1. Remove the oven racks from the oven and set them aside.
  2. Fill your bathtub (or a large container) with warm water. Ensure there’s enough water to fully submerge the racks.
  3. Add a generous squirt of dishwashing liquid to the water. For extra cleaning power, sprinkle 1/2 cup of baking soda into the tub.
  4. Stir the water gently to mix the ingredients.

Step 2: Soak the Racks

  1. Place the oven racks in the soapy water, ensuring they are completely submerged.
  2. Let the racks soak for at least 4 hours or, for the best results, overnight. This will help loosen the baked-on grease and grime.

Step 3: Add Vinegar for Extra Power (Optional)

  1. If the racks are particularly dirty, sprinkle some white vinegar over the baking soda in the water. The fizzing action will help break down stubborn gunk.
  2. Let the fizzing settle before proceeding to the next step.

Step 4: Scrub Away the Gunk

  1. After soaking, put on gloves to protect your hands.
  2. Use a soft-bristled brush or an old toothbrush to scrub areas with heavy buildup. Most of the gunk should come off easily due to the soaking process.
  3. For any remaining spots, use a non-abrasive scrubbing pad or sponge. Avoid steel wool or abrasive pads, as they can scratch the racks.

Step 5: Rinse Thoroughly

  1. Once the grime is removed, rinse the oven racks under warm running water to eliminate any remaining residue.
  2. Check for any leftover grease or gunk and give it a final scrub if needed.

Step 6: Dry the Racks

  1. Dry the racks thoroughly with a clean towel or allow them to air-dry completely.
  2. Make sure they are completely dry before placing them back into the oven to prevent rusting.

Tips for Maintaining Clean Oven Racks

  1. Line with Foil or Baking Mats: Use foil or oven-safe mats to catch drips and spills, minimizing grime buildup on the racks.
  2. Clean Regularly: Wipe down the racks after each use or clean them monthly to prevent heavy buildup.
  3. Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Stick to natural cleaning solutions to avoid damage and harmful residue.
  4. Soak Immediately After Spills: If something spills in the oven, clean it as soon as possible to prevent it from hardening.

Alternative Methods

If you don’t have access to a bathtub or prefer another method, try one of these alternatives:

  1. Trash Bag Method:

    • Place the oven racks in a large trash bag.
    • Add 1/4 cup of ammonia, seal the bag, and leave it outside overnight.
    • Rinse and scrub the racks the next day.

  2. Baking Soda Paste:

    • Mix baking soda with water to create a paste.
    • Spread the paste on the racks and let it sit for 20–30 minutes.
    • Scrub and rinse thoroughly.

Conclusion

Cleaning oven racks doesn’t have to be a dreaded chore. With this soaking method using dishwashing liquid, baking soda, and optionally vinegar, you can effectively tackle baked-on grease and grime without exhausting yourself. Make it a habit to clean your oven racks regularly to maintain a clean, efficient kitchen. Your oven (and future meals) will thank you!