Clean your oven without harsh chemicals

And since you're probably self-isolating at home right now, now is as good a time as any for some spring cleaning. 

Supplies

1. Dish gloves
2. Baking soda
3. Vinegar
4. Dish soap
5. A spray bottle
6. A sponge or cloth

Step 1: Remove your oven racks

Remove the racks from your oven and wash them in warm, soapy water. Some oven racks are dishwasher-safe, but check your oven manual first to make sure they won't be damaged in the dishwasher. Dry the racks and set them aside.

Step 2: Clean out food particles

Wipe away any loose food particles in your oven. 

Step 3: Make your oven cleaner

Make a paste using three parts baking soda and one part water. You can "ballpark" this measurement and adjust as needed to achieve a pasty consistency. 

Step 4: Apply the paste to your oven

Spread the baking soda paste around the inside of your oven. If there are really tough, burnt-on spots, put a little extra paste on them. Avoid putting the paste on heating elements inside the oven.

Step 5: Let it sit

Close your oven, and let the paste sit overnight.

Step 6: Clean out the baking soda 

Moisten your sponge or cleaning cloth with warm water and wipe away the baking soda paste. You may need to rinse the sponge as you go to clean off bits of paste. For any stubborn messes, use a scraper or a spatula.

Step 7: Make a vinegar mixture 

Fill a spray bottle with one part vinegar and one part water. Spray down the oven and wipe away leftover baking soda paste with your sponge.    

Step 8: Replace the oven racks 

Return the racks to your oven; you can start cooking now.