How to Spring Clean Your Grill Before Cookout Season

Spring cleaning is the perfect time for deep cleaning a home after a long winter. And, don’t forget to add your outdoor living area to the list! Spring clean your grill before the season’s first cookout with these tips and how-tos.

What’s the best way to spring clean a grill?

What You’ll Need

• Aluminum foil
• A bucket filled with warm, soapy water (use dish soap)
• Grill brush
• Paper towels
• Wood toothpicks

1. Make sure the grill is off before you start. Check if the burners are cool and the knobs are set to “OFF.”
2. Turn off the propane tank and disconnect it for gas grills.
3. Dump any used briquettes or ashes in the trash.
4. Remove the grease trap and clean it (see below).
5. Remove the grill grates and the burner protectors.
6. Place the grates and burner protectors in the wash bucket. Let them soak to loosen grease and grime.
7. Place aluminum foil over the burner tubes and heating elements to shield them from cleaning overspray.
8. Clean the underside of the grill hood and box with paper towels dipped in warm soap water. Wipe dry with paper towels.
9. Remove the grates and burner protectors from the bucket and scrub them. Rinse with clean water and wipe dry.
10. Remove the foil covering the burner tubes. Gently wipe the tubes with a paper towel to remove the grime.
11. Check burner holes for grime and remove any food bits or grease with a toothpick.
12. Put the clean burner covers, grates, and trap back in the grill. Reconnect the propane tank if required.

How do I clean the grease tray?

1. Remove the grease tray. Turn it upside-down over a trash bin to allow liquids to drip.
2. Scrape the inside with an old rubber spatula. Most of the gunk will easily come loose.
3. Wipe the inside with a paper towel to remove any remaining solids.
4. Optional – wash with soap and water
5. Line the grease tray with aluminum foil for easier cleaning next time.
6. Reinsert the tray inside the grill.
7. Check the grease tray each time you grill and remove accumulated grease.

How do I clean the grill exterior?

First, refer to your owner’s manual for cleaning instructions for your particular type of grill.

Then, wipe the grill lid and exterior with a soft sponge dipped in warm, soapy water. Rinse and dry.

Note that scrubbing with a scouring pad may scratch the paint. Instead, remove stuck-on grime with a manufacturer-recommended grill cleaner.

What type of grill brush is best for cleaning the grate?

Clean the grill grate with a stiff wire brush. Some grill chefs use a balled piece of aluminum foil to remove buildup. The best grill brush is one with a long handle and an angled head because it will keep your hands safely away from the heat.

How do I use a grill brush?

1. Let the grill cool down until it is slightly warm. This will help the residue come off easier.
2. Move it up and down over the grates, using firm pressure.
3. Flip the grates over and brush grate surfaces using the same up and down motion.

When your grill is prepped and clean, it’s time to cook up some fun! Check out these recipes for bacon-wrapped burgers and pina coladas.

Spring clean your grill before cookout season to ensure yummy food and a safe cooking experience.