08.03.2025
How to clean oven racks with a simple method!
Cleaning oven racks can be a real chore, but it doesn’t have to be! Here’s a simple and effective method that uses common household items:
What You’ll Need:
- Large trash bags (heavy-duty) or a bathtub
- Dish soap
- Baking soda
- White vinegar
- Hot water
- A sponge or scrub brush
- Paper towels or a clean cloth
Method 1: The Trash Bag Method (For Heavily Soiled Racks):
- Prepare the Solution:
- Line a large trash bag with another trash bag for extra strength.
- Place the oven racks inside the bag.
- Pour in hot water, enough to submerge the racks.
- Add about 1/2 cup of dish soap and 1 cup of baking soda.
- Seal the bag tightly.
- Soak:
- Let the racks soak for several hours, or preferably overnight. The longer they soak, the easier the grime will loosen.
- Scrub and Rinse:
- Remove the racks from the bag and place them in a sink or bathtub.
- Use a sponge or scrub brush to remove any remaining grease and grime.
- Rinse the racks thoroughly with hot water.
- Dry them with paper towels or a clean cloth.
Method 2: The Bathtub Method (Also for Heavily Soiled Racks):
- Prepare the Solution:
- Line your bathtub with old towels or a plastic sheet to protect it.
- Place the oven racks in the bathtub.
- Fill the tub with hot water, enough to submerge the racks.
- Add about 1 cup of dish soap and 1 cup of baking soda.
- Add 1-2 cups of white vinegar. The mixture will fizz, which helps to loosen the grime.
- Soak:
- Let the racks soak for several hours, or preferably overnight.
- Scrub and Rinse:
- Drain the bathtub and rinse the racks thoroughly with hot water.
- Use a sponge or scrub brush to remove any remaining grease and grime.
- Dry them with paper towels or a clean cloth.
Method 3: Spot Cleaning (For Lightly Soiled Racks):
- Prepare a Paste:
- Mix baking soda with a little water to form a paste.
- Apply and Scrub:
- Apply the paste to the soiled areas of the oven racks.
- Let it sit for about 15-20 minutes.
- Scrub the areas with a sponge or scrub brush.
- Rinse and Dry:
- Rinse the racks thoroughly with hot water.
- Dry them with paper towels or a clean cloth.
Tips and Tricks:
- Wear gloves: Protect your hands from the hot water and cleaning solutions.
- Use a magic eraser: For stubborn stains, a magic eraser can be very effective.
- Regular cleaning: Cleaning your oven racks regularly will prevent heavy buildup and make them easier to clean.
- Don’t use harsh chemicals: Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the racks.
- Dry thoroughly: Ensure the racks are completely dry before placing them back in the oven to prevent rusting.