How to Clean Brown Stains from Your Glass Oven Door

Got a brown, crusty film on your oven glass? You’re not alone – it happens to most home cooks. The good news is you don’t need expensive chemicals or a pro to make it sparkle again. With a few kitchen basics and a bit of elbow grease you can wipe out those stubborn spots in under an hour.

Why Brown Stains Appear

When you bake, roast or broil, tiny bits of food and grease splash onto the door. Over time the heat caramelises the residue, turning it into a brown, baked‑on layer. Sugar, sauce, and oil all contribute, and the heat seals the mess against the glass. That’s why a regular wipe‑down won’t work – the stain has fused to the surface.

Step‑by‑Step Cleaning Guide

1. Gather your supplies. You’ll need baking soda, white vinegar, a soft cloth or sponge, a plastic scraper (a credit card works), and a spray bottle filled with water. If you prefer a commercial option, pick a non‑abrasive oven cleaner labeled safe for glass.

2. Make a baking soda paste. Mix three parts baking soda with one part water until you get a spreadable paste. The mild alkali helps break down the burnt on grease without scratching the glass.

3. Apply and let it sit. Spread the paste over the brown spots. Cover with a damp towel to keep it from drying out and let it sit for 15‑20 minutes. The longer it sits, the easier the stain lifts.

4. Spray with vinegar. While the paste is working, fill a spray bottle with white vinegar and mist the area. The fizz you see is a reaction between the vinegar’s acid and the baking soda, which lifts the grime.

5. Scrape gently. After the fizz stops, use a plastic scraper or an old credit card to lift the softened residue. Move the scraper at a shallow angle to avoid scratching.

6. Wipe clean. Dampen a clean cloth with warm water and wipe away the paste, vinegar, and loosened dirt. Rinse the cloth and repeat until no paste remains.

7. Dry and polish. Use a dry microfiber cloth to buff the glass. You’ll see the shine return immediately.

If any stubborn patches remain, repeat the paste step once more. For really tough spots, a commercial oven glass cleaner can finish the job – just follow the label and rinse well.

**Pro tip:** Keep a small bottle of the baking soda paste in your kitchen. A quick swipe after each cooking session prevents buildup and saves you a deep clean later.

Now your oven door looks as clear as the day you bought it. A clean glass not only looks better, it also lets you see inside the oven so you can avoid overcooking food. Happy cooking!