How to Clean Your Oven & Oven Racks

Simply start by loosening tough dirt with a warm, damp cloth, then apply the baking soda and vinegar paste over the area and let it sit. Wipe it clean with a dishcloth, then use hot water to remove any residue.

For more stubborn stains or a fresh scent, add a touch of lemon juice to the mix. This same method can be used on your oven racks—just let the paste sit for a few hours, scrub, and rinse in hot water for a like-new shine.

It's essential to avoid generic cleaning products that aren’t made for ovens, as they may damage surfaces or leave behind harmful chemicals. Always read labels carefully and wear gloves when using strong oven cleaners, as these are often corrosive.

The easiest way is to remove the racks, soak them in a sink or bathtub filled with warm water and a few drops of dishwashing liquid. Let them sit for at least an hour, then scrub gently with a non-abrasive sponge or brush. For stubborn stains, a paste made of baking soda and water works wonders.

Brown stains are usually baked-on grease. A more intensive approach involves soaking the racks in a mixture of hot water and white vinegar, then sprinkling baking soda on the stains. After soaking for a few hours, scrub with steel wool or a stiff brush to remove the residue.

After cleaning off grease and grime, rinse the racks thoroughly and dry them with a clean cloth. If you want them to shine, polish them with a cloth dampened with vinegar. To maintain their like-new appearance, avoid leaving spills to bake onto the racks.