Keeping your oven clean is important not only for hygiene purposes but also for maintaining the appliance’s longevity. Using baking soda is an easy and affordable way to clean your oven without the use of harsh chemicals. In this article, we’ll show you how to clean the oven with baking soda in a few simple steps.
Gather Your Supplies
Before you start cleaning, make sure you have all the necessary supplies. You’ll need:
- Baking soda
- Water
- Vinegar
- A spray bottle
- A sponge or rag
- A scrub brush
Remove the Oven Racks
The first step to cleaning your oven is to remove the racks. This will make it easier to access all areas of the oven. Place the racks in a sink or bathtub and soak them in warm, soapy water while you clean the oven.
Create a Baking Soda Paste
Next, it’s time to create a baking soda paste. Mix a 1/2 cup of baking soda with a few tablespoons of water until the mixture forms a spreadable paste. You can adjust the measurements as needed to cover the entire oven.
Apply the Paste to the Oven
Use a sponge or rag to apply the baking soda paste to the inside of the oven. Be sure to cover all areas, including the sides, top, and bottom. Let the paste sit for at least 15 minutes (or longer if your oven is particularly dirty).
Clean the Oven Racks
While the baking soda paste is working its magic, use a scrub brush to clean the oven racks. Rinse them off with water and dry them thoroughly.
Wipe Out the Oven
After the baking soda paste has had time to work, use a damp sponge or rag to wipe out the oven. You may need to rinse the sponge or rag multiple times to get all the baking soda residue out of the oven. Be sure to also wipe down the oven door and handle.
Use Vinegar to Remove Stubborn Stains
If there are any stubborn stains remaining in the oven, you can use vinegar to help remove them. Pour a small amount of vinegar into a spray bottle and spray it onto the stubborn stains. Let it sit for a few minutes before wiping it away with a damp sponge or rag.
Clean the Oven Exterior
Don’t forget to clean the outside of the oven as well. Use a damp sponge or rag to wipe down the exterior, including the knobs and control panel.
Replace the Oven Racks
Once the oven is clean and dry, it’s time to replace the oven racks. Make sure they are completely dry before putting them back in the oven.
FAQs
How often should I clean my oven with baking soda?
We recommend cleaning your oven with baking soda every 3-6 months, depending on how often you use your oven.
Can I use baking powder instead of baking soda?
No, baking powder is not a suitable substitute for baking soda when cleaning your oven.
Is it safe to use baking soda to clean my oven?
Yes, baking soda is a safe and effective way to clean your oven without the use of harsh chemicals.
Can I use this method to clean a self-cleaning oven?
No, you should not use baking soda to clean a self-cleaning oven. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning your self-cleaning oven.
Conclusion
Cleaning your oven with baking soda is a simple and affordable way to keep your appliance in top condition. With just a few supplies and some elbow grease, you can have a sparkling clean oven in no time.