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#### **Step 4: Let It Sit**
Once the paste is applied, let it sit for at least 15 minutes. If your oven is really dirty, you can leave it for up to an hour or even overnight. This allows the baking soda to work its magic by loosening stuck-on grease and grime.
#### **Step 5: Spritz With Vinegar**
After the baking soda has had time to sit, take a spray bottle filled with white vinegar and spray it generously over the baking soda paste. You’ll notice a fizzing reaction as the two ingredients react. This helps lift the grime and makes it easier to wipe away. Let the vinegar sit for a few minutes to work its way into the paste.
#### **Step 6: Wipe It Clean**
Using a damp cloth or paper towels, wipe away the baking soda and vinegar mixture. The grime should come off easily, leaving your oven looking shiny and fresh. If there are any stubborn spots, gently scrub them with a non-abrasive sponge or plastic spatula.
#### **Step 7: Clean the Oven Door**
Don’t forget the oven door! Apply some of the baking soda paste directly to the door and repeat the process by spraying with vinegar. Let it sit for a few minutes and then wipe clean with a cloth or paper towel.
#### **Step 8: Clean the Oven Racks**
While your oven is drying, give the racks a good clean. If you didn’t clean them before, use the same baking soda paste and scrub away any baked-on residue. For a faster solution, you can also soak them in warm, soapy water for a few hours and then scrub them clean.
#### **Step 9: Finish Up**
Once everything is wiped clean, leave the oven door open for a few minutes to let it dry and air out. You’ll be left with a sparkling clean oven that looks and smells fresh, without any harsh chemicals involved.
### **Why This Method Works**
– **Baking Soda**: Baking soda is a mild abrasive, which means it can effectively scrub away dirt and grease without scratching or damaging the surfaces inside your oven. It’s also a natural deodorizer, so it helps eliminate odors.
– **Vinegar**: White vinegar is an all-natural cleaner that helps to dissolve grease and grime. The fizzing reaction when combined with baking soda makes it even more effective at lifting stubborn spots.
– **Non-toxic and Safe**: Unlike chemical oven cleaners, this method uses only natural ingredients, which means it’s safe for your family and pets. Plus, you won’t be breathing in any harsh fumes.
### **Tips for Keeping Your Oven Clean Longer**
– **Wipe Spills Immediately**: If you spill something in your oven while it’s still warm, wipe it up right away. This prevents food from baking on and creating a tough mess.
– **Use a Liner**: Consider using an oven liner to catch any spills. These are reusable, easy to clean, and can help reduce the frequency of deep cleaning.
– **Clean Regularly**: A quick wipe-down every few weeks can help prevent buildup and keep your oven in great shape. Even a simple dusting of baking soda and vinegar can maintain a fresh appearance.
### **Alternative Oven Cleaning Tips**
– **For Stubborn Grease**: If you have really stubborn grease stains, try mixing a paste of baking soda and dish soap. The soap will add an extra degreasing punch.
– **For Glass Oven Doors**: To clean glass doors, sprinkle some baking soda directly on the glass and scrub with a non-abrasive sponge. You can also use a mixture of vinegar and water in a spray bottle to spritz and wipe down the glass.
### **Conclusion**
Cleaning your oven doesn’t have to be a difficult, time-consuming task. With just a few ingredients—baking soda, vinegar, and a little patience—you can have your oven looking brand new in minutes. The best part? You’re using non-toxic, natural ingredients that are safe for your family and the environment.
Next time your oven starts to look a little grimy, skip the harsh chemicals and give this simple method a try. Your oven—and your kitchen—will thank you!
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