No, using vinegar and baking soda to clean a self-cleaning oven should not harm the oven. Both vinegar and baking soda are commonly used natural cleaning agents and are generally safe for use in ovens.
However, it's important to note that when using a self-cleaning oven, the manufacturer's instructions should always be followed. Self-cleaning ovens use a high-temperature cleaning cycle to burn off food residue and grime, and some manufacturers recommend avoiding the use of any additional cleaning products during the self-cleaning process.
If you wish to use vinegar and baking soda for regular cleaning of your self-cleaning oven, it is best to do so outside of the self-cleaning cycle. Here's a general approach you can follow:
Make sure the oven is cool and unplugged before cleaning.
Create a paste by mixing baking soda with water until it forms a spreadable consistency.
Apply the baking soda paste to the interior surfaces of the oven, focusing on areas with stubborn stains or residue. Avoid applying the paste to the heating elements or any sensitive components.
Let the baking soda paste sit on the surfaces for a few hours or overnight to allow it to break down the grime.
After the paste has had time to work, dampen a cloth or sponge with vinegar and wipe down the interior surfaces of the oven. Vinegar helps to neutralize odors and can help remove any remaining residue.
Rinse the cloth or sponge with water and wipe down the surfaces again to remove any vinegar residue.
Finally, thoroughly rinse and dry the interior surfaces of the oven to ensure no cleaning agents remain before using the oven.
By following these steps, you can safely use vinegar and baking soda to clean a self-cleaning oven without causing harm. However, it's always a good idea to consult the specific instructions provided by the oven's manufacturer for the best cleaning practices.