Learning how to prevent grease buildup in the kitchen can feel like an endless battle—no sooner have you wiped the stove than spatters reappear. With just a few proactive steps, however, you can stop grease before it sticks, saving time and elbow grease in the long run.
In this post, you’ll discover seven essential tips to curb oily buildup, plus why these habits matter and how they keep surfaces gleaming. Let’s dive in!
1. Wipe As You Go
After each cooking session, allow splatters to cool slightly, then wipe surfaces with a microfiber cloth. Grease is easiest to remove when it’s fresh, so this small habit goes a long way. Focus on the stove, backsplash, and nearby counters to stop buildup before it sticks.
2. Use a Splatter Guard
Frying something messy? Place a mesh splatter screen over your pan to block up to 70% of airborne grease. It keeps your walls, counters, and even your clothes cleaner. This simple tool makes post-cooking cleanup so much faster.
3. Run Your Hood Early
Start your range hood or exhaust fan at least one minute before you begin cooking. This helps trap grease-filled air before it has a chance to land on your cabinets and ceiling. Leave it on for a few minutes afterward to keep the air clear.
4. Weekly Mild Degreasing
Once a week, spray a kitchen-safe degreaser on the stovetop, counters, and backsplash. Let it sit for a few minutes to break down residue, then wipe it all away. This habit keeps surfaces fresh and prevents long-term buildup.
5. Soak and Scrub Filters
Your range hood filters trap airborne grease, but only if they’re clean. Once a month, soak them in hot, soapy water for 15–20 minutes. A light scrub removes gunk and helps your fan work better at keeping the air grease-free.
6. Baking Soda Paste for Tough Spots
For hardened grease, mix baking soda with a few drops of water to form a paste. Apply to the greasy area, let sit for 10 minutes, then gently scrub and rinse. It’s a safe, effective way to cut through stubborn grime without harsh chemicals.
7. Protect High-Splash Zones
Use washable liners or splash guards near the stove and inside the oven door. When they get greasy, just peel off, wash, and reuse. No scrubbing needed.
Why Grease Prevention Pays Off
Consistent habits keep your kitchen looking and smelling fresh. Grease films attract dust and bacteria, dull paint, and can even stain grout. Stopping grease buildup in the kitchen saves on paint touch-ups and grout sealing, and cuts cleaning time in half. Plus, you’ll avoid reaching for harsh chemicals that could damage surfaces.
For tips on keeping walls spotless without harming paint or wallpaper, check out our guide on how to clean your walls without ruining the paint or wallpaper. And if lingering cooking smells are a concern, explore these natural alternatives to air fresheners for gentle, effective odor control.
Ready for a Spotless Kitchen? Here’s What’s Next
By following these seven essential tips, you’ll keep grease at bay and enjoy a brighter, healthier cooking space, without the elbow grease headaches. Want to leave the heavy scrubbing to the pros? Take a look at our cleaning services for customized plans that keep your whole home gleaming, so you can focus on what matters most.
