If the view through the oven glass is more like an abstract work of art than a culinary “showroom”, then this article is for you. Burnt-in grease and baking residue that won’t come off despite repeated attempts to clean are not just a visual nuisance – they’re a reminder of all those recipes that ended with “I’ll clean it better next time”. And that “next time” never comes. How do you effortlessly clean your oven glass to a shine?
The good news? There is a method for cleaning oven glass that even professionals use – simple, harmless and, most importantly, extremely effective. In this article, we will not sell you any miracle sprays or herbal potions from your grandmother. We will tell you how you can use a single, technologically advanced household appliance – melamine sponges – restore your oven's glassy shine in just a few minutes, effortlessly and without the smell of sauerkraut.
What exactly is melamine foam – and why does it work better than most cleaners?
Melamine foam, also known as white sponge, is a material that has quietly emerged over the past decade as one of the most effective and gentle cleaning tools for sensitive surfaces. It contains no chemicals, as it works solely on the basis of its microstructure – a foam matrix made of melamine-formaldehyde resin, which under a microscope resembles extremely fine sandpaper.
In practice, this means that the melamine sponge mechanically but gently removes dirt by physically "scraping" microscopic particles of grease and baked-on residue from the surface. No need for detergents, no unpleasant odors, and no fear of damaging the delicate glass or metal parts of the oven.
Melamine foam is ideal for cleaning due to its composition:
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- Glasses – does not leave scratches, but effectively removes baked-on stains.
- Ceramics – great for hobs and ceramic countertops.
- Stainless steel – removes fingerprints and limescale without matting the surface.
Unlike most commercial cleaners that work through chemical reactions, the sponge works solely with water and mechanical effect – meaning less evaporation, fewer potential allergies and more sustainable cleaning.
How to clean oven glass in 5 steps – quickly, safely and effectively
1. Choose a quality melamine sponge. It's a good idea to go for the thicker version, as it will provide more grip and last longer. It's available at home improvement stores, drugstores, or online.
2. Moisten the sponge with lukewarm water. No additives. Soaps, cleaners and vinegar stay on the shelf – the sponge doesn't need them.
3. Clean the glass surface using circular motions. Start at the edges where the grease accumulates the most. The pressure should be even, but not too strong – the sponge does its job even without force.
4. Wipe with a dry micro cloth. This will remove any foam residue and loose dirt particles. If you want a glassy shine, you can finish by buffing the surface with a dry, clean microfiber cloth.
5. Admire the result. The glass will be transparent again, without stains, spots and without effort.
Why you'll find it hard to do anything else after this procedure
Security without compromise. No toxic chemicals, no strong fumes – ideal for homes with children, animals or sensitive noses.
Maintains the quality of the oven. By cleaning regularly with this method, you prevent the build-up of baked-on layers that over time affect the efficiency and lifespan of your oven.
Immediate result. No waiting, no marinating in vinegar overnight, no DIY trap made from kitchen scraps.
Less really is more – at least when it comes to cleaning the oven
Once you experience how quickly and effectively melamine sponge cleans oven glass, it seems almost silly that you've previously struggled with pastes that need to be “left to work overnight.” In fact, the answer has been here for a long time – quiet, unnoticeable, and without a sour smell.
If you thought household miracles were only possible in commercials at 3 a.m., think again. The melamine sponge is not a miracle – it's science. And it's your new favorite kitchen assistant.
