Trying to remove grease from a grill after cooking fatty cheeseburgers or a saucy rack or ribs can be a nightmare — unless you have some baking soda on hand.

The pantry staple is non-toxic, and doesn't have the odor of harsh chemical cleaners. It’s lightly abrasive, which makes it ideal for getting rid of burnt-on bits of food.

Mix equal parts baking soda and water to form a paste. Remove the grates, and use a brush to scrub the mixture onto both sides.

Wipe with a wet cloth before drying. If your grates are porcelain or enamel, sprinkle baking soda and leave it on for 10 minutes, then gently scrub using a scour sponge or brush.