- Fill your pot with warm water and a generous squirt of dish soap.
- Let it soak for 15–30 minutes to loosen surface grease and residue.
Step 2: Apply Baking Soda
- Drain the soapy water, leaving the pot damp.
- Sprinkle baking soda generously over the greasy areas. Baking soda acts as a gentle abrasive and natural deodorizer.
Step 3: Add Vinegar
- 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.
- Let the mixture sit for 10–15 minutes.
Step 4: Scrub Gently
- Using a scrubbing pad or sponge, gently scrub the pot, focusing on the greasy spots.
- For tight corners and stubborn spots, use an old toothbrush to scrub effectively without scratching.
Step 5: Rinse Thoroughly
- Rinse the pot under warm water to remove the baking soda, vinegar, and grease residue.
- Check for remaining grease; repeat the process if necessary.
Step 6: Polish and Dry
- Wash the pot again with dish soap to remove any lingering odors or residue.
- Dry thoroughly with a clean towel to prevent water spots.
Bonus Tips for Extra Stubborn Grease
- 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. - 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. - 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.