A greasy kitchen is one of the most frustrating cleaning challenges. Over time, cooking oils, food splatters, and steam create layers of sticky grime on countertops, stovetops, cabinets, and even floors. If left uncleaned, this grease attracts dust and dirt, making the kitchen look dirty and unhygienic.
But don’t worry—cleaning a greasy kitchen doesn’t have to be a nightmare! With the right techniques and simple household ingredients, you can cut through grease easily. In this guide, we’ll cover how to clean a greasy kitchen step by step, using affordable and natural cleaning solutions.
Why Does Kitchen Grease Build Up?
Before we dive into cleaning, it’s important to understand why grease accumulates in the kitchen.
- Cooking Oils & Frying: When you cook with oil, tiny droplets splatter onto nearby surfaces.
- Steam & Smoke: Steam from boiling or frying carries grease particles that settle on walls and cabinets.
- Lack of Regular Cleaning: If grease isn’t wiped daily, it hardens and becomes difficult to remove.
- Poor Ventilation: Without a good exhaust fan, grease lingers in the air and sticks to surfaces.
Now that we know why grease builds up, let’s learn how to remove it effectively!
Best Natural Grease Cleaners for Your Kitchen
You don’t need expensive chemical cleaners to tackle grease. These simple, natural ingredients work wonders:
- Dish Soap
- Cuts through grease quickly.
- Safe for most surfaces.
- Mix with hot water for extra cleaning power.
- Baking Soda
- Acts as a gentle scrub for tough grease.
- Removes odors.
- Mix with water to form a paste.
- White Vinegar
- Breaks down grease naturally.
- Disinfects surfaces.
- Works well when mixed with water (1:1 ratio).
- Lemon Juice
- Natural degreaser with a fresh scent.
- Helps remove sticky residues.
- Rubbing Alcohol (Isopropyl Alcohol)
- Dissolves tough grease stains.
- Evaporates quickly, leaving no residue.
Read Also- 8 Kitchen Cleaning Tips for New Homeowners
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Clean a Greasy Kitchen
1. Clear & Prepare the Area
- Remove small appliances, cookware, and food items from countertops.
- Wipe away loose crumbs and debris with a dry cloth.
2. Degrease the Stovetop
The stovetop is usually the greasiest spot. Here’s how to clean it:
For Gas Stoves:
- Remove grates and burner caps and soak them in hot, soapy water for 15-20 minutes.
- Scrub with baking soda for stubborn grease.
- Wipe the stovetop surface with a mixture of dish soap and warm water.
- For stuck-on grease, use a vinegar spray and let it sit for 5 minutes before scrubbing.
For Glass & Electric Stovetops:
- Sprinkle baking soda over the surface.
- Spray vinegar and let it bubble for 5 minutes.
- Gently scrub with a non-abrasive sponge.
- Wipe clean with a damp microfiber cloth.
3. Clean the Range Hood & Filters
The range hood collects the most grease. Follow these steps:
- Remove metal filters and soak them in hot water mixed with 1 cup baking soda + ½ cup vinegar for 20 minutes.
- Scrub with a brush to remove grease.
- Wipe the hood exterior with a degreasing spray (1 part vinegar + 2 parts water).
- Dry with a clean cloth to prevent streaks.
4. Wipe Down Greasy Cabinets & Walls
Grease splatters often stick to cabinets and walls near the stove.
- Mix 1 cup warm water + 2 tbsp vinegar + 1 tsp dish soap in a spray bottle.
- Spray on greasy areas and let it sit for 2-3 minutes.
- Wipe with a microfiber cloth (it traps grease better than paper towels).
- For stubborn grease, use a baking soda paste (baking soda + water) and gently scrub
5. Deep Clean the Microwave
Microwaves accumulate grease and food splatters. Here’s an easy way to clean them:
- Fill a microwave-safe bowl with 1 cup water + 2 tbsp vinegar (or lemon juice).
- Microwave for 5 minutes—the steam will loosen grease.
- Wipe the interior with a damp cloth.
- Remove lingering odors by microwaving a bowl of water with lemon slices for 2 minutes.
6. Scrub the Sink & Faucet
Kitchen sinks can get greasy from dirty dishes.
- Sprinkle baking soda all over the sink.
- Scrub with a sponge to remove grime.
- Rinse with hot water.
- For faucet grease, wrap a vinegar-soaked paper towel around it for 10 minutes, then wipe clean.
7. Mop Greasy Floors
Grease and oil often drip onto kitchen floors.
- Sweep or vacuum first to remove loose dirt.
- Mix hot water + 1 tbsp dish soap + ½ cup vinegar in a bucket.
- Mop the floor, focusing on greasy spots near the stove.
- For sticky residues, sprinkle baking soda and scrub before mopping.
Extra Tips to Prevent Grease Buildup
Cleaning is easier if you prevent grease from building up in the first place. Try these tips:
✔ Wipe Surfaces Daily – After cooking, use a damp cloth to wipe the stovetop, counters, and backsplash.
✔ Use a Splatter Screen – When frying, a splatter screen reduces oil spray.
✔ Turn on the Exhaust Fan – Helps suck up grease-filled steam.
✔ Line Cabinets with Paper – Place parchment paper under oil bottles to catch drips.
✔ Deep Clean Weekly – A quick weekly degreasing prevents heavy buildup.
Now you know how to clean a greasy kitchen the right way! With simple ingredients like dish soap, vinegar, and baking soda, you can cut through grease without harsh chemicals. Regular cleaning keeps your kitchen looking fresh and makes deep cleaning much easier.
Read Also- Best Home Remedies for Kitchen Cleaning