Cleaning oven racks is easiest if you let a cleaning solution loosen the baked-on grease first.
Method 1: Hot Water + Dish Soap (Best for regular cleaning)
You’ll need:
- Bathtub, large sink, or plastic storage bin
- Hot water
- ½ cup dish soap (or a few generous squirts)
- Non-scratch scrubbing pad or sponge
- Old toothbrush
- Microfiber cloth or towel
Steps:
- Remove the oven racks and place them in the tub or container.
- Fill with enough hot water to completely cover the racks.
- Add the dish soap and mix gently.
- Soak for 4–8 hours or overnight.
- Scrub away loosened grease with a non-scratch pad.
- Use the toothbrush for corners and tight spots.
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
- Dry completely before putting the racks back into the oven.
Method 2: Baking Soda Paste (For stubborn grime)
Ingredients:
- ½ cup baking soda
- 3–5 tablespoons water (enough to make a thick paste)
Steps:
- Mix the baking soda and water into a paste.
- Spread the paste over both sides of the racks.
- Let it sit for 6–12 hours or overnight.
- Scrub with a non-scratch pad or brush.
- Rinse well.
- Dry completely before reinstalling.
Method 3: Baking Soda + Vinegar (Extra cleaning power)
You’ll need:
- ½ cup baking soda
- White vinegar in a spray bottle
- Hot water
- Scrub pad
Steps:
- Sprinkle or spread baking soda over the racks.
- Spray with white vinegar. It will fizz.
- Let the mixture sit for 30–60 minutes.
- Scrub away the loosened grease.
- Rinse thoroughly and dry.
Tips
- Avoid steel wool on chrome-coated racks, as it can scratch the finish.
- Clean oven racks every 2–3 months if you use your oven regularly.
- Place a towel in the bathtub before soaking racks to help protect the tub from scratches.