How to Clean a Dirty Oven without Harsh Chemicals

Cleaning a dirty oven can be a daunting task, especially when you’re looking to avoid harsh chemicals. However, with the right techniques and natural cleaning agents, you can achieve a sparkling clean oven without exposing yourself or the environment to toxic substances.

Understanding the Risks of Harsh Chemicals

Before we dive into the cleaning process, it’s essential to understand the risks associated with harsh chemicals. Many commercial oven cleaners contain toxic substances that can cause respiratory problems, skin irritation, and even cancer. Moreover, these chemicals can linger in your oven, contaminating your food and posing a risk to your health.

Preparing for the Cleaning Process

Before you start cleaning, make sure you have the following natural cleaning agents:

• Baking soda
• White vinegar
• Water
• Lemon juice
• Salt
• Steel wool or a scrubber
• Rubber gloves (optional)

Step 1: Remove Racks and Shelves

Take out the oven racks and shelves and wash them in soapy water. This will prevent any food residue from baking onto the racks and make them easier to clean.

Step 2: Cover the Floor and Surrounding Areas

Protect your floor and surrounding areas from any cleaning solution spills by covering them with drop cloths or old sheets.

Step 3: Apply the Cleaning Solution

Mix 1 cup of baking soda with 1 cup of water to form a paste. Apply the paste to the interior of the oven, covering all surfaces evenly. If you have any tough stains, you can apply a thicker layer of paste to those areas.

Step 4: Let it Sit

Allow the paste to sit overnight or for at least 12 hours. This will give the baking soda time to penetrate and break down the tough grime.

Step 5: Wipe Down the Oven

Use a damp cloth to wipe down the oven surfaces, removing the baking soda paste and grime. If there are any tough stains remaining, you can use a steel wool or scrubber to remove them.

Step 6: Remove Tough Stains

For tough stains, mix equal parts water and white vinegar in a spray bottle. Spray the solution onto the stain and let it sit for 30 minutes. Then, use a steel wool or scrubber to remove the stain.

Step 7: Clean the Oven Window

Use a mixture of equal parts water and lemon juice to clean the oven window. Apply the solution to the window and wipe it down with a lint-free cloth.

Step 8: Finishing Touches

Once you’ve cleaned the entire oven, use a dry cloth to wipe down the surfaces and remove any excess moisture.

Cleaning a dirty oven without harsh chemicals requires patience and elbow grease, but the end result is well worth it. 

If you’re not comfortable cleaning your oven yourself or if you’re dealing with a particularly tough mess, consider hiring a professional cleaning service like Limpiar. Our expert technicians use eco-friendly products and state-of-the-art equipment to leave your oven looking like new. Contact us today to schedule your appointment!