Stuck-on grease and grime can make your pots look old and worn out, but there’s no need to throw them away! With this simple homemade cleaning recipe, you can restore your pots to their original shine. This natural solution is easy to prepare, cost-effective, and incredibly powerful—even for removing years-old grease buildup.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup baking soda
- 1/4 cup white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon dish soap (preferably eco-friendly)
- 1/2 lemon (optional, for extra grease-cutting power)
- Hot water
- Non-abrasive sponge or scrub brush
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cleaning Paste
- In a small bowl, mix the baking soda and dish soap to create a paste.
- Add the juice of 1/2 lemon (optional) for extra degreasing power.
Step 2: Apply the Paste
- Spread the cleaning paste generously over the greasy areas of your pot.
- Let it sit for 15–20 minutes to allow the paste to break down the grease.
Step 3: Scrub the Pot
- Using a non-abrasive sponge or scrub brush, scrub the pot in circular motions.
- For stubborn spots, sprinkle a little more baking soda directly onto the area and scrub again.
Step 4: Add White Vinegar
- Pour a small amount of white vinegar over the paste.
- You’ll notice it fizz—this reaction helps lift grease and grime from the surface.
Step 5: Rinse with Hot Water
- Rinse the pot thoroughly with hot water to remove all residue.
- Dry with a clean towel or let it air dry.
Why This Works
- Baking Soda: A natural abrasive that lifts grease and grime without scratching your pots.
- Dish Soap: Breaks down grease and oils effectively.
- Lemon: Adds extra cleaning power and leaves a fresh scent.
- White Vinegar: Reacts with baking soda to loosen stuck-on grease and remove stains.
Tips for Best Results
- Soak Before Cleaning: For extremely greasy pots, soak them in hot water with a few drops of dish soap for 10–15 minutes before applying the paste.
- Avoid Abrasive Tools: Use a non-abrasive sponge to avoid scratching your pots, especially non-stick or stainless steel.
- Repeat if Necessary: For stubborn grease, repeat the process until the pot is clean.
Conclusion
This simple yet effective homemade cleaning trick will save your pots from nasty old grease without the need for harsh chemicals. With ingredients you likely already have at home, you can bring your pots back to life and enjoy cooking with them for years to come. Give this method a try, and let your sparkling clean pots speak for themselves!