Cleaning a grease-covered oven is often seen as one of the most unpleasant kitchen chores. Burnt-on splatters, baked-in food residue and layers of hardened fat can make the task feel overwhelming. Yet a simple household method using everyday ingredients can help loosen stubborn grime without hours of scrubbing.
The Baking Soda And Vinegar Combination
Over time, oven walls accumulate carbonized grease, cooking juices and food spills. Commercial oven cleaners are designed to dissolve these residues quickly, but they often release strong fumes and require careful handling.
An alternative relies on two common kitchen staples: baking soda and white vinegar. Baking soda is mildly abrasive and alkaline, which allows it to break down greasy deposits. White vinegar, being acidic, reacts with the baking soda and helps lift loosened residue from surfaces.
When combined, these ingredients create a visible fizzing reaction. This effervescence helps dislodge grime that has adhered to enamel or glass surfaces inside the oven. Beyond cost and accessibility, the method appeals to those looking to reduce reliance on stronger chemical cleaners.
She Ditched Store-bought Dish Soap For This 3-ingredient Solution
How To Apply The Method Effectively
The process begins by mixing baking soda with a small amount of water to form a thick paste. The consistency should be spreadable but not runny, allowing it to cling to vertical oven surfaces. Before applying the mixture, the oven must be turned off and completely cool.
Using a sponge or brush, spread the paste over greasy areas, avoiding heating elements and sensitive components. The key step is patience: letting the paste sit for several hours, or ideally overnight, gives it time to penetrate and soften hardened grease layers.
Once the waiting period is over, spray white vinegar onto the dried baking soda paste. The immediate fizzing reaction signals that the two substances are interacting. As the foam forms, it helps lift debris from the oven walls.
At this stage, most of the grime can be wiped away with a damp cloth or sponge. Stubborn spots may require light scrubbing, but significantly less effort than traditional scouring. Finally, rinse the surfaces with clean water to remove any remaining residue.
Oven racks can be cleaned separately using the same method. Placing them in a large container or bathtub makes it easier to coat them evenly and rinse them thoroughly afterward.
A Smarter Way to Clean Without Harsh Chemicals
Store-bought oven cleaners are formulated for speed and efficiency, particularly for heavily soiled appliances. They can be highly effective, especially in cases where grease has built up over long periods. Still, they often require protective gloves and good ventilation.
The 2-ingredients method offers a more gradual approach. While it takes longer due to the resting time, it reduces exposure to harsh fumes and simplifies the cleaning process. For routine maintenance, this technique can prevent excessive buildup and make deep cleaning less frequent.
