For many people, cleaning the oven is one of the most dreaded household chores. Grease hardens, food spills bake into the surface, and dark residue accumulates in corners and on racks. Traditional cleaning methods often involve hours of scrubbing, abrasive tools, or strong chemical sprays that carry unpleasant odors. It’s no surprise that many people procrastinate until the mess becomes impossible to ignore. But there’s a gentler, simpler way—one that relies on moisture, mild detergent, and heat rather than aggressive scrubbing. This method, passed down by many home cooks and lovingly referred to as “Nana’s method,” centers on three basic items most households already have: a dishwasher detergent pod, a heat-safe casserole dish or baking dish, and clean water. The idea is not to coat the oven in foam or soap, but to harness warm steam to soften baked-on grime so it can be wiped away with minimal effort.

The process begins by setting the oven temperature to a low heat—around 200°F (93°C). This temperature is warm enough to produce steam without posing unnecessary risk or overheating the appliance. While the oven preheats, a casserole dish is filled with water deep enough to cover the bottom of the dish, and a dishwasher pod is added. Dishwasher pods contain detergents and enzymes designed to break down food residue on plates and cookware, and when heated gently, the steam carries these cleaning agents throughout the oven interior. Once the oven reaches temperature, the dish is placed on the center rack, the door is closed, and the oven is left to heat for about an hour. During this time, the water begins to steam, loosening grease, splatters, and residue stuck to the oven walls, floor, and glass door. Because the heat is low, the pod doesn’t boil or create harsh fumes; instead, it dissolves slowly, releasing a mild cleaning solution into the air inside the oven. For people who dislike the smell or intensity of traditional oven cleaners, this method offers a more comfortable and accessible alternative.

After an hour, the oven is turned off and allowed to cool slightly—but not completely. Warm surfaces are easier to clean than cold ones because grime stays softened. When it is safe to touch, a damp cloth, sponge, or microfiber towel can be used to wipe down the interior. Many people are surprised by how easily residue lifts away, even in places that previously seemed hopelessly stuck. Stubborn spots, such as heavy spills or areas where sugary liquids have caramelized, may need an extra pass with a soft brush or non-abrasive scrubber. If necessary, the steaming step can be repeated. This method works well because it avoids two extremes: it doesn’t rely on harsh chemicals, and it doesn’t require intense scrubbing. Steam cleaning has long been used in kitchens for loosening residue on stovetops, microwaves, and even tile surfaces. Warm humidity softens grime the same way hot water softens hardened food in a pot, and combined with the grease-cutting ingredients inside the dishwasher pod, it becomes an effective cleaning aid.

Another benefit of this approach is that it can help reduce buildup that may eventually cause odors or even smoking when the oven is used at high temperatures. Keeping the oven clean doesn’t just improve appearance—it supports better cooking performance and reduces fire risk from accumulated grease. A clean oven also heats more evenly, which can improve cooking results overall. Importantly, while this method is gentle and convenient, safety should always come first. The dish should be made of glass, ceramic, or another oven-safe material. Metal pots, plastic containers, or anything not specifically rated for oven use should never be used. The pod should stay inside the dish; it should not be placed directly on racks or oven surfaces. Additionally, no one should attempt to handle boiling water or hot containers without oven mitts, and children and pets should be kept at a safe distance during the process.

For ovens with heavy grease buildup, the steaming method may serve as an excellent first step. Once residue is softened, a baking soda paste—made from baking soda and a small amount of water—can be applied to remaining stains. Baking soda offers mild abrasiveness without scratching surfaces. After letting the paste sit for 15–20 minutes, it can be wiped clean with a damp cloth. Vinegar can be used afterward as a rinse to help remove any cloudy film left behind by baking soda. However, vinegar should not be placed inside the oven during the steaming phase, and it should never be used on natural stone or certain metal surfaces without checking manufacturer guidance. Oven racks can be cleaned separately for even better results. They can be removed and soaked in hot, soapy water in a sink or bathtub lined with towels to prevent scratching. After soaking for an hour or more, residue wipes off far more easily. Some people use dishwasher pods for this soaking step as well, dissolving one in the tub. A soft sponge or brush finishes the job.

The charm of Nana’s method lies in its simplicity. It reflects an older generation’s philosophy: use what you have, work smarter rather than harder, and avoid unnecessary chemicals when gentler options will do. Many people find comfort in home-grown cleaning strategies because they feel approachable and budget-friendly. While modern products can be effective, not everyone wants to rely on strong sprays or long scrubbing sessions. A warm oven, a dish of water, and a dissolving pod offer a practical middle ground. Maintaining a clean oven doesn’t have to be an all-day task. Regular light cleanings—every few weeks or after major spills—can prevent buildup from hardening and becoming difficult to remove. Using a baking sheet under bubbly casseroles, pizzas, or pies can also minimize messes before they start. Wiping small spills once the oven cools (but before they fully harden) can keep future cleanings shorter and simpler.

In the end, a clean oven doesn’t just make a kitchen look better—it supports better cooking, improves safety, and reduces stress. When cleaning feels manageable instead of overwhelming, people are more likely to keep up with it and enjoy their space. And sometimes, the best solutions are the ones passed down through family stories—quiet reminders that everyday tasks can be easier than they seem, especially when tackled with patience, warmth, and a little steam.