The first time I had to figure out how to clean the outside of a deep fryer, it felt like wrestling with a pan full of glue. After a fish fry gone wild, the smell lingered, and the grease just wouldn’t budge. I didn’t want to use harsh chemicals, so I tried a few simple tricks—like cleaning the deep fryer with dish soap and hot water—and they actually worked. Over time, I found a chemical-free method that’s safe, easy, and surprisingly satisfying. If you’re stuck with burnt grease and need a fix, I’ve got you covered—let’s clean it up the smart way.
Why Deep Fryer Grease Gets So Hard to Clean
Grease gets hard because hot oil sticks, cools, and turns into a thick crust.
After my first fish fry, I looked inside the fryer and thought, “What is this stuff?” It looked like glue. The truth is, when oil heats up too much, it breaks down. Then it sticks to metal and plastic. Once it cools, it turns hard and tough to clean.
The real problem? Waiting too long to clean it.
I used to think I’d clean the fryer “tomorrow.” Bad idea. Every hour makes the grease harder. If you wait a day or more, it sets like cement. Some people try metal scrapers or harsh sprays, but those can damage your fryer or leave strong smells.
Now I make it a habit. After every few uses, I rinse the parts with hot water and dish soap. It keeps the fryer fresh and much easier to clean. No more scrubbing forever.
Supplies You’ll Need (Before You Start)
Before you dive into cleaning, it helps to gather a few simple tools. Don’t worry—you likely already have most of them at home. These will make the job faster, easier, and a lot less messy.
For Everyday Cleaning
Usethese when your fryer isn’t too dirty—just light grease or a quick clean-up.
- Dish soap (degreasing type): Cuts through light grease with ease
- Hot water: Helps loosen sticky oil
- Soft sponge or brush: Won’t scratch the surface
- Microfiber cloth: Dries parts without leaving lint
I’ve used this combo many times after frying snacks or veggies. It’s gentle, fast, and safe for daily use.
For Stuck-On or Burnt Grease
Use these when the grease is hard, thick, or burnt-on after heavy frying.
- White vinegar: Natural grease cutter
- Baking soda: Adds scrubbing power
- Plastic scraper: Safe for non-stick surfaces
- Old toothbrush: Great for small corners
- Optional: Plant-based degreaser: For a boost without using harsh chemicals
When I clean up after a big fish fry or wing night, this set saves me. The vinegar and baking soda combo works like magic—without the need for strong smells or rough tools.
How to Clean Stuck-On Grease from Deep Fryer – Step-by-Step
1. Unplug and Cool Down
Always start by unplugging the deep fryer. Let it sit until it’s cool to the touch. This keeps you safe and avoids burns. Next, pour out the old oil. I like to use a strainer and save clean oil, but if it smells burnt or looks dark, toss it. Don’t pour it down the sink—use a sealed container and throw it away.
2. Remove and Soak Parts
This step helps melt away loose grease. Use dish soap and hot water—it works better than you’d think. If the grease is thick or stuck on, add a little white vinegar and baking soda. You’ll hear it fizz—that’s the grime lifting off.
Tip: For deep cleaning, I always clean my deep fryer with dish soap and hot water first, then switch to vinegar if needed.
3. Scrub Off Stuck Grease
Gently scrub the soaked parts with a non-scratch sponge or brush. For tight spots, an old toothbrush works like a charm. I never use metal tools—they can scrape the surface and ruin the coating. The key here is patience, not pressure.
4. Wipe Down the Inside
The base of your fryer has wires inside, so don’t put it in water. Just dip a cloth in white vinegar or a mild soap mix and wipe it clean. This is a great way to clean your deep fryer without chemicals.
5. Rinse, Dry, and Reassemble
Rinse off any soap or vinegar left on the parts. Wipe with a microfiber cloth, then let them sit to air dry fully. Once dry, put everything back together and store it until your next crispy cooking adventure.
How to Get Rid of Burnt Grease from a Deep Fryer
Burnt grease is no joke. It sticks like tar and smells even worse. I once left my fryer on too long after cooking wings, and the bottom turned black and crusty. I thought it was ruined.
Step 1: Make a Baking Soda Paste
Mix baking soda with a little warm water. You want a thick paste—like toothpaste. Spread it on the burnt spots inside the fryer basket or lid. You’ll hear it fizz slightly if there’s still oil—this means it’s working.
Step 2: Let It Sit
Let the paste sit for at least 20 minutes. This gives it time to break down the burnt layer. If the grease is very thick, give it more time. Don’t rush this step—soaking does most of the work.
Step 3: Scrub Gently
Use a plastic scraper or old toothbrush to lift the grease. Be gentle. You don’t need to press hard. Scrape slowly in circles. The paste helps loosen the gunk without harming the surface.
Step 4: Rinse with Vinegar
Rinse the area with white vinegar to cut leftover clean stuck on grease from deep fryer and remove any smell. Use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe off the paste. The vinegar also helps kill germs and leaves the fryer smelling fresh.
My Chemical-Free Deep Fryer Cleaning Routine
I clean my deep fryer every week using safe, simple tools—no harsh sprays or chemicals needed.
I’ve made fryer cleaning a part of my weekly kitchen habit. After every few uses (or once a week if I fry a lot), I take a few minutes to rinse, soak, and wipe everything down. It keeps my fryer fresh—and way easier to clean later.
Why I Skip Harsh Chemicals
I stopped using strong cleaners when I noticed the smell stuck around. I didn’t like the idea of those fumes near food, either. Now, I use vinegar, baking soda, and dish soap. They’re gentle, safe, and they work just as well.
My Go-To Cleaning Tools
Here’s what I use every time:
- Warm water
- Dish soap with grease-fighting power
- White vinegar for stuck spots
- Baking soda for burnt grease
- A soft sponge and old toothbrush
If things get extra messy, I’ll grab a plant-based degreaser made for kitchen use. Look for one that’s food-safe and fragrance-free. One small spray goes a long way.
FAQs
How do I get rid of burnt-on oil inside my fryer?
Make a thick baking soda paste and spread it on the burnt area. Let it sit for 20–30 minutes, then scrub gently. Wipe clean with vinegar for a fresh finish.
Is it safe to use vinegar on my fryer?
Yes! White vinegar is a safe, natural degreaser. It cuts through grease, removes odors, and won’t harm your fryer if used with care. Just don’t pour it directly into the base.
Can I leave oil in the fryer overnight?
You can—but only if the oil is clean, filtered, and covered. Reuse it up to 3–5 times, but toss it if it smells burnt, looks dark, or foams during cooking.
Final Thoughts
I’ve learned that stuck-on grease is way easier to handle when you don’t let it build up. A quick rinse and wipe after every few uses can save you hours of scrubbing later.
With the right tools—like baking soda, vinegar, and hot water—you can tackle even burnt grease without stress. No need for harsh sprays or strong smells. Just a few gentle steps and you’re done.