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How to Clean an Oven with Baking Soda

By Betty Crocker Kitchens
Created December 10, 2024
Modern stainless steel built-in oven with black control panel and glass door.
Struggling with a grimy oven? Discover how to clean an oven with baking soda in a few simple steps to achieve a spotless, chemical-free shine. Learning this natural cleaning method not only makes your oven look like new but also enhances the overall aroma and safety of your baking space, making it the best cleaner for baked-on grease in your oven. Join us as we dive into a satisfying DIY cleaning routine that uses the powerful, natural combination of baking soda and vinegar for cleaning your oven.

Keeping your oven clean doesn’t have to be a chore filled with harsh chemicals. In fact, you can easily maintain its sparkle using natural ingredients likely already in your pantry—baking soda and vinegar. These humble kitchen staples not only clean effectively but also deodorize, ensuring your oven is both spotless and fresh. This guide will walk you through the entire process, making cleaning your oven simpler, safer, and more eco-friendly.

Note: Always refer to your appliance’s manual for specific cleaning instructions to ensure proper care while maintaining product warranties.

Why Use Baking Soda and Vinegar?

Baking soda is a fantastic natural cleaner with mild abrasive qualities that can tackle stubborn grease and grime without scratching surfaces. Not only does it effectively break down baked-on messes, but it also neutralizes odors, leaving your oven smelling fresh. When combined with vinegar, a natural acid, it creates a foaming action that helps in loosening tough food residue and giving your oven a nice shine.

Ready to Get Started? Here’s What You’ll Need

  • 3/4 cup baking soda
  • 1/4 cup warm water
  • Dishwashing soap
  • White distilled vinegar
  • A small bowl for mixing
  • Cleaning gloves
  • A sponge or soft cloth
  • Plastic or silicone spatula for scrub-resistant spots

Cleaning Your Oven with Baking Soda

Step 1: Remove The Oven Racks

First, take out the cool oven racks so that you have full access to the inside of the oven. Don’t forget—you’ll need to clean these racks separately! Soak them in a warm soapy water solution while focusing on the oven interior. Let them sit for about 30 minutes to break down grease and grime.

Step 2: Make a Baking Soda Paste

In a small bowl, mix the baking soda with several tablespoons of water. Adjust the amount of water as needed to create a spreadable paste—it should be thick enough to adhere to the oven surfaces, covering stubborn stains. Pro Tip: Want extra cleaning power? For a foaming boost, add a splash of vinegar to the paste. It’s entirely optional, but it can speed up the process.

Step 3: Apply the Paste to the Oven

Now it’s time to coat those grimy areas! Spread the baking soda paste evenly across the entire inside of your oven, focusing on spots with baked-on grease or leftover food. Let the paste sit for about 12 hours or overnight. The longer it sits, the easier your job will be.

Step 4: Wipe Away the Baking Soda Residue

After resting the baking soda overnight, take a damp sponge or cloth and start wiping down the oven's interior. You’ll notice that the baking soda has absorbed much of the grime, making it easy to wipe away. For particularly stubborn spots, gently scrape off the remaining residue.

Step 5: Vinegar Rinse for Extra Shine

For an extra-clean finish, gently spray a small amount of vinegar over areas that need extra care or where some baking soda residue remains. The bubbling action between the vinegar and baking soda makes it easier to remove leftover grime. Once the bubbles subside, take a damp cloth and give your oven one last wipe. Let everything dry thoroughly before replacing the racks.

By following these steps, you'll have a sparkling clean oven without the need for harmful chemicals, all while embracing the creativity and joy of everyday home care. Whether you're prepping for a big holiday meal or simply keeping your kitchen tidy between family dinners, let Betty Crocker be your go-to for helpful tips and delicious recipes that bring joy to your home. Now go ahead and tackle that oven with newfound confidence—you've got this!