How to Clean Oven without Chemicals: Simple Steps

Do you want to clean your oven without using harsh chemicals? Keeping your oven clean doesn’t have to mean using strong cleaners that leave behind strong smells.

There are easy and effective ways to get rid of grease and grime using natural ingredients you probably already have at home. Cleaning your oven regularly not only helps it look better but also makes it safer to cook in.

In this article, we’ll show you simple steps to achieve a sparkling clean oven using methods that are safe, natural, and budget-friendly. Say goodbye to chemical fumes and hello to a fresh, clean kitchen!

How to Clean Oven without Chemicals: Step-by-Step Guide

Prepare Your Oven

First, make sure your oven is completely cool before you start cleaning. Take out the racks and any other removable parts.

Make Baking Soda Paste

Mix half a cup of baking soda with a few tablespoons of water in a bowl. Stir until it becomes a thick paste that you can spread easily.

Apply the Paste

Put on gloves to protect your hands. Spread the baking soda paste inside the oven, covering the greasy and dirty areas. Let it sit overnight or for at least 12 hours.

Clean the Racks

While the baking soda paste is working in the oven, clean the racks separately. Fill a bathtub or basin with warm water and add half a cup of dishwashing liquid. Soak the racks for a few hours, then scrub off any remaining grime with a sponge or cloth. Rinse and dry the racks thoroughly.

Wipe Down the Oven

After letting the paste sit, dampen a cloth or sponge with water. Use it to wipe out the baking soda paste from the oven interior. You might need to scrub a bit for tough spots.

Use Vinegar Spray

Pour white vinegar into a spray bottle. Spray it over any leftover baking soda residue in the oven. The vinegar will react with the baking soda, making it fizz and helping to loosen dirt and grease. Wipe away the residue with a clean, damp cloth or sponge.

Final Rinse

Rinse your cloth or sponge with water and wipe down the oven one last time to remove any remaining baking soda or vinegar traces.

Dry and Replace

Dry the inside of the oven with old towels or newspapers. Once it’s dry, put the racks and other parts back into the oven.

Tips

• Clean Spills Quickly: It’s easier to clean up spills when they’re fresh, so wipe them up as soon as they happen.
• Ventilate Well: If you use vinegar, make sure there’s good air circulation in your kitchen to avoid strong smells.
• Protect Your Skin: Wear gloves to keep your hands safe from irritation when handling cleaning products.

Why It Works

Baking soda is like a gentle scrubber that helps break down grease without scratching your oven. Vinegar is acidic and helps dissolve tough stains.

By following these easy steps, you can keep your oven clean and fresh without using harsh chemicals.

Alternative Methods

Lemon and Water Paste

• Create a paste using lemon juice and water mixed with enough baking soda to form a spreadable consistency.
• Apply the paste to the oven interior and let it sit for several hours or overnight.
• Wipe away the paste with a damp cloth or sponge, then rinse and dry.

Salt and Vinegar Scrub

• Mix table salt with vinegar to form a thick paste.
• Spread the paste over greasy spots in the oven and let it sit for about 15-20 minutes.
• Scrub the paste with a damp sponge or cloth, then rinse and dry thoroughly.

Steam Cleaning

• Place a heat-safe bowl filled with water and a few slices of lemon or vinegar inside the oven.
• Heat the oven to a low temperature (around 250°F or 120°C) for 20-30 minutes to create steam.
• Turn off the oven and let it cool. Wipe down the softened grease and grime with a cloth or sponge.

Commercial Oven Steam Cleaner

• Use a commercial steam cleaner designed for ovens, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
• These cleaners use steam to loosen and remove baked-on grease and food residue.

Tips for Alternative Methods

• Test in Small Area: Before applying any paste or mixture to the entire oven, test it in a small, inconspicuous area to ensure it doesn’t damage the surface.
• Use Protective Gear: Wear gloves and ensure good ventilation when using any cleaning method involving vinegar or other substances.

Why They Work

• Lemon and vinegar contain natural acids that help break down grease and grime.
• Salt acts as a mild abrasive that aids in scrubbing away stubborn residues.

These alternative methods offer effective ways to clean your oven naturally, using ingredients that are typically safe and readily available in most kitchens.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use oven cleaner on a self-cleaning oven?

Most manufacturers advise against using oven cleaner on self-cleaning ovens, as it can damage the self-cleaning coating. Refer to your oven’s manual for cleaning recommendations.

How often should I clean my oven?

It’s recommended to clean your oven every 3-6 months, depending on how frequently you use it and how quickly grease and food residue build up.

Is it safe to use aluminum foil in the bottom of my oven?

Yes, you can use aluminum foil on the bottom rack to catch drips and spills. However, avoid covering the entire oven floor as it can block airflow and affect cooking performance.

Can I clean my oven with just water and a cloth?

Water and a cloth can help wipe down the oven after using a cleaning method, but alone, it may not effectively remove baked-on grease and grime.

How can I prevent my oven from getting so dirty?

To prevent heavy buildup, cover food with lids or foil while cooking, clean up spills promptly, and use oven-safe containers to contain messes.

What should I do if my oven has a strong odor after cleaning?

After cleaning, run your oven on a low temperature (about 250°F or 120°C) for 30 minutes with the door open to help dissipate any lingering odors.

Can I use vinegar to clean the glass door of my oven?

Yes, vinegar diluted with water can be effective for cleaning the glass door. Spray it on, let it sit for a few minutes, then wipe away with a damp cloth.

How can I clean oven racks without soaking them?

For a quick clean, sprinkle baking soda over the racks, spray with vinegar, and let it fizz. Scrub with a sponge or cloth, rinse, and dry thoroughly.

Can I use lemon juice to clean my oven?

Yes, lemon juice mixed with water can create a natural cleaning solution. Apply it to the oven surfaces, let it sit, then wipe away with a damp cloth.

What should I do if my oven is smoking during cleaning?

If your oven smokes during cleaning, turn it off immediately and let it cool completely. Check for any spills or residue that may be causing the smoke before proceeding with cleaning.