How to clean your Oven Racks (Guide)

By Janet Bannon on 12th December 2024 (updated: 14th January 2025) in Oven Cleaning Tips

Learn the best ways of how to clean your oven racks with our expert guide. Oven racks are a magnet for grease, grime, and baked-on food. Neglecting them can not only make your oven look dirty, but it can also impact the taste and smell of the food you cook.

A thorough cleaning will not only improve the look of your oven but can also help maintain its efficiency and hygiene.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about how to clean your oven racks properly.

What is the best way to Clean Your Oven Racks?

When it comes to the ultimate method for cleaning oven racks, the standout option is Bar Keepers Friend proving highly effective in tackling stubborn grime.

However, for those who prefer a more hands-off approach or simply want to ensure the best possible results without the hassle, Ovenu is the perfect choice. Not only do we provide a professional touch to your oven and racks, but we also guarantee a spotless clean that leaves your oven looking pristine. If you want to learn more about the many ways you can clean your oven racks, keep reading.

Why Clean Your Oven Racks Regularly?

Cleaning your oven racks regularly is more than just a chore; it offers a multitude of benefits that enhance both your cooking experience and the overall cleanliness of your kitchen. Here are some compelling reasons to prioritise this often-overlooked task:

Improved Taste

One of the most significant benefits of regularly cleaning your oven racks is the impact on the taste of your food. When racks accumulate burnt-on food residue, that flavour can transfer to fresh dishes, resulting in undesirable tastes.

This is especially true for items that cook for extended periods, as they are more likely to absorb these off-flavours. By maintaining clean racks, you ensure that your meals are as delicious as intended, free from any lingering burnt or stale flavours.

Increased Efficiency

A clean oven operates more efficiently. When racks are splattered with grease and grime, heat circulation is hindered, leading to uneven cooking. This can cause certain areas of your food to undercook while others may become overdone.

Regular cleaning allows for better airflow, enabling your oven to distribute heat evenly, ensuring that every dish is cooked to perfection. Not only does this save time in meal preparation, but it also reduces energy consumption, as a well-maintained oven doesn’t have to work as hard to achieve the desired cooking temperatures.

Aesthetic Appeal

Let’s face it—nobody likes a greasy, grimey oven. Clean oven racks contribute to a more polished and inviting kitchen environment. When guests visit or during meal prep, a sparkling oven creates a positive impression, reflecting attention to detail and cleanliness.

Maintaining your oven’s appearance can also prevent the buildup of unpleasant odours, ensuring that your kitchen remains a welcoming space for cooking and gathering.

Longevity of Equipment

Regular cleaning helps prolong the lifespan of your oven and its racks. Built-up grease can lead to corrosion and damage over time, resulting in costly repairs or replacements.

By investing a little time in routine maintenance, you protect your equipment and ensure it functions optimally for years to come.

Health and Safety

Finally, cleaning your oven racks contributes to a healthier cooking environment. Old grease and food particles can become breeding grounds for bacteria, potentially contaminating your meals. Regular cleaning minimises these health risks, ensuring that your cooking space remains hygienic and safe for your family.

*WARNING* the approaches discussed in this article are not guaranteed to effectively clean any part of the oven racks. Nor are they recommended as green or safe options for oven cleaning.

Popular Methods for Cleaning Oven Racks

1. Baking Soda and Vinegar

Best for: Eco-friendly, non-toxic cleaning

Process:

Cleaning oven racks with baking soda and vinegar is a popular method for those seeking a natural and effective solution. Here’s is how to do it:

• Preparation: Begin by removing the oven racks from the oven and placing them in a sink or on a flat surface where you can comfortably work. Ensure the area is well-ventilated, especially if you’re sensitive to strong odours.
• Create the Paste: In a mixing bowl, combine equal parts of baking soda and water to form a thick paste. For added cleaning power, slowly add vinegar to the mixture. The combination will create a fizzing reaction, which helps to lift grime. Adjust the consistency as needed; it should be thick enough to stick to the racks without dripping off.
• Application: Use a spatula or your hands (wearing gloves is advisable) to spread the paste generously over the oven racks. Focus on areas with significant grease or grime buildup. For tougher spots, you can apply a thicker layer of the paste.
• Let It Sit: Allow the paste to sit on the racks for at least 10-15 minutes, or longer for more stubborn stains. The longer it sits, the more effective it will be at breaking down grease and baked-on food particles.
• Scrubbing: After the waiting period, use a sponge, cloth, or non-abrasive scrubbing pad to scrub the racks. The baking soda acts as a gentle abrasive, helping to lift off grime without scratching the metal. Be sure to pay extra attention to corners and crevices where food particles may accumulate.
• Rinse Thoroughly: Once you’ve scrubbed the racks, rinse them under warm water to remove the baking soda and vinegar mixture. Make sure all residue is washed away, as leftover baking soda can create a chalky texture if not properly rinsed.
• Drying: After rinsing, allow the racks to air dry completely or wipe them down with a clean, dry cloth before placing them back in the oven.

Pros:

• Non-Toxic and Safe for the Environment: Both baking soda and vinegar are natural ingredients, making this method safe for your family and pets. They won’t emit harmful fumes or leave behind toxic residues.
• Readily Available Household Items: Most households already have baking soda and vinegar on hand, making this a cost-effective and convenient cleaning solution.
• Removes Most Grease and Grime: This method is effective at breaking down common food residues, leaving your racks looking significantly cleaner after use.

Cons:

• Requires Some Scrubbing: While the paste helps loosen grime, some manual effort is still needed to scrub away stubborn stains. For those who prefer a more hands-off approach, this method may not be ideal.
• May Not Remove Heavy, Burnt-On Stains: While this technique is excellent for regular maintenance, it may struggle with very heavy or deeply charred stains. For those tough spots, additional treatments or methods may be necessary.

Overall, the baking soda and vinegar method is a fantastic choice for those seeking a natural and effective way to clean their oven racks while minimising environmental impact.

Cleaning Oven Racks with Aluminium Foil and Baking Soda

Best for: Quick, affordable, natural cleaning.

Process:

The Aluminium Foil and Baking Soda Scrub method offers a quick and effective way to clean oven racks using common household items. If you do not have any aluminium foil you could purchase a stainless steel scouring ball. Here’s a detailed guide on how to implement this cleaning method:

• Preparation: Begin by filling a sink or a large basin with hot water. Add a few drops of a mild dish soap to create a soapy solution.
• Soaking the Racks: Carefully place the oven racks in the hot, soapy water, ensuring they are fully submerged. Allow them to soak for about 10-20 minutes. This soaking helps to loosen any built-up grease and grime.
• Creating the Foil Scrub: While the racks are soaking, take a piece of aluminium foil and crumple it into a tight ball. The texture of the foil will provide a scrubbing surface that’s effective yet gentle enough not to scratch the metal of the racks. (If you do not have any foil, use a stainless steel scouring ball)
• Adding Baking Soda: Once the foil ball is ready, sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda over it. The moisture from the foil will help the baking soda adhere to its surface.
• Scrubbing the Racks: After soaking, remove the racks from the water and allow any excess water to drip off. Using the baking soda-coated aluminium foil ball, scrub the oven racks in circular motions, applying gentle pressure as needed. Focus on areas with more grease or grime, using the rough texture of the foil to lift away residue.Dont forget to get inside each corner well, to make sure you get all the dirt and grime off.
• Final Rinse: After scrubbing, rinse the racks thoroughly under warm running water to remove any baking soda and loosened grime.
• Drying: Wipe the racks dry with a clean cloth or allow them to air dry before reinserting them into the oven.

Pros:

• Effective at Removing Grease: The combination of baking soda and the abrasive texture of aluminium foil is excellent for breaking down and removing grease from the oven racks, making this method highly effective for light to moderate grime.
• Low-Cost and Uses Common Household Items: This method requires minimal financial investment, utilising readily available items like baking soda and aluminium foil. It’s an accessible option for those looking to clean without purchasing specialised cleaners.
• Great for Light to Moderate Grime: This technique works particularly well for regular cleaning sessions, making it a suitable option for maintaining oven racks in between deeper cleaning tasks.

Cons:

• Requires More Scrubbing Than Other Methods: Compared to some other cleaning techniques, this method does require a bit more physical effort and scrubbing to achieve desired results. It might not be the quickest method if the grime is particularly tough.
• Not Ideal for Extremely Baked-On Residue: While effective for light to moderate buildup, this method may struggle with heavy, burnt-on residue that has been allowed to accumulate over time. In such cases, a more intensive cleaning method may be necessary.

*WARNING* the approaches discussed in this article are not guaranteed to effectively clean any part of the oven racks. Nor are they recommended as green or safe options for oven cleaning.

Oven Rack Dishwasher Cleaning

Best for: Minimal effort

Process:

The Dishwasher Cleaning method is a convenient and straightforward approach to cleaning oven racks with minimal hands-on effort. Here’s how to effectively utilise your dishwasher for this task:

• Preparation: Before placing the racks in the dishwasher, ensure they are free from any large food particles or loose debris. This will prevent clogs and ensure the dishwasher runs efficiently.
• Loading the Dishwasher: Arrange the oven racks in the dishwasher, ideally positioning them on the bottom rack to allow for optimal water circulation. It’s best to avoid overcrowding the dishwasher with other items, as this can inhibit the cleaning process.
• Selecting the Cycle: Choose a heavy-duty cycle on your dishwasher, as this setting uses higher temperatures and stronger water pressure, which helps dislodge grease and grime effectively.
• Post-Cycle Scrubbing: Once the cycle has completed, remove the oven racks from the dishwasher. While many stains and residues should have been loosened, some spots may still need attention. Use a scourer or scrub sponge to tackle any stubborn areas, applying a little dish soap if necessary for added cleaning power.
• Rinsing and Drying: Rinse the racks under warm water to remove any remaining soap residue. Wipe them dry with a clean cloth or let them air dry before reinserting them into the oven.

Pros:

• Easy and Hands-Off: One of the main advantages of this method is its ease. Simply loading the racks into the dishwasher and running a cycle requires minimal effort compared to traditional scrubbing methods. This is particularly appealing for those with busy schedules.
• Works Well as a Pre-Cleaning Step: The dishwasher method is excellent for reducing the amount of grime on oven racks before performing a deeper clean. It can significantly cut down the scrubbing time required afterward, making the overall cleaning process more efficient.

Cons:

• May Require Additional Scrubbing Afterward: While the dishwasher effectively cleans the racks, it may not remove all stains or burnt-on residue completely. Additional scrubbing may be needed to achieve a spotless finish, which can be a downside for those seeking a fully hands-off method.
• Not Suitable for Very Greasy Racks: If the oven racks are heavily soiled or caked with grease, this method may not be sufficient on its own. In such cases, a preliminary treatment or more intensive cleaning method may be necessary to address the significant buildup.

*WARNING* the approaches discussed in this article are not guaranteed to effectively clean any part of the oven racks. Nor are they recommended as green or safe options for oven cleaning.

Using Bar Keepers Friend to clean Oven Racks

Best for: Stubborn, heavy-duty cleaning

Process:

The Bar Keepers Friend method is a powerful solution for tackling tough grime and stubborn stains on oven racks. This approach utilises the cleaning power of this popular product to restore your racks to their former glory. Here’s how to effectively use Bar Keepers Friend for cleaning:

• Creating the Paste: Start by mixing Bar Keepers Friend powder with a small amount of water to form a paste. Aim for a consistency similar to peanut butter—thick enough to adhere to the racks but not too runny.
• Applying the Paste: Use a brush or cloth to apply the paste evenly to the oven racks, focusing on heavily soiled areas. Be sure to cover a manageable section at a time, as this will make it easier to scrub and rinse later.
• Setting Time: Allow the paste to sit on the racks for a short duration, typically around 1-5 minutes. This waiting period helps the formula penetrate the grime and stains, loosening them for easier removal.
• Scrubbing: After the designated time has passed, use a scrub brush or sponge to scrub the racks. Work in circular motions, applying more paste as needed to tackle particularly stubborn spots.
• Rinsing Thoroughly: Once satisfied with the scrubbing, rinse the racks under warm running water to remove all traces of the Bar Keepers Friend paste. It’s essential to ensure no residue remains, as this could lead to potential discolouration of the metal.
• Drying: After rinsing, wipe the racks dry with a clean cloth or let them air dry before placing them back in the oven.

Pros:

• Very Effective on Tough Grime and Stains: Bar Keepers Friend is renowned for its cleaning efficacy, particularly on baked-on food residue and grease. It can cut through heavy-duty stains that might resist other cleaning methods.
• Can Restore Discoloured Metal: In addition to cleaning, this product has the ability to restore the shine to discoloured metal, giving oven racks a refreshed and polished look after cleaning.

Cons:

• Contains Chemicals That Can Discolour Metal if Left On Too Long: While effective, Bar Keepers Friend is a chemical product that can potentially cause discolouration if the paste is not rinsed off promptly. Users should be cautious about the application time to avoid unwanted damage.
• May Require Multiple Applications: For extremely stubborn stains or heavily soiled racks, it might be necessary to apply the paste multiple times. This can add extra time and effort to the cleaning process, which may be a consideration for those looking for a quick fix.

In summary, Bar Keepers Friend is an excellent choice for those facing particularly tough grime on their oven racks. Its powerful formulation effectively restores racks, making it a go-to for heavy-duty cleaning needs. However, users should be mindful of application time to avoid any adverse effects on the metal.

Things to Watch Out For

• Chemical Reactions: Avoid mixing harsh chemicals with other cleaning agents (such as bleach) to prevent dangerous reactions.
• Damage to Oven Racks: Some cleaning products, particularly highly acidic or chemical-based ones, can damage the finish on oven racks over time. Be cautious with prolonged exposure to Bar Keepers Friend or ammonia, and rinse thoroughly.
• Self-Cleaning Ovens: If your oven has a self-cleaning function, be sure to check your manufacturer’s guidelines about cleaning the racks. The self-cleaning mode can discolor or warp oven racks.
• Foil Scratches: If using aluminium foil, avoid scrubbing too hard to prevent scratching the metal surface.

Final Tips for Maintaining Clean Oven Racks

• Preventative Measures: Line the bottom of your oven with a reusable oven liner to catch drips and prevent grease buildup on the racks.
• Regular Maintenance: Lightly wipe down racks every few weeks to prevent heavy buildup. A quick clean regularly will save time and effort in the long run.
• Use Soaking: For best results, soaking oven racks—whether in soapy water or using an ammonia bag—will loosen grime and reduce the amount of scrubbing required.

Conclusion: Choosing the Best Method for You

Ultimately, the best way to clean your oven racks depends on your preferences and available supplies:

• If you prefer eco-friendly methods, opt for baking soda and vinegar.
• For minimal effort, use the dishwasher method.
• If your racks are covered in stubborn grease, Bar Keepers Friend will start the process, but we suggest giving your local Ovenu technician a call.

At Ovenu, our commitment is to deliver exceptional oven cleaning services for both domestic and commercial ovens and this always includes the oven racks.

Using eco-friendly products and advanced techniques, we ensure that every inch of your oven is clean and shines, making it look and perform like new.

Our trained professionals are dedicated to thoroughness, customers can trust that stubborn grease, burnt-on food, and grime will be expertly removed.

Choosing us means prioritising a spotless oven while saving time and effort, allowing you to focus on what truly matters. Experience the difference with Ovenu, where cleanliness meets convenience. Get in touch below.