How to Clean Your Oven Without Harsh Chemicals

You don't need to resort to harsh chemicals to clean your oven.

With regular use, the inside of your oven will naturally accumulate a buildup of burned-on food and grease splatters. This buildup will start to smoke at some point and permeate any food you are baking. But you don't need to resort to harsh chemicals to clean your oven. A simple solution with a few items you more than likely already have around the house can tackle that mess.

Things You'll Need

• Measuring cup
• Bowl
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Spray bottle
• Spatula
• Steel wool
• Cloth

Instructions

1. Turn the oven off and let it cool completely. Remove oven racks and set aside.

2. Mix 3/4 cup of baking soda and 1/4 cup of salt with 1/4 cup of water in a bowl to make a paste.

3. Spray the inside of the oven with water from a spray bottle to moisten the surface. Use a spatula to apply the paste to all interior oven surfaces. Close the door and let the paste dry overnight.

4. Scrape off the baking soda paste with the spatula. Wipe the inside of the oven with a damp rag or sponge to remove all the residue. Use a fine grade steel wool to clean any tough, burned-on spots. Give it one final wipe with a damp cloth. Replace oven racks and use the oven as usual.

Tips & Warnings

• Always check the owner's manual for your oven before attempting any new cleaning method. There may be a list of approved products to use.

References

• Eartheasy: Non-Toxic Home Cleaning
• Care2: Non-Toxic Oven Cleaner