How to Clean an Oven Naturally

If your oven looks like a crime scene after a busy week of cooking, you don’t need harsh chemicals. Everyday kitchen items can lift grease, burnt bits, and odors without leaving toxic residues. Below you’ll find two proven natural methods that work fast and are safe around kids and pets.

Why Go Natural?

Natural cleaners are cheap, easy to find, and break down into harmless substances. Vinegar cuts through grime, baking soda scrubs without scratching, and lemon adds a fresh scent. Plus, you avoid the strong fumes that many store‑bought oven sprays produce.

Step‑by‑Step Natural Oven Cleaning

Method 1 – Vinegar & Water Spray

1. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
2. After the oven cools, spray the interior, focusing on splatters and sticky spots.
3. Let it sit for 10‑15 minutes. The acid loosens the grease.
4. Wipe with a damp microfiber cloth or non‑abrasive sponge. Rinse the cloth often to avoid spreading grime.
5. Finish with a dry towel for a streak‑free shine.

This method works best for light to medium buildup. For tougher burn‑on, combine it with Method 2.

Method 2 – Baking Soda Paste

1. In a bowl, combine ½ cup baking soda with a few teaspoons of water until you get a spreadable paste.
2. Sprinkle a thin layer of the paste over the oven’s interior, especially on the bottom rack and any browned areas.
3. Close the oven door and let the paste sit overnight (or at least 4‑6 hours). The paste will absorb grease and odors.
4. After the waiting period, use a soft scrub brush or damp sponge to scrub the paste away. Most of the grime lifts with the baking soda.
5. Wipe the oven clean with a damp cloth, then dry with a towel.

If you prefer a fresh scent, squeeze a lemon half over the paste before scrubbing. The citrus oils give a pleasant smell and add extra degreasing power.

Quick Touch‑Up Tips

- For stubborn spots, re‑apply a little vinegar spray and scrape gently with a plastic spatula.
- Keep a small spray bottle of vinegar in the kitchen for regular after‑cook wipes. A quick spritz right after cooking prevents buildup.
- Line the bottom of the oven with foil or a silicone mat to catch drips and make future cleaning easier.

Natural oven cleaning doesn’t have to be a chore. With vinegar and baking soda on hand, you can keep your oven looking fresh, protect your health, and save money. Give these steps a try tonight and enjoy a spotless oven without the chemical haze.