Grease-Free Kitchen Hack: Clean Cabinets with Baking Soda and Vegetable Oil

By Lilo On May 21, 2025

Unlock the Secret to a Grease-Free Kitchen: The Surprising Duo of Baking Soda and Vegetable Oil

Kitchen grease: it’s the silent, sticky invader that clings to cabinets, especially around the stove. Over time, it mixes with dust and grime, forming a stubborn film that’s hard to remove with just soap and water. The usual fix? Strong chemical cleaners and harsh scrubbing—both of which can damage your surfaces and impact your indoor air quality.

But there’s a better, gentler way. A surprising and natural combination—baking soda and vegetable oil—can help you reclaim clean, shiny kitchen cabinets without the need for chemical-laden products. It’s simple, affordable, and safe for your home.

Why Grease Builds Up in Kitchens

When you cook, tiny droplets of oil become airborne and settle onto nearby surfaces. Over time, these droplets collect dust and harden into a sticky residue. Cabinets closest to your stove or countertop are often the worst affected. The longer this grease remains, the harder it is to clean.

Why Baking Soda and Vegetable Oil Work So Well

Baking Soda:

A mild abrasive that lifts grime without scratching surfaces. It’s also a natural deodorizer, making it great for eliminating kitchen odors while you clean.

Vegetable Oil:

It may seem counterproductive, but the principle of “like dissolves like” comes into play here. A small amount of fresh oil can help break down hardened, greasy residue by softening it, making it easier to wipe away.

Together, these two ingredients create a powerful yet gentle paste that dissolves grease and lifts away grime without harming wood, laminate, or painted surfaces.

How to Use This DIY Grease-Busting Method

You’ll Need:

Baking soda
Vegetable oil (olive, canola, sunflower—any type will work)
Bowl for mixing
Soft cloth or sponge
Warm water
Clean dry cloth

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Mix the Paste
Combine 2 parts baking soda with 1 part vegetable oil in a bowl. Stir until it forms a thick paste.
Apply to Cabinets
Scoop a small amount of paste onto a cloth or sponge. Gently rub it onto the greasy surface using small circular motions.
Let It Work
Let the mixture sit for 1–2 minutes to break down the grease.
Wipe with Warm Water
Dampen a clean cloth with warm water and wipe away the paste. You’ll notice the grease and dirt come off easily.
Dry and Polish
Use a dry cloth to remove any remaining moisture and buff the surface to a shine.

Pro Tips for a Grease-Free Kitchen

Stay Ahead of Buildup: Wipe down cabinet doors and handles weekly to prevent layers of grease from forming.
Use a Splatter Guard: When frying, cover your pan with a splatter screen to reduce airborne oil droplets.
Cook with Less Oil: Non-stick pans and healthier cooking techniques reduce oil use—and grease fallout.
Ventilate While Cooking: Turn on your range hood or open a window to allow grease particles to escape.

A Natural, Budget-Friendly Alternative to Harsh Cleaners

Unlike many commercial degreasers, this method is non-toxic, safe for kids and pets, and costs just pennies to make. It’s also gentle enough for frequent use and suitable for most kitchen cabinet finishes, including painted wood, laminate, and MDF.

Final Thoughts

Cleaning greasy cabinets doesn’t have to be a frustrating, chemical-laden chore. With just baking soda and vegetable oil, you can restore your kitchen surfaces to their original luster—naturally and easily.

Next time you face sticky cabinets, skip the store-bought cleaners. Reach into your pantry instead and discover the power of this timeless kitchen hack.