How to Solve 19 Kitchen Cleanup Conundrums

Conundrum: Residue on the Exterior of a Pot

Solution: Clean aluminum (without color or decorative finish), copper bottoms, stainless steel, or glass using a paste made from Bar Keepers Friend, a powdered cleaning agent (from $6, barkeepersfriend.com), and water. Wet the surface first and scrub with a soft, damp cloth. Do not leave the paste on for longer than a minute. Rinse and reapply if necessary.

Conundrum: An Oversize Roasting Pan

Solution: Add a little water to the pan (make sure it's safe for the stovetop) and bring it to a boil to loosen the grease, scraping with a wooden spoon once or twice to break up the tough bits. Let cool, drain, wipe the remaining grease out with a dishcloth, and wash with hot, soapy water (in the bathtub, if necessary).