DIY Rosemary Infused Non-Toxic Oven Cleaner Recipe
Commercial oven cleaners are one of the most toxic cleaning products that you can bring in your home and into the kitchen where you eat. Oven use can increase by up to 50% in the weeks leading up to these holidays compared to the rest of the year.
Thanksgiving: Roasting turkeys, baking pies, and preparing casseroles contribute to the surge.
Christmas: Baking cookies, roasting meats, and preparing festive desserts are common.
Hanukkah: Traditional dishes that require baking and roasting are prepared for the celebration.
Commercial oven cleaners may offer quick and easy solutions for stubborn grease and grime, but their harsh chemicals pose significant health and environmental risks.
Sodium Hydroxide (Lye): A strong caustic agent that can cause severe skin burns and eye irritation.
Ammonia: Releases harmful fumes that can irritate the respiratory system.
Solvents: Chemicals like glycol ethers used to dissolve grease can be toxic when inhaled or absorbed through the skin.
The health risks associated with these commercial oven cleaners far outweighs their convenience. They have been linked to respiratory issues; inhalation of fumes can lead to coughing, shortness of breath, and aggravated asthma symptoms. Also, direct contact to the skin and eyes can cause burns, redness, and irritation. Prolonged exposure to harsh chemicals may increase the risk of chronic health conditions, including cancer.
Likewise, runoff from cleaning can introduce toxic chemicals into waterways, harming aquatic life. Many ingredients do not break down easily, contributing to long-term environmental pollution. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) released during use can degrade indoor and outdoor air quality.
Opting for natural and safer alternatives not only protects your well-being but also contributes to a healthier planet.
Recipe:
Ingredients:
5 tablespoons washing soda
5 tablespoons baking soda
2 tablespoons Castile soap
2 tablespoons water
1 tablespoon loosely ground rosemary
Loosely ground rosemary provides a slightly abrasive texture for scrubbing assistance and helping to break down and loosen baked-on grease.
Directions:
Combine first three ingredients into a small bowl and mix to combine. Add water and mix until it makes a spreadable, foamy paste. When ready to use, add rosemary and stir in. Spread enough paste to cover all surfaces, using gloves. Wait at least an hour, and then scrub away debris with a hard bristle brush. Some elbow grease might be required on tough burned stains. Wipe paste off with a wet cloth or compostable sponge. Lastly, spray on a gentle soap cleaner or white vinegar spray and wipe clean. This paste can be used to clean racks, too.
