How to Clean Baked-on Grease in an Oven

Originally posted on Men's Journal | By Emily Fazio | Last updated Nov 27, 2024 1:50 AM ET

Baked-on grease is one of the toughest messes to tackle in the kitchen, but a clean oven makes cooking more enjoyable and safe. That grime on oven surfaces and oven racks may seem like it’s there for good, but with the right approach, you can remove oven grease without spending hours scrubbing. Whether you’re preparing for holiday cooking or just want to freshen things up with a good oven cleaning, these practical tips will help you reclaim your oven.

Why does grease bake onto your oven?

Every time food drips or spills during cooking, grease and food particles are left behind. When exposed to high heat, these residues harden, creating a tough, sticky layer. Over time, grease builds up, and burnt-on food becomes not just an eyesore but also a potential fire hazard. Cleaning baked-on grease is about more than appearances—it’s about safety and maintaining your appliance's efficiency.

Three Methods for Removing Baked-On Grease

1. Use Baking Soda and White Vinegar

One of the safest and most effective methods involves pantry staples you likely already have. Baking soda is a natural abrasive, while the acidity of vinegar helps break down burnt-on grease.

Mix baking soda with water to form a spreadable paste.
Spread the paste over greasy spots with a damp sponge and let it sit for 10-12 hours.
Spray white vinegar over the paste and watch it fizz.
Wipe away the baking soda mixture with a damp cloth or sponge, scrubbing lightly if needed.
Rinse and wipe with a damp sponge or clean cloth to remove baking soda residue

2. Try a Commercial Oven Cleaner

For heavy duty grease that won’t budge, a heavy duty cleanser can do the trick. These heavy duty cleansers are formulated to dissolve stubborn kitchen grease quickly.

Follow the instructions on the label carefully.
Wear gloves and work in a well-ventilated area when working with chemical products.
Let the cleaner sit for the recommended time, then wipe away the grease and residue with a clean sponge or cloth.

3. Harness the Power of Steam

If you want a less abrasive option, steam can soften grease for easier removal.

Place an oven-safe bowl of water mixed with a few tablespoons of vinegar inside the oven.
Heat the oven to 250°F and let the water steam for 30 minutes.
Once the oven cools, wipe away the loosened grease with a damp sponge.
For heavy duty cleaning of stubborn stains, consider a steam cleaner, they work wonders.

Tips to Prevent Grease Buildup

To make your life easier next time, adopt these habits:

Wipe up spills immediately: Fresh grease is much easier to clean than baked-on messes. Warm water, a soft cloth, and a bit of effort make a huge difference.
Use oven liners: Place a removable liner on your oven floor to catch food debris, drips, and spills.
Cover your dishes: Foil or lids can prevent splattering while cooking.
Deep clean regularly: Deep cleaning your oven every few months will prevent buildup from becoming unmanageable. That's a fresh approach to oven cleaning.

FAQ

Can I use aluminum foil to line the bottom of my oven?

It’s tempting, but not recommended. Aluminum foil can disrupt heat circulation and even melt onto your oven’s surface, causing damage. Instead, use silicone oven liners specifically designed for this purpose.

What’s the best way to clean oven racks with grease on them?

Remove the racks and soak them in warm water mixed with dish soap and a few tablespoons of baking soda. After an hour, scrub the racks with a non-abrasive sponge or brush to remove grease. For stubborn spots, use a paste made from baking soda and water before rinsing and drying.

This article first appeared on Men's Journal and was syndicated with permission.

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