Whether it’s your favorite outdoor grill or the one that you’re just borrowing, cleaning a gas grill requires some essential tools and supplies. Gas grills are safe to clean with a little soap and water, but always be sure that the grill is cooled off before you attempt to do so.
Cleaning your gas grill is essential because this process will help restore its shiny exterior—something that can happen with regular maintenance.
What To Use To Clean Your Gas Grill
Always use plenty of hot water when cleaning any part of your grill since it will loosen up and burn off those stubborn stains better than cold or lukewarm water.
You’ll need some dishwashing liquid for this step—not only does it help break down grease on the outside surface, but it also helps remove tough grime from deep inside all those nooks and crannies in between the cooking grids.
A stiff-bristled brush can make quick work out of scrubbing around the exterior surfaces while ensuring not to miss any hidden areas where dirt has accumulated over time. Always rinse after cleaning.
After removing all of the cooking grates inside of the unit, using dish soap to scrub down any dirty spots on the outside with a scouring pad, when finished washing off all remaining dirt from this surface, use a hose or pressure washer to rinse and dry the exterior.
This is also an important step in maintaining grill appearance, as often, grime will collect after cooking with oils from food. It’s best not to let this happen because it can cause some serious damage if left unchecked.
Tips For Cleaning A Gas Grill
There are three types of grills: outdoor models used frequently, occasionally cook or only indoors, and occasional-only indoor models. Therefore, the frequency at which they should be cleaned varies depending on how much use they get.
A good rule of thumb is to clean at least once every month for outdoor gas grills used frequently, two months for those who only cook occasionally, and four months for occasional-only indoor models.
First, turn off the appliance and allow it to cool. Then remove any debris or excess dirt to access the oil drain plug on top of the device.
Finally, loosen the plug by hand—never use a wrench for this task because that could cause damage to either your hands (if you’re using them) or the machinery itself.
Another good tip is to always keep the grill cover handy for when you’re not grilling. This will help protect it from any dust or dirt that may find its way onto your appliances.
Gas grills are a great way to have fun and be creative in the kitchen, but if you want them to last for a long time, then it’s important that you clean as often as necessary.
Gas Grill Safety Tips
Most people think grills are safe simply because they don’t have an open flame. And while there is some truth in this statement–many charcoals use gas or electricity as their heat source–there’s also something else to be aware of: flare-ups. If food should burn onto grill surfaces but not scorch into charcoal briquettes, there is a chance that it will flare-up.
To avoid this, try using an oil-soaked rag or paper towel to stop the sear before it flares.
The Most Important Safety Tip of All
Before you turn on any gas-powered appliance–especially one as potentially hazardous as a grill–be sure there are no flammable items nearby like newspapers, trash bins, or furniture oils.
