Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) is a household powerhouse when it comes to tackling stubborn grease, baked-on grime, and kitchen buildup. Because it is mildly abrasive and naturally alkaline, it cuts through acidic grease and oil without scratching most hard surfaces.
However, simply sprinkling dry baking soda onto grease usually doesn’t work well. To truly lift heavy grease, the secret is mixing it into a thick, activated paste that clings to vertical or horizontal surfaces, allowing it to break down the oil bonds.
How to Prepare the Magic Grease-Cutting Paste
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The Formula: Mix 3 parts baking soda to 1 part warm water in a small bowl until it forms a thick, spreadable paste (about the consistency of frosting or peanut butter).
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The Power Boost: For ultra-tough, baked-on grease (like oven doors or stove burners), substitute liquid dish soap or hydrogen peroxide for the water. The dish soap breaks down surface tension, while baking soda handles the scrubbing and deodorizing.
5 Major Areas Where Baking Soda Paste Melts Away Grease
1. Oven Glass and Interior Doors
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The Problem: Centuries of baked-on food splatters and burnt oil turn brown and sticky.
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How to Do It: Spread a thick layer of the baking soda and water paste over the glass door. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for severe buildup). The paste will dry slightly. Use a non-scratch scrub sponge or a plastic scraper to wipe it away, taking the loosened grease with it. Rinse with warm water and buff dry.
2. Stovetops and Burner Grates
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The Problem: Grease splatters from frying pan grease bake onto metal stovetops and cast-iron or porcelain grates.
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How to Do It: Apply the paste directly to grease spots or coat the entire cool stovetop. Let it sit for 15–20 minutes to soften the oil, then scrub gently in circular motions with a damp microfiber cloth. Wipe clean.
3. Kitchen Cabinets and Range Hoods
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The Problem: Airborne cooking oils mix with kitchen dust, creating a sticky, yellowish film on wooden or painted cabinet doors (especially those right above the stove).
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How to Do It: Caution with wood: Make a very gentle, watery paste with plenty of dish soap and baking soda, test a hidden spot first, and never scrub hard. Gently wipe the greasy areas with a soft cloth dipped in the mixture, then immediately wipe clean with a damp rinsing cloth to protect the finish.
4. Baking Sheets and Roasting Pans
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The Problem: Dark, polymerized grease stains baked permanently onto aluminum or stainless steel sheet pans.
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How to Do It: Coat the pan generously with the paste, let it sit for an hour, and scrub with a non-scratch scouring pad. For extra power, sprinkle dry baking soda over the pan, pour hydrogen peroxide over it to create a fizzing layer, let sit, and rinse.
5. Stainless Steel Sinks and Countertops
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The Problem: A greasy film left behind from washing heavy pots, pans, and oily dishes.
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How to Do It: Buff the paste directly into the stainless steel using a damp sponge, following the grain of the metal. Baking soda not only cuts the grease but polishes the steel to a brilliant shine without chemical fumes.
