The Ultimate Guide to Cleaning Your Oven (Without Harsh Chemicals)

A clean oven performs better, heats more evenly, and eliminates the smoke and burning smells that can ruin a good meal. While the self-clean function is convenient, it operates at extreme temperatures and can release unpleasant fumes. Commercial oven cleaners are effective but often contain harsh chemicals.

Fortunately, you can get your oven sparkling clean with a few simple, non-toxic ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.

The Baking Soda and Vinegar Method

This powerful duo can cut through even the most stubborn, baked-on grease without any toxic fumes.

What You’ll Need:

• Baking soda
• Water
• White vinegar in a spray bottle
• A plastic or silicone spatula
• A non-abrasive scrubbing pad or sponge

Step 1: Prepare the Oven

First, remove everything from your oven—racks, thermometer, pizza stone, etc. Set the racks aside to be cleaned separately.

Step 2: Create the Baking Soda Paste

In a small bowl, mix about a half-cup of baking soda with a few tablespoons of water. Adjust the ratio until you have a thick, spreadable paste, similar in consistency to frosting.

Step 3: Coat the Oven Interior

Wearing rubber gloves, spread the baking soda paste all over the inside surfaces of your oven. Don’t coat the heating elements. Pay extra attention to greasy areas, but try to get an even layer everywhere. The paste will turn brownish as you apply it—that’s normal.

Step 4: Let It Sit Overnight

This is the most important step. Close the oven door and let the paste sit for at least 12 hours, or overnight. This gives the baking soda time to break down the baked-on grime.

Step 5: Clean the Racks

While the oven is sitting, soak your oven racks in the bathtub. Place old towels underneath them to prevent scratching. Fill the tub with hot water until the racks are submerged, add a half-cup of dishwasher detergent, and let them soak overnight. In the morning, the grime should scrub off easily.

Step 6: Wipe Out the Oven

After 12 hours, take a damp cloth and wipe out as much of the dried baking soda paste as you can. Use a plastic spatula to help scrape off any stubborn spots.

Step 7: Spray with Vinegar

Spray white vinegar all over the remaining baking soda residue. The mixture will foam. This reaction helps to loosen the last bits of grime. Continue to wipe with a damp cloth until the oven is completely clean and no residue remains.

When Cleaning Isn’t the Solution

If your oven still isn’t heating correctly, the door won’t seal, or the control panel is malfunctioning after a thorough cleaning, you may have a deeper issue. The professional technicians at Appliance Surgeon can diagnose and repair any oven, range, or cooktop problem.

For expert oven repair, schedule a service with Appliance Surgeon today!