Baking soda, water and essential oil. Spread, leave overnight, then spray vinegar and wipe.
What You’ll Need
Baking soda: 2 cups (plus extra for the racks)
Water: 3/4 cup
Essential oil(s): 8 to 16 drops (optional; lemon, alone or with lavender)
White vinegar in a spray bottle (for the racks)
Glass bowlmetal spatula, newspapers, microfiber cloth, sponge, dish rag or old toothbrush
Directions
In a glass bowl, stir the baking soda, water and oil together into a thick paste that spreads easily.
Make sure the oven is off and fully cool, then lay newspaper on the floor.
Racks: set them flat in an empty sink, sprinkle with about 1/8 inch baking soda, and spritz with vinegar. When the foaming stops, cover with hot water and soak overnight.
Use a metal spatula to scrape residue and ash from the inside of the oven, staying clear of the heating elements. Spread the paste over every inside surface and leave it for 6 to 8 hours.
Spread any leftover paste on the door glass; after 15 minutes, wipe with a damp microfiber cloth, then rinse and dry.
Wipe the inside with a damp sponge from top to bottom and from back to front, rinsing until no baking soda is left.
Scrub the racks, rinse, dry, and put them back.
Notes
Safety: work only with the oven off and cool; avoid the heating elements. Wear gloves.