How to Clean an Oven Without Chemicals

Nobody likes to clean their oven. If you aren’t lucky enough to have a self-cleaning type, it’s not fun. Still, it isn’t that tough to do and there are a few methods to choose from. Here are some recommendations to clean an oven without chemicals.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Vinegar (white)
• Liquid dish detergent
• Baking soda
• An old toothbrush or soft cleaning brush
• Soft clean cloths
• A natural sponge
• Paper towels

1. Prevention is important. Wipe a clean oven with a soft cloth dampened with vinegar and water to help prevent grease from forming

2. Here’s an easy recipe that really cleans. Mix 5 tbs. baking soda, 3 drops liquid soap and 4 tbs. white vinegar. Mix into a thick paste. Apply inside the oven. Use a sponge to scrub, then wipe clean. Rinse completely and let dry.

3. Here’s another method. Take 4 tbs. baking soda and 4 tbs. very hot water. Mix to a paste, then apply to oven insides with a toothbrush or soft cleaning brush. Let sit for 1 minute, then scrub with brush until clean. Rinse with water until clean with no remaining traces of baking soda.

4. For tough stains, mix 1 cup each of salt, baking soda and water. Make a paste, then apply to oven insides. Close oven door, heat to 500 degrees F for 1 hour. Turn oven off and let cool. Wipe debris from oven with damp sponge and rinse well.

5. Try a more conventional method. Place 1/2 cup of ammonia in a glass or ceramic bowl in a cool, closed oven. Leave overnight. The next day, wipe out with paper towels or a sponge. For persistent spots, gently scrub with fine steel wool, then rinse with a sponge dipped in warm soapy water.

6. Mix 1 part vinegar to 4 parts water, then spray in oven. Leave for several minutes, then wipe clean. Most conventional oven cleaners contain lye and acid. The fumes are highly toxic and can easily be avoided using any of the above methods, which have proven to work equally well. It just makes sense to clean your oven without heavy chemicals.

Tips & Warnings

• Wipe the oven clean after spills to avoid messy clean-ups later.
• Sprinkle salt on spills while still warm, then scrub.
• Use aluminum foil to prevent drips, spills or run-overs.
• Place an aluminum drip pan under lower heating coil. It’s an easy way to clean up spills.
• If you do decide to use conventional cleaners, wear rubber-type gloves.
• Be careful to avoid inhaling ammonia or other cleaner fumes. Also, if you spill any on your skin, immediately rinse the area with cool water.