20 Tips for Mastering the Art of BBQ Grill Cleaning

Cleaning your BBQ grill might not be the most exciting task, but it’s crucial for great grilling and keeping your grill in top shape.

Here are seven easy tips to help you clean your BBQ like a pro, so you can get back to cooking up delicious meals in no time.

1. Preheat Your Grill

From https://www.thekitchn.com/how-long-do-you-really-need-to-preheat-your-grill-23035639

Start by turning your grill to high for 10-15 minutes. This will help burn off any leftover food and grease, making it easier to clean the grates.

2. Use a Grill Brush

From https://www.thegrillcoach.com/blog/why-you-need-a-grill-cleaning-brush

While the grill is still hot, use a stiff-bristled brush to scrub the grates. This will remove charred bits and residue that can affect the flavor of your next cookout.

3. Clean with Onion

From https://www.bonappetit.com/story/grill-cleaning-hack

For a natural cleaning method, cut an onion in half and rub it on the hot grates. The onion’s juices help to break down grease and give your grill a fresh scent.

4. Soak the Grates

Remove the grates and soak them in a tub of warm, soapy water. This will loosen any stubborn grime and make scrubbing them much easier.

5. Scrub with Baking Soda

From https://www.thekitchn.com/best-method-cleaning-grill-grates-23166960

Make a paste from baking soda and water, then apply it to the grates. Baking soda is a gentle yet effective cleaner that helps lift off stubborn stains and grease.

6. Vinegar Spray

Mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spritz the mixture onto the grates to cut through grease and help remove grime. Wipe clean with a damp cloth.

7. Lemon Juice

From https://coolmomeats.com/2018/05/12/best-grill-cleaning-trick/

Apply lemon juice to the grates. The acidity helps break down grease, and the lemon provides a fresh scent. It’s also a great natural alternative to harsher chemicals.

8. Use a Shop Vac

For a thorough clean, use a shop vac to suck up ash and debris from the bottom of the grill. This prevents buildup that can affect the performance of your grill.

9. Clean the Burner Tubes

From https://tressf.com/2023/06/20/the-ultimate-guide-to-cleaning-your-bbq-tips-and-techniques-for-a-spotless-grill/

Brush and clear the burner tubes to remove any blockages and ensure even heating. This helps prevent flare-ups and ensures your grill cooks evenly.

10. Check and Clean the Drip Pan

Empty and clean the drip pan regularly to avoid grease buildup and potential flare-ups. A clean drip pan also prevents unpleasant odors.

11. Scrub the Interior

From https://www.businessinsider.com/guides/kitchen/how-to-clean-a-grill

Wipe down the inside of the grill with a damp cloth to remove soot and debris. This helps maintain a clean cooking environment and prolongs the life of your grill.

12. Clean the Exterior

From https://www.thespruce.com/how-often-should-i-clean-my-grill-1900617

Use a mild detergent and water to wipe down the outside of the grill. This removes smudges, fingerprints, and other stains to keep your grill looking sharp.

13. Oil the Grates

From https://www.4thegrill.com/should-you-oil-your-grill-grates/?v=0a10a0b3e53b

After cleaning, lightly oil the grates using a paper towel dipped in vegetable oil. This prevents rust and helps keep food from sticking.

14. Deep Clean Seasonally

Every few months, perform a deep clean by removing all parts of the grill and scrubbing them individually. This ensures your grill stays in top condition for the long run.

15. Use Grill Cleaners

From https://bbqchamps.com/homemade-grill-cleaner/

For tough grime, use a commercial grill cleaner designed specifically for heavy-duty cleaning. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for best results.

16. Citrus Peels

After grilling, toss citrus peels (like lemon or lime) onto the hot grates. The heat will release essential oils that help break down grease and leave a fresh scent.

17. Diluted Dish Soap

For a quick clean, mix a small amount of dish soap with warm water and use a sponge or cloth to wipe down the grates. Rinse thoroughly to remove any soap residue.

18. Use a Paint Scraper

For stubborn, burnt-on grime, a plastic paint scraper can be effective. Just make sure it’s plastic to avoid scratching the grates.

19. Clean with a Wet Sponge

From https://www.bondcleaningingoldcoast.com.au/how-to-clean-a-bbq-in-6-simple-steps/

After grilling, while the grates are still warm, use a wet sponge to wipe off food particles. This works best if you do it immediately after cooking.

20. Pre-Clean with Steam

From https://www.foodandwine.com/cooking-techniques/how-to-clean-a-grill

Place a cup of water in a heatproof dish on the grill and close the lid. Let it steam for 10-15 minutes to loosen residue, making it easier to scrub off.