Don’t push this essential end-of-summer project to spring.
Everyone loves a cookout, but cleaning up afterward can be a pain.
Grime-free grill grates are essential to delicious barbecues and keeping a pest-free yard all year round.
Credit: Mukhina1 / Getty Images
Grill grates can be made of cast iron, stainless steel, or a porcelain coating.
you could buy a professional grill cleaning kit or use supplies you already have around the house.
However, each surface requires different tools and techniques.
Here’s what you oughta know to get the job done.
Wash Grates
After the grill cools, remove the grates from the grill.
Wear gloves to prevent gunk from getting on your hands or under your nails.
Wash grill grates in the sink using dish soap and anylon brushto scrub off any remaining particles.
Spray distilled white vinegar over the baking soda.
Wait a few minutes for foam to form.
Gently scrub the grates.
Rinse and Dry
Rinse with warm water andtowel dry.
Don’t place the grates back in a closed grill until they are completely dry.
Afterward, skip the soak and try these techniques for cleaning cast iron grill grates.
Scrub Grates
Avoid soaking cast iron in water.
Instead, use a damp cloth or a nylon cleaning brush to scrub the grates clean.
Dry and Season Grates
Use a soft towel to pat dry the grates.
Don’t skip this step!
Air-drying cast iron can lead to calcium deposits and rust.
Season the grates by coating them withvegetable oilafter every use.
Porcelain has a smooth, even outer coating, making it easy to scrub withdish soap.
To avoid cracks and chips, don’t scrape the surface with abrasive sponges or brushes.
Instead, use these easy steps.
Wash them thoroughly with warm water.
Use a vinegar spray or dish soap to scrub the surface.
Dry Grates
Thoroughly dry the grates using a clean towel.
Quick-dry and cotton cloths can make this job faster.
For a deep clean, former chef and grilling enthusiast Michael East recommends steam-cleaning grates.
“Simply heat the grill to 600 degrees and then turn the heat off.
Lastly, scrub the grill grate with a silicone sponge to remove the buildup of food and grease.”
Be patient and don’t risk burning yourself.
Instead, wait a few hours to let the grates cool for cleaning purposes.
Remember to wash grill grates thoroughly after every use.
And do not place wet grates on the grill rack.
Water droplets can rust the grates, as well as the undercarriage of the grill itself.
Towel dry thoroughly before closing the lid on your freshly cleaned grill.
