The Ultimate Guide To Removing Burnt Grease From Pans

Burnt grease on pans is a common problem with various solutions. The best method depends on the type of pan and the severity of the burn. For example, baking soda and vinegar are a popular combination, but this can be too harsh for non-stick pans. Other methods include using dryer sheets, boiled lemons, aluminium foil, salt, or oven cleaner.

Baking soda and vinegar

Step 1: Remove Burnt Food Debris

Start by scraping off as much burnt food debris from the pan as possible. Use a wooden spatula or a plastic scraper to gently remove the debris without scratching the pan's surface.

Step 2: Boil Water and Vinegar

Once you have removed the bulk of the burnt food, put the pan back on the stove and heat it up. Add a cup of water or a mixture of half water and half white vinegar to the hot pan and bring it to a boil. As the liquid simmers, use a spatula or scraper to deglaze the pan, loosening any remaining bits of burnt food.

Step 3: Add Baking Soda

Pour out the liquid and sprinkle the bottom of the pan generously with baking soda. The baking soda will react with the acidic vinegar, creating a fizzing reaction that helps loosen the burnt food. Let the pan cool down before proceeding to the next step.

Step 4: Scrub the Pan

Using a nylon scrub brush or a scouring sponge, scrub the pan vigorously to remove the burnt-on grime. If necessary, add more baking soda to create a paste and scrub the pan again. Rinse the pan with warm water and dry it thoroughly before storing.

Tips for Optimal Results:

• For deeper grease removal, create a paste by mixing baking soda, vinegar, and sea salt. Spread this paste generously on the bottom of the pan, focusing on the stained areas. Let it sit for about 5 minutes, then scrub the pan with a scouring pad.
• For caked-on grease, pre-soak the pan in vinegar for 30 minutes before applying the baking soda paste.
• If you are cleaning a non-stick or ceramic pan, avoid using vinegar as it may damage the coating. Instead, use a mixture of baking soda and water to create a paste, and scrub the pan with a non-scratch sponge or nylon brush.

Dish soap and dryer sheets

If you're looking to remove burnt grease from your pans, one method that has gained popularity online is the use of dryer sheets and dish soap. While it may not be the most effective method, it can help loosen the burnt-on grease, making it easier to scrub off. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to use this approach:

• Fill your burnt pan with very hot water. The water should be hot but not boiling, as you'll be handling the pan and adding a few other ingredients.
• Add two to three dryer sheets to the pan. Dryer sheets are said to help break down the grease, making it easier to remove.
• Put a dash of dish soap into the water. Dish soap will help cut through the grease and lift it off the pan's surface.
• Let the solution sit for at least an hour. For tougher, more caked-on grease, it's recommended to let the pan soak overnight.
• After the soaking period, remove and discard the dryer sheets.
• Pour out the water and begin scrubbing the pan with a sponge or scouring pad. You may need to use some elbow grease at this point!
• Rinse the pan with soap and water to ensure all the grease and any residue from the dryer sheets are removed.

While this method may not deliver sparkling results, it can help loosen the burnt grease, especially if you're dealing with stubborn, caked-on grease. For lighter grease stains, you might want to try other methods first, such as using baking soda, vinegar, or lemon juice, which are also known to be effective in removing burnt-on grease.

Boiled lemons

Step 1: Prepare the Lemons

Quarter two or three lemons. You can also cut them into eights or slices, as long as you have enough pieces to cover the bottom of the pan.

Step 2: Add Lemons and Water to the Pan

Place the lemon pieces in the pan and add enough water to cover the burnt area. Don't worry about covering the lemons, as they will float.

Step 3: Bring to a Boil

Place the pan on the stove and turn on the heat. Bring the water to a rolling boil and let it boil for 5-10 minutes. You will start to see the burnt food particles floating to the surface and the lemons swimming around in the water.

Step 4: Cool, Dump, and Scrub

Turn off the heat and let the water cool down. Once it is cool, dump out the lemons and dirty water. You may be left with a thin brown layer on the bottom of the pan. Scrub this lightly with a brush or scouring pad to remove any leftover grime.

Step 5: Rinse the Pan

Rinse the pan with water a few times to ensure that all the lemon residue and leftover grime are removed.

Your pan should now be clean and free of burnt grease! This method is simple and effective, and it leaves your pans smelling fresh. It is also a great way to make use of leftover lemons.

Oven cleaner

Step 1:

Coat the bottom of the pan with oven cleaner. Make sure the pan is completely cool before you start.

Step 2:

Let the oven cleaner sit for a few hours. Leaving it overnight will yield the best results.

Step 3:

Using a scrubbing pad, scrub the bottom of the pan to remove the burnt-on grease.

Step 4:

Clean the pan with hot soapy water to remove any oven cleaner residue.

This method is simple and effective, but it is important to follow the instructions on the oven cleaner product and take the necessary safety precautions. Always use oven cleaner in a well-ventilated area and wear gloves to protect your hands.

Additionally, while oven cleaner is a great option for removing burnt-on grease, it is important to note that it can be harsh on some pans and may void the warranty. There are also other methods to remove burnt-on grease, such as using baking soda, vinegar, or commercial cleaners like Bar Keeper's Friend. These methods may be more suitable for certain types of pans and can be just as effective in removing stubborn grease.

Ketchup

To use ketchup to clean a burnt pan, cover the bottom of the pan with ketchup and leave it to sit for several hours or overnight. Then, scrub the pan with a scouring pad and a small amount of dish soap. Finally, rinse the pan with warm water.

However, one source notes that while the ketchup treatment did brighten the bottom of a stainless steel pan, it was ineffective on cast iron. Another source states that while ketchup can be used to clean burnt grease off pans, it is a "pinch" method that will require you to wait until the next day to use the pan.

Other methods for cleaning burnt grease off pans include:

• Baking soda paste
• Dish soap and dryer sheets
• Vinegar
• Salt and vinegar
• Oven cleaner
• Bar Keepers Friend

Frequently asked questions