Step-by-Step Method:
Remove Oven Racks:
- Start by removing the oven racks and setting them aside. These can be cleaned separately.
Create a Baking Soda Paste:
- In a bowl, mix about 1/2 cup of baking soda with a few tablespoons of water to create a thick paste. The consistency should be spreadable but not too runny.
Apply the Paste:
- Spread the baking soda paste all over the interior surfaces of your oven, avoiding the heating elements. Pay extra attention to any particularly greasy or grimy areas. The baking soda will turn brown as it works to lift the dirt.
Let It Sit:
- Allow the baking soda paste to sit for at least 12 hours, or overnight. This gives the baking soda ample time to break down the baked-on grease and grime.
Clean the Oven Racks:
- While the baking soda paste is working its magic, you can clean the oven racks. Nana’s trick involves placing the racks in a bathtub or large basin filled with hot water and adding a dishwasher tablet. Let the racks soak for a few hours, then scrub them with a sponge or brush to remove any remaining grime.
Wipe Down the Oven:
- After the baking soda paste has sat for 12 hours, use a damp cloth to wipe out as much of the dried paste as possible. For stubborn areas, you can use a plastic scraper to gently lift the grime.
Spray with Vinegar:
- Pour white vinegar into a spray bottle and spritz it all over the interior of the oven. The vinegar will react with any remaining baking soda, causing it to foam and loosen any leftover residue.
Final Wipe Down:
- Use a damp cloth to wipe down the interior of the oven again, removing all the vinegar and baking soda residue. For an extra clean finish, you can wipe down the surfaces with a bit of dish soap and water, then dry with a clean cloth.
Clean the Oven Door:
- Don’t forget to clean the oven door. If it has a glass window, you can use the same baking soda paste to clean it. Apply the paste, let it sit, then wipe it down with vinegar and a damp cloth.
Replace the Oven Racks:
- Once everything is clean and dry, replace the oven racks.
Optional Step: Dishwasher Tablet Method
For those particularly tough spots or for an even deeper clean, Nana sometimes uses a dishwasher tablet method. Place a dishwasher tablet in a baking dish with a bit of water and put it in the oven. Turn the oven to a low temperature (about 150-200°F) and let it sit for about 30 minutes. The heat will activate the cleaning agents in the tablet, making it easier to wipe away stubborn grime.
Conclusion
Cleaning your oven doesn’t have to be a laborious task. By using my Nana’s method, you can achieve a sparkling clean oven with minimal effort and simple household ingredients. This method is not only effective but also gentle on your oven, avoiding harsh chemicals that could damage its surfaces. Give it a try, and enjoy a gleaming, fresh-smelling oven every time!!
