How to Clean a Whirlpool Oven | Professional Guide

9 min readJun 27, 2023

A clean oven is essential for maintaining optimal performance and ensuring food is cooked evenly and efficiently. Like any other type of oven, Whirlpool ovens require regular cleaning to prevent the buildup of grease, food particles, and burnt-on residue.

This professional guide walks you through cleaning a Whirlpool oven, including step-by-step instructions, tips, and recommendations for keeping your range in tip-top shape.

Understanding Whirlpool Oven Cleaning Features

Before diving into the cleaning process, it’s essential to understand the different cleaning features available in Whirlpool ovens. Most Whirlpool ovens come with one of the following cleaning options:

SteamClean: This feature uses steam to help loosen and remove light spills and messes inside the oven cavity, making wiping easier. SteamClean is designed for quick and easy maintenance and not for heavy-duty cleaning.
AquaLift® Self-Cleaning Technology: this is a unique cleaning feature in some Whirlpool ovens. This innovative technology uses water and low heat to break down and lift away baked-on food and spills from the oven’s interior. AquaLift® provides an energy-efficient, gentle, and chemical-free cleaning method that effectively cleans your oven without high heat or harsh chemicals.
High-Heat Self-Cleaning: This traditional self-cleaning method uses high temperatures (up to 900°F or 482°C) to incinerate food particles and residue, leaving behind a small amount of ash that can be easily wiped away.

Check your oven’s user manual or the Whirlpool website to determine which cleaning method your oven features.

How to Clean a Whirlpool Oven: Step-by-Step Guide

Regardless of the cleaning feature your Whirlpool oven offers, the following step-by-step guide will help you thoroughly clean your oven and keep it functioning at its best.

Step 1: Gather Your Cleaning Supplies

Before you begin, gather the necessary cleaning supplies. You’ll need the following:

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How to Clean a Whirlpool Oven-1[/caption]

A soft cloth or sponge
Warm, soapy water
Non-abrasive oven cleaner (optional)
Rubber gloves (optional)

Step 2: Remove and Clean Oven Racks

Start by removing the oven racks. Soak them in warm, soapy water for at least 30 minutes to help loosen any baked-on food particles. After soaking, use a soft cloth or sponge to remove any remaining residue. Rinse the racks thoroughly and let them dry completely before reinserting them into the oven.

Step 3: Wipe Down the Oven Interior

Wipe down the entire oven interior, including the oven door and inside walls, using a soft cloth or sponge dampened with warm, soapy water. Pay special attention to areas with visible spills or burnt-on residue.

For stubborn stains, you may need to use a non-abrasive oven cleaner. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for using the cleanser and wear rubber gloves if necessary.

Step 4: Utilize Your Oven’s Cleaning Feature

Now that you’ve wiped down the interior of your oven, it’s time to use your oven’s built-in cleaning feature.

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Utilize Your Oven’s Cleaning Feature[/caption]

To use the SteamClean feature on your Whirlpool oven, follow these steps:

Remove oven racks and accessories: Remove all oven racks, broiler pans, and other accessories from the oven cavity. These items should not be inside the oven during the SteamClean process.
Clean up large debris: Before starting the SteamClean cycle, remove any large food particles or debris from the oven’s interior. This will help the cleaning process work more effectively.
Pour water into the oven: Pour approximately 1 cup (250 mL) of distilled or filtered water into the bottom of the oven cavity. The water will generate steam and help loosen the spills and messes.
Close the oven door: Ensure the oven door is fully closed before starting the SteamClean cycle.
Select the SteamClean cycle: Press the “SteamClean” button on your oven’s control panel, or select the corresponding option on the touch screen if your range has one.
Start the cleaning cycle: Press the “Start” button to begin the SteamClean process. The bike will run for about 20 minutes, during which the oven will gently heat the water to create steam that breaks down and loosens the spills and messes.
Wait for the cycle to complete: Allow the SteamClean process to run for 20 minutes. Once the cycle is complete, wait for the oven to cool before opening the door.
Wipe away the loosened residue: After the oven has cooled and it’s safe to open the door, use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe away the remaining moisture and loosened food particles from the oven’s interior.

Refer to your Whirlpool oven’s user manual for instructions and recommendations for your particular oven model.

To use the AquaLift® Self-Cleaning Technology on your Whirlpool oven, follow these steps:

Remove oven racks and accessories: Remove all oven racks, broiler pans, and other accessories from the oven cavity. These items should not be inside the oven during the AquaLift® cleaning process.
Clean up large debris: Before starting the AquaLift® cleaning cycle, remove any large food particles or debris from the oven’s interior. This will help the cleaning process work more effectively.
Pour water into the oven: Pour 2 cups (500 mL) of distilled or filtered water into the bottom of the oven cavity. The water will generate steam and help loosen the baked-on food and spills.
Close the oven door: Ensure the oven door is fully closed before starting the AquaLift® cleaning cycle.
Select the AquaLift® Self Clean cycle: Press the “AquaLift® Self Clean” button on your oven’s control panel, or select the corresponding option on the touch screen if your range has one.
Start the cleaning cycle: Press the “Start” button to begin the AquaLift® cleaning process. The bike will run for approximately 40 minutes, during which the oven will gently heat the water to create steam that breaks down and lifts away the baked-on residue.
Wait for the cycle to complete: Allow the AquaLift® cleaning cycle to run for 40 minutes. Once the process is complete, wait for the oven to cool before opening the door.
Wipe away the loosened residue: After the oven has cooled and it’s safe to open the door, use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe away the remaining moisture and loosened food particles from the oven’s interior.

Refer to your Whirlpool oven’s user manual for instructions and recommendations for your particular oven model.

To use the self-clean feature on your Whirlpool oven, follow these steps:

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To use the self-clean feature on your Whirlpool oven[/caption]

Remove oven racks and accessories: Remove all oven racks, broiler pans, and other accessories from the oven cavity. These items should not be inside the oven during the self-cleaning cycle, as they may get damaged due to high heat.
Clean up large debris: Before starting the self-clean cycle, remove any large food particles or debris from the oven’s interior. This will help prevent excessive smoke during the cleaning process.
Close the oven door: Ensure the oven door is fully closed before starting the self-clean cycle.
Select the Self Clean cycle: Press the “Self Clean” button on your oven’s control panel. Some Whirlpool ovens may have a touch screen with a “Self Clean” option that you can select.
Choose the cleaning time: Depending on your oven model, you may need to choose a cleaning time for the self-clean cycle. Typically, you can select between 2–4 hours, based on the soil level in your oven. The dirtier the range, the longer the cleaning time should be.
Start the self-clean cycle: Press the “Start” button to begin the self-cleaning process. The oven will lock automatically and become extremely hot during the revolution. Keep children and pets away from the stove during this time.
Wait for the cycle to complete: Allow the self-clean cycle to run for the chosen duration. Once the process is complete, the oven will need some time to cool down before you can open the door.
Wipe away the ash: After the oven has cooled and you can safely open the door, use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe away the ash left behind from the incinerated food particles.

Consider your Whirlpool oven’s user manual for specific instructions and recommendations for your particular oven model.

Step 5: Clean the Oven Door and Exterior

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Clean the Oven Door and Exterior[/caption]

Finally, clean the oven door and exterior using a soft cloth or sponge dampened with warm, soapy water. Wipe down all surfaces, including the control panel, handle, and glass door. Be gentle when cleaning the control panel to avoid damaging buttons or controls.

Tips for Keeping Your Whirlpool Oven Clean

To maintain your Whirlpool oven’s cleanliness and performance, follow these tips:

Clean spills and messes promptly: The sooner you clean them up, the easier they are to remove. This also helps prevent odors and smoke during future cooking sessions.
Use oven-safe cookware and liners: Using oven-safe cookware and liners can help reduce spills and messes inside your oven.
Schedule regular cleanings: Establish a routine cleaning schedule for your oven, such as monthly or bi-monthly, depending on your usage.
Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines: Refer to your Whirlpool oven’s user manual for specific cleaning instructions and recommendations.

In conclusion, maintaining the cleanliness and efficiency of your Whirlpool oven is a crucial aspect of ensuring a delightful cooking experience. This comprehensive professional guide will equip you with the knowledge and techniques to keep your cooker pristine.

Remember that a clean oven not only enhances the taste and quality of your culinary creations but also contributes to the longevity and performance of your appliance. So, invest time and effort in caring for your Whirlpool oven, and you’ll be rewarded with delicious meals and a reliable kitchen companion for years to come.

FAQs

How often should I clean my Whirlpool oven?

Cleaning your Whirlpool oven depends on how often you use it and your cooking type. Generally, it’s a good idea to clean your oven every 1–3 months. However, if you notice spills or burnt-on residue, cleaning them up as soon as possible is best to prevent further buildup and potential damage.

Can I use commercial oven cleaners on my Whirlpool oven?

Yes, you can use commercial oven cleaners on your Whirlpool oven, but always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the cleaner and ensure it’s safe for your specific oven model. Use non-abrasive cleaners to avoid scratching or damaging the oven’s interior surfaces.

Is it safe to use aluminum foil in my Whirlpool oven?

While aluminum foil in your Whirlpool oven is generally safe, following the manufacturer’s guidelines is crucial to prevent any issues. Avoid covering the oven racks, oven bottom, or any vents with aluminum foil, as this could cause poor heat circulation or even pose a fire hazard.

Can I clean my Whirlpool oven’s glass door with a glass cleaner?

You can clean your Whirlpool oven’s glass door with a glass cleaner. However, ensure the cleaner is safe for oven use and avoid spraying it directly onto the glass. Instead, gently wipe the glass surface and spray the cleaner onto a soft cloth or sponge.

What should I do if my oven produces smoke during self-cleaning?

Some smoke production is expected during the high-heat self-cleaning cycle, as food particles and residue are incinerated. However, if you notice excessive smoke or an unusual smell, turn off the oven and let it cool down. Once it’s safe, open the range and check for any remaining debris that may have caused the issue. If the problem persists, you may need to contact Whirlpool customer support for assistance.

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