Why This Hack Works So Well
The science behind this method is actually quite simple. Baking soda is a mild abrasive that also helps break down grease. When combined with the acidic vinegar, it creates a fizzing reaction that lifts grime away from surfaces. The overnight sitting time allows the paste to penetrate deep into burnt-on stains, making them incredibly easy to remove.
Unlike harsh chemical cleaners, this method is completely safe, non-toxic, and costs just pennies. You don’t need to evacuate your home or worry about lingering chemical smells.
Cleaning Your Oven Racks the Easy Way π§
While your oven is doing its overnight soak, tackle those racks. Place them in your bathtub or a large sink, sprinkle with baking soda, and pour vinegar over them. Let them soak for a few hours, then rinse. They’ll come out sparkling clean with minimal effort.
If you don’t want to use your bathtub, place the racks in large garbage bags, add the baking soda and vinegar, seal the bags, and let them sit outside overnight.
How Often Should You Clean Your Oven?
With this easy method, there’s no excuse to let your oven go months without cleaning. Ideally, give it a deep clean every three months, or more frequently if you do a lot of baking and roasting. Regular maintenance prevents buildup from becoming severe, making each cleaning session even quicker.
For light maintenance between deep cleans, wipe up spills immediately after your oven cools down. This prevents them from becoming baked-on disasters that require more intensive cleaning.
Additional Tips for Best Results
Always make sure your oven is completely cool before starting this cleaning process. Never apply the paste to a warm ovenβit can cause the baking soda to dry too quickly and become less effective.
Open your windows during the vinegar spray stage. While vinegar is much safer than chemical cleaners, the smell can be strong. Good ventilation makes the process more pleasant.
The Bottom Line
This oven cleaning hack has genuinely transformed one of my least favorite chores into something manageable and even satisfying. The before-and-after results are so dramatic that you’ll actually want to show people your clean oven! The combination of being effective, affordable, and safe makes this method unbeatable. Once you try it, you’ll understand why I say I won’t do anything else again. Your sparkling clean oven is just one overnight soak away! β¨