Certainly, maintaining a clean BBQ is essential for ensuring delicious food and extending the lifespan of your grill. Here are ten detailed tips and tricks:
1. Regular Post Cook Cleaning Routine
Frequency: Clean your BBQ after every use. A quick clean post-cooking prevents the build-up of grease and food particles.
Process: While the grill is still warm, use a high-quality grill brush to remove food residues. This prevents hardening and makes the cleaning process easier.
2. Deep Cleaning Schedule
Frequency: Conduct a deep cleaning of the BBQ every 6 months (or hire Grill Hero!), especially if you use your BBQ frequently. A proper deep cleaning should take on average 3-6 hours.
Process:
Disassemble the grill components, soak stainless steel grates in warm soapy water, and scrub them with a metal scouring pad. For cast iron grates, use a scraper and scouring pad, and then oil the grates with your preferred cooking oil.
Remove all other parts of the BBQ (other than the drip pan/ grease tray) and place to soak in soapy water and then scrub with the scouring pad.
With parts removed, clean the inside of the grill from the hood down through the firebox with a scraper, metal scouring pad, and degreaser. Have all the grease pour down into the drip pan and grease tray. Tip: spend your time here to scrub away layers of grease on the hood and fire box to bring them back as close to the original finish as possible.
Clean the burners using a brush. If possible, remove burners and run water through to clear any blockages.
Remove the drip pan and grease tray and dispose of all grease and grime build-up.
Finish by cleaning and polishing the exterior of the BBQ and cleaning out any drawers and cabinets. Tip: ensure cabinets don't contain any items that are flammable or can melt if the grill heats up too hot. This includes paper, plastic, and aerosol cans.
3. Use a Grill Cover
Purpose: Protects the grill from dust, debris, and weather elements when not in use.
Tip: Invest in a high-quality, weather-resistant cover that fits your grill snugly to ensure comprehensive protection.
Tip: In addition to a grill cover, invest in an Under Grill Mat to protect your deck or patio from dripping grease.
4. Oil the Grates
Purpose: Prevents food from sticking and protects the grates from rust. Especially, if your grates are cast iron, oil regularly.
Process: Before grilling, lightly oil the grates using a paper towel soaked in vegetable oil or your cooking oil of choice.
5. Clean Drip Pans and Grease Trays
Frequency: Empty and clean drip pans and grease trays after every 5-10 uses to prevent grease build-up, which can cause flare-ups.
Process: Scrape out solidified grease and wash the pans with warm soapy water.
6. Clean Burners Regularly
Frequency: Every few months.
Process: Remove the burners and brush off debris with a wire brush. Ensure the burner ports are clear using a toothpick or a small brush.
7. Clean and Polish Exterior Surfaces
Frequency: Monthly.
Process: Wipe down the exterior with warm soapy water to remove dirt and residue. For stainless steel surfaces, use a stainless steel cleaner and polish.
Additional Considerations:
Tool Maintenance: Purchase the right tools for the job and keep your grill tools clean by washing them after each use.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Use only non-toxic, food-safe degreaser and natural cleaners.
Proper Storage: When not in use deep clean and store your grill in a dry place during the off-season to prevent rust and wear.
Implementing these tips and tricks will ensure your BBQ remains in optimal condition, protecting the investment in your grill and providing you with a safe, reliable, and enjoyable grilling experience.
If you prefer to have Grill Hero take care of the maintenance of keeping your BBQ clean contact us today to book your next professional BBQ Cleaning Service.
Comments