Here’s how I clean the oven rack: I use 1 plastic bag and it’s like new!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Remove the Oven Racks

Before you begin cleaning, carefully remove the oven racks from the oven and set them aside. Be sure to let them cool completely if they’re still warm to avoid burns.

Step 2: Prepare the Plastic Bag

Take your plastic garbage bag and line it with a little bit of baking soda. You don’t need a huge amount—just enough to cover the bottom of the bag. The baking soda works wonders in cutting through grease and grime, and it’s completely safe and non-toxic.

Step 3: Add Dish Soap and Water

Pour in some dish soap to help break down the grease, and then add a bit of warm water. The heat of the water helps loosen up stuck-on grease and food residue. Don’t add too much water—just enough to create a soapy solution inside the bag. Optionally, you can add a splash of vinegar to increase the cleaning power of the mixture. Vinegar helps to dissolve grease and stains, leaving the racks cleaner and shinier.

Step 4: Place the Oven Racks in the Bag

Carefully place your oven racks inside the plastic bag, making sure that they are submerged in the soapy solution. Seal the bag tightly so that the contents stay inside and work their magic. If necessary, you can use tape or a twist tie to secure the bag closed.

Step 5: Let It Sit

Now, the magic happens! Leave the oven racks inside the bag for at least 6-8 hours, or overnight for the best results. The baking soda and dish soap will break down all the built-up grease, food particles, and burnt stains, making them much easier to clean off. If you choose to leave it overnight, you’ll wake up to racks that are significantly easier to scrub.

Step 6: Wipe and Rinse

After the waiting period, carefully remove the oven racks from the bag. You’ll likely notice that the grease and grime are already loosened. At this point, simply wipe the racks down with a clean cloth or paper towel. If needed, you can rinse the racks with warm water to remove any remaining residue.

For particularly stubborn spots, you can use a soft sponge or non-abrasive scrub brush to gently scrub away any remaining stains. The baking soda mixture will have done most of the hard work, so you won’t have to scrub nearly as hard as you would with traditional cleaning methods.

Step 7: Dry and Reinstall

Once your oven racks are clean and free of residue, dry them thoroughly with a clean towel. Once dried, carefully reinstall them in your oven. Voila! Your oven racks are now sparkling clean and good as new.

Why This Method Works So Well:

• Baking Soda’s Power: Baking soda is a natural, gentle abrasive that works wonders in breaking down grease and food stains without scratching or damaging surfaces. It’s especially useful for cleaning greasy items like oven racks.
• Plastic Bag Magic: By sealing the racks inside a plastic bag, you create a controlled environment where the cleaning solution can work its magic over time. The bag keeps the mixture contained and allows the ingredients to do their job, loosening up even the most stubborn grime.
• No Harsh Chemicals: This method uses common household ingredients that are safe and non-toxic, making it a great alternative to chemical-laden cleaners. You can rest easy knowing you’re not exposing yourself or your kitchen to harmful chemicals.

Additional Tips:

• For Extra Tough Grime: If your oven racks are extremely dirty or have been neglected for a long time, you can repeat the process or increase the baking soda and dish soap ratio in the bag to boost cleaning power.
• Regular Maintenance: For best results, try to clean your oven racks every few months or whenever you notice significant buildup. Regular maintenance will help prevent heavy grime from building up in the first place.
• Alternative Cleaners: If you’re out of baking soda, you can also use borax or a mixture of vinegar and water as a substitute for cleaning the racks.

Conclusion:

If you’re tired of scrubbing your oven racks with little success, this simple plastic bag method is the game-changer you’ve been waiting for! It’s easy, effective, and doesn’t require any harsh chemicals—just a few household items you likely already have in your pantry. By letting the baking soda, dish soap, and water work their magic, you’ll have your oven racks sparkling clean in no time. Whether you’ve been battling years of baked-on grime or just need a quick refresh, this method is sure to leave your oven racks looking like new—without the hassle!

So next time you’re faced with dirty oven racks, remember this easy trick and enjoy the satisfaction of a gleaming kitchen. Happy cleaning!