🧽 “Just Use a Dishwasher Tablet and Your Oven Will Look Like New” — Does It Work?

This viral cleaning hack can remove some grease and baked-on residue, but a dishwasher tablet isn’t designed specifically for oven interiors, so calling it a universally safe solution is misleading. Some cleaning experts warn that dishwasher detergents can damage certain oven finishes, seals, or components. (Chef’s Resource)

⚠️ Don’t put a tablet in a hot oven

One version of the hack involves placing a dishwasher tablet in water and heating the oven. I wouldn’t recommend this. Manufacturers advise following the oven’s cleaning instructions and using only products approved for the appliance. (Product Help | Whirlpool)

🧼 A safer approach

For ordinary grease:

1. Make sure the oven is switched off and completely cool.
2. Remove loose crumbs and food debris.
3. Use warm water with a small amount of mild dish detergent and a soft cloth or non-abrasive sponge.
4. Wipe away the loosened grease.
5. Rinse the surface with clean water and dry it thoroughly. (Whirlpool)

If your oven has a self-cleaning/pyrolytic function, follow the manufacturer’s instructions rather than adding cleaning chemicals. Whirlpool, for example, specifically warns against using commercial oven cleaners with its self-cleaning ovens. (Whirlpool)

Bottom line: A dishwasher tablet may cut through grease, but “one tablet makes any oven like new” is an internet cleaning hack, not a universal recommendation. Your oven’s care instructions should come first.