With summer just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to start preparing for some backyard barbecues. However, before you start cooking, you must learn how to clean a grill. Over time, grease and food particles can accumulate on the grates and other surfaces, which can not only impact the taste of your food but also pose a fire hazard.
Whether you’re hosting a party or just planning on taking advantage of the weather to cook meals outdoors regularly, knowing how to clean your grill will allow it to work better during the peak grilling season and keep your food tasting great.
To help you prepare for a season of outdoor cooking, Kevin Kolman, Weber’s grill master, and George Patrick Barry, executive chef at the Mystic Mariott Hotel and Spa, share their expert advice and DIY cleaning tips for cleaning all types of barbecue grills from the hood to the ashes.
What do you need to clean your grill?
Regular cleaning is an essential part of grill maintenance to ensure optimal performance and prevent any food contamination. However, cleaning a grill can be a daunting task if you do not have the right cleaning tools and materials.
Similar to cleaning your cast-iron pans and Blackstone griddles, the tools and materials you use to clean your grill will vary depending on the type of grill you have and the amount of gunk and buildup on the grates and burners.
A grill brush, scraper, grill cleaner, gloves, degreaser, and a little elbow grease are all useful tools for effective grill cleaning. By using these products regularly, you can keep your grill in great condition and enjoy delicious outdoor cooking for years to come.
Before we dive into the cleaning process, let’s go over the tools and materials you will need to clean your grill and why they are effective.
- A spray bottle
- Baking soda
- A wire grill brush
- Sponge or washcloth
- Bucket
- Dish soap
- Rubber gloves
- Trash bags
- Paper towels
- Cooking oil or grill spray
- Stainless steel cleaner (if you have a stainless-steel grill)
One of the most essential tools for cleaning a grill is a grill brush. This brush features tough bristles that are designed to scrape away stubborn food residue and grease from the grill grates. It is important to use a grill brush that is appropriate for your grill type, such as wire bristles for metal grates and nylon bristles for porcelain-coated grates. You should also choose a brush with a long handle to protect your hands from the heat.
Another important cleaning material is a grill cleaner. This product is specifically formulated to break down grease and food residue on your grill grates, making it easier to remove with a brush or scraper. There are several types of grill cleaners available, including foam sprays, gels, and wipes. Whether you choose a grill cleaner that is suitable for cast-iron, stainless-steel, or porcelain-coated grates depends on your specific grill.
In addition to a grill brush, a scraper is another useful tool for removing stubborn stuck-on food residue from your grill grates. A scraper features a sharp blade that can easily scrape away burnt-on food and grease, making it an effective tool for deep-cleaning your grill. Use a metal scraper for metal grates and a plastic scraper for porcelain-coated grates.
Cleaning a grill can be a messy job, and you must protect your hands from heat and any chemicals or cleaning products you may be using. A pair of heavy-duty rubber gloves allow you to get a better grip on your grill brush or scraper. These gloves are also useful for handling hot grill grates while cleaning.
If your grill has accumulated a lot of grease and grime, a degreaser can be a useful product to have on hand. A degreaser is a powerful cleaning agent that can dissolve stubborn grease and oil buildup on your grill grates and burners. Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. For a natural alternative, try a mixture of white vinegar and hot water.
What is the best way to clean a BBQ grill?
Before you start cleaning your grill, make sure it’s turned off and cooled down completely. You don’t want to risk burning yourself while cleaning the grill. Once it's fully cooled, remove the grates, the drip pan, and any other removable parts from the grill. Place them in a bucket of soapy warm water and let them soak while you clean the rest of the grill.
Start by cleaning the grill cooking grates. Use a grill brush to scrub away any excess debris and food particles. For stubborn grime, use a ball of aluminum foil to scrape away any remaining debris, but be careful not to scratch the grates or damage the enamel coating.
It's important to keep the burners clean since they are responsible for heating your grill and cooking your food. Use a brush or a sponge to clean the burners, making sure to remove any clogs or debris. If your burners have corrosion, it might be time to replace them.
Next, it’s time to clean the inside of the grill. Use a brush or a sponge to remove any debris or grease buildup. For a gas grill, first you want to make sure to check the gas ports for any clogs. Use a toothbrush or a paper clip to remove any buildup or burn-off food residue from the ports.
The drip pan on a grill is catches any excess grease or food particles that fall from the grill grates. Over time, the drip pan can become clogged with grease, making it a breeding ground for bacteria. Use a sponge or a washcloth to clean the drip pan thoroughly. If the pan is disposable, you may replace it with a new one.
Now that the inside of the grill is clean, it’s time to move on to the exterior. Use a sponge or a washcloth to clean the outside of the grill. If you have a stainless-steel grill, use a stainless steel cleaner to remove any stains or fingerprints. Make sure to dry the grill thoroughly to prevent rust.
After you’ve cleaned and dried the grates, it’s time to season them. Seasoning the grates will help prevent food from sticking to them and will give your food a better flavor. Use a paper towel to apply a light coat of vegetable oil or grill spray to the clean grill grates.
How many types of grills are there?
When it comes to outdoor cooking, grilling is a popular method that has been around for centuries. From charcoal to gas, there are several types of grills to choose from, each with its own unique set of advantages and disadvantages. In addition to selecting the right grill, it is also important to understand how to clean and maintain it to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
How to clean charcoal grills
Charcoal grills are a popular option for those who enjoy the smoky flavor that only charcoal can provide. These grills are available in a variety of styles, including kettle, barrel, and ceramic. Cleaning a charcoal grill can be a bit more challenging than other types, as ash buildup can accumulate quickly. After each use, wait until the coals have completely cooled, then remove the ash and debris with a grill brush or scraper. You should also periodically clean the grates with a wire brush and soapy water to prevent buildup and ensure optimal cooking performance.
How to clean gas grills
Gas grills are another popular option for outdoor cooking. These grills use propane or natural gas to create heat, making them a convenient and easy-to-use option for those who want to grill without the hassle of charcoal. Gas grills come in a variety of styles, including freestanding, built-in, and portable. Cleaning a gas grill is typically easier than a charcoal grill, as there is no ash to clean up. Brush the grates with a wire brush after each use and use a grill cleaner or degreaser to remove any leftover residue or buildup. It is also important to clean the burner tubes and remove any debris or spider webs that may have accumulated around the propane tank.
How to clean electric grills
Electric grills are a convenient option for those who want to grill indoors or in areas when you can’t use a gas or charcoal grill. These grills are easy to use and clean with no need for propane or charcoal. Simply wipe down the grates with a damp cloth or sponge after each use. It is also important to clean the drip tray and remove any leftover food debris to prevent smoke and odors from accumulating.
How to clean infrared grills
Infrared grills are a newer type of grill that use radiant heat to cook food quickly and evenly. These grills are typically powered by propane or natural gas and are available in both freestanding and built-in models. Cleaning an infrared grill is similar to cleaning a gas grill, with regular cleaning of the grates and burners. However, you should avoid using abrasive cleaners or wire brushes on the grates, as this can damage the infrared heating elements.
Each type of grill has its own unique advantages and disadvantages, and each requires slightly different cleaning and maintenance techniques. Regardless of the type of grill you choose, regular cleaning and maintenance are essential. By following these simple tips, you can keep your grill in great condition and enjoy delicious alfresco meals for years to come.
