How to Remove Stubborn Grease from Pots: A Simple and Effective Trick

  1. Fill your pot with warm water and a generous squirt of dish soap.
  2. Let it soak for 15–30 minutes to loosen surface grease and residue.

Step 2: Apply Baking Soda

  1. Drain the soapy water, leaving the pot damp.
  2. Sprinkle baking soda generously over the greasy areas. Baking soda acts as a gentle abrasive and natural deodorizer.

Step 3: Add Vinegar

  1. Pour a small amount of white vinegar over the baking soda. You’ll notice a fizzy reaction as the two ingredients work together to break down the grease.
  2. Let the mixture sit for 10–15 minutes.

Step 4: Scrub Gently

  1. Using a scrubbing pad or sponge, gently scrub the pot, focusing on the greasy spots.
  2. For tight corners and stubborn spots, use an old toothbrush to scrub effectively without scratching.

Step 5: Rinse Thoroughly

  1. Rinse the pot under warm water to remove the baking soda, vinegar, and grease residue.
  2. Check for remaining grease; repeat the process if necessary.

Step 6: Polish and Dry

  1. Wash the pot again with dish soap to remove any lingering odors or residue.
  2. Dry thoroughly with a clean towel to prevent water spots.

Bonus Tips for Extra Stubborn Grease

  1. Use Salt for Extra Scrubbing Power:
    Sprinkle coarse salt over the greasy areas before scrubbing. Salt adds an extra abrasive element to the cleaning process.
  2. Try Lemon Juice for Natural Degreasing:
    Rub half a lemon over the greasy spots. The acidity helps cut through grease while leaving a fresh scent.
  3. Use a Degreasing Agent:
    For extreme cases, apply a kitchen degreaser or soak the pot in a mixture of hot water and degreasing dish soap for an hour.

Prevention Tips for the Future

  • Clean Immediately: Wash your pots and pans soon after cooking to prevent grease from hardening.
  • Avoid High Heat with Oil: Using excessive heat when cooking with oils can cause grease to burn and stick.
  • Use a Splatter Guard: Prevent grease from splattering onto pots and pans by using a splatter guard when frying.

Why This Trick Works

The combination of baking soda and vinegar is a classic cleaning hack. Baking soda gently scrubs away grease without scratching, while vinegar’s acidity dissolves tough residues. Together, they form a powerful, natural cleaner that’s safe for your cookware.

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