Commercial oven cleaners are among the most toxic household products available. They contain strong alkaline chemicals that emit choking fumes, irritate the skin, and require heavy rubber gloves to apply. Fortunately, you can clean even the dirtiest oven using baking soda, vinegar, and a bit of patience.
Step 1: Make Your Baking Soda Paste
Remove the oven racks and trays. Mix half a cup of baking soda with a few tablespoons of water in a bowl to create a spreadable paste. Spread this paste all over the interior surfaces of your oven (walls, floor, and glass door), avoiding the heating elements. The paste will turn a brownish color as it absorbs grease.
Step 2: Let it Sit Overnight
For the best results, let the mixture sit for at least 12 hours or overnight. The baking soda will break down baked-on carbon deposits, grease, and grime, making them easy to wipe away the next morning.
Step 3: Wipe, Spray, and Polish
Take a damp cloth and wipe out as much baking soda paste as possible. Put a little white vinegar in a spray bottle and spritz the surfaces. The vinegar will react with the remaining baking soda, causing it to foam gently. Wipe down the entire oven with a clean cloth until no residue remains, restoring a glossy interior.
