How to Bake Potatoes: Scrub potatoes with stiff wire brush. Dry. Puncture each potato a few times with a fork to allow steam to escape. Lightly coat each potato with oil, and sprinkle with salt. Place directly onto baking rack, with a foil lined cookie sheet underneath to catch any drippings. Bake at 350 degrees for an hour, or until skin is crispy and potatoes are fork tender. Carefully remove from oven and set aside to cool slightly.