How to Clean a Commercial Oven

What You’ll Need

Commercial oven cleaner or degreaser (check manufacturer’s recommendation)
Rubber gloves and safety goggles
Plastic scraper or putty knife (non-metal to avoid scratching)
Scrub brushes (stiff nylon brush for racks, soft sponge for interior)
Microfiber cloths or lint-free towels
Bucket with warm water
Baking soda (for stubborn spots)
White vinegar (for rinsing)
Plastic wrap or garbage bags (for racks)
Protective drop cloths for the floor

Step-by-Step

Turn off and cool down: Switch off the oven and disconnect power (or gas) if safe. Allow it to cool completely—never clean a hot oven; it can cause burns and make cleaners fume dangerously.
Remove racks and accessories: Take out all racks, drip pans, and probes. Place them aside on a protected surface. If they are heavily soiled, place them in a plastic bag with warm water and a few drops of dish soap to soak.
Scrape loose debris: Use a plastic scraper to remove large food particles, burnt bits, and carbon deposits from the interior. Work gently to avoid scratching the enamel or stainless steel surfaces.
Apply commercial cleaner: Wearing gloves and goggles, spray or apply the oven cleaner evenly on all interior surfaces—walls, floor, ceiling, and door. Avoid the heating elements and gas ports; if they get coated, wipe them with a damp cloth only.
Let it sit: Allow the cleaner to dwell for the time specified on the label (usually 15–30 minutes). Do not let it dry completely; if it does, reapply. For extra-stubborn grease, sprinkle baking soda over the cleaner before letting it sit.
Scrub and wipe: Use a nylon brush to scrub the interior, focusing on corners and crevices. Then wipe with a sponge dipped in warm water. Rinse the sponge frequently. For baked-on spots, make a paste of baking soda and water, apply, and scrub gently.
Clean the racks separately: Scrub the racks with a stiff brush and the same cleaner (or a degreaser). Rinse thoroughly with water and dry completely before reinstalling.
Rinse and dry: Wipe all surfaces with a clean cloth dampened with vinegar and water (1:1) to neutralize any cleaner residue. Then dry with a microfiber cloth. Leave the door open for at least 30 minutes to air out before using.

Common Mistakes

Cleaning while the oven is still warm—cleaner fumes can be toxic and cause burns.
Using abrasive pads or metal scrapers that scratch the interior, leading to rust and harder cleaning later.
Spraying cleaner on heating elements or gas ports, which can damage them or cause flare-ups.
Skipping the rinse step—residue from the cleaner can contaminate food and create smoke during the next bake.
Forgetting to protect the floor or nearby surfaces from drips and overspray.

Tips

Clean spills immediately when the oven is cool to prevent carbon buildup.
Use a silicone mat or drip tray on the bottom rack to catch spills.
Check the manufacturer’s manual for specific cleaning recommendations—some ovens have self-cleaning cycles or require specific products.
For daily maintenance, wipe the interior with a damp cloth after each shift to reduce grease accumulation.
Ventilate the kitchen well during cleaning to avoid inhaling fumes.

Troubleshooting

If the oven is still greasy after cleaning, the cleaner may not have been strong enough or the dwell time was too short. Reapply and wait longer. For burnt-on carbon that won’t budge, make a thick baking soda paste, spread it over the area, cover with plastic wrap, and leave overnight before scrubbing. If the oven has a strong chemical smell after cleaning, wipe again with vinegar and water, then leave the door open for several hours. If the heating elements appear damaged or the oven does not heat properly after cleaning, contact a professional technician—do not use the oven until it is checked.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should a commercial oven be cleaned?

Ideally, wipe down the interior daily and do a deep clean weekly, or more often if it sees heavy use. Grease buildup is a fire hazard, so regular cleaning is essential.

Can I use a self-cleaning cycle on a commercial oven?

Only if the manufacturer explicitly states it is safe. Many commercial ovens do not have self-cleaning cycles, and using one can damage components. Always check the manual.

Is it safe to use oven cleaner on stainless steel?

Yes, but use a cleaner labeled safe for stainless steel or apply it carefully and rinse thoroughly. Avoid abrasive pads that can scratch the finish.

What should I do if cleaner gets on the heating elements?

Wipe it off immediately with a damp cloth. If it has dried, use a soft brush to gently remove it. Do not run the oven until all residue is gone, as it can cause smoke and unpleasant odors.

Can I use vinegar to clean a commercial oven?

Vinegar is good for rinsing and neutralizing alkaline cleaners, but it is not strong enough alone to cut heavy grease. Use it as a final wipe, not as the main cleaner.

How do I clean the oven door glass?

Use a glass cleaner or a paste of baking soda and water. Apply, let sit, then wipe with a damp cloth. Avoid getting cleaner inside the door’s inner cavity.

Sources: general know-how. Menus and buttons can differ slightly by version. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.