Wiping down greasy surfaces with just a damp cloth never really does the trick.

What you’ll need, in addition to a little elbow grease, is a degreasing agent.

For tougher messes, a commercial product like anoven cleanermight be best.

Degreasing a stove top

The Spruce / Brie Goldman

Here’s how three cleaning experts use these degreasing agents to tackle grime on appliances.

“They are the quickest and most simple tools for helping break down greasy build-up,” Hill says.

You’ll need to wipe down any fixed surfaces with a combination of water and soap.

Degreasing burner grates with soap and water

The Spruce / Brie Goldman

Pro Tip

Hill suggests using paper towels for cleaning up grease instead of cloth rags.

Grease stains are notoriously tricky toremove from fabric.

Want more cleaning and organizing tips?

spreading baking soda paste in the oven

The Spruce / Ana Cadena

His tried-and-true pantry staples ofbaking soda and vinegarmake a surprisingly effective abrasive paste.

For tougher grease, he recommends a store-bought degreaser, like oven cleaner.

But it’s important to use these harsh products only on recommended surfaces.

spraying oven cleaner

The Spruce / Ana Cadena

However, using a multi-purpose kitchen cleaner is great for daily maintenance.

Holland offers two pieces of advice when it comes to using multi-surface cleaners.

Degreasing appliances with an all-purpose cleaner

The Spruce / Brie Goldman