Stainless Pan Grease: Removal Tricks

Burnt-on grease on stainless steel pans is a common problem with various solutions. While some recommend using natural ingredients like baking soda, vinegar, and lemons, others suggest commercial cleaners like Bar Keeper's Friend, dishwasher tablets, or oven cleaner. The best method depends on the severity of the burn and the type of pan. Before attempting any cleaning method, it is important to test a small, inconspicuous area to ensure the surface won't be damaged.

Bar Keepers Friend

To use Bar Keepers Friend, first, run your dirty pan under hot water and drain it. Then, put on some rubber gloves and make a paste by mixing a few tablespoons of the product with the residual water in the pan. Spread the paste over the burnt parts of the pan and leave it to sit for 60 seconds. After that, thoroughly rinse the pan with hot water and scrub away the loosened burnt-on food with a sponge, brush, or scouring pad. Repeat this process if necessary for any stubborn spots.

Baking soda and vinegar

Step 1:

Start by removing as much of the burnt food and debris from the pan as possible.

Step 2:

Fill the pan with equal parts water and vinegar. Bring this mixture to a boil.

Step 3:

Once the mixture is boiling, add baking soda. For a standard-sized pan, add 2 tablespoons of baking soda. This will create a fizzing reaction that helps loosen burnt food.

Step 4:

Remove the pan from the heat and let the mixture soak. For heavily burnt-on grease, you can let it sit for up to 15 minutes or even overnight. If you notice the water starting to evaporate, you can add more water to keep the pan covered.

Step 5:

After soaking, discard the liquid down the drain. Be sure to do this slowly and carefully, as the mixture will still be hot.

Step 6:

Use a sponge or scouring pad to scrub away any remaining burnt-on bits. If spots remain, create a paste with baking soda and a small amount of water, apply it to the pan, and let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing again.

Step 7:

Rinse the pan with warm water and dry it thoroughly before storing.

This method is a natural, affordable, and effective way to remove burnt grease from stainless steel pans without using harsh chemicals.

Dishwasher tablets

Step 1:

Start by rinsing your dirty pan with hot water. This will help to loosen any burnt-on food and grease, making it easier for the dishwasher tablet to work its magic.

Step 2:

Remove the pan from the heat and grab a dishwasher tablet. You can use any brand of dishwasher tablet, but for the best results, it is recommended to use a Finish Powerball Deep Clean tab. Keep the plastic coating on the tab to prevent it from crumbling.

Step 3:

Gently scrub the pan under warm water with the dishwasher tablet. Apply a little pressure as you scrub, focusing on the burnt areas. The combination of the tablet and warm water will create a soapy, detergent-like solution that will help lift the burnt grease.

Step 4:

Continue scrubbing until all the food debris lifts off the pan. This should take no more than a few minutes. The dishwasher tablet will act as both a detergent and a scouring pad, so there is no need to use a sponge or brush.

Step 5:

Once the pan is free of burnt-on food and grease, rinse it with warm water to remove any remaining residue from the dishwasher tablet.

Step 6:

Finally, wash the pan with warm soapy water as you normally would, and dry it thoroughly.

Tips:

• It is recommended to wear gloves while using this method to protect your hands from the warm water and detergent solution.
• For extremely burnt-on grease, you may need to use two dishwasher tablets to thoroughly clean the pan.
• You can also use dishwasher tablets to clean your oven, shower screens, and oven doors.

By following these simple steps, you can easily remove burnt grease from your stainless steel pans, leaving them sparkling clean and ready for your next cooking adventure!

Boiled lemons

This method is fantastic, requiring hardly any scrubbing effort at all. It is also a great way to make use of leftover lemons.

Lemon juice can also be used to clean stainless steel. To do this, mix lemon juice with hot water and wipe down the stainless steel with a soft cloth, going along the grain of the steel. Then, wipe the surface dry with a paper towel.

Aluminium foil and baking soda

Step 1: Rinse the Pan

Start by rinsing your burnt pan with hot water. This will help to loosen any remaining food particles and grease, making it easier to remove the burnt-on gunk. After rinsing, make sure to drain the water from the pan.

Step 2: Apply Baking Soda

Generously sprinkle 2 tablespoons of baking soda onto the bottom of the pan, focusing on the stained areas. The baking soda will act as a mild abrasive to help remove the burnt debris. You can also add a few teaspoons of hot water to create a paste-like consistency with the baking soda.

Step 3: Scrub with Aluminium Foil

Take a sheet of aluminium foil and crumple it into a golf ball-sized ball. Use this ball of foil as a scrubbing tool by working it in circles or back and forth across the pan. The foil enhances the scrubbing power and helps to dig away the burnt residue. Make sure to keep repositioning the foil if it starts to flatten out.

Step 4: Rinse and Wash

Once you've removed all the burnt debris, rinse the pan with warm, soapy water to finish cleaning it. You can use a sponge or scrubber to ensure that all the baking soda residue is washed away.

Tips and Precautions:

• Before attempting any cleaning method, it is recommended to test it on a small, inconspicuous portion of the pan to ensure it doesn't damage the surface.
• Always wear rubber gloves when handling harsh cleaning products or scrubbing with foil to protect your hands.
• Be cautious when mixing baking soda and vinegar, as it can cause an explosive reaction. Slowly add the baking soda to the vinegar to avoid splashing.
• For heavily burnt pans, you may need to repeat the process or apply a touch-up with additional baking soda.

Frequently asked questions