Best Cleaner for Baked Grease: What Works and How to Use It

Ever opened your oven and been hit by a wall of burnt, greasy film? That baked‑on mess isn’t just ugly – it can affect taste and even smoke your kitchen. The good news is you don’t need a chemistry degree to get it gone. Below are the most effective cleaners, both from the shelf and from your pantry, plus tips on when to call in the pros.

Store‑Bought Grease Removers That Actually Cut Through

When you grab a commercial product, look for a formula that promises to dissolve baked‑on residue, not just surface grease. Easy-Off Professional Oven Cleaner uses a strong alkaline base that softens carbonized layer in minutes. Spray, wait 10‑15 minutes, then wipe with a damp cloth. Goo Gone Kitchen Degreaser is another favorite – it’s non‑acidic, so it won’t etch enamel, and works well on glass doors. For a greener option, Method Oven Cleaner mixes plant‑based solvents with a citrus scent; it’s milder but still breaks down tough film if you let it sit longer.

Whichever product you choose, always wear gloves and open a window. Most cleaners release fumes that are harmless in a well‑ventilated space, but they can irritate eyes or lungs if trapped.

DIY Mixes You Can Make at Home

If you prefer to avoid chemicals, the pantry has everything you need. Start with a baking soda paste: mix ½ cup baking soda with enough water to form a thick spread. Apply to the greasy spots, let it sit for 30‑60 minutes, then scrub with a non‑scratch sponge. The mild abrasive lifts baked‑on layers without scratching the interior.

Another rapid combo is white vinegar and dish soap. Combine one part vinegar, one part water, and a squirt of Dawn dish soap in a spray bottle. The acidity of vinegar softens the grease while the soap emulsifies it. Spray generously, wait 10 minutes, and wipe clean.

For the ultimate power‑clean, try a lemon‑salt scrub. Halve a lemon, dip the cut side in coarse salt, and rub directly onto the grease. The natural acidity and abrasive action work together to melt stubborn film. Rinse with warm water and wipe dry.

Regardless of the DIY method, the key is patience. Let the solution soak long enough to break down the baked layer before you start scrubbing. A rubber spatula or plastic scraper can help lift thick patches without gouging the metal.

When the job feels too big – for example, after a major renovation or if the grease has built up over years – a professional service like Dandy Fox Cleaning Services can save time and hassle. They have industrial‑strength cleaners, heated steam units, and the expertise to protect oven surfaces while delivering a spotless finish.

Bottom line: for everyday baked grease, a store‑bought oven spray or a simple baking‑soda paste will do the trick. Keep a few DIY mixes on hand for quick touch‑ups, and don't hesitate to call in experts for the truly stubborn cases. Your oven will thank you with cleaner cooking and less lingering smoke.