How to Clean an Electric Oven After a Plastic Tray Melts

Accidents happen, and sometimes they involve a plastic tray melting in your electric oven. This can be a frustrating and messy situation to deal with, but don’t worry, it’s not the end of the world. With a little patience and the right steps, you can clean your oven and have it back to its original state. This article will guide you through the process of cleaning an electric oven after a plastic tray has melted inside it.

Step 1: Allow the Oven to Cool

First and foremost, safety should be your priority. Never attempt to clean the oven while it’s still hot. Turn off the oven and allow it to cool completely. This will not only prevent burns but also make the melted plastic easier to remove as it hardens.

Step 2: Remove Large Pieces of Plastic

Once the oven is cool, put on a pair of rubber gloves and start removing the larger pieces of plastic. You can use a plastic scraper or a spatula to gently pry off the plastic. Be careful not to scratch the surface of the oven.

Step 3: Apply a Baking Soda Paste

After removing the larger pieces, there will likely be some plastic residue left. To remove this, make a paste of baking soda and water. Apply this paste to the affected areas and let it sit for at least 15 minutes. The baking soda will help to loosen the plastic residue.

Step 4: Scrub the Oven

After the baking soda paste has done its job, use a scrub brush or a sponge to scrub the oven. Be sure to scrub gently to avoid damaging the oven’s surface. Rinse the scrub brush or sponge frequently to avoid spreading the plastic residue.

Step 5: Rinse and Dry

Once you’ve scrubbed the oven, use a damp cloth to wipe away the baking soda paste and loosened plastic. Rinse the cloth frequently to ensure you’re not spreading the residue. Once all the residue is removed, dry the oven thoroughly with a clean towel.

Step 6: Run a Self-Cleaning Cycle

If your oven has a self-cleaning feature, now is a good time to use it. This will help to remove any remaining residue and leave your oven sparkling clean. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using the self-cleaning feature.

In conclusion, cleaning an electric oven after a plastic tray has melted inside it can be a bit of a chore, but it’s certainly doable. With a little patience and the right steps, you can have your oven back to its original state in no time.