To clean an oven effectively, follow these practical steps:

1. Remove the oven racks and soak them in hot soapy water for at least 30 minutes. Scrub and rinse them clean.
2. Clear out any crumbs or food bits from inside the oven using a paper towel or microfibre cloth.
3. For the oven interior, apply a cleaning method:
   • Use the self-cleaning cycle if your oven has one.
   • For manual cleaning, spread a paste made from 1/2 cup baking soda mixed with a few tablespoons of water inside the oven, avoiding heating elements. Let it sit for over 12 hours.
   • Wipe away the baking soda paste with a damp cloth. Spray white vinegar on any residue to create a foaming reaction and wipe clean.
4. Heat the oven at around 90-100° C for 15 minutes to dry out any residue.
5. Wipe down the oven door with baking soda paste, glass cleaner, or oven cleaner, then rinse.
6. Clean oven knobs using oven cleaner or diluted vinegar solution and wipe them dry.
7. Replace the oven racks after the oven has completely cooled.

Additional tips include steaming your oven by placing a baking dish filled with water (and optionally vinegar) in the oven at low heat for 1-2 hours to soften grease before scrubbing. Also, regularly clean your oven after every use to prevent heavy buildup.