After you're done cooking, cleaning your grill grates will help reduce any rust buildup and ensure the longevity of your grill. You should plan on scraping your grill grates after every cook and do a deep clean at least once a year. Follow these tips and learn how to clean your grill grates properly.
Cleaning Cast Iron Grates
If you own a grill or smoker, such as a Gravity Series® Grill, that has cast iron grill grates, you'll be happy to know that these types of grates are durable, can handle high heat, and create even cooking surfaces. Cast iron grates can handle just about anything but are prone to rusting if they are exposed to water. To clean, turn your grill or smoker to the highest setting and burn off any food left over on the grates. Then, let the grates cool and use a grill-safe brush to scrub them clean. Once they're clean, wipe dry and apply a thin layer of vegetable oil to prevent the grates from rusting.
Cleaning Stainless Steel Grates
Stainless steel grill grates generally tolerate high heats and are mostly rust-resistant but can still be prone to rusting if they aren't completely dry after use. To clean stainless steel grates, line with a layer of heavy-duty aluminum foil and allow to set over high heat for 10 to 15 minutes. This will concentrate the heat and burn off any remaining food on your grates. Once cool, scrub the grates with a grill-safe brush.
Cleaning Porcelain Grates
Porcelain grill grates are built to be rust-resistant, as long as you don't remove or damage the porcelain-coated finish. To clean, simply take a nylon grill brush or other type of soft-bristled brush and scrub to remove food debris.
Deep-Cleaning Grill Grates
If you find that food isn't coming off your grill grates or it's time for your annual deep clean, follow these steps for soaking your grates in vinegar and baking soda. The mixture will help to break down food and prolong the life of your grill grates.
- Mix two cups vinegar and one cup water together and pour into a large garbage bag.
- Put the grates in the garbage bag with the mixture and secure with a tie or rubber band.
- Allow the grates to soak overnight.
- Remove the grates the next day and rinse off with water. Lightly scrub off any remaining food debris that isn't washed off.
Rinse thoroughly and pat dry.
