### 🧴 What You’ll Need
**Ingredients:**
* ½ cup baking soda
* 2–3 tablespoons water
* 1 tablespoon dish soap (for grease-cutting power)
* Optional: 2 tablespoons white vinegar (for extra lift and deodorizing)
* A few drops of lemon or tea tree essential oil (optional, for scent and antibacterial benefits)
**Tools:**
* A bowl
* A sponge or old toothbrush
* Gloves (optional, but helpful)
* A damp cloth or paper towels
### 👩‍🍳 How to Make and Use Homemade Oven Cleaner#### 1. **Mix the Paste**
In a bowl, combine baking soda and dish soap. Slowly add water until you get a thick, spreadable paste.
If using vinegar, mix it in last — it will fizz briefly.
#### 2. **Apply the Cleaner**
Remove oven racks and set them aside.
Using gloves, spread the paste inside the oven, covering the door, walls, and base. Avoid heating elements.
For heavy grime, apply a thicker layer.
#### 3. **Let It Sit**
Allow the cleaner to sit for **at least 6 hours** or overnight. The longer it sits, the better it works to break down grime.
#### 4. **Scrub and Wipe**
After the wait, use a sponge or toothbrush to scrub away loosened gunk.
Wipe clean with a damp cloth or paper towels. You may need to rinse a few times to remove all residue.
#### 5. **Final Rinse and Shine**
Wipe the oven interior with a clean damp cloth to remove any leftover cleaner.
Let dry before replacing racks and using your oven.
### 🧼 Bonus: Clean Oven Racks Naturally
Soak the racks in a bathtub filled with hot water, dish soap, and a few dryer sheets or baking soda. Let sit for 4–6 hours, scrub with a sponge, and rinse clean.
