Oven cleaning tips

Handle with care

One of the most common ingredients in oven cleaners is sodium hydroxide, also known as caustic soda. It reacts with fats, converting them into soapy compounds you can wipe away.

But sodium hydroxide (an alkali) is dangerous stuff. It's highly corrosive even when diluted. So if it comes into contact with your eyes or skin it can cause deep burns, blindness or severe irritation. The smell is usually strong and unpleasant.

The products that claimed to be fume- or odour-free didn't contain sodium hydroxide. However, they did warn that they were strongly alkaline - so they too could irritate or burn your skin.

Ethanolamine is an effective non-caustic ingredient, but it also has its hazards. It may cause coughing, headache, shortness of breath or asthmatic reactions.

Minimise these health hazards by taking particular care when you're handling a commercial oven cleaner:

• Always read the instructions on the container - and follow them carefully.
   
• Make sure the kitchen is well ventilated. Avoid breathing in the fumes.
   
• Wear rubber gloves and a long-sleeved shirt.
   
• Small children in your household? Then choose an oven cleaner with a child-resistant cap and store it well out of reach.
  
   

We're disappointed that only four of the cleaners we tested have child-proof caps.

Tips for easy cleaning

• Roasting at lower temperatures will stop fat splattering.
• Use disposable foil trays to catch drips.
• Wipe up any spills promptly.

More information

• Stainless steel cleaners
• Dual-fuel stoves
• Wall ovens
• Oven buying guide

Report by Bev Frederikson