My Nana’s 4-Minute Hack to Remove Oven Grease—No Scrubbing Required

Greasy ovens are every home cook’s nightmare. But what if you could clean that baked-on grime in just four minutes—with no scrubbing, no harsh chemicals, and almost no effort? That’s exactly what my nana taught me, and it works like magic.

🧼 Why This Hack Works

The secret lies in the chemical reaction between baking soda and vinegar. Baking soda is a mild abrasive and natural deodorizer, while vinegar is acidic and cuts through grease. When combined, they create a fizzy reaction that lifts grime off surfaces without damaging them.

Bonus Insight: This method is safe for most oven interiors and doesn’t leave behind toxic fumes, making it ideal for households with kids or pets.

🛠️ What You’ll Need

• 1/2 cup baking soda

• 2–3 tablespoons warm water

• White vinegar (in a spray bottle)

• Damp cloth or sponge

• Optional: a few drops of lemon juice or essential oil for fragrance

🕓 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the paste: Mix baking soda with warm water until it forms a thick, spreadable paste.

2. Apply to greasy areas: Spread the paste over the oven door, walls, and bottom—anywhere grease has built up.

3. Let it sit for 4 minutes: This gives the baking soda time to break down the grime.

4. Spray vinegar: Mist the paste with vinegar. It will fizz and bubble, loosening the grease.

5. Wipe clean: Use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe away the residue. You’ll be amazed at how easily it comes off.

✨ Extra Tips for Better Results

• For stubborn spots: Let the paste sit for 15–30 minutes before spraying vinegar.

• For oven racks: Soak them in a bathtub with hot water and baking soda for 1 hour, then rinse.

• For added shine: After cleaning, wipe surfaces with a cloth dipped in vinegar and lemon juice.

🧪 Why It’s Better Than Store-Bought Cleaners

Most commercial oven cleaners contain harsh chemicals like ammonia or lye. They can irritate your skin, eyes, and lungs—and they’re not always safe for self-cleaning ovens. This natural method is gentle, effective, and budget-friendly.

Added Benefit: You probably already have these ingredients in your kitchen, so there’s no need to buy anything special.

🌿 Eco-Friendly and Family-Safe

This hack is not only effective—it’s also environmentally friendly. Baking soda and vinegar are biodegradable and non-toxic. You can clean your oven without worrying about chemical residues or harming the planet.

Pro Tip: Add a few drops of lavender or citrus essential oil to the vinegar spray for a fresh scent that lingers after cleaning.