The Degreasing Protocol: A Traditional, No-Fail Kitchen Deep Clean (Stove to Sink)
Share
Grease is predictable. It settles in the same places (stovetop edges, cabinet pulls, range hood seams), and it hardens in the same way when heat cycles repeat. The solution is not more scrubbing—it is correct chemistry + correct dwell time + correct tools, executed in a traditional top-to-bottom sequence.
Quick Shop Links: Kitchen Cleaning & Degreasers · Multi-Surface Cleaners · Microfiber Cloths & Wipes · Vacuums & Power Cleaning · Trash, Recycling & Odor Control · Storage & Home Organization
The “Degreasing Kit” (Minimal but Serious)
- Degreasing + kitchen tools: Kitchen Cleaning & Degreasers
- Daily wipe-down formula: Multi-Surface Cleaners
- Lint-free finishing: Microfiber Cloths & Wipes
- Scrub without damage: Walnut Cleaning Pads (6 Pack)
- Dish + sink workhorse: Scrub Daddy / Scrub Mommy Sponge Set
- Detail extraction (crumbs, corners): Vacuums & Power Cleaning
- Waste + odor control: Trash, Recycling & Odor Control
Efficiency principle: A controlled kit beats a crowded cabinet. If you prefer a curated start, explore CleanLiving Co. Bundles & Starter Kits.
Step-by-Step: The Degreasing Protocol
Step 1 — Reset the Workspace (3 minutes)
- Clear countertops into a temporary bin or tray.
- Empty trash and remove food scraps to prevent re-contamination: Odor Control & Trash Solutions.
- Dry vacuum crumbs before liquids touch the area: Power Cleaning Tools.
Step 2 — Range Hood and Upper Cabinets (10–15 minutes)
Grease travels upward. If you start at the counter first, you will re-soil it.
- Apply degreaser from the top down. Allow dwell time (do not wipe immediately).
- Use a damp microfiber to lift softened residue: Microfiber Cloths & Wipes.
- For stubborn cabinet edges, use controlled pressure with a non-scratching pad: Walnut Cleaning Pads.
Step 3 — Stovetop: Baked Oil and Carbon Edges (10 minutes)
On cooktops, scraping is a last resort. Start with dwell time, then mild abrasion.
- Degrease and let it sit. Wipe with a sponge designed for controlled scrub: Scrub Daddy / Scrub Mommy Set.
- Finish with streak-free microfiber: Microfiber Collection.
- For the surrounding backsplash and appliance fronts, switch to an all-purpose formula: Multi-Surface Cleaners.
Step 4 — Sink, Faucet, and Handles (7 minutes)
Handles are high-touch and should be cleaned last with clean tools.
- Scrub basin and drain zones with a dedicated sponge: Kitchen Sponge Set.
- Wipe faucet and handles with a fresh microfiber (do not reuse the greasy cloth): Microfiber Cloths.
- Organize sink-side tools into a simple caddy so the system stays stable: Storage & Organization.
Step 5 — Floors: The Grease Sink You Forget (8–12 minutes)
Kitchen floors trap aerosolized oil. Use a two-stage approach: pick up solids first, then mop.
- Floor tools: Floor Care – Mops, Brushes & Accessories
- Reusable pads: Reusable Microfiber Mop Pads (15 Pack)
Safety note: If the floor is wet and traffic continues, use visible cues: Home Safety Signs & Floor Markings.
Maintenance Rhythm (Traditional, Sustainable)
Deep cleaning should be predictable. A traditional schedule prevents buildup and reduces chemical usage.
| Task | Frequency | Best Tools |
|---|---|---|
| Counter wipe-down | Daily | Multi-Surface Cleaners + Microfiber |
| Stovetop degrease | Weekly | Degreasers + Sponge Set |
| Cabinet pulls + hood wipe | Biweekly | Microfiber + Walnut Pads |
| Kitchen floor mop | Weekly | Floor Care + Reusable Mop Pads |
Continue Reading (Internal Links)
Next step: Build your kitchen kit once, then keep the protocol consistent.
Shop Kitchen Cleaning & Degreasers | Shop Microfiber | Shop Bundles & Starter Kits