What You’ll Need:
Baking soda
Natural abrasive that lifts grime
White vinegar
Activates baking soda and dissolves grease
Spray bottle
For misting and soaking
Sponge or soft cloth
Gentle scrubbing power
Old toothbrush
For tight corners and crevices
Microfiber cloth
For polishing the glass
Optional: lemon juice or essential oils
Adds freshness and shine
Step 1: Apply Baking Soda Paste Inside the Oven
Mix ½ cup baking soda with 2–3 tbsp water to create a thick paste.
Spread it liberally on the interior walls, floor, and around the edges — avoiding heating elements if possible.
Leave it overnight (or at least 8 hours).
✅ Why it works: Baking soda softens grime so it wipes away easily — no scraping needed.
Step 2: Add Vinegar for the Magic Reaction
Spray white vinegar directly onto the baking soda paste — watch it fizz and foam like a science fair project.
The reaction helps break down stuck-on gunk faster.
Use a sponge or cloth to wipe everything away — and marvel at how little effort it takes.
Step 3: Clean the Oven Window Like a Pro
The oven door glass is often the worst part — a foggy, greasy film that just won’t budge.
Here's how to make it sparkle:
Mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle
Spray directly onto the glass
Wipe with a microfiber cloth in circular motion
For extra buildup, apply baking soda paste , let sit, then wipe again
✅ Pro Tip: Use crumpled newspaper for streak-free shine — seriously!
Step 4: Polish the Outside and Knobs
Wipe the oven exterior with a damp cloth and mild soap or vinegar solution.
For stainless steel surfaces:
Use a small amount of olive oil on a cloth for polish and protection
Buff in the direction of the grain for a showroom finish
Don’t forget the knobs — soak them in warm, soapy water and scrub gently.
Step 5: Reinsert Racks and Shine the Burners
While the oven dries, give the racks a quick wipe or soak in hot water and dish soap.
If they’re really stained:
Sprinkle baking soda and scrub lightly before reinserting
For gas burner caps:
Remove and rinse under warm water
Use a cotton swab to clear debris from tiny holes
Dry thoroughly before replacing
🧴 Bonus Tips for Keeping Your Oven Cleaner Longer
Line oven racks with aluminum foil
Catches drips and makes cleanup easier
Wipe spills immediately after cooling
Prevents carbonization
Use oven-safe drip trays
Keeps mess contained
Avoid cooking sprays
They leave behind sticky residue that attracts grime
Clean oven monthly
Prevents extreme buildup
Also, consider placing a heatproof bowl of vinegar on the top rack while baking — it absorbs lingering odors and softens grime as you cook.
⚠️ When to Call in the Pros (Or Upgrade Your Routine)
If your oven has:
Heavy carbon buildup
Persistent burning smells
Electrical issues or faulty heating
It might be time to call a technician or upgrade your appliance.
But for everyday use?
This method will keep your oven sparkling — and smelling fresh — with minimal hassle.
🧼 Final Thoughts: Cleaning the Oven Doesn’t Have to Be Gross — Just Smart
Oven cleaning may never make your list of favorite things to do…
But now you know how to do it quickly, safely, and without chemical fumes invading your home.
From the inside walls to the glass window — this hack covers it all.
So next time you catch a glimpse of that grimy oven door and feel defeated…
Don’t reach for gloves and a scraper.
Reach for baking soda and vinegar.
Because sometimes, the best cleaning tools aren’t expensive — they’re right in your pantry.
And once you open the oven to find it gleaming?
You’ll wonder why you ever feared this chore.
