How to Clean Your Oven in Minutes and Make It Look Brand New

#### Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. **Remove Oven Racks:**
Start by taking out the oven racks. This will give you more space to work with and allow you to clean the oven more thoroughly. Set the racks aside to clean separately.

2. **Create a Baking Soda Paste:**
In a small bowl, mix 1/2 cup of baking soda with a few tablespoons of water. Stir it until you form a thick paste. The consistency should be spreadable but not runny. If you need more paste, just double the quantities.

3. **Apply the Paste:**
Put on your gloves if you’re using them, then use a sponge or cloth to apply the baking soda paste all over the interior of the oven. Focus on areas with heavy grease buildup or food splatters. Don’t forget the oven door! The paste works best when it sits on the surfaces for a while, so generously coat all the areas you want to clean. Avoid the heating elements and any exposed electrical components.

4. **Let It Sit:**
Allow the paste to sit for at least 15-30 minutes. For stubborn grease or stains, you can let it sit longer, up to an hour. Baking soda works its magic by breaking down grease and food residue, making it easier to wipe away.

5. **Clean the Oven Racks:**
While the paste is doing its work, clean your oven racks. Fill your sink with hot water and add a few tablespoons of baking soda or dish soap. Let the racks soak for 20-30 minutes, then use a sponge or brush to scrub away any grime. Rinse and dry them thoroughly before returning them to the oven.

6. **Wipe Away the Paste:**
After the baking soda has had time to sit, it’s time to wipe away the grime. Use a damp sponge or cloth to wipe off the baking soda paste. For tough spots, you can use a plastic scraper to gently lift any stubborn residue. Be patient as you clean the inside of the oven.

7. **Spray with Vinegar:**
Fill a spray bottle with white vinegar and spray it over the areas where you’ve applied the baking soda paste. The vinegar will react with the baking soda, creating a foaming action that helps lift off grease and grime. Let it fizz and bubble for a minute or two before wiping it down again with a damp cloth. The combination of baking soda and vinegar is a powerhouse for cutting through grease.

8. **Final Wipe and Dry:**
After the vinegar has done its work, give everything a final wipe with a clean, damp cloth. Make sure to remove all the paste and any leftover foam. Dry the interior with a paper towel or dry cloth to give it that fresh, brand-new look.

9. **Polish the Oven Door:**
Don’t forget the oven door! If your oven door has any fingerprints or smudges, use a glass cleaner or a vinegar-water solution to wipe it down and restore its shine. For extra sparkle, buff it with a microfiber cloth.

#### Why This Method Works:

– **Baking Soda:** Baking soda is an abrasive but gentle cleaner that breaks down grease and grime without damaging your oven’s surfaces. It’s great for tackling stubborn stains and odors.
– **White Vinegar:** Vinegar acts as a natural degreaser and, when combined with baking soda, helps lift dirt and food particles. It also helps neutralize odors, leaving your oven smelling fresh.
– **Quick and Non-Toxic:** This method uses common household ingredients that are safe and non-toxic, so you don’t have to worry about harsh chemicals or fumes in your kitchen.
– **Affordable:** Baking soda and vinegar are inexpensive and effective alternatives to commercial oven cleaners, saving you money while still getting great results.

#### Tips for Keeping Your Oven Clean Longer:

– **Use a Drip Tray or Foil:** To prevent spills and splatters, place a drip tray or a layer of aluminum foil on the bottom of your oven. Just be sure not to cover any vents or heating elements.
– **Wipe Spills Immediately:** If you spill something while cooking, wipe it up as soon as the oven cools down. This will prevent food from baking on and becoming difficult to remove later.
– **Regular Maintenance:** Clean your oven regularly—every few weeks or once a month—so the buildup doesn’t become overwhelming.

#### Conclusion:

Cleaning your oven doesn’t have to be a stressful, time-consuming task. With the right ingredients and a few simple steps, you can restore your oven to its gleaming, brand-new state in just minutes. By using natural ingredients like baking soda and vinegar, you’ll achieve a spotless, fresh oven without the need for harsh chemicals. Give this easy and effective method a try, and enjoy a cleaner, more efficient oven for all your cooking needs!