A simple old-fashioned trick for cleaning an oven
One traditional method is using baking soda and vinegar to loosen grease and baked-on food without harsh fumes.
What you need:
- ½ cup baking soda
- A few tablespoons of water
- White vinegar in a spray bottle
- A damp cloth or sponge
Steps:
- Let the oven cool completely and remove the racks.
- Make a paste by mixing baking soda with a small amount of water.
- Spread the paste over the inside surfaces of the oven, avoiding heating elements and gas openings.
- Leave it for several hours or overnight so it can soften grime.
- Spray a little vinegar over the dried baking soda paste. It will fizz and help loosen residue.
- Wipe away the mixture with a damp cloth or sponge.
- Repeat on stubborn spots if needed.
Extra tips:
- For oven racks, soak them in warm water with dish soap, then scrub gently.
- A plastic scraper can help remove stubborn baked-on bits without scratching surfaces.
- Avoid mixing vinegar with bleach or other chemical cleaners.
This method works well for everyday grease and buildup, but very heavy carbonized deposits may require a dedicated oven cleaner or more intensive cleaning.
