DIY BBQ Deep Clean

Is your grill good to go?

Festive season is here and it’s time to prep your BBQ for a summer of backyard banquets.

The sign of a life well lived is a well-used BBQ. Why do a deep clean? Because there’s no deeper shame than hearing your annoying uncle critique your BBQ maintenance just as your about to load the grill with gourmet gear.

To make your BBQ sparkle, follow the steps below. It can get a little greasy, so don’t wear your Sunday best.

Step 1: Gather Your Supplies

• An old towel
• A bucket of warm, soapy water
• Baking soda and white vinegar
• A wire brush or grill scraper
• A sturdy sponge or cloth
• Rubber gloves (BBQ grime isn’t glamorous)

Step 2: Disassemble

Put down an old towel, and take apart your BBQ. Remove the grills, and empty the drip tray. If your burners pop out easily, grab them too. It may look like a daunting task, but the reward is real. Set all your bits on the towel for cleaning.

Step 3: Soak and Scrub

Place the grills and drip trays in a large tub or sink filled with hot, soapy water. Let them soak for 20-30 minutes to loosen grease and burnt-on bits. While they soak, grab your wire brush or scraper and give the BBQ interior a good clean, removing any charred leftovers or debris.

Step 4: Baking Soda and Vinegar Magic

Every BBQ has stubborn stains. It’s nearly as certain as death or taxes. Never fear, though. Sprinkle baking soda generously on the grills or drip tray and drizzle white vinegar over it. Let it fizz for a minute, then hit it with your sponge or brush. The combo will cut through grease beautifully.

Step 5: Clean the Exterior

Wipe down the BBQ’s exterior with soapy water to remove dust, grease, and fingerprints (and probably bird poo). Polish stainless-steel parts with a clean cloth for a showroom shine.

Step 6: Reassemble and Test

Once all parts are clean and dry, put your BBQ back together. Fire it up for a few minutes to burn off any leftover residue. It’s a great time do a DIY gas level check. Running out of juice with a half cooked snag on the grill is no way to ring in the new year!

Boom, you are festive season ready. Now, all that’s left is to fire it up and enjoy the sizzle! Unless you haven’t mowed the lawn yet, you better do that first.