Removing Oil Stains From Pans: A Step-By-Step Guide

Burnt oil and grease stains on pans are a common problem, but there are several methods to tackle them. The chosen method depends on the type of pan and the severity of the stain. For example, a combination of baking soda, vinegar, and mild dish soap can be used to create a paste to scrub the pan with, or the same ingredients can be boiled in the pan to remove the stain. Other methods include using salt, ketchup, dryer sheets, or commercial cleaning products such as oven cleaner or Bar Keeper's Friend.

Use baking soda and vinegar

To remove oil stains from pans, one method is to use baking soda and vinegar. This method can also be used to remove oil stains from fabrics and carpets. Here is a detailed guide on how to use baking soda and vinegar to remove oil stains from pans:

Step 1: Fill the Pan with Water

Fill the pan with about 2 cups of water. The amount of water may vary depending on the size of the pan. For a smaller 20cm pan, use 1 cup of water.

Step 2: Add Baking Soda, Vinegar, and Dish Soap

Add 1 tablespoon each of baking soda, vinegar, and mild dish soap to the water in the pan. Be sure to use a mild dish soap that can be heated and avoid using too much, as it may cause the liquid to boil over.

Step 3: Boil the Mixture

Place the pan on medium heat and boil the mixture for about 10 minutes. Adjust the heat level as needed to prevent the liquid from boiling over. This step will help loosen and break down the oil stains.

Step 4: Scrub the Pan

Use a wooden spatula to scrub the oil stains in the pan. Continue boiling the mixture for an additional 5 minutes as you scrub. The wooden spatula will help dislodge and remove the oil stains without scratching the pan's surface.

Step 5: Drain and Scrub with a Sponge

After boiling and scrubbing, drain the liquid from the pan. Then, gently scrub the pan with a sponge and mild dish soap. Be sure to use a soft sponge, especially if the pan has a non-stick coating, to avoid scratching the surface.

Alternative Method: The Paste Method

If the boiling method does not fully remove the oil stains, you can try an alternative method called the paste method. Combine 1 tablespoon each of baking soda, vinegar, and mild dish soap in a small bowl and mix well to form a paste. Then, apply the paste to the pan.

Step 6: Scrub with Plastic Wrap

Shape a piece of plastic wrap into a ball and use it to scrub the pan. The plastic wrap will help remove the oil stains without absorbing the paste. Scrub for a few minutes or until the stains are removed. This method is gentle and effective, especially for pans with an enamel coating.

Step 7: Rinse and Scrub with a Soft Sponge

After scrubbing with plastic wrap, rinse the pan and gently scrub it with a soft sponge and mild dish soap. This final step will help remove any remaining paste and oil residue, leaving your pan clean and stain-free.

By following these steps and using baking soda and vinegar, you can effectively remove oil stains from your pans, restoring them to their original condition.

Try the boiling method

To remove oil stains from pans, one effective method is to use the boiling method. This involves filling the pan with water and adding a few basic household ingredients to help lift the stains.

First, fill the pan with around 2 cups of water. The exact amount of water will depend on the size of the pan. For a 20cm pan, use 1 cup of water.

Next, add 1 tablespoon each of baking soda, vinegar, and mild dish soap. It's important to use a dish soap that is safe to be heated. Adjust the heat to a medium setting and boil the mixture for about 10 minutes. Keep an eye on the pan and adjust the heat as necessary to avoid the liquid boiling over.

After 10 minutes, use a wooden spatula to scrub the oil stains. Boil the mixture for an additional 5 minutes. Then, drain the liquid and gently scrub the pan with a sponge and some mild dish soap.

If there are still burnt foods or stains remaining, you can try the paste method. Combine 1 tablespoon each of baking soda, vinegar, and mild dish soap in a small bowl and mix until it forms a paste. Apply the paste to the pan and shape plastic wrap into a ball. Use the plastic wrap to scrub the pan until the stains are removed. Finally, gently scrub the pan with a soft sponge and some mild dish soap.

Soak in straight vinegar

Soaking your pans in straight vinegar is an effective way to remove burnt grease and oil stains. This method can be applied to most types of frying pans.

To start, pour straight vinegar into your sink, ensuring there is enough to completely submerge the bottom of the pan. Leave the pan to soak for about an hour. The vinegar will begin to soften the grease.

After an hour, use a scrubbing pad, toothbrush, and a small amount of dish soap and water to scrub the pan. You can also add a bit of salt to the scrubbing pad for extra abrasion. Scrub the bottom of the pan vigorously, applying more salt and dish soap as needed.

If you are dealing with caked-on grease, you can pre-soak the pan in vinegar for half an hour before applying a paste of baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, and a few drops of dish soap. Allow the paste to dry for 30 minutes to an hour, and then use a toothbrush and scrubbing pad to rub the pan.

For deep grease removal, you can also combine vinegar, salt, and baking soda. Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda and salt onto the bottom of the pan, focusing on the stains. Then, spritz some vinegar onto the baking soda. Let the mixture rest for about 5 minutes, and then use a scouring pad to scrub the grease away.

It is important to note that the texture of salt can be coarse, so using it may lead to scratches on some pan finishes. If you are concerned about scratching, you can omit the salt or substitute it with a softer abrasive. Additionally, be sure to use white vinegar for cleaning, as darker varieties like wine or balsamic vinegar may further stain your pans.

Use oven cleaner

Oven cleaner is a great option for removing oil stains from pans, especially if the stains are stubborn and won't come off with other methods. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to use oven cleaner effectively:

Step 1: Choose the Right Oven Cleaner

Select a commercial oven cleaner designed specifically for removing burnt-on grease and food residue. Look for products like Cif Oven Cleaner, which creates a foamy lather that penetrates and breaks down tough grease. Alternatively, you can opt for a heavy-duty cleaner like lye, but use caution and follow safety instructions.

Step 2: Prepare the Work Area

Before applying the oven cleaner, ensure you have adequate ventilation by opening windows or turning on exhaust fans. Put on protective gear, such as rubber gloves and safety goggles, to shield your skin and eyes from the chemicals. It's also recommended to cover your mouth and nose with a mask or a cloth to avoid inhaling the fumes.

Step 3: Apply the Oven Cleaner

Follow the instructions on the product label for proper application. Typically, you'll need to spray or apply the oven cleaner directly onto the stained areas of the pan. Make sure the pan is cool before applying the cleaner. If the pan has just been used, let it cool down first to avoid thermal shock, which can warp your cookware.

Step 4: Let It Sit

After applying the oven cleaner, let it sit for the recommended amount of time. This duration may vary depending on the product, but it's usually around 20 minutes. During this time, the chemicals in the cleaner will work to break down the oil stains and burnt-on grease.

Step 5: Scrub and Rinse

Once the cleaner has had sufficient time to work, use a long-handled brush or scouring pad to scrub the pan. You may need to apply some elbow grease to remove stubborn stains. After scrubbing, rinse the pan thoroughly with clean water to remove any residual oven cleaner and grease. Ensure that all the cleaner is washed away before using the pan again.

Step 6: Dry and Inspect

After rinsing, dry the pan with a clean cloth or towel. Inspect the pan to see if any oil stains remain. If necessary, repeat the process, applying the oven cleaner again to any persistent stains.

It's important to note that oven cleaners contain powerful chemicals, so always follow the safety instructions on the product label. Additionally, some oven cleaners may not be suitable for certain types of pans, like non-stick cookware. Always check the product's compatibility with your cookware before proceeding.

Try a dryer sheet

Dryer sheets are not just for laundry! This laundry room staple can help lift baked-on gunk from your pans.

To use this method, leave your pan in the sink or on the counter. Add one or two dryer sheets and a couple of drops of liquid dish soap, and fill the pan with warm water. Let it sit for 2 to 3 hours, or overnight if the burn is particularly stubborn. When you return, throw out the dryer sheets and pour out the water. Wash the pan with soap, water, and a sponge.

This method may not work for more intense messes, but it can help loosen the residue and keep your pans clean.

For a less intense mess, such as an unsightly residue from roasting salmon and vegetables, you can try a 15-minute soak with a dryer sheet, some liquid dish soap, and hot water. However, you may still need to scrub the pan with a sponge and dish soap afterward.

Dryer sheets can also be used to clean your sheet pans. Simply add one dryer sheet, some dish soap, and hot water, and let it soak for about an hour. You may still need to scrub the pan, but it will be much easier.

Frequently asked questions