Nana’s No-Fuss Trick to Cleaning an Oven: The Easiest Method with Just 3 Ingredients

The Ingredients You’ll Need

1. Baking Soda

Baking soda is a powerhouse in the world of cleaning. Its mild abrasive qualities help scrub away grime without scratching surfaces. It also neutralizes odors, making your oven smell fresh.

2. Vinegar

Vinegar is a versatile cleaner known for its ability to cut through grease and dissolve mineral deposits. It also reacts with baking soda to help lift stubborn stains.

3. Water

Water helps to create a paste with baking soda and facilitates the cleaning process. It’s essential for mixing and activating the cleaning agents.

How to Use Nana’s Cleaning Trick

Equipment Needed

• Baking soda
• Vinegar
• Water
• A small bowl
• A sponge or cloth
• A spray bottle

Directions

1. Prepare the Oven: Make sure your oven is completely cool before starting the cleaning process. Remove any oven racks and set them aside.
2. Make the Cleaning Paste: In a small bowl, mix 1/2 cup of baking soda with enough water to create a thick paste. You want a consistency that’s easy to spread but not too runny.
3. Apply the Paste: Spread the baking soda paste over the interior surfaces of the oven, focusing on areas with heavy grime. Avoid the heating elements to prevent any damage.
4. Let It Sit: Allow the paste to sit for at least 30 minutes. For tougher stains, you can leave it overnight.
5. Wipe Down: After the paste has had time to work, use a damp sponge or cloth to wipe away the baking soda. You may need to rinse the sponge or cloth frequently.
6. Apply Vinegar: Pour vinegar into a spray bottle and lightly spritz the interior of the oven. The vinegar will react with any remaining baking soda, fizzing as it lifts away residue.
7. Final Wipe: Wipe down the oven with a clean, damp cloth to remove any remaining vinegar and baking soda.
8. Clean the Racks: While the oven is drying, clean the racks with the same baking soda paste or a mixture of vinegar and water. Rinse thoroughly and dry before placing them back in the oven.

Tips and Tricks

• For Tough Stains: If some stains remain after the initial cleaning, apply a bit more baking soda paste and let it sit longer before wiping it off.
• Regular Maintenance: To keep your oven in top shape, give it a quick wipe-down after each use to prevent the build-up of grime and grease.
• Ventilation: Make sure your kitchen is well-ventilated while cleaning, especially if you’re using vinegar.

Variations and Swaps

If you prefer to use different natural cleaning agents, consider these alternatives:

• Lemon Juice: Mix lemon juice with baking soda for a fresh, citrusy scent and additional grease-cutting power.
• Borax: For heavy-duty cleaning, replace some of the baking soda with borax, which can boost the cleaning effectiveness.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have leftover cleaning paste, store it in an airtight container for future use. It can be kept at room temperature for several weeks. However, always check its consistency and effectiveness before using it again.