A simple two-minute method using washing-up liquid can clean greasy kitchen cabinets with almost zero effort, and the product costs as little as 89p.
Washing-up liquid beats other methods
Meleyna Nomura of The Kitchn tested five different approaches to cleaning greasy cupboards and found that washing-up liquid was the most effective. She said: "I wanted to really test each method's ability to cut through the grime as well as the fingerprints."
She used each method on the dirtiest panels near her stovetop and above the oven, as well as on a mostly-clean cabinet. For many methods, she relied on a sponge cloth but noted that a rag and non-abrasive kitchen sponge work too.
How to clean with washing-up liquid
To start, combine several drops of Dawn dish soap with warm water in a small bowl. Dunk a sponge into the solution, squeeze out excess water, and scrub the cupboard surfaces, focusing on stubborn grease spots. The grease came away effortlessly with light scrubbing. Rinse with a fresh, moist cloth and leave to air-dry.
Meleyna awarded the technique five out of five, saying: "This option is definitely the way to go for greasy kitchen cabinets." She added: "My greasiest cabinets were cleaned with almost zero effort as the classic dish soap cut right through the grime."
British equivalent: Fairy liquid
Dawn dish soap is an American brand. According to In The Wash, its closest British equivalent is Fairy washing-up liquid. Both are produced by Procter & Gamble and are highly effective at cutting through grease. Fairy Liquid is available from as little as 89p at Tesco or Aldi.
Preventing grease buildup
Oven Clean recommends consistent cleaning and simple preventative steps. Adequate ventilation, using an extractor fan, cooking with lids on, and using splatter guards can reduce grease accumulation. Keeping oily products in airtight containers and promptly wiping spills also helps maintain cleaner surfaces.
