Grease seems to have a way of finding every corner of the kitchen. It clings to stovetops, coats cabinet doors, settles on exhaust hoods, and hardens onto oven walls. Store-bought degreasers work fast, but many contain strong chemicals that can irritate the lungs and skin. Fortunately, nature offers its own lineup of powerful grease-cutting ingredients. When mixed with care, these safe and affordable tools remove buildup just as effectively — sometimes even better.
Why Grease Is So Stubborn
Grease is made of fats that harden as they cool. Water alone cannot break them down, which is why scrubbing with plain soap often feels endless. Acids like lemon juice and vinegar help loosen fat, while mild abrasives like baking soda lift residue without scratching.
Lemon and Vinegar Spray for Everyday Grease
This simple mixture works well on stovetops, microwave doors, backsplashes, and cabinet surfaces.
Recipe:
1 cup warm water
1 cup white vinegar
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
How to use:
Combine ingredients in a spray bottle.
Spray directly onto greasy surfaces.
Let sit for 5 minutes to soften buildup.
Wipe clean with a damp cloth.
Lemon helps dissolve oils while vinegar cuts through film and leaves surfaces shiny.
Baking Soda Paste for Heavy Buildup
Tough grease requires a gentle abrasive that won’t damage surfaces.
Paste recipe:
3 tablespoons baking soda
1 tablespoon water
Instructions:
Spread paste onto greasy areas like oven doors or stove grates.
Let sit for 15 minutes.
Scrub with a sponge or brush.
Rinse thoroughly and dry.
For an extra boost, spray vinegar over the paste before scrubbing. The fizzing action helps lift grime.
Castile Soap Degreaser for Ovens and Range Hoods
Castile soap is plant-based and excellent for cutting oil without harsh chemicals.
Mixture:
2 cups hot water
1 tablespoon liquid castile soap
1 tablespoon baking soda
Directions:
Shake mixture in a spray bottle.
Spray onto greasy oven walls, hood vents, and drip pans.
Allow to sit for 10 minutes.
Wipe with a microfiber cloth.
Repeat as needed for older, hardened grease.
Hot Water Trick for Grease-Covered Pans
Before reaching for heavy cleaners, use heat to your advantage.
Fill the dirty pan with very hot water.
Add 1 teaspoon baking soda.
Let soak for 20 minutes.
Scrub gently and rinse.
Hot water softens the fats, making them easy to remove.
Preventing Grease Buildup
Wipe stovetops after each use.
Clean range hood filters monthly with hot water and soap.
Keep a natural spray bottle under the sink for quick daily clean-ups.
Avoid letting splatters sit — they harden quickly and require more effort later.
A few small habits make the biggest difference. With these natural cleaners, your kitchen stays fresh, bright, and free from heavy fumes or harsh chemicals.
~ Remedy Insider