Tired of harsh chemical oven cleaners and scrubbing for hours? This natural cleaning method using lemons is your knight in shining armor! Lemons are not just for delicious lemonade, their acidity is a powerful tool for tackling greasy oven messes. Plus, you’ll be left with a fresh, citrusy scent instead of harsh chemical fumes.
Ingredients:
- Lemons (2-3 depending on the size of your oven)
- Water
- Baking soda (optional)
- Microfiber cloths or sponges
- Oven mitts
Method:
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Preheat and Steam: Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). While it heats, grab an oven-safe dish (glass or ceramic is ideal). Slice your lemons in half and place them cut-side down in the dish. Fill the dish with water, just enough to cover the lemons. Pop the lemony concoction into the preheated oven and let it steam for 30 minutes. The steam and citric acid will loosen grease and grime on the oven surfaces.
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Turn off and Cool Down: After 30 minutes, turn off the oven and let it cool down completely with the door closed. This allows the loosened grime to soften further. Patience is key here!
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Wipe and Shine: Once the oven is cool enough to touch comfortably, don your oven mitts and take out the lemon water dish. Now comes the easy part! Dip your microfiber cloth or sponge into the warm lemon water and wipe down the entire oven interior, including the walls, floor, and racks.
For stubborn grime: If you encounter any particularly stubborn baked-on messes, here’s a handy trick: Sprinkle some baking soda directly on the greasy area and then squeeze some fresh lemon juice on top. The baking soda will fizz, further loosening the grime. Let it sit for a few minutes before wiping it clean with the lemon water solution.
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Clean the Racks: Oven racks often require a little extra TLC. If yours are removable, take them out and soak them in a sink filled with hot, soapy water (you can add some of the leftover lemon water for extra cleaning power). Once soaked, use a sponge or scrubbing brush to remove any remaining grime. Rinse thoroughly and dry completely before placing them back in the oven.
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Final Touches: Once you’ve wiped down the entire oven interior, use a clean, damp microfiber cloth to rinse off any leftover residue. Dry everything thoroughly with another clean, dry microfiber cloth. This will prevent water spots and leave your oven sparkling clean!
Bonus Tip: For an extra refreshing touch, after everything is clean, leave the oven door slightly ajar for a few minutes to allow the fresh lemon scent to circulate.
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