For many across the UK, the thought of tackling the grimy, baked-on grease inside an oven is enough to induce a shudder. Those stubborn brown stains, forged by layers of food residue and solidified through repeated high-temperature exposure, often resist conventional sprays and elbow grease.
The Science Behind the Simple Solution
However, cleaning specialists have unveiled a remarkably effective and low-effort method that utilises an item already found in most British kitchens: a dishwasher tablet. According to experts at Paul's Cleaning, shared in a report on January 19, 2026, these humble tablets are uniquely equipped for the task.
The secret lies in their formulation. Dishwasher tablets contain powerful enzymes and surfactants specifically engineered to cut through tough, greasy food deposits on crockery. These properties translate perfectly to oven grime. Furthermore, the alkaline components within the tablets work to break down the acidic substances found in burnt-on food and grease.
Step-by-Step Guide to a Sparkling Oven
The process is straightforward and requires minimal physical effort, making oven cleaning far less of a dreaded chore. Here is the recommended method from the pros.
First, remove your oven racks and trays and place them in a basin or sink filled with warm water. Drop one dishwasher tablet into the water and let it dissolve to begin breaking down the grease on these removable parts.
Next, take another dishwasher tablet, dampen it slightly under the tap, and use it to gently scrub the interior surfaces of the oven—the walls, floor, and door. For larger or particularly dirty ovens, you can create a powerful cleaning paste by crushing a few tablets into a bowl, mixing with a little water, and then spreading this mixture around the oven's interior.
Let the Chemistry Do the Work
This is where the "no elbow grease" promise comes true. Once applied, allow the dishwasher tablet residue or paste to sit and work its magic for between five and ten minutes. This dwell time lets the active ingredients penetrate and dissolve the hardened stains.
After waiting, simply take a damp cloth and wipe the interior clean. The grime should lift away with surprising ease. For an extra stain-removing boost, moisten your cloth with white vinegar, a natural degreaser commonly found in cupboards.
Finally, dry everything thoroughly with paper towels, including the now-soaking racks and trays from the sink. The result is a gleaming oven that no longer poses a threat of imparting unpleasant odours to your cooking, all achieved with a simple, cost-effective household staple.
