Cleaning your BBQ might not be the most exciting part of outdoor cooking, but it’s one of the most important. A clean grill doesn’t just look better... it cooks better, lasts longer, and keeps your food tasting great (& safe to eat).
Whether you're new to barbecuing or a seasoned pro, knowing how to clean BBQ, take care of your grill, and maintain it throughout the year will make every cook-up safer and more enjoyable. In this guide, we’ll walk you through simple, practical steps on how to clean a grill, including tips on how to clean BBQ grill grates, deep cleaning advice, seasonal maintenance, and the best tools to get the job done.
Why You Should Clean Your BBQ Regularly
A clean BBQ is not just about looks – it's about performance, safety, and flavour.
Whether you fire up your BBQ every weekend or just on special occasions, understanding how to clean your BBQ properly can help you avoid flare-ups, extend the lifespan of your BBQ, and enhance the flavour of each meal.
It's all too easy for grease and food residue to build up; which can spark a fire, lead to hot spots, and even invite pests and vermin to visit. On top of which, those charred remains can spoil the fresh foods on your next cook.
Taking the time to clean your BBQ ensures your grill runs smoothly and looks great for years to come.
Post-Cook Quick Clean-Up: First Line of Defence
The easiest way to avoid stubborn grime is to clean your BBQ right after each use. You don’t need a deep clean every time, just a few simple steps make a big difference.
Immediate Post-Cook Routine
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Turn off your BBQ and allow it to sit for a moment but remain warm.
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Scrub grates & plates with a Gasmate BBQ Cleaning Brush. A brass bristle brush works well for scraping surface debris.
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For added cleaning force, spray a 50/50 mixture of water and vinegar and allow it to remain for 5–10 minutes prior to wiping with a paper towel or cloth.
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Lightly oil grates to prevent rust and any future buildup.
- Lastly, cover your BBQ with a breathable cover to protect it from dust, moisture, and outdoor exposure
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This quick routine is key to keeping your grill in top shape and makes maintenance simple.
How to Deep Clean Your BBQ
Every few months, particularly at the beginning or end of BBQ season, it's time for a deep clean. This removes stubborn grease and ensures your BBQ continues to function safely and efficiently.
Step-by-Step: Deep Cleaning BBQ
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Switch off the gas or power supply before cleaning.
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Remove cooking grates, hotplates, and drip trays.
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Soak in warm soapy water to dissolve heavy grease.
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Use a Heavy Duty BBQ Scraper for stuck, baked-on food particles.
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Clean the interior of the hood and firebox with a vinegar and cloth solution.
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Empty and wash the drip pan.
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Wipe all exterior surfaces with mild detergent.
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When dry, spray the cooking surfaces lightly with oil to prevent rust.
By following these steps, you’re covering all bases on how to clean BBQ grills, especially when the build-up becomes more stubborn over time.
Seasonal BBQ Maintenance Tips
Spring/Summer
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Do a deep clean before BBQ season kicks off.Give your BBQ a deep clean before the season starts.
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Check burner tubes for blockages for (bugs or debris).
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Re-oil cooking grates regularly.
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Keep your BBQ under a patio or cover it with a tough cover such as the Gasmate Premium BBQ Cover. Keep your BBQ under cover or protect it with a durable, weather-resistant BBQ cover between uses. Google Drive Image Link
Autumn/Winter
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Deep clean again and store for the season.Start with a deep clean to remove any build-up.
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Disconnect and store your gas cylinder safely.
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Cover your BBQ but provide ventilation to avoid moisture build-up.
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Oil metal parts to avoid rust in wet months.
By following these seasonal recommendations steps, your BBQ will remain operational and avoid expensive repairs later.your BBQ will stay reliable, perform at it’s best, and avoid costly repairs down the track.
Essential Cleaning Products from Outdoor Domains
To simplify how to clean BBQ grill grates and your overall BBQ, here are some must-haves found at Outdoor Domains:
Having the right tools within arm’s reach makes all the difference when it comes to BBQ cleaning and keeping your outdoor setup in top condition.
Final Thoughts
Knowing how to clean the grill, maintain your BBQ, and protect it through every season will not only help your equipment BBQ last longer, but also ensure your food tastes as good as it should. but ensure every meal tastes its best.
Make cleaning part of your BBQ routine—just a few minutes after each use and a deeper clean a few times a year can make a world of difference.
Ready to look after your BBQ better? Browse Outdoor Domains' BBQ cleaning range and make your next cook-up your cleanest and tastiest ever!yet.
