Cleaning your oven without using too many chemicals and harsh products is possible with some natural and eco-friendly alternatives. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you achieve a clean oven using more gentle methods:
Remove oven racks: Take out the oven racks and let them soak in a sink filled with warm soapy water. You can add a few drops of dish soap or a natural cleaning agent like vinegar to the water.
Create a natural cleaning solution: For the oven's interior, you can make a cleaning solution using baking soda and water. Mix 1/2 cup of baking soda with a few tablespoons of water to create a paste-like consistency. Adjust the amounts as needed to get the right texture.
Apply the baking soda paste: Spread the baking soda paste on the interior surfaces of your oven. Focus on the dirtiest areas, like the bottom and the sides. Avoid applying the paste to heating elements or the oven's fan.
Let it sit overnight: Once you've applied the baking soda paste, let it sit overnight. This allows the baking soda to work on loosening the grime and grease, making it easier to clean.
Wipe down the oven door: The oven door can be cleaned separately. Make a simple cleaner by mixing equal parts of water and vinegar in a spray bottle. Spritz the glass door with the mixture and wipe it down with a microfiber cloth.
Clean the oven racks: After soaking the oven racks for a while, scrub them with a sponge or a non-abrasive brush to remove any remaining grime. Rinse them thoroughly and let them dry before putting them back in the oven.
Remove baking soda: The next day, use a damp cloth to wipe away the baking soda paste from the oven's interior. You may need to use some elbow grease to remove stubborn stains.
Final wipe-down: For a finishing touch, dampen a clean cloth with water and wipe down the interior again to remove any remaining residue.
Natural deodorizing: If there are any lingering odors, you can place a small bowl of white vinegar or a few lemon slices in the oven and heat it at a low temperature for about 30 minutes. This will help eliminate any unpleasant smells.
It's essential to wear gloves and use a mask when working with cleaning solutions and, if possible, ensure good ventilation while cleaning the oven. These natural methods are effective for regular oven cleaning. However, if your oven is heavily soiled or hasn't been cleaned in a long time, you may need to use some commercial oven cleaners. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions and safety precautions when using any cleaning product.