If you’ve ever spent too long scrubbing stubborn grease or sticky food residue off your pans, countertops, or sink, you’re not alone. Kitchens get messy fast, and even the best cleaners sometimes can’t cut through the buildup. But there’s one simple, budget-friendly hack that can make cleaning easier and faster the salt and dish soap trick.
Let’s dive into what it is, why it works, and how you can use it to make your kitchen sparkle like new.
What Is the Salt
The salt and dish soap trick is a simple cleaning method that uses two things you already have in your kitchen regular table salt and liquid dish soap. Together, they act as a natural scrub and degreaser that can handle tough stains and sticky messes without damaging surfaces.
Salt is a gentle abrasive that helps lift grime and stuck-on residue, while dish soap breaks down grease and oil. When combined, they form a powerful yet safe cleaning paste that works on everything from greasy pans to dirty sink drains.
The best part? It’s non-toxic, affordable, and safe for most surfaces, unlike some harsh chemical cleaners.
How the Salt
This trick works because of chemistry and texture. Dish soap contains surfactants agents that break down oil and grease, making them easier to wash away. Salt adds a gritty texture that helps scrub away stuck particles without scratching metal or ceramic surfaces.
| Ingredient | Function | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Salt | Gentle abrasive | Loosens stuck food and grime |
| Dish Soap | Degreaser | Cuts through oil and sticky residue |
| Warm Water (optional) | Solvent | Helps dissolve and rinse dirt easily |
When you mix them together, you get a natural scrubbing paste that clings to grease, making it simple to wipe away. It’s a cleaner, quicker, and cheaper alternative to specialty cleaning products.
How to Use the Salt
Here’s how you can try it today:
- Sprinkle a tablespoon of salt over the greasy or dirty area.
- Add a few drops of dish soap right on top of the salt.
- Use a sponge or cleaning cloth to scrub gently in circular motions.
- For tougher stains, let the mixture sit for 5–10 minutes.
- Rinse with warm water and wipe dry.
You can use this trick on pans, stovetops, sinks, cutting boards, and even oven racks. For extra cleaning power, add a little baking soda or vinegar for stubborn spots.
Common Mistakes With the Salt
Even simple hacks can go wrong if not done right. Here are a few things to watch out for:
- Using coarse salt on delicate surfaces it can scratch materials like glass or polished metal. Use fine table salt instead.
- Applying too much soap a few drops are enough; too much creates unnecessary suds and buildup.
- Forgetting to rinse always rinse thoroughly to avoid sticky residue.
- Using on wood salt can be too abrasive for some wooden surfaces, so test first or skip it altogether.
Best Ways to Use the Salt
- For greasy pans: After cooking, sprinkle salt and add a few drops of dish soap while the pan is still warm (not hot). Let it sit for a few minutes, then scrub.
- For cutting boards: Use the mixture to scrub away odors and stains, then rinse with hot water.
- For sinks: Mix the two in the drain area to help remove buildup and keep it smelling fresh.
- For stovetops: Apply the paste to stubborn grease splatters, let it sit for 10 minutes, and wipe clean.
These little tweaks make a big difference you’ll be amazed at how shiny and fresh your kitchen looks afterward.
Conclusion
The salt and dish soap trick is one of those simple yet game-changing cleaning hacks that actually works. It’s affordable, effective, and uses items you already have in your kitchen. Whether you’re tackling burnt pans, greasy counters, or a grimy sink, this combo delivers quick and lasting results.
Try it once, and you might never go back to expensive kitchen cleaners again.
FAQs
When should I use the salt and dish soap trick?
Use it whenever you’re dealing with grease, grime, or sticky buildup on kitchen surfaces like pans, sinks, or stovetops.
What kind of salt works best for cleaning?
Fine table salt is best because it’s gentle enough for most surfaces but still provides a good scrubbing texture.
Why is dish soap effective with salt?
Dish soap breaks down oils while salt adds friction, helping to lift and remove dirt more efficiently.
How long should I let the mixture sit before scrubbing?
Let it sit for 5–10 minutes for tough stains to loosen up, then scrub and rinse thoroughly.
Can I use this trick on stainless steel appliances?
Yes, but use fine salt and a soft cloth to avoid scratching. Always wipe in the direction of the grain and rinse well afterward.