The hidden kitchen staple that wipes out tough oven grime (and it’s not vinegar)
Keeping a kitchen clean and fresh is a constant task for many. The oven, in particular, often collects stubborn grease splatters and burnt-on bits. Many people reach for chemical cleaners, which can contain harsh substances and carry risks to health and safety. Increasingly, homeowners are discovering the benefits of using baking soda, a common household product, as a safe, versatile and effective alternative for cleaning ovens.
Why baking soda works so well
Baking soda, also known in the UK as bicarbonate of soda, is a white powder you probably already have in the pantry. Mixed with a little water to form a paste, its mildly abrasive texture helps tackle grease and baked-on grime without scratching surfaces. Because it’s non-toxic and natural, it’s a good option for anyone who wants to avoid the harsh chemicals often found in shop-bought cleaners.
It’s also a natural deodoriser and will help remove unpleasant smells, leaving the oven smelling fresher. That mix of gentle cleaning and deodorising makes baking soda an economical, multipurpose solution for other household jobs too — from whitening laundry to freshening a fridge.
Cleaning your oven with baking soda
Follow this simple routine to get good results. Make a paste from 120 ml of baking soda (about 1/2 cup) and a few tablespoons of water, stirring until it reaches a toothpaste-like consistency. Spread the paste across the oven interior, concentrating on the grubbiest spots.
Leave the paste to work for at least 12 hours or overnight. During that time the alkaline paste helps break down grease and loosen crusted-on residue, so the next step is much easier. After the wait, wipe away the paste with a damp sponge, using gentle pressure as the grime lifts off. You may need to rinse a few times to remove all traces of baking soda and residue, until the oven looks clean.
You can boost the cleaning effect by adding a few drops of lemon juice or lemon essential oil to the paste — this helps cut grease and gives a fresh citrus scent. If you like, preheat the oven slightly beforehand to soften stubborn deposits, but be careful not to apply the paste to a hot oven to avoid burns or damage.
Why it beats chemical cleaners
Chemical cleaners can be effective, but they sometimes leave toxic residues that could contaminate food when the oven is used again. Baking soda doesn’t carry that risk, so you get a safe, residue-free clean.
It’s also cheap and versatile; baking soda isn’t just for ovens, it’s useful across the home for a wide range of cleaning tasks. Its affordability and many uses have earned it a reputation as a go-to solution for tackling stubborn dirt.
Switching to natural cleaning
Using baking soda to clean your oven helps create a healthier home environment and provides a reliable, cost-effective way to keep the kitchen tidy. Its adaptability and safety make it a go-to tool in households trying to cut down on chemical products. As more people choose to rely less on commercial cleaners, baking soda stands out as a strong alternative.
Explore its many uses and consider making the switch to greener cleaning. Its knack for restoring ovens to their original shine while looking after your health and the environment is hard to beat.