The Best Ways To Remove Grease From Pans

Burnt grease on pans is a common problem, and it can be tricky to remove. While some people suggest using simple dish soap and hot water, this doesn't always do the trick. Fortunately, there are several other methods to clean burnt grease from pans, and most of them use common household products.

Baking soda, hydrogen peroxide and dish soap

Baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, and dish soap is a powerful combination to remove grease from pans. Here's a detailed guide on how to use these ingredients to tackle stubborn grease:

Step 1: Prepare the Cleaning Mixture

Mix baking soda and hydrogen peroxide in a small bowl to form a thick paste. The exact measurements may vary, but a good starting point is 1/2 cup of baking soda and 1/4 cup of hydrogen peroxide. You can adjust the amounts as needed to create a spreadable paste.

Step 2: Apply the Paste to the Pan

Take the paste and generously apply it to the greasy areas of the pan. Make sure to cover all the baked-on grease completely. You can use a spatula or a brush to spread the paste evenly.

Step 3: Let the Paste Sit

This step is crucial, as it allows the mixture to work its magic. Leave the paste on the pan for at least 2-3 hours. During this time, the chemical reaction between the baking soda and hydrogen peroxide will help break down the grease, making it easier to remove.

Step 4: Wipe Away the Paste

After the waiting period, use a damp cloth, sponge, or paper towel to wipe away the paste. You should see the grease lifting off the pan along with the paste. If needed, you can use a gentle scrubber or sponge to help remove any remaining paste and grease.

Step 5: Wash and Rinse the Pan

Finally, wash the pan with mild dish soap and warm water to remove any residual paste and grease. Rinse the pan thoroughly and dry it with a clean towel.

This method is particularly effective on aluminized steel pans, but it can also be used on other types of pans with some adjustments. For non-stick pans, avoid using abrasive scrubbers, and opt for a gentle nylon scrubber or sponge instead. Always test the cleaning method on a small area of your pan first if you're unsure, especially if you're working with non-stick or aluminum pans.

Additionally, remember to wear protective gloves when handling hydrogen peroxide, as it can irritate the skin.

By following these steps, you'll be able to effectively remove stuck-on grease from your pans, leaving them clean and shiny!

Lemon juice or vinegar

Lemon juice and vinegar are both excellent tools to help you get rid of stuck-on grease on your pans. Lemon juice is a powerful cleaning agent when used correctly, and its acidity helps break down grease, making it easier to clean. Vinegar, on the other hand, is an effective all-purpose household cleaner. The acetic acid in vinegar is mild and won't damage surfaces, but it will cut through grease and grime, dissolving it from the surface.

To use lemon juice to remove grease from your pans, soak the pan in lemon juice for about an hour. Then, clean the pan with a scrub brush or scrubbing pad and some dish soap. This method works best for pans with light grease stains. You can also combine lemon juice with other methods to increase its cleaning power. For example, after soaking the pan in lemon juice, use salt to scrub the pan. Salt is a harsh abrasive, so avoid using this method on non-stick and ceramic pans.

Alternatively, you can sprinkle the bottom of the pan with baking soda, spray it with vinegar, and let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing. This method combines the grease-cutting power of lemon juice or vinegar with the mild abrasive properties of baking soda.

If you're looking to remove grease from your kitchen cabinets, a mixture of warm water and a mild dish soap can be used. For tougher grease stains, add a small amount of white vinegar to the soapy solution. The vinegar will help break down the grease and provide additional cleaning power. After cleaning, wipe the cabinets with a dry microfiber cloth to remove any remaining moisture.

Lemon juice and vinegar can also be combined to create a powerful degreaser for your kitchen surfaces. Mix half a cup of lemon juice and two cups of white vinegar in a spray bottle to make a DIY degreasing kitchen spray. Simply spritz the greasy surface and wipe it up with a rag or paper towels.

In addition to their cleaning properties, lemon juice and vinegar can be used to neutralize odours. The fresh scent of lemons can help get rid of unpleasant smells, and vinegar's deodorizing properties will eliminate odours, with its own smell dissipating quickly.

Oven cleaner

Step 1: Apply the Oven Cleaner

Coat the bottom of the pan with a layer of oven cleaner. You can use a spray or pour a small amount directly onto the surface, ensuring that the entire affected area is covered.

Step 2: Let it Sit

Leave the oven cleaner on the pan for a few hours. For best results, it is recommended to let it sit overnight. This will give the cleaner ample time to penetrate and loosen the burnt-on grease, making it easier to remove.

Step 3: Scrub the Pan

After the oven cleaner has had sufficient time to work, it's time to scrub the pan. Use a scrubbing pad and apply some elbow grease to remove the loosened grease and any remaining residue. Scrub the pan until you have removed as much of the grease as possible.

Step 4: Rinse and Wash

Once you have finished scrubbing, rinse the pan with hot water to remove any remaining oven cleaner residue. Then, wash the pan with hot soapy water to ensure that all traces of the oven cleaner are gone.

Using oven cleaner is an effective way to remove burnt-on grease from your pans, but it is important to follow the steps carefully and ensure a thorough cleaning afterward. Always read the instructions on the oven cleaner product and take the necessary safety precautions before use.

Bar Keepers Friend

To use Bar Keepers Friend to remove burnt grease from a stainless steel frying pan, follow these steps:

• Combine Bar Keepers Friend with water to create a paste.
• Apply the paste to the bottom of the pan using a scouring pad or sponge.
• Scrub the pan in a circular motion.
• Rinse the pan and finish by washing it in hot soapy water.

Ammonia

You can also use ammonia to clean stove grates and drip pans.

However, ammonia should not be used on Teflon pans, as it will damage the non-stick coating.

Frequently asked questions