Cleaning oven racks can be one of the most dreaded chores in the kitchen. Between the grease buildup, baked-on food, and stubborn stains, getting those metal racks shiny again can feel like an impossible task. But my aunt, a cleaning enthusiast, swears by one simple trick that makes cleaning oven racks practically effortless. After trying it myself, I had to share it with others who dread this job as much as I used to. Here’s how it works.
The Magic Formula: Dryer Sheets and Dish Soap
The secret weapon in my aunt’s cleaning arsenal is one you might already have in your laundry room—dryer sheets! Yes, those seemingly delicate, lightly scented sheets you toss into the dryer to soften your clothes have hidden cleaning power. Paired with dish soap and hot water, they make the perfect combination for removing grease and grime from oven racks.
What You’ll Need:
Dryer sheets (at least 5-10 depending on the size of the racks)
Dish soap (preferably a grease-fighting one)
A bathtub or large sink (large enough to submerge the racks)
Hot water
A sponge or soft scrubber (optional for tougher stains)
How It Works:
The magic behind dryer sheets is the combination of their fabric softening agents and anti-static properties. These ingredients work wonders in loosening tough, stuck-on food and grime from the metal surfaces of your oven racks. The water softens the dried-on residue, while the chemicals in the dryer sheets do the heavy lifting. The added dish soap cuts through grease, making the entire process practically effortless.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Your Oven Racks:
Prepare the Bath
Start by filling your bathtub or large sink with enough hot water to fully submerge your oven racks. The hotter, the better, as heat helps loosen the grime more effectively.
Add Dish Soap
Squirt a generous amount of dish soap into the water—roughly a quarter cup for a standard bathtub should suffice. This grease-fighting soap will start working on any oil buildup immediately.
Layer in Dryer Sheets
Take 5-10 dryer sheets and toss them into the soapy water. Make sure they are evenly distributed across the surface to ensure maximum coverage over the racks.
Submerge the Oven Racks
Place your dirty oven racks into the water, making sure they are completely submerged. You may need to weigh them down with a dish or pot if they float up due to the shape of the tub.
Let Them Soak
