After every grilling season, we look for convenience and the best way to clean a stainless steel grill, which is not as complicated as it seems. How to clean a stainless steel grill, however, can be mastered with a few tips and tricks without spending hours. In this blog article, I have gathered a few trusted and useful methods that make the cleaning process easy. So, let’s get started.
What is the proper way to clean a grill?
Well, speaking of grill cleaning, many people practice their own tricks to get the job done. However, using a cleaner with a few more gears is the most simplistic way. Here is how you can clean a grill effectively and make it durable.
Do you clean the grill hot or cold?
It depends on your choice and is doable in both ways. Although cleaning a grill when it is a little warm is a good idea, if you are using a charcoal or a gas grill, it is recommended to clean it when it is cold.
What grill cleaning essentials are necessary?
What cleaning essentials you need for your grill depends on its type, i.e., charcoal, pellet, or gas, and, most importantly, the surface material as well. Usually, the cleaning methods are given in the user’s manual.
Other than that, the necessary materials that you will need for the process include
- Gloves: Consider wearing gloves as an essential part of the cleaning process to protect your hands.
- Grill Brush: A good grill brush can be a great help in the cleaning process for the grilling plate. Many grilling companies, like Cuisinart and Char Boil, manufacture their own stylish cleaning brushes. If you have your grill, get them from Grill Cleaning Brushes.
- The surface cleaner: Many surface cleaners are available to clean all types of grills. However, you have to be very careful as not every cleaner is for every grill. Get the right surface cleaner. In case you don’t have it, you can always use dish soap.
- A scouring pad: A scouring pad will help you to clean the grill gently. I personally use Scotch Brite.
- A Stainless steel cleaner: Stainless steel is delicate and needs to be cleaned with soft hands. For that, you can get a cleaner that is available or just use your regular mild dish wash.
- Microfiber cloth: Finally, to wipe it off, you need a microfiber cloth.
Note: If you are using a cleaner (grill cleaner), you must go through its solvents first so that you have a better understanding of what surfaces they are helpful for. Ensure that the cleaner you are buying is food surface cleaner for the inside and the other for the outside.
How to clean a stainless steel grill?
When you begin the cleaning process, you should consider the grill surface first, as cleaning techniques are slightly different for each surface and the grill type. The best way to clean a stainless steel grill is when you divide it into parts, such as cleaning the interior, cleaning the exterior, and cleaning the grill grates separately. This makes the job more easier. Now, let’s just get started with the cleaning process.
1. Cleaning of the stainless steel interior
This is the first part of the cleaning process for the stainless steel. Most of the high-quality grills have porcelain coating. Hence, you need to use mild dish soap and a scouring pad. You can also use a surface cleaner.
Use a paper towel and clean the exterior first. The cleaning agent or the soap helps to clean the debris and grease on the grill. If you are using the solvent, it is recommended to spray it on the grill, let it sit for a while, and then wipe it off.
2. Clean the grill from the outside
Since we are cleaning a stainless steel grill, you should use a stainless steel cleaner and wipe it off with a microfiber cloth.
Remember not to use a paper towel on the exterior as it may leave marks and scratches on the surface.
To make it more durable, always cover the grill when it is not in use to prevent its newness and rust.
3. Cleaning the grilling grates
The main component of any grill is its grates. The best way to clean a stainless steel grill grate is to wipe it when it is still warm. This will make the scraping easy and remove the residue.
If the grill has turned cold, you need to preheat the grill at a high temperature and leave it for 10 to 15 minutes. When done, use a brush; this will help remove the debris and is beneficial for future cleaning.
You can also use a half cut onion to remove the residue from the grates.
Don’t forget to clean,
Most of the time, people just clean the exterior and leave the ash box or grease tray unclean, which is not a healthy practice because the residue can be the source of bacterial growth. Hence, try not to leave it every use.
Don’t forget to remove and replace old ashes from the bottom before every new grilling session.
How often do I have to clean the grill?
To say it straight, it depends on how often you use your grill, as the proper maintenance of a grill increases its longevity of any grill.
However, the suggested cleaning ritual for a grill is once or twice every month, even if it is not used. This is recommended for gas, charcoal, and electric grills. Yet, if you are a frequent user, you need to clean it every five to seven cooking cycles.
Remember to leave your grill uncleaned when you use it, as the stains and grease will become more tough to clean over time.
How clean the grease tray of a grill?
Cleaning the grease tray of a grill is an essential maintenance task to prevent the buildup of grease, reduce the risk of flare-ups, and ensure the longevity of your grill. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to clean the grease tray:
To clean the grease tray, these are the materials that you need.
- Grill brush or scraper
- Dish soap or degreaser
- Warm water
- Bucket or basin
- Disposable gloves
- Paper towels or disposable rags
To clean the grease tray, keep in mind that safety comes first
Ensure the grill is turned off and completely cooled down before attempting to clean the grease tray. Wear disposable gloves to protect your hands during the cleaning process.
Step 1: Remove the Grease Tray
Most grills have a removable grease tray or catch pan located beneath the cooking grates. Refer to your grill’s manual for specific instructions on how to remove it.
Step 2: Dispose of Excess Grease
Carefully pour any excess grease or liquid from the tray into a suitable container. Avoid pouring hot grease directly into a sink, as it can solidify and cause blockages.
Step 3: Scrape Off Solid Residue
Use a grill brush or scraper to remove any solidified grease or debris from the grease tray. Scrape off as much as possible to make the cleaning process more effective.
Step 4: Soak in Soapy Water
Fill a bucket or basin with warm water and add a few drops of dish soap or a degreasing cleaner.
Place the grease tray in the soapy water and let it soak for 15-20 minutes. This will help loosen stubborn grease and make it easier to clean.
Step 5: Scrub the Grease Tray
Use a grill brush or a scrubbing pad to scrub away any remaining grease and residue from the tray. Pay attention to corners and edges where grease may accumulate.
Step 6: Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse the grease tray thoroughly under running water to remove soap, grease, and debris. Ensure all cleaning agents are completely washed away.
Step 7: Dry Completely
Allow the grease tray to air-dry completely before placing it back into the grill. Ensure it is completely dry to prevent mold or mildew growth.
Step 8: Inspect and Replace
While the grease tray is removed, inspect it for any signs of damage or wear. If it’s showing significant wear, consider replacing it to maintain the grill’s performance.
Step 9: Dispose of Residue Properly
Dispose of the collected grease and cleaning water in accordance with local regulations. Do not pour grease down drains, as it can cause blockages.
How long would it take to clean a grill?
It does not take much time to clean, but soaking and deep cleaning may take around two hours for gas and charcoal grills.
I hope that this guide will help you in cleaning your grill and make it durable.
To learn more about grills, continue at 4seasonsgrill.com
