How to Clean Your Oven Naturally Without Harsh Chemicals

Why Clean Your Oven Naturally?

Commercial oven cleaners contain strong chemicals that require ventilation and protective gloves. Natural alternatives are effective, safe, and you probably already have everything you need in your kitchen.

What You'll Need

• Bicarbonate of soda (baking soda)
• White vinegar
• Washing up liquid
• Water
• Spray bottle
• Rubber gloves
• Sponge or cloth
• Old newspaper or plastic bags
• Scraper (plastic, not metal)

The Overnight Method

This method requires minimal effort and uses time to do the hard work.

Step 1: Prepare the Oven

1. Remove oven racks and set aside
2. Remove any loose debris
3. Make sure the oven is completely cool

Step 2: Make the Paste

Mix 1/2 cup bicarbonate of soda with 2-3 tablespoons of water to form a spreadable paste. Add more water if needed - it should be like thick frosting.

Step 3: Apply the Paste

1. Wearing gloves, spread the paste all over the oven interior
2. Avoid heating elements
3. Pay extra attention to grimy areas
4. The paste will turn brown as it absorbs grease

Step 4: Wait

Leave the paste on for at least 12 hours, or overnight. The longer it sits, the better it works.

Step 5: Clean the Racks

While waiting, soak racks in hot water with washing up liquid. For stubborn buildup, add bicarbonate of soda to the water.

Step 6: Wipe Clean

1. Use a damp cloth to wipe out as much paste as possible
2. Use a plastic scraper for stubborn spots
3. Keep wiping until all residue is removed

Step 7: Spray with Vinegar

1. Fill a spray bottle with white vinegar
2. Spray the oven interior
3. It will foam when it reacts with remaining bicarbonate
4. Wipe clean again

Step 8: Final Touches

1. Clean the glass door inside and out
2. Wipe down the exterior
3. Replace clean, dry racks

Quick Clean Method

For lighter cleaning between deep cleans:

1. Sprinkle bicarbonate of soda on spills while still warm
2. Once cool, wipe with a damp cloth
3. Spray with vinegar and wipe again

Cleaning the Oven Door

Between the Glass

If your oven has double glass:

1. Check if the door can be removed
2. Look for access panels or screws
3. Clean between panes with a long-handled brush
4. Alternatively, consult your oven manual

Glass Interior

Apply the bicarbonate paste to the inside of the door. Leave for 30 minutes, then clean with vinegar.

Self-Cleaning Oven Settings

Many modern ovens have self-cleaning functions:

Pyrolytic Cleaning

Heats to very high temperatures to burn off residue. Effective but uses significant energy.

Steam Cleaning

Uses water to create steam. Less effective on heavy buildup but quicker and more energy-efficient.

Even with these features, occasional manual cleaning is recommended.

Preventing Buildup

• Wipe spills promptly before they carbonise
• Use a roasting tin or baking sheet to catch drips
• Cover dishes when possible
• Clean regularly before buildup becomes severe
• Line the bottom with foil (check your oven manual first)

When to Call Professionals

Consider professional oven cleaning for:

• Years of neglected buildup
• Pre-sale or end of tenancy requirements
• Damaged or deteriorating enamel
• When DIY methods aren't working

Professionals use industrial-strength products and can achieve results difficult to match at home.