Cooking moments in the kitchen are often punctuated by small incidents: oil spills. Whether it's a small drop while pouring or a splash of hot oil while frying, oil spills can make kitchen floors or countertops slippery, messy, and even dangerous. Oil that isn't cleaned up immediately can also attract dust and insects. Fortunately, cleaning up oil spills doesn't have to be difficult if you know the tricks.
A common mistake when cleaning oil spills is to immediately wipe with a wet cloth or mop. Water and oil do not mix, so what happens instead is that you spread the oil over a larger area, making it even more slippery and harder to clean. What you need is something that can absorb the oil effectively.
Here's a quick and effective way to tackle oil spills:
1. Absorb as Much Oil as Possible with Dry Material. The first step is to absorb as much oil as possible before you attempt to wipe it. Sprinkle absorbent materials like all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking soda, or even cat litter over the oil spill. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes. These materials will work to soak up the oil, transforming it from a slick liquid into a more manageable clump.
2. Clean Up the Oily Clumps. Once the absorbent material has worked its magic, use a spatula, spoon, or an old card to scrape up the oily clumps mixed with the absorbent material. Dispose of these clumps directly into the trash (not down the drain, as it can cause blockages). Make sure you have removed the majority of the oily residue.
3. Use a Dish Soap and Hot Water Mixture. After most of the oil has been absorbed, it's time to clean up any remaining oily residue. Mix a few drops of dish soap (which is designed to dissolve grease) with hot water. Dip a clean cloth into this mixture, wring it out slightly, and then wipe the affected area. The soap will help emulsify the remaining oil.
4. Rinse and Dry. After wiping with soapy water, rinse the area with a clean cloth dampened with plain water to remove any soap residue. Finally, dry thoroughly with a clean cloth or paper towel. Ensure no slippery residue is left behind to prevent slips. For floors, make sure they are completely dry before walking on them.
With these simple tips, you can keep your kitchen clean and safe, even after the most active cooking sessions. Your Nabati Cermelang oil might produce "brilliant" dishes, and your kitchen can remain that way too.