If you’ve been avoiding looking inside your oven because of baked-on grease and stubborn stains, you’re not alone. Ovens are one of the hardest-working appliances in the kitchen, and over time, they build up layers of grime, odors, and burnt residue. The good news? With the right techniques, you can deep clean your oven and make it look (and smell) like new again.
This guide will walk you through an easy, effective, and safe step-by-step oven cleaning process—no harsh chemicals required.
Why Deep Clean Your Oven?
Regular oven cleaning isn’t just about looks. Here’s why it’s important:
- 🍳 Better-tasting food – No more smoky flavors from burnt grease.
- 🧼 Improved hygiene – Prevents buildup of bacteria and mold.
- ⚡ Energy efficiency – A clean oven heats up more evenly and uses less power.
- 🏡 Longer appliance life – Proper care extends your oven’s lifespan.
What You’ll Need
Before starting, gather these supplies:
- Baking soda
- White vinegar
- Warm water
- Spray bottle
- Microfiber cloths or sponges
- Rubber gloves
- A small bowl
- Optional: lemon juice for deodorizing
Step 1: Remove Oven Racks
Take out the racks and set them aside. They’ll be cleaned separately for better results.
Tip: Soak racks in hot water mixed with dish soap and a little baking soda for at least 2 hours before scrubbing.
Step 2: Make a Natural Cleaning Paste
In a bowl, mix:
- ½ cup baking soda
- 2–3 tablespoons water
Stir until you get a spreadable paste. This natural mixture is highly effective at breaking down grease and grime.
Step 3: Apply Paste Inside the Oven
Using gloves, spread the baking soda paste on the oven’s interior walls, bottom, and door. Avoid heating elements.
Note: The paste may turn brown as it reacts with grease—this is normal. Let it sit overnight (or at least 8–12 hours) for best results.
Step 4: Wipe Away the Residue
The next day, use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe off the dried paste. A plastic spatula can help with stubborn spots.
Step 5: Spray with Vinegar
Fill a spray bottle with white vinegar and spritz it wherever you see leftover baking soda. The fizzing reaction will loosen remaining grime. Wipe clean with a damp cloth.
Step 6: Clean the Oven Racks
After soaking, scrub racks with a scouring pad, rinse thoroughly, and dry before placing them back.
Step 7: Clean the Oven Door Glass
Mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray on the oven door glass, let sit for 10 minutes, then wipe with a microfiber cloth for streak-free shine.
Optional Step: Natural Deodorizer
For a fresh scent, place a heatproof bowl filled with water and lemon slices inside the oven. Run it at 200°C (400°F) for 15 minutes. The steam will deodorize and loosen any remaining dirt.
Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Oven Clean
- Wipe spills immediately after cooking.
- Use oven liners to catch drips and crumbs.
- Do a mini clean every month to avoid deep buildup.
- Avoid harsh chemical sprays that leave toxic residues.
Final Thoughts
Learning how to deep clean your oven doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With natural ingredients like baking soda and vinegar, you can remove grease, grime, and odors safely—leaving your oven sparkling clean. A well-maintained oven not only improves cooking results but also extends the life of your appliance.
Your kitchen will thank you for the effort—and so will your taste buds.