How to Make Degreasers

Using a homemade degreaser saves time and money.

Keeping greasy buildup off surfaces around your house is a routine battle, particularly in the kitchen and bath, where grease accumulates around stoves, sinks and tubs. Commercial degreasing products can be expensive and often contain toxins and environmentally unfriendly ingredients. Making your own degreaser from ingredients you already have at home is much safer, more convenient, effective and less expensive.

Things You'll Need

• Container, bucket or jug
• Nonsudsing ammonia
• Rubbing alcohol
• Liquid dish soap
• Water
• Spray bottle (optional)

Instructions

1. Mix 1/2 cup nonsudsing ammonia, 1/2 cup rubbing alcohol, 1 teaspoon liquid dish soap, and enough water to fill a 1-gallon bucket or jug.

2. Pour some of the homemade degreaser into a spray bottle to use on appliances, stove exhaust hoods and countertops. After spraying the degreaser on the surface, wipe off the dissolved grease with a clean cloth. For heavy grease buildup, allow the degreaser to remain on the grease spot for a few minutes before you wipe it off. Repeat, if necessary.

3. Rinse the area with clean water to remove any residue.

Tips & Warnings

• For small degreasing jobs, use half or one-fourth of the recipe amounts.

• Use ammonia with a pleasant scent, like lemon, for a fresh, clean-smelling home.

• Wear protective rubber gloves when working with the degreaser so your hands will not dry out or become irritated.

References

• Amarillo.com; Heloise: Make Your Own Degreaser; Heloise; August 2011