How to Deep Clean Your Oven (Without Harsh Chemicals)

Simplify
by Simplify

A sparkling oven doesn’t have to come at the cost of choking fumes or harsh sprays. With a few natural ingredients and the right tools, you can tackle grease, burnt-on food, and lingering odors—without reaching for chemical cleaners. Here’s how to deep clean your oven safely and effectively, step by step.

Image credit: Canva

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Step 1: Remove the Racks

Start by pulling out the racks so you can clean the interior more easily. Racks collect grease and crumbs that bake on over time. Soaking them separately makes scrubbing faster.

Try this: Extra-Large Stainless Steel Sink Tub — roomy enough to soak your oven racks overnight.

Image credit: Canva

2 Pack Stainless Steel Commercial Bus Tubs

Step 2: Make a Natural Paste

Mix baking soda with a little water until it forms a thick paste. Spread this onto the inside of your oven, especially on areas with baked-on grease. Let it sit for at least 8 hours (overnight works best).


Try this: Arm & Hammer Pure Baking Soda 5 lb Bag — inexpensive and powerful for natural cleaning.

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Kidu Baking Soda (5 Lbs)

Step 3: Don’t Forget the Glass Door

The inside of your oven window often gets the worst grease splatters. Apply the same baking soda paste, then gently scrub until the glass clears up. For stubborn spots, let it sit a little longer.


Try this: Non-Scratch Scrub Sponges — tough on grease, safe on glass.

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Scratch-Free for Dishes & Multipurpose Cleaning Scrubs

Step 4: Wipe It Down

After the paste has done its job, spray the inside with vinegar. The fizzing reaction helps lift off residue. Wipe everything down with a damp cloth until no paste remains.


Try this: Refillable Spray Bottles — perfect for vinegar or DIY cleaning mixes.

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Heavy Duty Spraying Bottles

Step 5: Tackle Stubborn Spots

Some burned-on messes may still cling after the first round. For these, use a scraper tool designed for oven cleaning. Be gentle to avoid scratching, but firm enough to lift off the residue.


Try this: Stainless Steel Scraper Tool — built for tough, stuck-on grime.

Image credit: Amazon

Upgraded Razor Blade Scraper with 10pcs Blades and 3Pcs small wire brushes

Step 6: Refresh With a Steam Clean

Instead of relying on harsh sprays or endless scrubbing, a steam cleaner makes the final step effortless. The hot steam softens grease and grime in every corner, leaving your oven sanitized and fresh. It’s chemical-free and safe for both the oven interior and glass door.


Try this: Handheld Multipurpose Steam Cleaner — comes with attachments perfect for ovens, grout, and more.

Image credit: Canva

Pressurized Handheld Multi-Surface Natural Steam Cleaner

Step 7: Clean the Racks

Pull your oven racks out of their soak and scrub them clean. Baked-on grease should come off much easier now. Dry them completely before sliding them back in.


Try this: Heavy-Duty Nylon Scrubbing Brush — ideal for racks and stubborn crevices.

6-Pack Wire Brush Set

Final Tip: A quick monthly wipe-down with baking soda and vinegar keeps your oven fresh, so you never have to face another full deep clean again.

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