The Two Kitchen Essentials That Can Help Combat Persistent Grease Stains

Grease has a way of clinging on longer than it should. Whether it's stubborn marks on stovetops, the slick film that never quite leaves baking trays, or that shiny patch on the backsplash that mocks every swipe of a sponge, cleaning grease often feels like an endless battle. Fortunately, the most reliable answer might already be in your kitchen. Vinegar and coffee grounds pack surprising power to remove stubborn grease stains with two simple household ingredients.

Part of their strength lies in how they complement one another. Coffee grounds have a gritty texture that works as a gentle scrub. This helps remove stubborn residue clinging to pots, pans, and countertops. Vinegar works differently. Its mild acidity breaks down the oily deposits that make grease so difficult to lift. When combined, these ingredients cause a light bubbling reaction that helps loosen grime. In a kitchen where grease feels unbeatable, this simple and practical pairing might just be your new go-to solution.

Start by mixing 1 cup of white vinegar with 1 tablespoon of coffee grounds. Stir until the grounds are thoroughly dissolved, then pour the mixture into a clean spray bottle and spray directly onto greasy spots in the kitchen. Let this sit for a couple of minutes so the vinegar has a chance to break down the grease. Then, grab a soft sponge or a small kitchen brush and gently scrub the area. The grit of the coffee will help with stuck-on patches of grime while the vinegar dissolves the oily film underneath. 

You can also clean with these ingredients by applying coffee grounds directly to the surface you wish to de-grease. Sprinkle the area with up to ½ cup of coffee grounds, then slowly pour ½ cup of white vinegar on top. Leave the mixture to bubble for 5 to 10 minutes. Whether you use this combo as a spray or apply it to greasy spots directly, rinse with warm water once you're done scrubbing to wash away any residue. You'll be left with a surface that looks cleaner and feels less slick.

As handy as this vinegar and coffee blend is, it's not a one-size-fits-all cleaner. Although vinegar can be a versatile cleaning tool, it's acidic, usually containing around 5-6% acetic acid. That's strong enough to cut through grease, but also strong enough to damage certain surfaces. When used on natural stone like marble or granite, the acidity can etch the surface and dull its polished finish. Cast iron pans are another no-go. Vinegar touching its surface for too long may strip away the seasoning layer that keeps food from sticking, and once that's gone, rust won't be far behind.

Coffee grounds come with their own caveats. Their abrasive texture is what makes them great for scrubbing, but that same grittiness can work against you. On non-stick pans, it can scratch away the coating that keeps food from sliding off. Even stainless steel appliances may end up with visible marks if something abrasive, like coffee grounds, gets rubbed in too forcefully. While coffee grounds and vinegar are excellent for removing grease from backsplashes, counters, oven doors, and other hardy surfaces, it pays to be selective. Knowing where to use this solution, and where not to, keeps these everyday ingredients effective without causing damage you'll regret later.