- 1/2 cup baking soda
- 2-3 tablespoons water
- 1/4 cup white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon dish soap (optional for extra grease-cutting power)
- Essential oils (optional for a pleasant fragrance, e.g., lemon, lavender, or tea tree oil)
Instructions:
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Make the Paste:
- In a small bowl, mix 1/2 cup of baking soda with 2-3 tablespoons of water to create a thick paste. Adjust the water until the consistency is spreadable but not too runny.
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Apply the Paste to the Oven:
- Use a spatula or a clean cloth to spread the baking soda paste generously over the dirty areas of your oven. Pay special attention to areas with built-up grease, food spills, and stains.
- Make sure to cover the oven walls, racks, and bottom. Avoid getting the paste on the oven heating elements.
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Let it Sit:
- Allow the baking soda paste to sit on the oven surfaces for 15-30 minutes. For heavily soiled areas, you can let it sit longer—up to overnight for best results.
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Spray Vinegar:
- After the paste has had time to work its magic, spray the surface with white vinegar. You’ll notice some bubbling and fizzing as the vinegar reacts with the baking soda. This reaction helps lift grease and grime.
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Wipe it Clean:
- Once the fizzing has subsided, use a clean cloth or sponge to wipe away the paste and residue. You can rinse the cloth with warm water to help with cleaning.
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Scrub (if needed):
- For stubborn spots, use a scrub brush or non-abrasive sponge to scrub the areas clean.
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Optional: Add Dish Soap:
- If your oven is particularly greasy, you can add 1 tablespoon of dish soap to the baking soda paste for additional grease-cutting power. The dish soap will help break down grease and grime while leaving your oven smelling fresh.
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Final Rinse:
- Use a damp cloth to wipe down the oven once more to ensure all the cleaner and residue are removed. Allow the oven to dry before using it again.
Tips for a Clean Oven:
- Regular Cleaning: Clean your oven regularly to prevent grease buildup. A quick wipe down once a week or after heavy use will keep your oven in good condition.
- Use Baking Soda for Maintenance: You can create a simple cleaning paste with just baking soda and water for light cleaning between deep cleans.
- Be Gentle: Avoid using harsh scrubbing pads that could scratch the oven surface. Instead, opt for a soft cloth or a non-abrasive sponge.
Conclusion:
This easy, DIY oven cleaner is an affordable and eco-friendly way to keep your oven spotless without the use of harsh chemicals. With the power of baking soda, vinegar, and a little dish soap, you’ll be able to clean your oven naturally and effectively, leaving it sparkling clean and ready for your next cooking adventure. Say goodbye to toxic cleaners and hello to a fresh, chemical-free kitchen! 🍳✨
