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2torial #0858:
Learn2 Cut
Down on Toxic Household Cleaners
(continued)
 Replace oven cleaners
Cleaning the oven is probably one of the
dirtiest, least-liked jobs in the house. The
commercial cleaners are harsh on the skin, eyes and
lungs. The job isn't any more fun with non-toxic
cleaners, but it's a lot safer. (If you're the type
to plan ahead, consider using a removable
oven-liner--it'll reduce cleaning times to a
fraction of the original length.)
- When grease is allowed to build up, it bakes
on hard. Wipe your oven out after each use
to prevent nightmarish oven clean-ups. You
can retard grease build-up in an oven by
dampening a cleaning rag in vinegar and water. A
few minutes of light wiping will save many
minutes of hard scrubbing.
- It's easiest to clean up a spill when
it's fresh. Table salt is a safe and
inexpensive abrasive which will also absorb
spills. While your oven is still warm, sprinkle
salt on the spill. If the spill is completely
dry, wet it lightly first. When the oven cools
down scrape away the spill, rinse well and wipe
dry.
- For tougher spills, sprinkle water
followed by a layer of baking soda. Let it sit
until the spill softens up. If necessary, rub
the spot gently with a very fine steel wool pad.
Wipe off scum with dry paper towels or a sponge.
Rinse well and wipe dry.
- Consumers Union Chemists has declared Arm
& Hammer Oven Cleaner to be nontoxic.
Use your own judgment and follow the directions
on the label.
 Step
4
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