How to Clean, Store, and Dispose of Bacon Grease

By Arnie Hauslane Expert

3 mins read | Last updated 12/05/2023

Who doesn’t love bacon? It’s hard to top a breakfast with crispy bacon and fresh scrambled eggs. However, you might not love what it leaves behind: grease. Cooking bacon creates a lot of grease, which can gunk up your kitchen fast. Let’s explore how to effectively clean, store, and dispose of bacon grease, and how a quality range hood can be your best friend in managing grease while cooking.

What is the Difference Between Product Warranty and Product Protection Plans? photo showing a family cooking in the kitchen with their range hood

Cleaning Up After Cooking Bacon

After cooking bacon, you're often left with a pan of hot grease. The key is to take care of it fast. Start by carefully soaking up the grease with paper towels and disposing of them in the trash. Avoid pouring hot grease directly down the drain. It can solidify and clog pipes.

Effective Techniques for Removing Grease Residue

For stubborn grease residue, mix a solution of hot water and dish soap or create a paste with baking soda and water. Apply it to the greased surfaces and let it sit for a few minutes. Scrub with a non-abrasive sponge and rinse with hot water. This method is especially effective for cleaning countertops and stovetops. (Bacon grease get on your walls? Here’s how to clean them.)

How to Properly Dispose or Store Bacon Grease

how to properly dispose of or store bacon grease photo showing pouring bacon grease into a tin container

Remember to never pour bacon grease down the drain. Properly dispose of bacon grease by allowing it to solidify in a container or a foil-lined bowl. Once solidified, scoop it into the trash. This method ensures you’re not risking clogged pipes or environmental harm.

If you’re eco-conscious, consider using solidified bacon grease for bird feeders or as a composting additive for non-edible plants. Some communities also accept animal fats in compost bins.

Bacon grease is a culinary goldmine, perfect for adding flavor to future dishes. To store it, let the grease cool slightly, then strain it through a fine mesh to remove any bacon bits. Pour the strained grease into a glass jar or container and seal it tightly.

Then, store your container of bacon grease in the refrigerator or a cool, dark pantry. Properly stored, it can last for several months. If it starts to smell rancid or the color changes, it’s time to dispose of it.

Utilizing Your Range Hood when Cooking with Bacon

how to use your kitchenr range hood to minimize grease while cooking image showing 2 kids and a father cooking breakfast

A high-quality range hood is crucial when cooking bacon. It sucks up smoke and airborne grease particles, keeping your kitchen air cleaner and surfaces less greasy. Ensure your hood is on before you start cooking and leave it running for a few minutes after you’ve finished to clear any lingering fumes.

Choosing the Right Range Hood for Grease Control

When selecting a range hood, consider one with multiple speed settings so you can crank it up when cooking bacon and turn it down low when simmering sauces. Features like easy-to-clean filters and LED lighting add to the functionality. (Not sure what kind of range hood you need? Try our fun quiz to find your perfect fit!)

Handling bacon grease doesn’t have to be a chore. With these simple steps for cleaning, storing, and disposing of grease, you can ensure a cleaner, safer kitchen environment. Plus, with a quality range hood, you can keep those pesky grease particles at bay while cooking.