I’ve Tried Nearly a Dozen Methods for Cleaning My Oven Door — This Is How I’ll Do It from Now On

In the 12 years I’ve lived on my own, I’ve tried a lot of different methods to clean my greasy oven door. Because no matter how clean your kitchen happens to be, if your oven door is splotchy, the whole space will look dirty. I’ve tried a Magic Eraser, The Pink Stuff, a dishwasher tablet, a pumice stone, a steam solution of water and vinegar, and many other methods. There are pros and cons to each of these options, but if I had to pick just one method to use for the rest of time, there’s a clear winner.

Related: How To Clean an Oven with Baking Soda and Vinegar

Of all the methods I’ve tried, a simple DIY paste of baking soda and water has been the most reliable. First of all, it’s inexpensive. I’m sure to always have the necessary ingredients on hand. And it’s incredibly effective: The baking soda acts like an abrasive, so it not only cuts through the grease and removes stains, but also scrubs away stuck-on food bits without damaging the glass. 

I simply mix baking soda and water in a bowl until it reaches a shaving cream-like consistency. After wiping away big crumbs or debris on the door, I spread it on the glass. (Pull on dish gloves or use a brush!) I usually set a timer for 20 minutes, then wipe the paste away with a damp microfiber cloth or paper towel. If the stains don’t lift, you may have to do a bit of scrubbing with the leftover paste. Usually, though, after a few minutes, my door is free of both grease and brown residue!

If there are any streaks on the glass afterward, I use a dry lint-free cloth to buff them out. It works like a charm every time — and all without hassle or the stinky odors that come with some store-bought cleaners!

Do you have a favorite method for cleaning your oven door? Tell us in the comments below.