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Use a damp cloth to wipe down the entire oven interior, removing all residue and loosened grime. Rinse the cloth and repeat until the oven is clean and streak-free.
7. Optional Steam Clean Boost
To finish with a deep, steam-powered clean:
- Fill an oven-safe bowl with 1 cup of vinegar and 1 cup of water.
- Preheat the oven to 250°F (120°C).
- Place the bowl inside the oven and let it sit for 30 minutes.
- Turn off the oven, allow it to cool slightly, and then wipe down the interior with a cloth. The steam will have loosened any remaining grease or grime, making it even easier to clean.
How to Clean Oven Racks with Vinegar
- Place the racks in your bathtub or a large sink.
- Pour in hot water until the racks are covered.
- Add 1 cup of white vinegar and ½ cup of baking soda.
- Let soak for at least 2–4 hours (or overnight for heavy buildup).
- Scrub with a sponge or brush, then rinse and dry before returning them to the oven.
Bonus Tips for Maintaining a Clean Oven
- Wipe spills immediately after the oven cools to prevent buildup.
- Use a baking tray or liner to catch drips from casseroles or pies.
- Clean your oven once a month with vinegar to prevent grease from accumulating.
- Avoid chemical oven cleaners, which can emit harmful fumes and leave residues.
Conclusion
Vinegar is a natural, safe, and incredibly effective way to degrease and clean your oven without the need for expensive, chemical-heavy products. With just a few pantry staples and a little elbow grease, you can restore your oven to like-new condition—fresh, spotless, and odor-free.
So next time your oven is looking a little worse for wear, skip the harsh sprays and reach for the vinegar. Your kitchen (and your lungs) will thank you!
Would you like a printable checklist or cleaning schedule to go with this method?
