Scraping Grease: Pan Tricks

Removing burnt grease from a pan can be a challenging task, especially if food debris has been left to sit for a while. The best method depends on how stubborn the grease is, but there are several simple techniques you can try at home to get your pans clean and fresh. Here are some tips and tricks to help you tackle this common kitchen conundrum.

Baking soda and vinegar

To rake grease off a pan using baking soda and vinegar, follow these steps:

Firstly, sprinkle baking soda over the entire surface of the pan, making sure that every spot is covered. This is important to ensure that every bit of grease is removed. Next, fill a spray bottle with vinegar and spray it all over the baking soda. Cover the entire surface to ensure maximum cleaning. Don't worry if bubbling and fizzing occur when spraying vinegar on baking soda; this is a normal chemical reaction.

Now, let the solution sit overnight. This allows it to thoroughly sink in. By morning, the baking soda and vinegar will have worked their magic, and the grease will be ready to be washed away.

The next day, grab a scrubbing pad and start scrubbing all that grease away. Use vigorous circular motions within a specific area, and be sure to scrub all the places where the solution was applied. The friction will help loosen up any remaining bits of stubborn grease that refuse to budge. Scrub every last inch to make the pan squeaky clean.

Finally, once you've scrubbed the pan, rinse it off. Run it under water and rinse it properly. After rinsing, check the pan for any bits of grease that may have been missed or failed to be removed. If necessary, repeat the cleaning process.

Repeat the whole process if the pan still has grease on it. If not, feel free to wipe it down and store the now clean pan.

Ammonia and time

Ammonia is a great way to clean the grease off your pans without much effort. It is a cost-effective method, as a bottle of ammonia typically costs less than a dollar. All you need to do is put the pan in a garbage bag, add a dash of ammonia, and let the fumes do the work for you overnight. In the morning, the grease will have melted off.

This method is also perfect for stove grates or drip pans. It is a tried and true recipe for getting any deep-set stains out of metal.

However, it is important to note that ammonia should not be used on Teflon pans, as it can cause the Teflon to peel off.

If you are looking for a quick solution, you can try oven cleaner, dryer sheets, baking soda, lemon juice or vinegar, or salt and vinegar.

Oven cleaner

• Spread oven cleaner on the bottom of the pan.
• Leave it to sit for a few hours. For best results, leave it overnight.
• Use a scrubbing pad to scrub the bottom of the pan.
• Clean the pan in hot soapy water to remove any oven cleaner residue.

This method is not natural, but it is tried and tested. It is a good option if you are looking for a quick and effective way to remove burnt-on grease from your pans.

You can also try using baking soda and vinegar, or a combination of baking soda, vinegar, and salt. These methods are natural and effective, but they may require more scrubbing and take longer to work.

Lemon juice or vinegar

To use lemon juice to clean your pan, slice two to three lemons and place them in the pan with enough water to just cover the lemons. Bring the water to a boil for around five to eight minutes, then remove the pan from the heat. Once you see food particles floating to the surface, you know the pan is ready for a final scrub. Discard the lemons, drain the water, and rinse the pan with hot, clean water. Use a scouring pad or brush to loosen and remove any remaining stuck-on bits.

To use vinegar, simply pour enough vinegar into the bottom of your sink to fully submerge the bottom of the pan. Leave the pan to soak for about an hour, then use a scrubbing pad, toothbrush, and some dish soap to remove the softened grease.

Lemon juice and vinegar can also be used in combination with other methods for added cleaning power. For example, 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. Alternatively, you can soak the pan in lemon juice or vinegar for about an hour, then clean it with a scrub brush, scrubbing pad, and dish soap.

Always remember to test any cleaning method on a small, inconspicuous part of the pan first to ensure it won't damage the surface, especially if you're using an abrasive like salt.

Bar Keepers Friend

To use Bar Keepers Friend to clean your pans, start by sprinkling the powder onto the surface of your pan. Then, add a small amount of water to create a paste. Use a non-abrasive sponge or scouring pad to scrub the paste onto the bottom of the pan in circular motions. Rinse the pan with warm water and wash in hot soapy water to ensure all residue is removed.

For more heavily soiled pans, create a paste with the powder cleanser and water and let it sit for no more than 2-3 minutes. After 2-3 minutes, scrub vigorously and rinse. If the grease is particularly stubborn, Bar Keepers Friend's Cookware Cleanser & Polish contains additional surfactants that can help break down and remove the grease.

It is important to note that Bar Keepers Friend is an abrasive product and may etch or dull delicate surfaces. Always test it on an inconspicuous area first and wear gloves when using it, as it can dry out the skin.

Frequently asked questions