December often brings festive feasts – and with them, the inevitable aftermath: greasy oven trays that seem impossible to clean. But there’s a surprisingly simple cleaning tip that can make your post-holiday scrub-down far less daunting: sprinkle salt on your trays while they’re still warm.
The magic of this method lies in the salt’s natural abrasiveness. As it meets the warm surface, it helps lift and loosen baked-on grease, making it easier to wipe away without heavy scrubbing or harsh chemical cleaners.
For best results, sprinkle a generous layer of salt over the tray while it’s still warm from cooking, let it sit for a few minutes, and then wipe away with a damp cloth or sponge. I personally use these All-Purpose Sponges from Amazon for sparkling, streak-free results. The trays will look almost brand-new, ready for your next culinary adventure.
'A sprinkle of salt is one of those kitchen cleaning hacks that feels almost too simple to work, but it really does make a difference,' says Chiana Dickson, Head of Solved at Homes & Gardens. 'It’s a natural, budget-friendly solution that saves time and effort, especially during the busy festive season when no one wants to spend hours scrubbing trays.'
This trick is just one of many ways to tackle post-cooking grease naturally. For an extra boost, try combining the salt with a little baking soda before wiping, or soak trays briefly in hot water to loosen stubborn residue. Not only does this save your hands from harsh chemicals, but it’s also an environmentally friendly alternative to many commercial cleaners.
Perfect for busy households or anyone looking to simplify kitchen chores, cleaning with salt transforms a dreaded task into a manageable, even satisfying, routine. Small, thoughtful hacks like this can make winter cooking feel less like work and more like enjoyment, leaving your kitchen sparkling and ready for the next festive meal.
Next time your oven trays are coated in baked-on grease, remember this simple tip: salt isn’t just for seasoning – it’s your secret weapon for sparkling, grease-free trays.
