Cleaning an oven is one of those chores most people dread. Grease splatters, baked-on spills, and lingering odors can make it feel like a battle before you even begin. Many store-bought cleaners promise quick results but come with harsh chemicals, strong fumes, and endless scrubbing. Thankfully, there’s a simpler, gentler solution—often called “Nana’s trick”—that turns oven cleaning into an easy, low-stress task using items already in your kitchen.
This method requires just three things: a heatproof casserole dish, water, and a regular dishwashing pod. Start by preheating your oven to a low temperature, about 200°F (93°C). While it warms, fill the dish with water and drop in the pod. Once the oven is ready, place the dish on the middle rack, close the door, and let it heat for about an hour.
