Cleaning oven racks can be one of the most dreaded chores in the kitchen. Between the grease buildup, baked-on food, and stubborn stains, getting those metal racks shiny again can feel like an impossible task. But my aunt, a cleaning enthusiast, swears by one simple trick that makes cleaning oven racks practically effortless. After trying it myself, I had to share it with others who dread this job as much as I used to. Here’s how it works.

The secret weapon in my aunt’s cleaning arsenal is one you might already have in your laundry room—dryer sheets! Yes, those seemingly delicate, lightly scented sheets you toss into the dryer to soften your clothes have hidden cleaning power. Paired with dish soap and hot water, they make the perfect combination for removing grease and grime from oven racks.