This method is a winner!

If you've ever battled with stubborn oven stains, you know how frustrating and time-consuming it can be. Those dark, baked-on spots seem to defy every cleaning product and technique. I used to spend hours scrubbing and trying out different products, often with disappointing results. That was until my Nana shared a simple, yet incredibly effective trick that has changed my oven-cleaning game forever. In just five minutes and with zero effort, you can remove those hard oven stains using this method. Here's how it works.

The secret behind this method is the combination of two common household items: baking soda and vinegar. These ingredients are known for their cleaning power individually, but when combined, they create a potent solution that tackles even the most stubborn grime with ease.

Baking soda is a natural abrasive, which makes it ideal for scrubbing away dirt without scratching surfaces. It’s also alkaline, meaning it can neutralize acidic substances, which are often the cause of those tough, baked-on stains in your oven.

Vinegar, on the other hand, is a mild acid that can dissolve grease and grime. It’s also a disinfectant, which means it not only cleans but also sanitizes the surface. When vinegar meets baking soda, it creates a fizzing reaction that helps lift dirt and grime, making it easier to wipe away.

What You’ll Need:
Baking soda
White vinegar
A spray bottle
A sponge or soft cloth
A bowl
Water

Step 1: Prepare the Oven

Before you begin, remove any loose debris or crumbs from your oven. If there are large chunks of food stuck to the surface, scrape them off gently with a spatula. The cleaner the surface, the more effective the baking soda and vinegar will be.

Step 2: Make the Baking Soda Paste

In a bowl, mix a few tablespoons of baking soda with water to create a thick paste. The consistency should be spreadable, but not too runny. You want it to adhere to the stains.

Step 3: Apply the Paste

Using a sponge or soft cloth, spread the baking soda paste generously over the stained areas of your oven. Make sure you cover all the spots that are particularly dirty. You don't need to scrub—just apply the paste and let it sit.

Step 4: Spray with Vinegar

Fill a spray bottle with white vinegar and spritz it over the baking soda-covered areas. As soon as the vinegar hits the baking soda, you’ll notice a fizzing reaction. This is the chemical process that loosens up the grime. Let it fizz and bubble for a minute or two.

Step 5: Let It Work Its Magic

Here’s where the “zero effort” part comes in. After spraying the vinegar, let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes. During this time, the fizzing action is doing all the hard work for you, breaking down the tough stains.

Step 6: Wipe Away the Grime

After the mixture has had time to work, take a damp sponge or cloth and wipe away the baking soda and vinegar residue. You’ll be amazed at how easily the grime comes off. For particularly stubborn spots, you may need to apply a little more elbow grease, but in most cases, the stains will wipe away effortlessly.

Step 7: Rinse and Dry

Once you’ve wiped away all the baking soda and vinegar, rinse your sponge or cloth and wipe down the oven one more time to remove any remaining residue. Then, dry the surface with a clean towel. Your oven should now be sparkling clean!

Why This Method Works So Well
The key to this method’s effectiveness lies in the combination of baking soda’s abrasive properties and vinegar’s ability to break down grease. The chemical reaction between the two not only lifts the dirt but also makes it easier to wipe away without the need for harsh scrubbing. This method is not only effective but also safe and non-toxic, making it a great choice for those who prefer natural cleaning solutions.

Clean Spills Immediately: Whenever you have a spill, try to clean it as soon as possible to prevent it from baking on.

Use a Liner: Consider using an oven liner to catch drips and spills, which can be easily removed and cleaned.

Regular Maintenance: Instead of waiting for stains to build up, make a habit of wiping down your oven regularly with a damp cloth and mild detergent.

Steam Clean: For a deeper clean, you can place a bowl of water and lemon juice in the oven and heat it at a low temperature. The steam will help loosen any grime, making it easier to wipe away.

Thanks to my Nana’s simple trick, cleaning the oven has gone from a dreaded chore to a quick and easy task. In just five minutes, with minimal effort and using ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen, you can banish those hard-to-remove stains and enjoy a sparkling clean oven. Give it a try, and you might just find yourself looking forward to your next oven-cleaning session!