How to clean your oven with lemon – the quick trick behind a citrus fresh finish
When life gives you lemons, you use them to achieve a spotless shine – this expert-approved method is refreshingly simple


Knowing how to clean your oven with lemons may sound tedious – but it's about to become the easiest part of your kitchen routine.
The hack that has already made waves on social media is among the easiest (but most powerful) cleaning methods you can practice – and it's entirely expert-approved. So, while you may already know how to clean an oven effectively, this trick for cleaning with lemon juice may rewrite your method entirely.
Whether you want to tackle (even the harshest) grease without powerful chemicals or you simply want to flirt with the method that's making headlines online – these cleaning tips will make the process clear.
How to clean your oven with lemon – the expert method behind the viral social media trend
When cleaning a kitchen, it can feel natural to begin with your oven. Here's how to make the process notably quicker, easier – and more natural.
1. Create the lemon and water mixture
To begin, Carey Sperry, the Owner of Clean in Vogue, takes just one slice one fresh lemon in one and a half cups of tap water in an oven-proof bowl. Or you can also use a small-medium cookie tray or pie plate if you would prefer. Then place the mixture in a 250-degree oven for 20 minutes.
2. Wipe your oven
After 20 minutes, Carey recommends turning off the heat and letting the water cool for a few minutes. However, it's important not to let it cool too much as it should still feel hot to touch.
When the water is at the right temperature, you should wipe the oven floor, walls, and racks with a sponge or cotton cloth dipped in the hot lemon water. You should then dry the oven will a different rag.
3. Use a sustainable sponge as an alternative
While using a rag will ensure a spotless finish – but the experts similarly suggest a fiber scrubber or wood cellulose sponge as a more sustainable kitchen idea. As before, Carey says you should rub off until clean before wiping residue off with a warm cloth.
How do I clean my oven with baking soda and lemon?
For tougher, baked-on greasy areas, you can use baking soda alongside lemon on the bottom and inside the oven door. And the method is just as simple. Carey suggests cutting the lemon into thick slices before squeezing the juice on top of the baking soda and scrubbing it until it comes up spotless.
Alternatively, Steve Evans, owner of Memphis Maids, says that you can clean your oven by coating the surface in baking soda and using half a lemon as a scrubber inside your oven. However, American Home Shield, warns that you may see smoke when scrubbing, so you may want to open a window during the process.
Is lemon good for cleaning oven?
Yes, using lemon is one of the best ways you can clean an oven. American Home Shield celebrates the citrus's natural cleaning abilities – mostly for its degreasing and odor neutralizing properties. And its benefits aren't limited to your oven. If you're looking for how to clean a microwave naturally, you can use lemon juice – combined with 1/3 cup of water.
The expert suggests mixing the solution in a microwavable bowl for 3 to 5 minutes before wiping the inside of your appliance thoroughly. 'Don’t forget to wipe down the outside with a cloth and some diluted vinegar or other cleaning product,' she adds.
Sign up to the Homes & Gardens newsletter
Design expertise in your inbox – from inspiring decorating ideas and beautiful celebrity homes to practical gardening advice and shopping round-ups.

Megan is the Head of Celebrity Style News at Homes & Gardens, where she leads the celebrity/ news team. She has a history in interior design, travel, and news journalism, having lived and worked in New York, Paris, and, currently, London. Megan has bylines in Livingetc, The Telegraph, and IRK Magazine, and has interviewed the likes of Drew Barrymore, Ayesha Curry, Michelle Keegan, and Tan France, among others. She lives in a London apartment with her antique typewriter and an eclectic espresso cup collection, and dreams of a Kelly Wearstler-designed home.
-
Butter yellow might be endlessly chic – but designers warn not to pair it with these colors that can ruin this soft subtle shade
Think twice before pairing 2025's new neutral with these four colors – from cool whites to competing pastels
-
Sanded vs. unsanded grout – the differences, pros, cons, and how to choose the best fit for your DIY project
Industry experts reveal all you need to know
-
The best non-toxic kitchen appliances – tested and reviewed by a health-conscious cook who has tried them all
You might have made the switch to organic, whole foods.... but what are you cooking them in? Replace peeling, non-stick appliances with these cleaner alternatives
-
What are the best white paints for kitchens? 6 light and airy picks from interior designers
Create a clean and classic kitchen color scheme with these favorite white paints
-
How to deep clean a juicer fast using baking soda and vinegar
Experts explain how to deep clean a juicer using store cupboard ingredients, such as white vinegar, baking soda, lemon juice, and more
-
Should you use filtered water for coffee? We explore the difference water can make to your morning cup
We asked experts 'should you use filtered water in your coffee?' to find out about the flavor difference as well as any cleaning or health benefits
-
How to clean a food processor – tips from our kitchen experts
We asked experts for their tips on how to clean a food processor to stop it from staining, fogging, and looking cloudy. Here's their top tips
-
6 ways to make your air fryer last longer, according to an air fryer chef
We asked an air fryer chef for her top tips on how to make your air fryer last longer. From cleaning to accessories, here's all you need to know
-
How to clean a coffee percolator – the easy tips that experts swear by
Here's how to clean a coffee percolator using vinegar, baking soda, and lemon. We cover everything from daily rises to deep cleans.
-
These barista hacks unlock alternative ways to use a steam wand – from cleaning to baking and even making breakfast
These barista hacks unlock alternative ways to use a steam wand. Alternative uses include quick oats, jewelry cleaning, and poached eggs