Here’s how I clean the oven rack: I use 1 plastic bag and it’s like new!

 

Here’s How I Clean the Oven Rack: I Use One Plastic Bag—And It Comes Out Like New

Cleaning the oven rack is one of those dreaded chores most of us put off until the last possible moment. Between baked-on grease, sticky spills, and burned residue, oven racks can start to look years older than they really are. But what if you could get them sparkling again—without endless scrubbing, harsh fumes, or soaking them in the bathtub?

Surprisingly, you can. And all it takes is one plastic bag and a few simple ingredients. This quick, low-effort cleaning method has become a viral favorite for good reason: it works shockingly well. Whether you cook often or only when the holidays roll around, this trick will make your oven racks look fresh, shiny, and almost factory-new.

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Why This Method Works

This hack relies on sealing the oven rack inside a bag with a powerful cleaning agent so the grime loosens and lifts without heavy scrubbing. The bag traps the cleaner inside, preventing evaporation and allowing it to work more efficiently. The result? Minimal effort, maximum payoff.

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What You’ll Need

• 1 large, heavy-duty plastic bag
  (A contractor trash bag or giant zip-top bag works best.)

• 1/4 cup dish soap OR 1/2 cup white vinegar

• 1/4 cup baking soda

• Warm water

• A soft scrub brush or sponge

• Gloves (optional, but recommended)

You don’t need fancy oven cleaners or harsh chemicals—just everyday items you likely already have in your kitchen.

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How to Clean Your Oven Rack Using One Plastic Bag

1. Place the Oven Rack in the Bag

Slide the dirty oven rack into the large plastic bag. Make sure the bag is big enough so the rack sits flat and the solution can reach all areas.

2. Add Your Cleaning Ingredients

Sprinkle the baking soda over the rack, then pour in the dish soap or vinegar.
If using vinegar, expect some fizzing—it means the reaction is working!

3. Add Warm Water and Seal the Bag

Pour in enough warm water to activate the mixture (about 2–4 cups).
Push out any excess air and tie or zip the bag tightly.

4. Let It Soak

Lay the bag flat and allow the rack to soak for 6–12 hours.
Overnight works perfectly. The mixture will break down baked-on grease effortlessly.

5. Remove and Rinse

Take the rack out of the bag and rinse it under warm water. Most grime will slide right off.

6. Lightly Scrub Any Stubborn Spots

If needed, use a sponge or brush to remove any lingering residue.
Because the cleaner has done the heavy lifting, even tough spots require minimal effort.

7. Dry and Return to the Oven

Your rack should now look shiny, clean, and almost brand new.

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Why This Method Beats Traditional Cleaning

✔ No heavy scrubbing

Let the cleaner do the work—not your arms.

✔ No harsh fumes

Safer and gentler than oven-cleaner sprays.

✔ No bathtub soaking

You keep the mess contained inside the bag.

✔ Requires only basic household ingredients

Perfect for quick, inexpensive cleaning.

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Tips for Best Results

• Make sure the rack is fully coated in the cleaning mixture.

• Flip the bag halfway through soaking for even coverage.

• For extremely dirty racks, add a splash of ammonia—but only if using outdoors with ventilation.

• Avoid using abrasive steel wool, which can scratch the metal.