Cleaning grease and oil stains can be a real headache, but did you know you can simplify this task using two common and affordable products that you probably already have at home? Baking soda and dish soap are powerful allies for effectively removing grease stains, whether on kitchen surfaces or clothing.
A winning combo: baking soda and dish soap
Baking soda and dish soap are two products that most households have. They are not only cost-effective but also extremely versatile. Whether you’ve spilled olive oil on your countertop or have grease splatters on your clothes, these two ingredients can come to the rescue.
1. Cleaning grease and oil spills on surfaces
Grease spills, whether from a frying pan or oil-rich food like bacon, are always tricky to clean. Oil forms a stubborn film on surfaces, making it difficult to remove with regular towels. Fortunately, baking soda can be an excellent way to start cleaning.
As Soaliha Iqbal mentioned: ” To get grease stains out of clothes, cover the stain with a dusting of baking soda (NOT baking powder — they are totally different!).”
To absorb excess oil, simply sprinkle baking soda over the spill. Baking soda will capture the grease, preventing it from spreading further. Once you’ve covered the area with baking soda, let it sit for a few minutes to absorb the oil thoroughly.
After removing the baking soda, it’s time to move on to the next step. Dish soap, such as Dawn, is particularly effective at cutting through grease. Spray a little Dawn Powerwash or apply a small amount of dish soap to the remaining residue “and then grab an old toothbrush and scrub the soap and soda into the stain until it becomes a paste. You can also just use a wash cloth or cleaning rag (a clean one, obviously).”
2. Treating grease stains on clothes
Grease splatters on your clothing are inevitable, especially when cooking. If left untreated, they can set and become very difficult to remove after washing. But thanks to baking soda and dish soap, it’s possible to prevent these stains from becoming permanent.
As soon as you notice a grease stain on your clothing, apply a small amount of baking soda directly to the stain. Gently rub it in to absorb the excess oil. Then, apply a few drops of dish soap directly on the stain. Let it sit for a few minutes before tossing the garment into the laundry. If the stain remains after washing, you can repeat the process before washing again.
Why these products work so well?
Baking soda is an excellent absorbent that captures grease and oils without damaging surfaces. Additionally, it’s gentle and natural, making it suitable for use on various surfaces and fabrics. As for dish soap, it is specially designed to cut through grease and dissolve oil, making it an essential product for cleaning in the kitchen and treating stains on fabrics.
By combining these two products, you get a simple, effective solution for tackling grease stains, all while avoiding harsh chemicals.
A practical and affordable duo
Using simple products like baking soda and dish soap has several benefits: they are not only affordable, but also versatile and can be used in many different situations. These products are a true cleaning toolbox to have on hand, whether in the kitchen or laundry room.
If you’re looking to simplify your cleaning routine and avoid buying a multitude of specific products for each type of stain, adopt the baking soda and dish soap duo. You’ll be amazed at their effectiveness in tackling even the toughest grease stains.