Question

Cleaning broiler. We recently had mice and are working on cleanup. There were droppings in the bottom part of our oven (broiler).We cleaned out as much as we could but simply can’t reach some areas. Is turning oven on high heat for awhile enough?

Answer 1

Turning the oven on high heat for a while may help to kill off any bacteria or organisms that might be present, but it may not be sufficient for complete cleaning.

Here are a few additional steps you can take to clean your broiler effectively:

1. Safety first: Before you begin cleaning, make sure the oven is turned off and cool to the touch. Disconnect the power supply to the oven to avoid any accidents.

2. Remove accessible parts: If possible, remove any removable parts from the broiler, such as racks, trays, or panels. Clean them separately using hot, soapy water or a mixture of water and vinegar. Rinse thoroughly and allow them to dry completely before placing them back in the oven.

3. Use appropriate cleaning solutions: Depending on the type of oven you have, consult the manufacturer's instructions or guidelines for approved cleaning solutions. You can generally use a mixture of warm water and mild dish soap to clean the interior surfaces of the oven. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the oven.

4. Scrub and wipe: Use a non-abrasive sponge or cloth to scrub and wipe down the interior surfaces of the broiler. Pay extra attention to areas with visible droppings or stains. If necessary, you can use a soft-bristle brush to reach into tight spots or corners.

5. Rinse thoroughly: After scrubbing, use a clean, damp cloth or sponge to wipe away any soap residue. Make sure to rinse the cloth or sponge frequently to avoid spreading any contaminants.

6. Ventilation: Open windows or turn on the exhaust fan to improve ventilation in the kitchen while cleaning. This will help dissipate any lingering odors or fumes.

If you're still having difficulty accessing certain areas of the broiler, you might consider reaching out to a professional appliance cleaner for assistance. They may have specialized tools or techniques to thoroughly clean hard-to-reach places.

Remember, if you have concerns about the cleanliness of your oven or potential health risks, it's always a good idea to consult with a professional or an expert in pest control to ensure proper cleaning and hygiene.