There’s something about that first warm stretch of spring that makes you want to fire up the grill again. But before you throw on steaks, burgers, or your favorite marinated short ribs, it’s worth taking a little bit of time to give your grill a little TLC. A clean grill doesn’t just look better, it cooks better, tastes better, and lasts longer too.
Here’s how to get your grill ready for peak grilling season season!
Start with a full heat-up
Before you touch anything, turn your grill on high and let it heat up for about 10 to 15 minutes. This burns off any leftover grease, residue, or left over buildup and makes everything much easier to clean.
Once it’s hot, turn it off and let it cool enough so it’s safe to handle.
Give your grill grates some attention
Your grill grates put in most of the work during grilling season, so they deserve lots of care.
Use a sturdy grill brush or scraper to remove any remaining debris. If things are really stuck on, take the grates out (once they are cooled off) and soak them in warm, soapy water for about 20 minutes. A little baking soda can also help break down stubborn grease.
Quick tip: After cleaning, lightly coat your grates with a high-heat oil (like avocado or canola oil). This helps prevent sticking and rust.
Clean out the inside
Grease and ash buildup can affect both flavor and safety when you’re grilling.
- For gas grills, remove the drip tray and empty it completely. Give it a good scrub before putting it back in place.
- For charcoal grills, dump out old ash and carefully wipe down the interior.
A simple plastic scraper works great for loosening buildup inside the grill without causing damage.
Check your burners and connections
If you’re using a gas grill, take a minute to check that everything is running smoothly.
- Make sure burner ports are clear and not clogged
- Check hoses for cracks or leaks
- Test ignition to make sure it lights easily
Don’t forget the outside
A quick wipe-down goes a long way.
Use warm, soapy water and a soft cloth to clean the exterior. Stainless steel cleaner can help bring back some shine. It’s a small step that makes your whole setup feel brand new again.
Using a grill cover during the off season, and in-between grilling sessions can be a life saver when it comes to keeping your grill clean. It is well worth the investment!
Refresh your grilling tools
If your grill tools are looking a little rough, spring is the perfect time to clean or replace them.
Give your tongs, spatulas, and brushes a good wash, or upgrade if needed. Clean tools make a bigger difference than you think when it comes to flavor and food safety.
Season your grill before cooking
Just like a cast iron skillet, your grill benefits from a quick “seasoning.”
Once everything is clean, heat your grill again and lightly oil the grates. This creates a non-stick surface and helps prevent future buildup.
One last tip before you fire it up
Start the season with something simple and quick to cook, burgers, sausages, or even a test run with some fresh veggies. It helps to make sure everything is working exactly how it should.
And when you’re ready for your first official spring grilling session, you know where to find us. From house-made sausages to marinated short ribs and thick-cut steaks, we’ve got everything you need to make your first spring cookout a good one.
Ready to get grilling?
Stop by the shop or place your order online for easy pickup, curbside, or local delivery. Let’s get to grilling!