Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Remove and Prepare

  1. Take Out the Racks: Remove all racks and trays from the oven. Soak them in warm, soapy water to clean separately.
  2. Cool and Unplug: Ensure the oven is off and cool to the touch before starting.

Step 2: Make the Cleaning Paste

  1. In a small bowl, mix ½ cup of baking soda with enough water to create a spreadable paste. Add a splash of lemon juice for extra grease-cutting power if desired.
  2. Stir until the mixture is smooth and thick.

Step 3: Apply the Paste

  1. Put on gloves to protect your hands.
  2. Spread the paste generously over the inside surfaces of the oven, focusing on particularly greasy or dirty spots. Avoid coating the heating elements.
  3. Let the paste sit for at least 8 hours, or leave it overnight for maximum effect.

Step 4: Steam Clean

  1. Fill a heatproof dish with ½ cup of white vinegar and place it in the center of the oven.
  2. Turn the oven to 250°F (120°C) and let it heat for 30 minutes. The vinegar will evaporate, creating steam that softens stubborn stains and grease.
  3. Turn off the oven and let it cool completely before proceeding to the next step.

Step 5: Wipe Clean

  1. Once the oven has cooled, use a damp microfiber cloth or sponge to wipe away the baking soda paste and loosened grime. The dirt should come off effortlessly!
  2. For stubborn spots, spray a little vinegar directly onto the area and wipe again.

Step 6: Clean the Racks

  1. Scrub the soaked oven racks with a sponge or brush to remove grease and grime.
  2. Rinse and dry them thoroughly before placing them back in the oven.

Tips for Best Results

  1. For Heavy Grease Buildup: Repeat the process if necessary, focusing on trouble spots.
  2. Maintain Regularly: Clean the oven every few months to prevent buildup.
  3. Add Fresh Scents: For a pleasant aroma, add a few drops of essential oil (like lemon or lavender) to the vinegar before steaming.
  4. Use a Scraper: For extra-tough grime, a plastic scraper can help lift it off without damaging the surface.

Why This Method Beats Scrubbing

  • Effortless Cleaning: The combination of steam, baking soda, and vinegar does the hard work for you.
  • Chemical-Free: This method avoids harsh chemicals, making it safer for your home and environment.
  • Affordable: The ingredients are inexpensive and likely already in your pantry.
  • No Damage: Gentle on your oven’s surfaces, unlike abrasive scrubbers or harsh commercial cleaners.

Conclusion

Thanks to this simple and effective method, scrubbing my oven is a thing of the past. The baking soda and vinegar trick, combined with steam cleaning, makes cleaning an oven almost effortless. It’s safe, affordable, and leaves your oven looking like new without breaking a sweat. Try this hack today, and say goodbye to dreaded oven-cleaning days forever!