Easy Ways To Clean Your Greasy Chip Pan

Cleaning a chip pan can be a challenging task, especially when it's covered in baked-on grease. The key to success is finding the right combination of cleaning agents and techniques to remove the stubborn grease without damaging the pan. In this guide, we will explore various methods, from soaking the pan in a strong solution of soda crystals and hot water to creating a powerful paste with baking soda, dish soap, and hydrogen peroxide. We will also discuss the importance of safety when cleaning chip pans, as improper techniques can lead to dangerous kitchen fires.

Soak the pan in a strong solution of soda crystals and boiling water

To get grease off a chip pan, a strong solution of soda crystals and boiling water can be used. Soda crystals, or washing soda, are a popular alternative cleaner for those who value sustainability. They are enzyme, phosphate, and bleach-free, safe to use on all kinds of fabrics, and biodegradable. Plus, they can save you from turning to strong solvents in the laundry room.

To make the solution, use a ratio of one cup of soda crystals to one pint of boiling water. Pour the solution into the chip pan and let it soak. If the grease is particularly stubborn, you can soak the pan overnight. After soaking, scrub the pan with a sponge or brush to remove any remaining grease. Rinse the pan with fresh water to remove any residual solution.

It is important to note that soda crystals should not be used on aluminium, varnished, or lacquered surfaces as they are corrosive and can cause discolouration or damage. Always wear gloves when handling soda crystals to protect your skin from irritation.

Apply a paste of baking soda and water

To get grease off a chip pan, one method that can be used is to apply a paste made from baking soda and water. This method can be used for cleaning both the inside and outside of a chip pan.

To make the paste, mix baking soda and water in a small glass jar until a thick paste forms. The paste should be left on the greasy surface for at least 10 minutes. After letting the paste sit, scrub the surface with a sponge or scrubber sponge, using circular motions to remove the grease. If necessary, repeat the process.

This method can be used on stainless steel chip pans, but it is not suitable for aluminium. It is also important to note that baking soda is slightly abrasive, so it should not be used on gold-plated serving pieces or other delicate surfaces.

Use a mixture of baking soda, dish soap and hydrogen peroxide

To get grease off a chip pan, a mixture of baking soda, dish soap, and hydrogen peroxide can be used. This method is effective at removing grime and giving new life to chip pans. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to use this method:

• Create a mixture: In a small bowl, combine equal parts baking soda and hydrogen peroxide to form a paste. You can also add a small amount of dish soap to the mixture.
• Apply the mixture: Spread the paste evenly over the surface of the chip pan, making sure to cover all the greasy areas.
• Let it sit: Allow the paste to sit on the pan for at least 2 hours. For heavier grease buildup, it is recommended to let it sit for up to 8 hours.
• Wipe away the mixture: After the desired amount of time has passed, use a paper towel dampened with water to wipe away the paste from the chip pan.
• Scrub any remaining residue: Use a nylon pad, sponge, or brush to scrub away any residue that may be left. Be gentle but firm to ensure all the grease is removed.
• Final wash: Give the chip pan a final wash with dish soap and hot water to thoroughly clean it. Make sure to dry the pan completely after washing.

It is important to note that you should never mix and store baking soda and hydrogen peroxide in a closed container. Always mix them right before cleaning and only make enough paste for one cleaning session. Additionally, wear protective gloves when handling hydrogen peroxide as it can irritate the skin and eyes.

Soak the pan in hot water

Soaking your chip pan in hot water is an effective way to remove grease. The hot water helps to loosen and dissolve the grease, making it easier to clean the pan. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

Step 1: Fill the Chip Pan with Hot Water

Fill your chip pan with hot water, ensuring that the water level is high enough to cover the grease or oily areas that need to be cleaned. The water temperature should be as high as possible without risking scalding or damaging the pan's surface.

Step 2: Add a Cleaning Agent (Optional)

To enhance the cleaning process, you can add a cleaning agent to the hot water. A common and effective choice is baking soda, which can be added generously to the water. Other options include vinegar, dish soap, or a dishwasher tablet. These agents will boost the cleaning power of the hot water and help break down the grease.

Step 3: Soak the Pan

Allow the chip pan to soak in the hot water for an extended period. The duration of the soak will depend on the severity of the grease buildup. For light grease, a few minutes of soaking may be sufficient. However, for heavily greased pans, consider soaking the pan overnight or for several hours. During this time, the hot water and cleaning agent will work to loosen and dissolve the grease, making it easier to remove.

Step 4: Scrub the Pan

After soaking, use a sponge, scrubber, or scouring pad to gently scrub the chip pan. The grease should come off more easily now that it has been loosened by the hot water. Pay extra attention to areas with stubborn grease buildup, and consider using a non-scratch sponge or scrubber to avoid damaging the pan's surface.

Step 5: Rinse and Dry

Once you've finished scrubbing, thoroughly rinse the chip pan with clean water to remove any remaining grease and cleaning agents. Dry the pan with a soft cloth or allow it to air dry.

By following these steps, you can effectively remove grease from your chip pan using hot water. This method is a safe and straightforward way to restore your chip pan to a clean and usable condition.

Use a degreaser

A degreaser is a great option to remove grease from your chip pan. There are a few different types of degreasers you can use, and the method will vary slightly depending on which one you choose.

Spray Degreaser

First, make sure your chip pan is unplugged and cooled down. Take the pan outside, as the fumes from the degreaser can be strong. Spray the degreaser all over the pan, making sure to cover any greasy areas. Leave the degreaser to sit for a while so it can break down the grease. Then, scrub the pan with a steel wool pad. If there is still grease remaining, you can try the oven cleaner method (see below).

Soaked Paper Towels

Another option is to use a degreaser with soaked paper towels. As with the spray method, make sure your chip pan is unplugged and cooled down. Apply the degreaser to the pan, then cover it with paper towels soaked in the degreaser. Leave this to sit overnight, then scrub the pan with a steel wool pad in the morning.

Oven Cleaner

Oven cleaner can also be used as a degreaser. Take your chip pan outside and lay it on some newspaper. Spray the pan with oven cleaner, then leave it to sit for a while. Fill a bucket with water and scrub the pan with a scouring pad or steel wool. You may need to apply a second coat of oven cleaner if there is a lot of grease.

Frequently asked questions