Before you fire up the grill, make sure it is clean and in good condition. Removing baked-on food particles and grease will make food taste better, prevent flare-ups, and ensure the food cooks evenly. Here are a few tips to clean your grill properly so you can prepare a delicious meal safely.
1. Inspect the Grill When You Clean It
Before you begin cleaning, take some time to inspect your grill. Look for rust or debris that could make grilling unsafe or interfere with the flavor of your food. If there’s visible damage, purchase replacement parts and make repairs, or replace the grill.
2. Preheat and Brush off Loose Debris
Turn your grill to its highest heat setting and let it preheat for at least fifteen minutes. During this time, use a metal brush to remove loose debris or burnt bits of food that have accumulated.
3. Scrub with Soapy Water When You Clean Your Grill
Once the grill is hot, turn it off and let it cool down slightly. Then, make a solution of dish soap and water in a bucket. Use the brush and the soap solution to remove the remaining debris or grease on the grates. Be sure to clean both sides of the grates. Wear heat-resistant gloves so you don’t burn yourself on the surfaces.
4. Rinse and Dry
Once the grates are clean, rinse them with water. Dry the surfaces thoroughly with a cloth or paper towel to inhibit the formation of rust.
5. Clean the Exterior of the Grill
Use a damp towel to wipe down the grill’s exterior, including the lid and control knobs. Remove grease or debris that has accumulated on these surfaces.
6. Scrub Inside the Grill
Using a cleaner designed for grills, scrub the insides of the grill box with a wire brush. Clean the interior walls, bottom tray, and inside of the lid. Clean these areas thoroughly to remove food debris and grease from the grill.
7. Season the Grates After You Clean the Grill
Season the grill grates with high-heat cooking oil like canola or vegetable oil. Seasoning protects the grates and keeps them from rusting. It also helps prevent food from sticking when you’re cooking. Lightly coat a cloth with the oil and rub it across the grill grates. Then, preheat your grill for 10 minutes on its highest setting before using it.
Cleaning the grill regularly will ensure your backyard cookouts are a success. With these tips, you’ll keep the grill in good condition and make sure your meals are delicious.
American Dream Home Inspections offers inspections to customers in Northern and Central New Jersey. Contact us to request our services.