Cleaning the oven can feel like one of the most dreaded household chores, but with this simple, homemade oven cleaner, you can tackle stubborn grease and grime without relying on harsh chemicals. Using everyday ingredients like dish soap, lemon juice, vinegar, and water, this cleaner is both effective and safe for your home.
If you’ve been searching for an easy, affordable, and eco-friendly way to clean your oven, this recipe will leave it spotless and fresh—without any toxic fumes or expensive store-bought products.
Why This Homemade Oven Cleaner Works
This recipe combines the cleaning power of four simple ingredients that work together to tackle grease, grime, and baked-on residue:
Dish Soap: Cuts through grease and helps lift stuck-on grime.
Lemon Juice: Provides natural acidity to dissolve stubborn stains and leaves a fresh, clean scent.
Vinegar: A powerful natural cleaner that breaks down grease and disinfects surfaces.
Water: Helps dilute the solution for easy application and ensures safe use.
Together, these ingredients create a powerful cleaning solution that’s gentle on surfaces but tough on dirt.
Ingredients for Homemade Oven Cleaner
Here’s what you’ll need:
¼ cup dish soap – Any grease-cutting dish soap will work (like Dawn or Palmolive).
½ cup lemon juice – Fresh or bottled lemon juice works well.
1 cup vinegar – White distilled vinegar is best for cleaning purposes.
1 ¼ cups water – Filtered or tap water will work just fine.
Supplies Needed:
A clean spray bottle
A damp cloth or sponge
Optional: Scrub brush for stubborn spots
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make and Use Homemade Oven Cleaner
Step 1: Mix the Solution
- Add the following into a clean spray bottle:
¼ cup dish soap
½ cup lemon juice
1 cup vinegar
1 ¼ cups water
Secure the lid tightly and gently shake the spray bottle to combine the ingredients.
Tip: Avoid vigorous shaking to prevent excess foaming.
Step 2: Apply the Cleaner
Spray the homemade oven cleaner generously onto the inside of the oven, including:
Oven walls
Racks
The inside of the oven door
Any greasy or stained spots
Let the solution sit for at least 15-30 minutes. For tougher stains, leave it on for an hour or more.
Step 3: Wipe and Scrub
Use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe away the cleaner. For stubborn, baked-on grease:
Use a scrub brush or scouring pad to gently scrub the area.
Repeat the application if needed.
Rinse the cloth or sponge regularly with clean water to ensure you’re removing all residue.
Step 4: Final Rinse and Dry
Once all the cleaner and grime have been wiped away, use a clean damp cloth to give the oven a final rinse.
Dry the oven thoroughly with a microfiber cloth or towel.
Why Use Homemade Oven Cleaner?
- Non-Toxic and Eco-Friendly
Unlike store-bought oven cleaners that often contain harsh chemicals and fumes, this homemade cleaner uses natural ingredients that are safe for your family and the environment.
- Cost-Effective
This DIY cleaner uses common household items, saving you money on expensive commercial cleaning products.
- No Harsh Fumes
The combination of lemon juice and vinegar provides a fresh, clean scent without the strong, chemical smells found in traditional cleaners.
- Versatile Use
This solution isn’t just for ovens! You can use it to clean:
Stovetops
Microwave interiors
Kitchen countertops (test first)
Greasy baking sheets
Additional Tips for a Sparkling Oven
Preheat for Easier Cleaning: Warm the oven slightly (to about 150°F), turn it off, and then apply the cleaner. The heat helps loosen stubborn grime, making it easier to wipe away.
Clean Racks Separately: Remove oven racks and clean them in the sink using the same homemade cleaner. Let them soak for 15-20 minutes for best results.
Baking Soda Boost: For extra stubborn stains, sprinkle baking soda over the greasy areas before spraying the cleaner. The combination of vinegar and baking soda will create a bubbling reaction to lift grime.
Regular Maintenance: To prevent heavy buildup, spray the oven with this cleaner every couple of weeks and wipe it down regularly.
FAQs About Homemade Oven Cleaner
Q: Is this cleaner safe for self-cleaning ovens?
A: Yes! This natural cleaner is gentle enough for self-cleaning ovens and won’t interfere with the self-cleaning cycle.
Q: Can I use this on glass oven doors?
A: Absolutely. The cleaner is safe for glass. Use a soft sponge or cloth to avoid scratching the surface.
Q: How often should I clean my oven?
A: Ideally, clean your oven every 1-2 months, depending on use. Regular maintenance makes deep cleaning easier.
Q: Can I use other types of vinegar?
A: White distilled vinegar is recommended for cleaning. Apple cider vinegar may leave a slight residue or scent.
Final Thoughts
This Homemade Oven Cleaner is an easy, effective, and natural way to tackle one of the toughest cleaning jobs in the kitchen. With just four simple ingredients—dish soap, lemon juice, vinegar, and water—you can restore your oven to its sparkling glory without any toxic chemicals.
The next time your oven looks less than perfect, give this DIY solution a try. It’s gentle, budget-friendly, and works wonders on grease and grime. Plus, the refreshing lemon scent will leave your kitchen smelling clean and inviting.
Say goodbye to harsh fumes and expensive products—your oven will look like a million bucks in no time!
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Application Time: 15-30 minutes
Supplies Needed: Spray bottle, damp cloth