Summer BBQ Prep: How To Deep Clean Your Barbecue Grill

Summer BBQ Prep: How To Deep Clean Your Barbecue Grill

Posted On: June 14th, 2024

Summer is officially here, bringing with it warm evenings perfect for BBQs and nightly grilling sessions with friends and family. There's no better time than now to get your grill in tip-top shape for all the delicious meals you'll be preparing. A clean barbecue grill not only ensures your food cooks better but also extends the lifespan of your trusty outdoor cooking companion. Ready to make your grill shine? Here’s an easy-to-follow, quick barbecue cleaning guide to help you get started.

 

Here Are Some Items You Will Need To Clean The Barbecue:

 

Step 1: Clean The BBQ Grill Grates

Barbecue grills are the backbone of summer dinners, and their grates often bear the brunt of all the delicious food we cook on them. To keep your grill grates sparkling clean and ready for the next mouth-watering meal, follow this simple method:

Start by adding a generous squirt of dish soap to a bucket filled with hot water. Place the barbecue grill grates in this soapy bath and let them soak for 15-30 minutes. Once they've had a good soak, use a sturdy wire grill brush to scrub away all the food residue and charcoal buildup. This process can get pretty messy, so don’t hesitate to wear gloves if needed.


Extra Grill Grate Cleaning Tips: 

  • If the grill grates don't fit entirely in the bucket, immerse one half first, let it soak, then flip them to soak the other side.
  • If the grill grates are exceptionally dirty, give them a second soak to help loosen and remove more residue with less effort.

 

Step 2: Clean The Inside Of The Barbecue Grill

With the grill grates removed, use paper towels to brush away any loose charcoal debris into the drip pan. Once the debris is cleared, remove the pan, discard it, and replace it with a new one.

Quick Tips: 

  • Don't stress about being too meticulous with this step. The trap will quickly fill up again from all your grilling festivities, so regular maintenance will be necessary.
  • If your BBQ grill lacks a drip pan liner, using aluminum foil is an excellent alternative for keeping it clean and making it easy to swap out.

 

Step 3: Clean The Exterior Of The Grill

Spray the Heavy Duty Degreaser onto the grill top, side tables, handles, knobs, and base. Wipe away all the dirt, dust, pollen, and grime to reveal a spotless, grease-free surface.

Quick Tip: For an extra shine on stainless steel BBQ grills, follow up with the Truly Free Stone & Steel Cleansing Polish.

 

Quick Tips To Keep Your BBQ Grill Clean All Summer Long

  • Clean your grill grates after each use while they are still hot to easily remove burnt-on food.
  • Wipe down the exterior of your grill about once a week to keep it free from dust and pollen.
  • Keep your barbecue grill covered to protect it from the elements such as rain, hail, and more.
  • Replace your grill brush every season and check regularly for damaged bristles, replacing it sooner if needed.

 

 

Maintaining a clean barbecue grill during the summer is crucial for enjoying flavorful, safe, and healthy barbecues. By regularly cleaning your barbecue grill grates, wiping down the exterior, and using a cover to protect it from the elements, you can keep your grill in peak condition all season long. These simple maintenance habits not only enhance the taste of your grilled dishes but also help prevent health hazards and extend the lifespan of your grill.

Taking the time to clean your grill after each use, while it’s still hot, ensures that burnt-on food particles are easily removed. This keeps your barbecue grill grates in excellent shape and prevents contamination of future meals. Additionally, routinely wiping down the exterior of your grill helps safeguard it against dust, pollen, and other debris that can accumulate over time, preserving its appearance and functionality.

A well-maintained grill is also better protected against the harsh elements of summer weather. Using a sturdy cover shields your investment from rain, hail, and other environmental factors, reducing wear and tear. Furthermore, regularly inspecting and replacing your grill brush each season ensures that you’re always equipped with a tool in good working condition, preventing damage to your grill grates and ensuring effective cleaning.

I hope this easy to follow guide adds to the joy of your grilling season with friends and family. A little extra care goes a long way, ensuring many memorable and delicious cookouts throughout the summer. Happy grilling and enjoy those sunny days filled with laughter, great food, and cherished moments around the grill!