Kitchens are super high maintenance. Cleaning grease means you are taking a proactive approach to keeping an area nice and clean and reducing the amount of heavy scrubbing required during your annual clean-a-thon.

Grease will leave a sticky residue on counters, hood vents, stove tops, cupboard doors, and microwaves. It can be nearly impossible to clean off if left for a long time! Not only that, it discolors the area (the golden shine french fries) and is a hideous dust magnet.

It’s important to develop a little routine after cooking with grease. Clean all areas by spraying affected areas with all-purpose cleaner (vinegar will work well, too) and letting it sit for a while.

For heavier grease marks, you can use a sprinkling of baking soda and an abrasive sponge to do the trick; test the material first to be sure you won’t ruin any finishes.

You can also try natural orange cleaners which are fantastic for heavy degreasing.

Melissa Maker