How to Clean Oil Splatter

Use a splatter guard to prevent oil from splattering your stove and kitchen surfaces.

Oil splatters are an inevitable consequence of cooking and can be difficult to clean. If you catch the oil while it is still warm, you can wipe if off easily with a paper towel or damp cloth. Once the oil has cooled, it coagulates into a hard, sticky substance that is more difficult to remove. Utilize a splatter guard where possible to prevent oil splatters from occurring. In the event of a cooking oil spill, there are several methods for removing oil from various surfaces.

Things You'll Need

• 1 tblsp. cornstarch
• Cloth
• Dish-washing liquid
• Paper towels
• Baking soda
• Vacuum

Instructions

1. Add enough water to 1 tbsp. cornstarch to form a past. Using a damp cloth, wipe the cornstarch paste over the oil splatters. Allow to dry. The cornstarch draws out the oil. Once the cornstarch has dried, wipe the surface clean with a damp cloth.

2. Rub dish-washing liquid into oil stains on your clothing. Dish-washing liquid has grease-cutting ingredients that will remove the oil. Rinse the fabric and launder on a hot washing cycle. Ensure that the stain has been completely removed before placing clothing in the dryer. Repeat if necessary.

3. Treat oil stains on upholstery or carpets by placing paper towels over the spill. Apply pressure to soak up as much of the oil as possible. Sprinkle cornstarch or baking soda over the affected area. Leave the cornstarch or baking soda to absorb the oil for 15 minutes. Vacuum up the powder. Clean any residue off with a cloth, water and dish-washing liquid.

Tips & Warnings

• Use paper towels to absorb surface oil before cleaning.

• If you are cooking outside and spill on your deck or balcony, use kitty litter to absorb oil.

• Exercise caution when cooking with hot oil.

References

• 1st Class Cleaning: Removing Oil and Food Splatter From Kitchen Walls
• Stain Removal 101: Oil Stain Removal from Clothing, Upholstery and Carpet