Oven Door Cleaning Tips: Simple Hacks for a Spotless Glass

Got a greasy, foggy oven door that makes you cringe every time you open it? You don’t need harsh chemicals or a pricey service. With a few kitchen staples you already have, you can make that glass shine like new in less than an hour.

Why Baking Soda and Vinegar Work So Well

Baking soda is a mild abrasive that lifts stuck‑on food without scratching the glass. Vinegar, on the other hand, breaks down grease and neutralises any lingering odors. Mix them together and you’ve got a natural, safe cleaner that won’t damage the oven’s finish.

Here’s the easy recipe: sprinkle a generous layer of baking soda over the door glass, then spray white vinegar until it fizzes. Let the mixture sit for 10‑15 minutes – that’s the magic window where the chemistry does the hard work.

Step‑by‑Step Cleaning Process

1. Prep the area. Pull the oven rack out and lay a towel on the floor to catch drips. Warm the oven slightly (about 50°C) for 5 minutes – this softens baked‑on grime and makes it easier to wipe away.

2. Apply the paste. After the fizz stops, grab a soft sponge or non‑scratch scrub pad. Gently rub in circular motions, focusing on the toughest spots. If you hit a stubborn streak, add a little extra baking soda directly onto the sponge.

3. Rinse clean. Dampen a clean cloth with warm water and wipe away all residue. You’ll see the grease lifting off, leaving a clear, streak‑free surface.

4. Dry and polish. Use a dry microfiber towel to buff the glass. This final step prevents water spots and gives the door a professional shine.

For extra sparkle, spray a light mist of vinegar after drying and wipe again. The vinegar evaporates quickly, leaving behind a pristine finish.

If you prefer a ready‑made homemade oven cleaner, combine 1 cup of baking soda, ½ cup of water, and a few drops of dish soap. Spread the paste on the oven door, let it sit for 20 minutes, then scrub and rinse as described above. This version works well on built‑up carbon deposits that don’t respond fully to the vinegar fizz.

Need to tackle black baked‑on grease that seems glued to the glass? Heat the oven to 200°C for 10 minutes, then turn it off and let it cool just enough to handle safely. The heat loosens the carbon, and your baking‑soda/vinegar combo will lift it away without harming the enamel.

Remember, regular maintenance beats deep cleaning every time. Wipe the door after each use with a damp cloth, and do a quick baking‑soda sprinkle once a month. Your oven will stay brighter, and you’ll avoid the dreaded scrubbing marathon.

Bottom line: a little baking soda, a splash of vinegar, and some elbow grease are all you need for a sparkling oven door. No harsh chemicals, no expensive services – just simple, effective steps you can do right now.