As the snow across Aroostook County slowly melts away, people are opening their windows, cleaning out their homes, and bringing out their barbecue grills. Here are a few tips that can be used to clean and maintain a grill before having that first outdoor meal.
The grill grates are a top priority and should be as clean as any other pot or pan that would be used for cooking. Home Depot recommends removing the grates and using a grill brush or cloth to clean them as thoroughly as possible. These can be taken inside and cleaned with dish soap. In a pinch, aluminum foil can be used in lieu of a grill brush to scrape the grates.
Alternatively, the grates can also be cleaned by heating up the grill for about 15 minutes and then scrubbing them with a wire brush dipped in water mixed with dish soap. The grates can then be wiped down after they have fully cooled.
Before grilling for the first time this season, it’s also helpful to remove the burners from the grill and use a wire brush to remove blockages from any gas ports. The burner valve, as well as the inside of the grill, can be cleaned with warm water mixed with soap. Make sure the valve is dried before being reattached.
According to Kitchn, you should check the hose from your propane to your burners and make sure it’s intact and clean. If not, replace it. It’s also a good idea to remove the drip pan and clean it thoroughly. For easier cleanup next time, line the clean pan with foil.
After cooking, the grates can be cleaned with just the grill brush or aluminum foil and then wiped down with a cloth rag or paper towel.
For a charcoal grill, it’s especially important to clean after each use, as ash buildup can potentially block the grill’s vents, which not only makes temperature control more difficult, but also increases the risk of fire.
It is also good to clean the outside of the grill, and while Home Depot recommends using specialized stainless steel grill cleaners for those grills, soap and water can be used for the exterior of grills with porcelain, ceramic, or painted steel surfaces, according to Good Housekeeping.
Grill covers can also help protect the exterior when not in use and when storing the grill during colder months.
Before winter, the grill should get another deep cleaning before being put away. Propane grills can be stored inside a garage or shed during off seasons, but the propane tank should be removed and kept outside and away from sunlight.
