If you’ve ever struggled with stubborn oven stains, you know how impossible they can feel. Those dark, baked-on spots seem immune to every cleaner and scrubbing technique out there. I used to spend hours battling them—trying product after product, only to be disappointed every time.
That all changed when my Nana shared her simple, foolproof cleaning trick. Now, with just five minutes and no effort, I can get my oven spotless again. Here’s her secret.
The Magic Duo: Baking Soda and Vinegar
The genius of this method lies in two everyday ingredients: baking soda and vinegar. Each one is powerful on its own, but together, they form a dynamic cleaning combo that cuts through even the most stubborn grime.
Why Baking Soda Works
Baking soda acts as a gentle abrasive, helping to lift away stuck-on residue without scratching the surface. It’s also alkaline, which means it neutralizes acidic messes—exactly the kind that create those tough, burned-on stains.
Why Vinegar Works
Vinegar, a mild acid, breaks down grease and grime with ease. It’s also a natural disinfectant, so it cleans and sanitizes simultaneously. When vinegar meets baking soda, it fizzes—this bubbling reaction helps lift dirt, making wiping it away almost effortless.
Step-by-Step: How to Clean Your Oven in 5 Minutes
You’ll need:
- Baking soda
- White vinegar
- A spray bottle
- A bowl
- A sponge or soft cloth
- A bit of water
Step 1: Prep the Oven
Remove loose crumbs or food bits first. If any large pieces are stuck, gently scrape them off with a spatula. The cleaner the surface, the better this method will work.
Step 2: Make the Paste
In a bowl, mix a few tablespoons of baking soda with water until you get a thick, spreadable paste—not too runny, but easy to apply.
Step 3: Apply the Paste
Spread the baking soda paste over the stained areas using a sponge or cloth. No need to scrub—just make sure all the dirty spots are covered.
Step 4: Add the Vinegar
Fill your spray bottle with white vinegar and spritz it over the baking soda. You’ll immediately see it fizz and bubble—that’s the magic at work! Let it react for a minute or two.
Step 5: Let It Sit
Now, just let the mixture sit for about five minutes. During this time, it’s doing all the heavy lifting for you, breaking down baked-on grease and residue.
Step 6: Wipe It Clean
After five minutes, wipe everything away with a damp sponge or cloth. You’ll be amazed at how easily the grime comes off. For any extra-tough spots, a light scrub should do the trick.
Step 7: Rinse and Dry
Rinse your sponge and give the oven one more wipe to remove any leftover residue. Finish by drying with a clean towel—and admire your sparkling clean oven!
Why It Works So Well
This method succeeds because it combines baking soda’s mild abrasiveness with vinegar’s grease-cutting power. The fizzing reaction lifts dirt from the surface, so you don’t have to scrub. Plus, it’s non-toxic, eco-friendly, and completely safe to use around food—no harsh chemicals needed.
A Few Extra Tips for a Cleaner Oven
- Clean spills right away: Wipe up messes as soon as possible so they don’t bake on.
- Use an oven liner: It catches drips and crumbs, saving you time later.
- Do quick maintenance wipes: A damp cloth and mild detergent can keep your oven looking fresh between deep cleans.
- Try steam cleaning: Place a bowl of water with lemon juice in the oven and heat it on low. The steam loosens grime, making it easy to wipe away.
Thanks to my Nana’s simple trick, oven cleaning has gone from my least favorite chore to something I barely think about. In just five minutes, using ingredients already in your kitchen, you can say goodbye to tough stains and hello to a gleaming oven. Give it a try—you might even start enjoying your next cleaning session.
