These 6 Cleaning Mistakes Are Ruining Your Grill—Here's What to Avoid

Delicious barbecue comes at a (clean-up) cost. While cleaning the grill isn't the most glamorous part of cooking out, it is necessary. Just like becoming an expert grill master, being an expert grill cleaner also takes some trial and error. If the grill is cleaned incorrectly, it could prove costly for your health—and your pocketbook. Whether working with a gas, charcoal, or electric grill, avoid these common cleaning mistakes that can jeopardize the longevity of your grill.

1. Don’t Trust a Wire Brush

The utensils used on a grill are just as important as the heat source. Wire utensils are common for cleaning grills, but they can pose unforeseen dangers. Bristles loosen over time and dislodge, sticking to the grill grates and your food. These tiny, rogue wires can pose considerable health risks. When swallowed, they can get stuck in the mouth, throat, or digestive tract.

Instead of using a wire brush, opt for nylon, natural fibers, or a bristle-free grill scraper. Make sure to read the manufacturer’s labels about the optimal timing and temperature to use these materials on the grill. Another simple alternative is to ball up a sheet of aluminum foil and rub it on the hot grates, using long-handled tongs. For a deeper clean, try a steam cleaner or a damp cloth with baking soda.

2. Clean Before It’s Cold

A cold grill feels safer to clean, but grease and food chunks are often easier to remove while the grates are still warm. To make the job easier, use heat to your advantage. Wait until your grill cools to above 250°F, and use heat-safe gloves to protect yourself. The heat helps loosen food particles and carbonized grease, making it easier to wipe away this residue. Always remember you shouldn’t try cleaning the grill when it is piping hot.

3. Skip Harsh Chemicals

Most degreasers and oven cleaners are great for commercial kitchens, but are a bit too harsh for a barbecue chargrill. Stainless steel and porcelain coatings are particularly sensitive, and some chemicals can damage finishes and surfaces.

To be safe, stick to using food-safe and non-toxic cleaning products on your grill. Vinegar and baking soda make a powerful degreasing combo for deep cleaning. For a simpler job, a diluted mixture of white vinegar and water in a spray can remove stubborn, stuck-on grease without leaving an aftertaste.

4. Clean the Drip Tray

Because it's out of sight and out of mind, it's easy to forget to clean the drip tray that catches the grill's runoff. But, neglecting to clean the drip tray for too long can lead to dangerous grease fires, unwanted pests, and rotting smells.

Remove the drip tray and empty it after every use. Wash with warm, soapy water, and let it dry completely before replacing. If there's any remaining grease or gunk, soak the tray in vinegar. In the future, try lining the tray with aluminum foil or biodegradable liners to speed up the cleaning process.

5. Beware of Quick Cooling

Pouring water on a hot grill might seem like a quick and easy way to cool it down before cleaning, but this can prove to be a costly mistake. Pouring water on a hot grill can cause warping or cracking in ceramic or cast iron. Plus, large steam clouds and popping grease aren't ideal.

Don’t rush the cooling process. Let the grill cool down naturally after turning off the heat or closing the vents. If you're in a rush, keep the lid closed to smother flames and carbonize leftover food particles. Once the grill is warm, it should be faster to wipe down.

6. Don't Forget Charcoal

There are special cleaning considerations to remember when using a charcoal grill, and getting rid of the ash promptly is pivotal for taste and safety. Ash retains moisture, which can lead to corrosion or clumping in the base of the grill. This buildup can impede airflow and temperature control.

To fully clean your grill, scoop out the ash and dispose of it properly, using a dedicated ash can or metal container that can handle heat from enduring embers. A quick brush or handheld vacuuming of the base will leave your grill in tip-top shape for the next cookout.