Homemade oven cleaner is kind of a game-changer when you’re staring at burnt cheese and mystery splatters inside your oven, wondering if you’ll ever see the “just-like-new” shine again. And honestly—store-bought cleaners smell like a science experiment gone rogue. I learned this after scrubbing my oven and my throat at the same time. But hey, if you’ve ever tried cleaning a gross Dutch oven (see my favorite easy trick for that) or battled sticky kitchen grease (my life before pro grease cleaners), you’ll know I’m all about simple solutions that actually work. So let’s dig into my favorite DIY oven cleaner recipe—it’s cheap, it’s nontoxic, and it won’t make you cough up a lung.
The Story Behind This Recipe
Hey, I’m Alexandraa! This HOMEMADE OVEN CLEANER was built for family tables: simple steps, reliable results, and flavor that makes people ask for seconds. Homemade oven cleaner is kind of a game-changer when you’re staring at burnt cheese and mystery splatters inside your oven, wondering if you’ll ever see the…
The Best Way To Clean an Oven Naturally
Let’s be real—nobody wakes up on a Saturday thinking “Wow, I can’t wait to clean my oven!” (If you do, call me. We need to talk.) But sometimes you can’t avoid it, especially after a big bake or a spattery casserole.
- Forget those harsh chemicals; baking soda is your best pal for grime.
- You only need a few pantry staples and a little elbow grease. (Minimal arm wrestling with stuck-on gunk.)
- You’ll save some cash and keep your kitchen smelling like a kitchen, not a lab.
“I never thought I’d see my oven racks sparkle again until I tried this method—seriously, it saved me from buying a new oven! No joke.” —Emily G., actual human and not a bot!
Basic Oven Cleaning with Baking Soda
Nothing wild here, just good old baking soda. Honestly, it’s kind of a kitchen MVP and wildly underrated.
- Mix up a thick paste of baking soda and water (think toothpaste vibes).
- Slather it on all over the oven walls, door, and racks if you’re feeling committed.
- Let it soak overnight—that’s the magic. The next day, just wipe away the grime with a damp cloth.
Heavy Duty Oven Cleaning with Baking Soda
When your oven looks like a BBQ gone bad, it’s time to bring out the heavy stuff (but still gentle on your nose).
- Use more baking soda and a splash of dish soap in your paste.
- Apply thickly—no need to be shy—especially on baked-on disasters.
- For serious stains, leave the paste longer—12-15 hours if you can stand it—then scrape gently with a spatula or old credit card.
How to Clean an Oven with Baking Soda and Vinegar
Here’s where things sizzle (sorta). Vinegar makes the whole cleaning thing more exciting… and a bit like a science fair.
- After spreading your baking soda paste and letting it chill overnight, spritz the goo with white vinegar.
- Watch the fizz! (Kids love this part.)
- Wipe everything down with a warm, wet rag. The fizz lifts even more grime—no choking chemical clouds.
The Natural Oven Cleaners Tested
Believe me, I’ve tried most of the grandma remedies, Pinterest hacks—some good, some miserable.
- Baking soda consistently beats lemon juice, salt scrubs, and those “miracle” sprays.
- Vinegar and baking soda combo is honestly the all-star—cheap and reliable.
- Store-brand “natural” sprays work okay, but they don’t hold a candle to homemade. (It’s just facts, sorry!)
Common Questions
Q: How often should I clean my oven with homemade oven cleaner?
A: Honestly, depends how messy you are. Every couple of months is usually good unless you’re a “broil with wild abandon” kind of person.
Q: Can I use this method for cleaning burnt Dutch ovens too?
A: You bet. In fact, check out these game-changing tips for tough stains.
Q: Is it really safe? I’m nervous about using baking soda + vinegar in my oven.
A: Absolutely—it’s nontoxic, and you won’t get that chemical aftertaste in your food later.
Q: Will this remove burnt sugar or sticky messes?
A: Yep, but with patience—let the paste sit long enough, and the stickiest caramel comes right off with a little scraping (trust me, I’ve made too many pies).
Q: Do I need to rinse after cleaning?
A: Wipe well with a damp rag—no one wants random white powder leftovers. You’re good to go!
Ready to See Your Oven Shine Like a Five-Star Restaurant?
Alright, so if you’re tired of choking on chemical smells and want a sparkling clean oven the cheap, natural way, give this homemade oven cleaner a go. Seriously, it’s as simple as mixing pantry staples, waiting it out, and reaping the rewards. If you love finding new cleaning hacks, check out how to clean your oven with baking soda & vinegar or see how Arm & Hammer recommends cleaning naturally. Go on—put on your favorite playlist, grab some baking soda, and come back to thank me. Here’s to your oven looking “Instagram-able” and your kitchen smelling like, well, nothing at all.
