1. Prepare the Oven
Turn the oven off and let it cool completely.
Remove the oven racks and any loose crumbs from the bottom of the oven.
2. Make the Cleaning Paste
Place the baking soda in a bowl.
Add the dish soap and mix thoroughly.
Add the white vinegar gradually while stirring. The mixture will fizz because the acidic vinegar reacts with the baking soda.
Once the fizzing settles, mix until you have a spreadable paste.
3. Apply the Paste
Spread a thin layer over greasy areas of the oven interior.
Concentrate on the bottom and sides where baked-on grease has accumulated.
Avoid heating elements, electrical components, gas openings, and the oven door’s seals.
4. Let It Sit
Allow the paste to sit for approximately 10–15 minutes for light-to-moderate grime.
For heavier buildup, you can leave a baking-soda-based paste on longer, provided the oven manufacturer’s cleaning instructions allow it.
5. Scrub
Use a non-abrasive sponge or soft cleaning brush to loosen the softened grease.
Work in small sections and avoid aggressive scrubbing that could damage the oven’s finish.
6. Wipe Everything Away
Dip a clean microfiber cloth in warm water and wring it out well.
Wipe the surfaces repeatedly until all cleaning residue has been removed.
For stubborn spots, repeat the process rather than using excessive force.
7. Clean the Oven Racks
Place the racks in a sink or bathtub lined with an old towel.
Cover them with warm water and add some dish soap.
Let them soak for 30–60 minutes, then scrub with a suitable brush or sponge, rinse thoroughly, and dry completely before putting them back.
Important Safety Tips
Never mix this recipe with bleach, ammonia, or other commercial cleaning chemicals.
Also, don’t assume every oven surface can be treated with homemade cleaners. Some ovens have special coatings or self-cleaning surfaces that can be damaged by abrasive products or certain cleaners. Check your oven manufacturer’s cleaning instructions first.
For heavy carbonized buildup, a commercial oven cleaner specifically approved for your oven may work better than a homemade mixture.
Final Tip
The easiest way to keep your oven clean is to wipe fresh spills once the oven has cooled. Regular light cleaning prevents layers of baked-on grease from building up and makes the next deep clean much easier.
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