How Do You Clean Grill Grates

Why Is It So Important To Clean Grill Grates

How to Clean Gas Grill Grates | Grillabilities from BBQGuys

When you cook your meals on a grill, the heat burns the fats and most of it drips to the surface of the grill.

The excess oil collects in the grill and forms a thick layer of grease.

The accumulated grease, other than harboring dirt and germs, could cause a fire when it comes into contact with burning flames.

The heated grill grates also burn the foods placed on them and some particles are left attached to it.

The pieces of food on the grill gates attract bacteria when the grill is left for some time without being used and this results in contamination.

Im pretty sure you dont want to serve your guests contaminated meals that will make them sick and the only way to prevent this from happening is by upholding cleanliness.

Now that you are aware of the need to keep your grill clean and free of germs, you are probably wondering how often you should do it.

Well, cleaning your grill thoroughly after every cookout is not always possible but you can at least clean the grates to remove the food particles attached to it before you store the grill.

Here, I will teach you how to clean your grates with vinegar a natural cleaning agent.

Directions For Cleaning Grill Grates:

Before cleaning, please consult the Owner’s Manual for any important precautions, instructions or warranty requirements.

  • Burn off residue. If your grill grates have heavy buildup or charred-on residue, turn the grill on high, close the barbecue lid and let it burn for 15 minutes. Some grillers cover their grates with aluminum foil when doing this to trap the heat close to the grate surface. Use your grill brush to clear away any debris, then let the grill cool completely before cleaning.
  • Remove the grates and apply Simple Green Heavy-Duty BBQ & Grill Cleaner. Place the grates on some newspaper. Spray the grates from 8-10 inches away, coating them entirely with the cleaner. Allow them to soak for several minutes.
  • Scrub the grates. Use a bristle-free grill brush or stiff nylon grill brush to scrub away tough buildup and stuck-on food.
  • Rinse and dry. Discard newspaper. Rinse the grill grates well with your garden hose, and air dry or wipe dry with a clean cloth.
  • Oil grates if necessary. After cleaning cast iron grill grates or stainless steel grates, prevent rusting by coating them in high-temperature cooking oil, such as flax seed or canola oil.
  • & ast Biodegradable formula: This formula decomposes into elements found in nature within six months after disposal into a typical sanitary sewer or septic system.

    WHERE TO BUY

    Onion For Cleaning After Each Grilling

    An old barbecue trick I learned from my grandma is to clean heated grills with onion. Peel an onion, cut it in half and use the cut side for cleaning the cast iron grate while holding the onion in your hand or on a barbecue fork. This is a healthier way than oven cleaner, for example, because you don’t use chemicals.

    Also Check: How Long Do You Grill Pork Tenderloin

    How To Clean A Stainless Stain Grill Grates

    Everybody loves a good BBQ! Whats better than everybody getting together, enjoying the atmosphere as well some grilled burgers or wings?The only downside to an outdoor barbecue is that someone is always stuck with cleaning the grill grates. Burnt stubborn food residue and tough grease stuck on a dirty grate are irritating . It may feel like its impossible to remove everything despite scrubbing at it for hours. However, cleaning doesnt have to be frustrating experience after a BBQ session. Read on to discover our guide to understanding how to clean a stainless grill grate easily.

    Quick Note: If you have a cast iron grill this isnt the cleaning guide for you. Head over to how to clean cast iron grill grates here.

    When To Replace Your Grill Grates

    How To Clean Grill Grates

    There isnt a definite lifespan for grates. It all depends on the use and how they’re maintained.

    Youll know its time for a replacement when the metal seems corroded, flaking, cracked, or covered in rust.

    In some cases, if the hardened grease or built-up barbecue sauce appears unsalvageable, you might have to consider replacing your grates.

    Final cleaning tip: Also check and clean up the burner tubes of your gas grill from time to time! Here’s how to clean your burner tubes.

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    Seasoning For Preventive Maintenance

    Seasoning means applying oil often to keep it shiny and prevent rust for longer time. After cleaning your cast iron grill grate with mild rust removers, scrub them properly with steel wool for better results. Wash off with water only if the cleaner cannot be completely removed otherwise you can simply wipe up using a paper towel or dry cloth.

    Now apply vegetable oil over the surface by rubbing few drops spread all over the area where black residue is present. This will protect your cast iron grate from re-rusting in coming days while making food easy to cook without sticking onto the surface. You should pre-season before cooking especially after scrubbing hard on grates with chemicals containing acid as this will prevent food from sticking while requiring less oil for cooking.

    Clean Grates And Racks After Each Use

    Cleaning chores are much easier if they are done often, after each use of the grill. This is critical with gas grills since the high temperatures can bake on grease and foods, making it challenging to clean the grates and racks once they cool and the grease hardens.

    Make sure to clean these parts after every cooking session.

    Recommended Reading: How To Clean Stainless Steel Grill Cover

    How To Store Your Grill

    Grill cover, grill cover, grill cover. It may be obvious, but covering your grill is a must if you’re keeping it outdoors. When I first moved into an apartment with a proper grilling space, I immediately ran to the closest Target and picked up one of those knee-high 12-inch square grills and passed on a cover. Fast forward two months: the thing was a rusty mess and beyond use. Sadly, I let that grill die an early death by keeping it exposed to the elements.

    Back at the store, I opted for a 22-inch Weber kettle knock-off, this time purchasing a cover at the same time. I’m proud to say that cheap-o grill is still going strong after six years now enjoying a good life of churning out great food at my cousin’s place, thanks in large part to keeping it covered when it was not in use.

    Looking back through these tips, it all seems so minimal. The daily maintenance endured is so minor compared to all the greatness that comes from the fruits of this labor. So take that little bit of time to keep your grill happy, then throw some food over the flames, sit back and reap the rewards for years to come.

    Clean All Parts Once A Year

    How To Clean Gas Grill Grates

    Clean everything elseincluding the burners themselves, the side walls, the bottom of the cooking compartment, and the drip panat least once a year, using warm, soapy water. This seasonal or annual cleaning requires some simple disassembly so you can clean each part separately let and dry it thoroughly before reassembling the grill. Make sure to disconnect the gas hookups before removing the burners.

    The burners require special attention. Makes sure the jets are free of debris. A thin wire or small nail can help to open up any holes that are plugged.

    Conclude by wiping down the outside of the grill, using warm water. Wipe dry to prevent rust.

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    Ultimate Cheeseburger And Grill Cleaning Guide

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    Summer grilling season will be here soon and my Ultimate Cheeseburger and Grill Cleaning Guide is all you need to keep the family fed and happy. Before you BBQ chefs fire up your neglected grills for the first time since last fall, get your grills in the best shape with my grill cleaning guide.

    I grill most of the winter but the cleaning and care of my grill is not part of my cold weather routine. The performance of your grill can diminish over time if has not been maintained properly.

    Low temperatures, uneven heat, hot spots and food sticking to grates are all possible side effects of poor grill cleaning and maintenance. A clean grill is a happy grill.

    Remove Black Gunk Stuck On Grill Grates Using Lime Juice

    If there are stubborn dark spots present on your cast iron grill grate then pour lime juice over them allowing it to stay for 20-30 minutes after which scrub them nicely with steel wire brush. Once you finish scrubbing, wash with cold water and dry it using a cloth or paper towel.

    Prevention of rusting in cast iron grill grates is possible by applying vegetable oil in the beginning before cooking. This will help food not to stick to the surface in long term thus preventing future cleaning hassles. Also make sure that after each use you keep your cast iron grate away from moisture to avoid getting them rusty soon. If required apply some oil again after using which will prevent them from rusting for longer time till next use.

    Read Also: How Long Does It Take To Cook Shrimp On The Grill

    How To Clean Stainless Steel Grates Quick Tips

    Stainless steel grill grates can handle 800+ degrees Fahrenheit, which is hotter than any residential grill will get. Unlike cast iron, stainless steel is somewhat rust-resistant.

    The easiest way to clean the grates is to simply brush them. Well go over this method below.

    With stainless steel grates, you can use a nylon brush or wire brush, but nylon is the safer bet. You always run the risk of scratching the grates using a wire brush if you press too hard.

    Also, the bristles can break off in your grill and cook into your food, which is a health hazard. So just be mindful of how much pressure you use when cleaning your stainless steel grill grates.

    Now lets get into eight different methods you can use to make them look nice and shiny.

    Safety Precautions While Using Rust Removers

    How To Clean Grill Grates

    Some mild rust removers can be used to remove rust from iron grill grates but before using them make sure you take some safety precautions. Always read the instructions written on the label about how to use that particular solution and then clean your cast iron grate with it.

    Never add more than 1 cup of vinegar or other such products when making a mix for cleaning cast iron grill grate as extra ingredients containing acid in huge quantities will start eating into the metal which may damage the grill completely.

    You must always keep in mind not to overuse water since this is not a fast acting rust remover and will need multiple applications along with drying periods between each spray type application, thus causing dangerous conditions around if water is allowed to stay on cast iron surface for a long time.

    Never ever use chemicals which are strong enough to dissolve the metal surface in its spot. These may be effective rust removers but will damage your cast iron grate forever or weaken them with multiple applications so better avoid using such products for cleaning purpose.

    After applying any rust remover always rinse it off with cold water and dry up completely before placing your cast iron grill grate back on heat surface or else there is a chance of re-rusting if moisture is present over the grates after using certain harsh cleaning solutions.

    Read Also: Cleaning Stainless Steel Grill Grates With Vinegar

    Clean Cast Iron Grill Grates Without Removing From The Grill

    Cast iron grill grates are durable and heat evenly but can be prone to rusting. If you open your grill to see rusty cast iron grates, dont despair. Reach for the baking soda, even if your cast iron grates dont easily come out of your grill.

    • Make a paste of 1 ½ cups ARM & HAMMER Baking Soda, ¼ cup dish soap, and ¼ cup white vinegar in a small bowl. It should be a frothy liquid consistency that sticks to the grill grates.
    • Using a brush, paint the grill grates with the paste, avoiding the heating elements if this is a gas grill. Close the grill. Note: do not turn the grill on.
    • Let the paste sit for 8-12 hours or overnight.
    • Use a nylon-bristled brush or scourer sponge to remove the loosened debris and grime.
    • Use a damp sponge and warm water to wipe away any remaining residue.

    Once all the rust is removed, thoroughly dry the grates and rub them with a generous amount of vegetable oil to coat them and protect from moisture. You can also turn the grill on high after coating with oil to help lock in the seasoning and be ready for your next BBQ.

    How To Clean Cast Iron Grill Grates Conclusion

    The grates on your cast iron grill are likely one of the most important parts when it comes to cooking food. They need proper care to last a long time and keep you from having dangerous fires in your kitchen. A lot can go wrong with these grates, but luckily we have some tips that will help you clean them properly so theyll work great for years. In this post, were going to discuss how you should clean your cast iron grill grates. Were not just talking about the one-time cleaning either! The more time and effort you take in maintaining these important parts of your barbecue, the better it will perform and last for years to come. To maintain the longevity of your cooking surface, you need to know how best to care for it. And lastly, dont forget to dry thoroughly after washing!

    Thank you for reading!

    Recommended Reading: How Long Do You Grill Pork Tenderloin

    How To Clean Rusty Grill Grates

    Rust on your grill isnt exactly appetizing, nor ideal. Fortunately, cleaning a rusty grill grates is relatively easy. The simplest methods use non-toxic household items, probably already on hand in your kitchen. Prevention, however, is the best method. Try these tips for removing rust with household items, and then follow our recommendations to prevent future rust.

    Best Ways To Clean Grill Grates

    4 Tricks To Clean Your Grill Grates

    Cleaning grill grates is a nasty job, but not if you want your food to taste nasty too!

    Ive heard people say they dont mind a little leftover grime on their grates, with the claim that it adds flavor. No, this is not a thing. Only lazy people say that. Grease, oil, and marinade get caked up during grilling. After they sit there for a while, they turn rancid and will make your food taste bad. Just clean the grates, its not that hard.

    You never think of using a frying pan and want to cook something that has left-over gunk and dried sauce everywhere. Well, your grill is pretty much the same principle and should have proper hygiene you need for a fine BBQ.

    Lets talk about heavy metal for a second. Not the kind that you listen to that makes the neighbors wonder if youll ever grow-up. The kind that gets hot enough to put an excellent sear and crust on your steak. Below well cover everything you need to know about grates, DIY cleaning hacks, maintenance tips, and our top picks for the best grates and cleaning tools.

    Cleaning Tools & Grate Upgrades, Reviewed & Ranked

    Product
    Kettle Grate

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    How Often Should You Clean Your Grill Grates

    The leftover bits of food on your grill grates can not only create a smelly mess, but can be a breeding ground for bacteria that could contaminate foods next time you grill. Additionally, burned food has been linked to cancer causing carcinogens, so it is important that your grill is nice and clean before your next cookout.

    For easier cleaning of your grill, at the start of a new grilling season, you should give your grill a good clean. If you are using the grill frequently, you will need to clean it at least once a week and give the grates a thorough clean every month or two. This will ensure that your grill cooks well all season and it will also have a longer lifespan.

    Can You Soak Grill Grates

    Soaking cooled grill grates is highly encouraged for that much needed deep clean. Soaking your grill for overnight gets you maximum benefit for this method.

    There are various types of soak solution you can use. The first one is to soak them overnight in a vinegar solution. For this, you will need the following:

    • 237 g or one cup of vinegar
    • 474 g or two cups of baking soda
    • A large plastic bag
  • Mix the vinegar and baking soda. The solution will create a froth that will facilitate the breakdown of stubborn gunk or grime still stuck on your grill grates. When doing this procedure, protect your eyes from the vinegar solution because it can irritate them.
  • Then, put the grill grates inside the large plastic bag. Seal the bag with a rubber band or create a tight knot on the top of the bag. Place the bag in a safe place, safely put it somewhere the pets or people can easily walk by.
  • In the morning or the next day, you want to hose them down thoroughly before putting it back on the grill.
  • The good thing about soaking the dirty grill grate in a vinegar solution is that it aids to soften chippy food build up. This method is better than just scrubbing vinegar solution alone to the grill grates. Also, soaking the grill grates overnight can save you a lot of time and energy when you scrub as it peels off the stuck-on food easily.

    Additionally, there is another solution that you can use if you do not have baking soda available. This soaking solution requires the following:

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