves: When cleaning the oven tray, always use protective gloves to avoid direct contact with cleaning products and grease.

  • Remove Grease: Start by wiping the tray with a paper towel to remove excess grease and dirt.

  • Soak the Tray: Place the oven tray in a sink or basin filled with hot water and dish soap. Let it soak for at least an hour.

  • Scrub Stains: Use a soft sponge to gently scrub away any stains and buildup on the tray.

  • Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse the tray well with hot water to remove all soap and residue.

  • Dry Completely: Dry the tray with a paper towel to ensure there is no moisture or grease left behind.

2. How to Clean Non-Stick Baking Trays

Non-stick baking trays require special care to keep them in good condition and prevent damage. Follow these steps to clean your non-stick trays effectively:

  • Remove Grease: Use a paper towel to wipe away any dirt and excess grease.

  • Hand Wash: Hand washing is the best method, as dishwashers can damage the non-stick coating.

  • Use a Soft Sponge: When washing, use a soft sponge to avoid scratching or damaging the non-stick surface.

  • Soak in Hot Water and Soap: For stubborn stains, soak the tray in a hot water and soap solution for 30 minutes to an hour.

  • Dry Thoroughly: After washing, be sure to dry the tray completely to prevent any moisture from lingering.

3. Cleaning a Burnt Oven Tray

To clean a burnt oven tray, you can use baking soda and hot water:

  • Remove Grease: Start by wiping away any grease and dirt with a paper towel.

  • Soak in Baking Soda Solution: Fill a sink or basin with hot water and add one cup of baking soda. Submerge the oven tray in this solution for about an hour.

  • Scrub Stains: After soaking, use a sponge or cloth to scrub away the burnt stains.

  • Rinse: Wash the tray with water and dish soap to remove all traces of the burn.

4. Cleaning an Aluminum Oven Tray

To clean aluminum trays, a combination of baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, and dish soap works best:

  • Remove Grease: Begin by wiping the tray with a paper towel to remove grease.

  • Soak in Hot Water and Soap: Soak the aluminum tray in hot water with dish soap.

  • Apply Cleaning Paste: Make a paste from baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, dish soap, and salt, and apply it to the tray.

  • Scrub and Rinse: After 2 to 3 hours, clean the tray with a soft sponge and rinse it with hot water.

5. Cleaning an Oven Tray with Baking Soda and Vinegar

Baking soda and vinegar are powerful cleaning agents for oven trays. Follow these steps:

  • Remove Grease: Wipe the oven tray with a paper towel to remove excess grease.

  • Wash with Soap: Clean the tray with hot water and dish soap.

  • Soak in Baking Soda and Vinegar: Mix equal parts of baking soda and vinegar and soak the tray in this solution.

  • Soak for 1-2 Hours: Let the tray sit in the solution for 1-2 hours.

  • Rinse and Scrub: After soaking, rinse the tray with hot water and scrub it with a soft sponge.

6. Cleaning Oven Trays with Ammonia

Ammonia is an effective cleaner for tough stains. To use it, follow these steps:

  • Place the tray in plastic: Put the oven tray inside a thick plastic bag.

  • Add ammonia: Pour one cup of ammonia onto the bottom of the tray and seal the plastic bag tightly.

  • Wait: Leave the tray outside for 24 hours.

  • Clean the tray: After 24 hours, wear gloves and a mask, open the plastic bag, and scrub the tray with dish soap and a sponge.

7. Suitable Cleaning Materials for Different Types of Oven Trays

The table below shows which cleaning materials are suitable for oven trays based on their material:

Cleaning Material

Steel

Aluminum

Non-stick

Baking soda and hydrogen peroxide

Yes

No

No

Baking soda and vinegar

Yes

Yes

No

Ammonia

Yes

No

No

Aluminum foil

Yes

No

No

Dry paper towel

Yes

Yes

Yes

Sodium carbonate and cream of tartar

Yes

Yes

Yes

Water and baking soda

Yes

Yes

Yes

Using these methods and materials will keep your oven tray clean and shiny while extending its lifespan.