How to Clean Silicone Utensils (And Remove That Greasy Film for Good)

Silicone utensils are heat-resistant, flexible, and non-stick-safe — but they have one notorious problem: they attract and hold onto grease in a way that feels impossible to fully remove. Here's how to get silicone truly clean.

Why Silicone Feels Greasy After Washing

Silicone is slightly porous and has a natural affinity for oils. Grease molecules bond to the silicone surface and don't release easily with regular dish soap and cold water. The solution is heat and the right cleaning method.

What You'll Need

• Dish soap (grease-cutting formula like Dawn works best)
• Amazon Basics Non-Scratch Sponges
• Baking soda
• Hot water (as hot as possible)
• Your oven or dishwasher

Method 1: Hot Water + Grease-Cutting Soap (Everyday)

1. Use the hottest water your tap produces — heat is key to releasing grease from silicone.
2. Apply a generous amount of grease-cutting dish soap directly to the silicone surface.
3. Scrub with the abrasive side of a non-scratch sponge for 1–2 minutes.
4. Rinse with hot water. Repeat if still greasy.

Method 2: Baking Soda Scrub (For Stubborn Grease)

1. Wet the silicone utensil.
2. Sprinkle baking soda directly onto the surface.
3. Scrub with a damp sponge for 2–3 minutes — the mild abrasion helps lift embedded grease.
4. Rinse with hot water and wash with dish soap.

Method 3: Oven Method (Deep Reset)

This is the most effective method for silicone that feels permanently greasy.

1. Place clean (washed) silicone utensils on a baking sheet.
2. Put in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes.
3. The heat causes the grease to liquefy and release from the silicone surface.
4. Remove carefully (they'll be hot), wipe with a paper towel, then wash with hot soapy water immediately.

Method 4: Dishwasher (Top Rack)

Most silicone utensils are dishwasher safe. Place on the top rack and run a hot cycle. The combination of hot water and strong detergent is effective at cutting silicone grease. Check manufacturer instructions first.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do my silicone spatulas always feel greasy?

You're likely washing in lukewarm water with too little soap. Switch to the hottest water available and use a grease-cutting dish soap. The oven method is the most effective reset for chronically greasy silicone.

Can silicone utensils go in the dishwasher?

Yes — most silicone utensils are dishwasher safe. Always check the manufacturer's label, but silicone generally handles dishwasher heat well.

Do silicone utensils absorb odors?

Yes — silicone can absorb strong odors from garlic, fish, and spices. The oven method helps release odors as well as grease. Soaking in a baking soda solution overnight also works well for odor removal.