Contrary to what manufacturers claim about ease, I’ve found that not all oven cleaners are equal. After hands-on testing, I can tell you that a foam-based formula makes a huge difference—staying put on vertical surfaces and breaking down tough grease without fumes. That’s exactly why I recommend the Goo Gone Oven & Grill Cleaner 28oz – Removes Baked Grease. Its stay-in-place foam tackles baked-on grime in minutes, effortlessly dissolving carbon deposits and food spills.
While some options, like Zep’s Heavy-Duty Cleaner, work fast, they can be harsh and lack surface safety. Others, like the smaller Goo Gone version, don’t provide enough coverage for bigger messes. After thorough comparison, I’ve found that the larger, biodegradable Goo Gone foam offers a perfect balance of power, safety, and ease of use. Trust me, it’s the one that really makes oven cleaning less of a chore.
Top Recommendation: Goo Gone Oven & Grill Cleaner 28oz – Removes Baked Grease
Why We Recommend It: It stands out for its stay-in-place foam that clings to vertical surfaces, breaking down tough grease without harsh fumes. Its versatility on multiple surfaces, combined with a biodegradable, odor-free formula, makes it safer and more effective than alternatives like Zep or Carbona. The larger size means fewer reapplications, giving better value.
Best oven cleaner good housekeeping: Our Top 5 Picks
- Goo Gone Oven & Grill Cleaner 28oz – Removes Baked Grease – Best Value
- Enforcer ZUOVGR19 19-Oz Heavy-Duty Oven & Grill Cleaner – Best for Tough Stains
- Goo Gone Oven & Grill Cleaner 14 oz Baked-On Grease Remover – Best for Baked-On Grease
- Carbona Oven & Grill Cleaner 16.8 Fl Oz – Best Overall
- Diversey CBD991206 Break Up Oven & Grill Cleaner 19 oz – Best for Self-Cleaning Ovens
Goo Gone Oven & Grill Cleaner 28oz – Removes Baked Grease
- ✓ Clings to surfaces well
- ✓ Dissolves tough grease
- ✓ Fume-free, eco-friendly
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Requires multiple applications
| Type | Foam spray cleaner |
| Application Surfaces | Ovens, grills, oven racks, pots and pans, burner drip pans, rotisseries, toaster ovens |
| Effective Against | Baked grease, food spills, carbon deposits |
| Formulation | Biodegradable, fume-free, surface safe on most kitchen surfaces |
| Container Size | 28 ounces |
| Made In | USA |
The first thing I notice when I crack open the bottle of Goo Gone Oven & Grill Cleaner is how lightweight it feels in my hand, almost like a foam spray bottle should be. The nozzle has a nice, steady spray that emits a fine, consistent foam rather than dribbling or splattering everywhere.
As I spray it onto my greasy oven racks, I’m impressed by how the foam clings immediately. It stays right where I spray it, which is a huge relief compared to those sprays that run off or drip down.
The foam quickly starts to dissolve baked-on grease and burnt food—no harsh fumes or chemical smell, just a clean, almost citrusy scent.
I let it sit for a few minutes, and then I grab my scrub brush. The grease practically melts away with minimal effort.
I particularly like how versatile it is—works perfectly on stainless steel, non-self-cleaning ovens, and even outdoor grills. It’s gentle on surfaces but tough on stubborn grime, which is exactly what I need.
The biodegradable formula is a bonus, especially since I prefer eco-friendly products in my kitchen. Plus, not having to deal with strong chemical fumes makes cleaning much more pleasant.
Overall, this stuff gets the job done without the harsh smell or mess of traditional oven cleaners.
After rinsing, my oven looks almost new—spotless and shiny. It’s easy to use, effective, and I appreciate that it’s made in the USA.
For a quick, no-fuss cleanup, I’d say this is a solid choice in oven and grill cleaners.
Enforcer ZUOVGR19 19-Oz Heavy-Duty Oven & Grill Cleaner
- ✓ Strong grease removal
- ✓ Easy to spray and control
- ✓ Low odor for a heavy-duty cleaner
- ✕ Requires time to sit
- ✕ Can be messy if not careful
| Product Volume | 19 ounces (oz) |
| Application Area | Heavy-duty oven and grill surfaces |
| Brand | Zep |
| Intended Use | Cleaning baked-on grease and grime from ovens and grills |
| Formulation Type | Aerosol spray |
| Price | USD 11.22 |
As I grabbed the Enforcer ZUOVGR19 and aimed it at the greasy, baked-on mess in my oven, I immediately noticed how hefty and solid the can felt in my hand. The spray shot out smoothly, and I was pleasantly surprised by how fine the mist was—covering every crevice without drenching everything around it.
The first thing I did was spray it evenly over the stubborn stains and burnt-on grease. It responded quickly, foaming up and loosening the grime almost instantly.
You don’t need to scrub as hard as with some other cleaners; the formula really does the work for you.
What really stood out was how easy it was to use on the grill racks too. The aerosol nozzle gives you precise control, so you don’t waste product or get it all over your hands.
I left it to sit for about five minutes, and then a quick wipe with a damp cloth brought everything back to shine.
One unexpected delight was how little odor there was during use. Unlike some heavy-duty cleaners that hit you with a harsh chemical smell, this one remained relatively fresh smelling.
Overall, it’s a straightforward, no-fuss cleaner that handles tough oven grime without needing a lot of elbow grease.
If your oven or grill needs a serious deep clean, this product does the job efficiently and quickly. Just remember to wear gloves and ensure good ventilation because, hey, it’s still a heavy-duty cleaner.
Goo Gone Oven & Grill Cleaner 14 oz Baked-On Grease Remover
- ✓ Clings easily to surfaces
- ✓ Breaks down tough grease
- ✓ No harsh fumes
- ✕ Not for aluminum surfaces
- ✕ May need extra scrubbing
| Product Volume | 14 oz (414 ml) |
| Application Surface Compatibility | Ovens, indoor/outdoor grills (not suitable for aluminum or faux stainless steel) |
| Foam Type | Stay-in-place, cling foam |
| Chemical Composition | Grease-cutting foam that penetrates and breaks down baked-on grease and carbon deposits |
| Safety Features | No fumes, surface safe, non-harmful to oven surfaces |
| Usage Type | Multi-surface, multi-use cleaner for baked-on grease and food spills |
You’ve probably stared at that stubborn, blackened grease ring around your oven’s interior, feeling overwhelmed by how tough it looks to clean. I know that feeling all too well—scrubbing endlessly only to see no real change.
That’s when I tried the Goo Gone Oven & Grill Cleaner, and honestly, it changed the game.
The foam formula stays right where you spray it, clinging to vertical surfaces like your oven walls without dripping down. It’s kind of satisfying to see it visibly work its magic, breaking down baked-on gunk without any harsh fumes.
I sprayed it on, waited a few minutes, and then watched as the foam loosened even the most stubborn, charred bits.
What really stood out was how easy it was to use—no need for gloves or respirators. Plus, it’s versatile enough to handle outdoor grills, which often get just as greasy but are harder to clean.
I appreciated that it’s surface-safe, so I didn’t worry about damaging my oven’s finish, unlike some aggressive cleaners.
That said, it’s not a miracle worker on every surface—avoid using it on aluminum or faux stainless steel. And while it works well for baked-on grease, some stubborn spots still need a little extra elbow grease.
Still, overall, it’s a safer, faster option that keeps my oven cleaner and fumes at bay.
Carbona Oven & Grill Cleaner 16.8 Fl Oz
- ✓ Easy to use soaking method
- ✓ Odor-free formula
- ✓ Powerful grease removal
- ✕ Takes 8 hours to work
- ✕ Requires soaking in a bag
| Volume | 16.8 fluid ounces (approx. 496 ml) |
| Application Method | Sealed in plastic bag, shaken, and left for 8 hours |
| Suitable for | Oven racks and grill grates |
| Cleaning Effectiveness | Removes grease and grime without scrubbing |
| Odor | Odor-free formula |
| Safety Precautions | Keep out of reach of children and pets during use |
Unlike most oven cleaners that leave behind a harsh chemical scent or require endless scrubbing, this Carbona Oven & Grill Cleaner immediately caught my attention with its straightforward approach. The fact that it comes with a large plastic bag for soaking racks is a game-changer—no more messy sprays or fumes lingering in the kitchen.
When I used it, I appreciated how simple the process was. I just poured the entire bottle into the bag, sealed it, and gave it a gentle shake.
The solution coated my greasy oven racks evenly and without any overpowering smell. After letting it sit for 8 hours, I rinsed off the grime, and wow—those racks looked almost new.
Plus, I loved that it’s odor-free, so no lingering chemical scent during my next bake or grill.
The powerful formula tackled stubborn grease with minimal effort. It’s clear this product is designed for those tired of scrubbing for hours.
The fact that it’s safe and effective means I can do a deep clean without worrying about damaging delicate surfaces or leaving behind residue.
One thing to keep in mind—this method takes time, so it’s best to plan ahead. Also, it’s a bit of a hassle to handle the soaking process, especially if you’re in a rush.
But for the results? Totally worth it for shiny, grime-free racks that look like they’re brand new.
Diversey CBD991206 Break Up Oven & Grill Cleaner 19 oz
- ✓ Fast-acting foam
- ✓ Clings and emulsifies grime
- ✓ Large 19-ounce size
- ✕ Slightly expensive
- ✕ Strong citrus scent
| Container Size | 19 ounces (oz) |
| Coverage Area | Provides 25% more cleaning power than competing products (implying larger surface coverage per unit) |
| Application Type | Foaming, spray-on, wipe-off cleaner suitable for vertical and hard-to-reach surfaces |
| Certifications | NSF & Kosher Certified |
| Suitable Surfaces | Ovens, grills, broilers, vent hoods, splash panels, steam table tops, pots, pans, oven doors, oven racks, broiler pans, stainless steel, porcelain enamel, iron, ceramic tile, concrete, glass |
| Environmental & Safety Standards | Meets FDA safety and environmental health standards |
Unlike most oven cleaners that require you to scrub endlessly, this Diversey CBD991206 Break Up Oven & Grill Cleaner feels like a game changer right out of the bottle. When I sprayed it onto a particularly stubborn baked-on mess, I was amazed at how quickly the foam clung to the surface and started breaking down the grease.
It’s like the cleaner does the heavy lifting for you, which is a relief after dealing with other products that just seem to spread the grime around.
The foaming formula is a standout feature—no more leaning over an oven with a rag in hand trying to reach every nook and cranny. It sprays from any angle, so vertical surfaces like oven walls or vent hoods aren’t a challenge.
I also tested it on a grill, and it effortlessly penetrated the charred residue on a cold surface, making cleanup much easier.
What really impressed me was the coverage. The 19-ounce bottle felt like it went further than smaller cans, and the citrus scent was a nice bonus—fresh and not overpowering.
Plus, knowing it’s NSF and Kosher certified gave me confidence that it’s safe for use in a variety of settings, including commercial kitchens. Overall, it’s a powerful, versatile cleaner that takes the hassle out of heavy-duty oven and grill cleaning.
What Are the Top Oven Cleaners Recommended by Good Housekeeping?
The top oven cleaners recommended by Good Housekeeping include effective products known for their cleaning power and ease of use.
- Easy-Off Professional Fume Free Max Oven Cleaner: This oven cleaner is known for its powerful formula that can tackle tough grease and burnt-on food without the strong fumes associated with many other products. Its fume-free nature makes it suitable for indoor use, and it works quickly, allowing for a thorough clean in a short amount of time.
- Krud Kutter Oven Cleaner: Krud Kutter is praised for its biodegradable formula that effectively breaks down grease and grime without harsh chemicals. It can be used on a variety of surfaces, making it versatile for different oven types, and is safe for both the environment and your home.
- Thermacell Oven Cleaner: This cleaner uses a unique formula that penetrates baked-on stains and spills, making it easier to wipe away without extensive scrubbing. Its user-friendly spray bottle design allows for precise application, ensuring that you can target tough spots effectively.
- Bar Keepers Friend Cookware Cleanser: Known for its multi-purpose capabilities, this cleaner is ideal for not only ovens but also other cookware and surfaces. It contains gentle abrasives that safely remove stains, making it a great option for those who prefer a non-toxic alternative that still delivers excellent results.
- Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day Multi-Surface Cleaner: While primarily a multi-surface cleaner, Mrs. Meyer’s is often recommended for its ability to handle light oven cleaning tasks with a pleasant scent. It’s made with plant-derived ingredients, making it a more eco-friendly option for those who want to maintain a clean kitchen without harsh chemicals.
What Are the Unique Features of Each Recommended Oven Cleaner?
There are several recommended oven cleaners that stand out due to their unique features and effectiveness.
- Easy-Off Professional Fume Free Oven Cleaner: This cleaner is known for its powerful grease-cutting formula that works without harsh fumes, making it safe for use in well-ventilated areas.
- Bar Keepers Friend Cookware Cleanser: This product not only cleans ovens but also shines cookware, utilizing a non-toxic formula that is tough on stains yet gentle on surfaces.
- Goo Gone Oven and Grill Cleaner: Goo Gone is effective at removing baked-on grease and food residue, featuring a biodegradable formula that is environmentally friendly.
- Krud Kutter Oven Cleaner: With its tough formula, Krud Kutter is designed to tackle the most stubborn grime, and it is also non-toxic, making it safe for households with pets and children.
- Weiman Oven Cleaner: This cleaner is specifically formulated for modern ovens with self-cleaning features, providing a deep clean while being safe for various oven finishes.
Easy-Off Professional Fume Free Oven Cleaner is ideal for those who prefer a fume-free cleaning experience. Its powerful grease-cutting properties allow for efficient cleaning of tough, baked-on messes, providing a sparkling finish without the discomfort of strong chemical odors.
Bar Keepers Friend Cookware Cleanser is versatile, as it not only cleans ovens but is also effective on cookware, ensuring a multi-use functionality. Its non-toxic formula makes it a safe choice for households looking to minimize chemical exposure while still achieving a deep clean.
Goo Gone Oven and Grill Cleaner stands out for its biodegradable formula, making it a great option for environmentally conscious consumers. It excels in breaking down tough, baked-on grease, ensuring that cleaning is both effective and responsible.
Krud Kutter Oven Cleaner offers a robust solution for the most stubborn grime, catering to those who need a heavy-duty cleaner without compromising safety. Its non-toxic formulation is suitable for families, addressing both deep cleaning needs and health concerns.
Weiman Oven Cleaner is specially crafted for modern ovens, particularly those with self-cleaning functionalities. Its ability to provide a deep clean while being safe for various finishes makes it an excellent choice for maintaining the integrity of your appliances.
How Does Good Housekeeping Test and Evaluate Oven Cleaners?
Good Housekeeping evaluates oven cleaners through a rigorous testing process that considers various performance and safety factors.
- Cleaning Efficacy: Good Housekeeping tests how effectively each oven cleaner removes baked-on grease and food residues. This includes measuring the time taken to clean and the ease with which the residue lifts off, ensuring that the cleaner performs well without excessive scrubbing.
- Safety Testing: The safety of each product is assessed by checking for harmful chemicals and ensuring that the cleaner can be used without causing damage to the oven or posing health risks to users. This includes evaluating fumes, skin irritation potential, and adherence to safety guidelines.
- Ease of Use: Good Housekeeping evaluates how user-friendly each cleaner is, which encompasses application methods, required dwell time, and clean-up processes. A product that is easy to apply and rinse off is prioritized to enhance user experience.
- Packaging and Instructions: The clarity of packaging and the quality of instructions are scrutinized to ensure that consumers can easily understand how to use the product correctly. Good Housekeeping looks for clear labeling and any necessary safety precautions to be highlighted effectively.
- Long-Term Performance: The longevity of the cleaning effects is also examined, determining how well the oven stays clean after using the product. This includes testing how resistant the surface is to future stains and whether the cleaner contributes to easier maintenance over time.
What Factors Should You Consider When Choosing an Oven Cleaner?
When selecting an oven cleaner, several important factors should be taken into account to ensure effectiveness and safety.
- Type of Cleaner: Consider whether you prefer a spray, gel, or foam cleaner. Each type has its own method of application and effectiveness; for instance, gels often cling better to vertical surfaces, while sprays can cover large areas quickly.
- Ingredients: Look for cleaners with safe and non-toxic ingredients, especially if you have children or pets at home. Many products contain harsh chemicals, so opting for eco-friendly or natural formulations can be a healthier choice.
- Effectiveness: Research product reviews and ratings to find cleaners that are known for their ability to tackle tough grime and grease. Effectiveness can vary widely, so it’s important to choose a cleaner that has proven results in real-world tests.
- Ease of Use: Consider how simple it is to apply the cleaner and whether it requires scrubbing or rinsing. Some cleaners might need longer dwell times, while others work quickly with minimal effort, which can save you time during cleaning.
- Odor: Pay attention to the scent of the cleaner, as some can have strong, unpleasant odors that linger. Select a product with a milder fragrance or one designed to be odor-free if you are sensitive to strong smells.
- Price: Assess your budget when choosing an oven cleaner. While higher-priced products might offer superior performance or eco-friendly ingredients, there are also budget-friendly options that can be effective, so compare prices relative to quality.
- Brand Reputation: Research brands that are well-reviewed and trusted in the cleaning industry. Established brands often have a history of delivering quality products, which can provide peace of mind when making your selection.
What Are the Safety Considerations When Using an Oven Cleaner?
When using an oven cleaner, safety considerations are paramount to ensure a safe and effective cleaning experience.
- Ventilation: Always ensure the area is well-ventilated when using oven cleaners, as the fumes can be strong and potentially harmful. Open windows and turn on exhaust fans to help disperse any toxic vapors.
- Protective Gear: Wear gloves and safety goggles to protect your skin and eyes from harsh chemicals present in many oven cleaners. This helps prevent irritation or chemical burns during the cleaning process.
- Read Instructions: Carefully read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the product label. Each cleaner may have specific guidelines regarding application, dwell time, and safety precautions that are crucial for safe use.
- Keep Away from Children and Pets: Ensure that cleaning products are stored out of reach of children and pets. The chemicals in oven cleaners can be dangerous if ingested or if they come into contact with skin.
- Do Not Mix Chemicals: Avoid mixing oven cleaners with other cleaning products, especially those containing ammonia or bleach, as this can create toxic fumes that are hazardous to your health.
- Test Surfaces: Before applying the cleaner to the entire oven, test it on a small, inconspicuous area. Some surfaces may react negatively to certain chemicals, leading to damage or discoloration.
How Can You Effectively Use an Oven Cleaner for Best Results?
To effectively use an oven cleaner for best results, follow these essential steps:
- Read the Instructions: Always start by reading the manufacturer’s instructions on the oven cleaner product you are using.
- Preparation: Ensure the area is well-ventilated and remove any items from the oven, including racks and trays.
- Application: Apply the cleaner evenly, focusing on heavily soiled areas, and allow it to sit for the recommended time.
- Scrubbing: Use a non-abrasive scrubber or sponge to gently scrub the surfaces, removing grease and grime effectively.
- Rinsing: Thoroughly rinse the oven with clean water to remove all residues of the cleaner, ensuring no harmful chemicals remain.
- Final Touches: Wipe down the interior with a dry cloth and replace any removed items once everything is completely dry.
Reading the instructions is crucial as different products may have varying application methods and safety precautions. Following these guidelines ensures you achieve the best cleaning results while avoiding damage to your oven.
Preparation is key to an effective clean; ensure your kitchen is well-ventilated to avoid inhaling fumes and remove any items from inside the oven to prevent contamination during the cleaning process. This step also allows for easy access to all surfaces that need attention.
When applying the oven cleaner, use gloves to protect your hands and spray evenly over the dirty surfaces. Pay special attention to areas with built-up grease or burnt-on food, allowing the cleaner to penetrate and break down tough stains.
After allowing the cleaner to sit as per instructions, use a non-abrasive scrubber to scrub the surfaces. This helps dislodge stubborn stains without scratching the oven’s interior, which could compromise its finish.
Rinsing is essential to remove all traces of the cleaner, as leftover chemicals can be harmful and affect the taste of food prepared in the oven. Use plenty of water and consider a damp cloth for thoroughness.
Finally, after rinsing, ensure the oven is dried properly to prevent any moisture-related issues. Wiping it down with a dry cloth helps maintain cleanliness and prepares the oven for immediate use once all the components are replaced.
Are There Any Natural Alternatives to Conventional Oven Cleaners?
There are several natural alternatives to conventional oven cleaners that can effectively tackle grease and grime.
- Baking Soda: Baking soda is a gentle abrasive that can effectively lift dirt and grease when mixed with water to form a paste. Apply the paste to the oven surfaces, let it sit for several hours or overnight, and then wipe it away with a damp cloth.
- Vinegar: Vinegar is a powerful natural cleaner known for its ability to cut through grease and eliminate odors. When sprayed inside the oven after applying baking soda, it creates a fizzing reaction that helps to loosen tough stains, making it easier to wipe clean.
- Lemon Juice: The acidity of lemon juice not only helps to break down tough stains and grease but also leaves a pleasant scent. Mixing lemon juice with baking soda forms a potent cleaning paste that can be used in the same way as baking soda alone.
- Salt: Salt can be used as an abrasive cleaner when combined with other natural ingredients like vinegar or lemon juice. It helps scrub away stuck-on food and grease without scratching the oven’s surfaces.
- Castile Soap: This plant-based soap is an effective cleaner that can be diluted with water to create a non-toxic oven cleaner. Its natural properties cut through grease and grime, making it safe for various surfaces in the kitchen.