Planning on firing up the grill this week? If it’s been a while, make sure you clean the grates first. We’ve created a quick step-by-step guide with all the materials you’ll need to scrub down your grill.
What You’ll Need
While there are plenty of grill cleaning kits on the market, you don’t need to spend a ton of cash on a specialty package. The most effective grill-cleaning products are probably already in your kitchen. Check out the list below to make sure:
- Long handle wire brush
- Wire bottle brush
- Sponge
- Rubber gloves
- Five-gallon bucket
- grease-fighting dish detergent
- White vinegar and baking soda paste
Step 1: Burn Off the Debris
The first thing you’ll want to do is turn up the heat. Fire up the grill, close the lid, and let the flames burn off any cooked-on food, grease, or debris. It should take about 30 minutes for the heat to singe everything off. Then, while the grates are still hot, use your long-handle wire brush and warm soapy water to scrub off all the carbon.
Step 2: Let it Soak
When the grates have cooled, remove them from the grill and submerge them in a tub of soapy water for 30 minutes. If there are any other removable parts, take them off and soak them as well.
Step 3: Vacuum the Firebox
Now that the grates are removed, you can clean out the exposed firebox. Place a bucket underneath the grease tray opening to catch any water and debris you flush out. Then, use a putty knife to scrape out any gunk on the inside of the firebox. Next, use a wet/dry vacuum to vacuum out anything that’s left behind. Finally, use a garden hose to rinse it out.
Step 4: Scrub the Grates
Your grates should be finished soaking now. So, grab your round wire brush, more soapy water, and a paste made of white vinegar and baking soda. Scrub your grates clean using the paste for the particularly hard-to-clean areas. Rinse away the soap and paste and then completely dry the grates.
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Step 5: Clean the Outside
Refresh your soapy water once again. Then use a sponge to clean the outside of the grill. Use an absorbent towel to wipe down and dry everything. Congratulations! Your grill is clean and ready for the first batch of wings.
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