### **Step-by-Step Guide to Chemical-Free Oven Cleaning**

#### **1. Gather Your Supplies**

Before you begin, ensure you have the following items:

* Baking soda

* White vinegar([thisolderhouse.com][2])

* Lemon juice (optional)([maggiesovenservices.co.uk][4])

* Castile soap (optional)

* Pumice stone (optional)([allrecipes.com][5])

* Spray bottle

* Sponge or microfiber cloth([electrodry.com.au][6])

* Rubber gloves (optional)

#### **2. Remove Oven Racks**

Take out the oven racks and set them aside. These can be cleaned separately in the sink using warm soapy water or a baking soda paste.([thisolderhouse.com][2], [realsimple.com][7])

#### **3. Create a Baking Soda Paste**

In a small bowl, mix ½ cup of baking soda with 3 tablespoons of water to form a paste. Adjust the consistency as needed. Apply this paste to the interior surfaces of your oven, avoiding the heating elements. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes to allow the baking soda to break down grease and grime. ([armandhammer.com][8])

#### **4. Spray with Vinegar**

After the baking soda has had time to work, fill a spray bottle with white vinegar and lightly spritz the oven surfaces. The vinegar will react with the baking soda, causing it to fizz and lift away the loosened debris. Wipe the surfaces with a damp cloth to remove the residue.

#### **5. Optional: Use Lemon Juice for Freshness**

For added freshness and natural antibacterial properties, squeeze lemon juice onto a clean cloth and wipe down the oven surfaces. This step is especially useful for removing lingering odors.

#### **6. Clean the Oven Door**

The oven door can accumulate grease and fingerprints. Use a mixture of equal parts water and vinegar to clean the glass. For stubborn spots, apply a baking soda paste, let it sit for 15 minutes, then scrub and wipe clean.

#### **7. Clean the Oven Racks**

Soak the oven racks in a bathtub or large basin filled with warm water and a few tablespoons of baking soda or dish soap. Let them soak for several hours or overnight. After soaking, scrub the racks with a sponge or brush, rinse thoroughly, and dry before placing them back in the oven. ([electrodry.com.au][6])

#### **8. Optional: Use a Pumice Stone for Stubborn Spots**

For tough, baked-on food, a pumice stone can be effective. Wet the stone and gently scrub the affected areas. Always test on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t scratch the surface. ([allrecipes.com][5], [maggiesovenservices.co.uk][4])

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### **Maintenance Tips**

* **Regular Cleaning**: Clean your oven every three to six months to prevent buildup. ([realsimple.com][7])

* **Quick Wipe-Ups**: After spills, clean them promptly to prevent them from hardening and becoming more difficult to remove.

* **Use a Drip Pan**: Place a drip pan on the bottom rack to catch spills and crumbs.

* **Ventilate**: Ensure your kitchen is well-ventilated during cleaning to disperse any fumes from the vinegar or lemon juice.

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### **Conclusion**

Cleaning your oven doesn’t have to involve harsh chemicals. By using natural ingredients like baking soda, vinegar, and lemon juice, you can achieve a spotless oven that’s safe for both you and the environment. Regular maintenance and prompt cleaning of spills will keep your oven in top condition and extend its lifespan.([thisolderhouse.com][2])

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[1]: https://www.bhg.com/clean-oven-with-lemons-8418352?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Can You Clean Your Oven with Lemons? What to Know About This Non-Toxic Method”
[2]: https://thisolderhouse.com/clean-your-oven-without-harsh-chemicals/?utm_source=chatgpt.com “How to Clean Your Oven Without Harsh Chemicals”
[3]: https://www.southernliving.com/home/cleaning-and-housekeeping/clean-oven-with-lemon-steam?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Lemons Are The Secret Ingredient To A Clean Oven”
[4]: https://www.maggiesovenservices.co.uk/blog/natural-homemade-oven-cleaners/?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Eco-friendly Cleaning Recipes for a Spotless Oven”
[5]: https://www.allrecipes.com/how-to-clean-your-oven-with-pumice-stone-8773977?utm_source=chatgpt.com “PSA: We Just Found the Easiest and Cheapest Way to Clean Your Oven”
[6]: https://www.electrodry.com.au/news-blog/natural-non-toxic-oven-cleaning-hacks/?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Natural & Non-Toxic Oven Cleaning Hacks You’ll Love”
[7]: https://www.realsimple.com/home-organizing/cleaning/how-to-clean-an-oven?utm_source=chatgpt.com “How to Clean an Oven Thoroughly-Plus, How Often You Should Clean It”
[8]: https://www.armandhammer.com/articles/clean-oven/?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Naturally Clean Your Oven with Baking Soda | Arm & Hammer”