Oven cleaning is one of the most dreaded household chores — but it doesn't have to be. With natural ingredients like baking soda and vinegar, you can remove even the toughest baked-on grease without exposing your family to toxic fumes. This guide will show you how to get a sparkling clean oven the natural way.
What You'll Need
- Baking soda (1/2 - 1 cup)
- White vinegar (spray bottle)
- Water
- Rubber gloves
- Microfiber cloths or sponges
- Plastic or silicone scraper (non-scratch)
- Small bowl for mixing paste
- Oven-safe bowl (for steam method)
Method 1: Baking Soda & Vinegar (Best for Most Ovens)
This is the most effective natural method for cleaning ovens. It works on baked-on grease, carbon deposits, and general grime.
Remove Oven Racks and Trays
Take out all oven racks, trays, and any other removable parts. Set them aside to clean separately (see method below).
Make a Baking Soda Paste
In a small bowl, mix 1/2 cup of baking soda with 2-3 tablespoons of water. Add more water as needed to form a spreadable paste. It should have the consistency of thick toothpaste — not too runny.
Apply the Paste
Wearing rubber gloves, spread the paste all over the interior of the oven — sides, bottom, back, door, and corners. Avoid direct contact with heating elements.
Let It Sit Overnight
Leave the paste on for at least 8-12 hours (overnight is ideal). The baking soda will break down the grease, making it easy to wipe away.
Wipe Away the Paste
Use a damp microfiber cloth or sponge to wipe away the paste. For stubborn areas, use a plastic scraper (never metal — it will scratch).
Spray with Vinegar
Fill a spray bottle with white vinegar and spray all interior surfaces. The vinegar will react with any remaining baking soda, creating a foaming action that lifts the last bits of grease.
Final Wipe
Wipe away the vinegar with a clean, damp cloth. Your oven should now be sparkling clean!
Method 2: Steam Cleaning (For Light Maintenance)
This method is perfect for light cleaning between deep cleans or for self-cleaning ovens.
Fill an Oven-Safe Bowl
Fill a large oven-safe bowl with water. Add 1/2 cup of white vinegar and a few lemon slices for a fresh scent.
Heat the Oven
Place the bowl on the bottom rack. Heat the oven to 120°C (250°F) for 20-30 minutes. The steam will loosen grime.
Let It Cool and Wipe
Turn off the oven and let it cool. Once cool enough to touch, wipe down the interior with a damp cloth.
Cleaning Oven Racks and Trays
Soak in Hot Water and Dish Soap
Fill your bathtub or a large plastic bin with hot water and a generous amount of dish soap. Soak the racks for 2-4 hours (or overnight for heavy buildup).
Scrub and Rinse
Scrub with a non-abrasive sponge or brush. For stubborn spots, make a baking soda paste and apply directly. Rinse thoroughly and dry before returning to the oven.
Cleaning the Oven Door Glass
Make a Thicker Paste
Mix baking soda with a very small amount of water to make a thick, spreadable paste.
Apply and Wait
Apply the paste to the glass and let it sit for 30 minutes.
Scrub with Lemon Juice
Dip a sponge in lemon juice (or vinegar) and scrub the glass. The acid will cut through grease and leave the glass streak-free.
Wipe and Dry
Wipe clean with a damp cloth, then dry with a microfiber cloth for a streak-free finish.
How Often Should You Clean Your Oven?
- After spills: Clean up spills immediately to prevent them from baking on
- Every 3-6 months: Deep clean using the baking soda method
- When you notice smoke or odours: It's time to clean
- Before holiday cooking: Ensure your oven is ready for heavy use