Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Prepare the Oven

  1. Turn Off and Cool Down: Ensure the oven is completely off and has cooled down before starting.
  2. Remove Oven Racks: Take out the racks and set them aside for separate cleaning.

Step 2: Create a Natural Cleaning Paste

  1. Mix the Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup of baking soda with 3 tablespoons of water. Adjust the water to form a spreadable paste.
  2. Apply the Paste: Using a sponge or gloved hand, spread the paste over the interior surfaces of the oven, avoiding the heating elements. Pay extra attention to greasy or burnt spots.
  3. Let It Sit: Allow the baking soda paste to sit for at least 15–20 minutes to loosen tough stains.

Step 3: Clean the Oven Racks

  1. Prepare a Soaking Solution: Fill your bathtub or a large container with hot water and add 1/2 cup of dish soap or a cup of white vinegar.
  2. Soak the Racks: Place the racks in the solution and let them soak for 15–20 minutes. If your racks are heavily soiled, leave them longer.
  3. Scrub: Use a scrub brush or sponge to remove grease and debris. Rinse thoroughly and let them dry.

Step 4: Wipe Down the Oven

  1. Scrape Away Paste: After the baking soda paste has sat, use a damp sponge or a plastic scraper to remove it. The loosened grime should come off easily.
  2. Spray Vinegar: Pour white vinegar into a spray bottle and spritz it over the interior surfaces. The vinegar will react with any leftover baking soda, creating a gentle fizz that helps lift residue.
  3. Wipe Clean: Use a damp cloth to wipe away the vinegar and baking soda mixture, ensuring the oven is clean and streak-free.

Step 5: Tackle Stubborn Spots

  1. Focus on Trouble Areas: For tough, burnt-on spots, reapply the baking soda paste and let it sit for an additional 10 minutes.
  2. Use a Scraper: Gently scrape the residue with a plastic spatula or scraper to avoid scratching the oven’s surface.

Step 6: Clean the Glass Door

  1. Make a Paste: Mix baking soda and water into a thick paste and apply it to the glass door.
  2. Let It Sit: Leave the paste on the glass for 10–15 minutes.
  3. Wipe Clean: Use a damp cloth or sponge to remove the paste, revealing a shiny glass surface.

Step 7: Reassemble and Final Touches

  1. Reinstall the Racks: Once the racks are clean and dry, place them back in the oven.
  2. Polish the Exterior: Wipe the oven’s exterior with a cloth dampened with vinegar or an all-purpose cleaner for a spotless finish.

Additional Tips for Oven Maintenance

  1. Use an Oven Liner: Place a removable oven liner at the bottom of the oven to catch spills and make cleaning easier.
  2. Spot Clean Regularly: Wipe up spills as soon as the oven cools to prevent buildup.
  3. Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Natural cleaners like baking soda and vinegar are effective and safe for most ovens.
  4. Self-Cleaning Ovens: If your oven has a self-cleaning function, follow the manufacturer’s instructions, but remember that this process can generate intense heat and unpleasant odors.

Why This Method Works

Baking soda is a gentle abrasive that lifts grime without scratching, while vinegar’s natural acidity cuts through grease and leaves surfaces gleaming. Together, they form a powerful, eco-friendly cleaning duo that’s safe for both you and your oven.

Conclusion

With this quick and natural method, cleaning your oven doesn’t have to be a time-consuming chore. By dedicating just a few minutes to these steps, you can restore your oven to its original shine, improve its performance, and create a more pleasant cooking environment. Say goodbye to grease and grime and hello to a spotless, like-new oven!