How to Clean Your Grill Before Grilling: The Key to Delicious Food

Grill Like a Pro: Clean Your Grill Before Grilling

There's nothing quite like the taste of food cooked over a grill.

It takes on a smoky flavor and develops a beautiful char that just can't be replicated indoors.

But achieving those perfect grill marks starts with a clean cooking surface.

Food sticks more easily to dirty grates, burning instead of browning, and leaving behind unwanted flavors.

Here at Easy Function, we believe that grilling should be a fun and stress-free experience.

That's why we're sharing our secrets to pre-grilling cleaning, ensuring your food comes out delicious every time.

Read Next: How to Clean a Grill Without a Grill Brush: Alternative Methods

The Importance of Pre-Grill Cleaning

Cleaning your grill before you cook isn't just about aesthetics; it impacts the overall flavor and safety of your food.

Here's why:

• Flavor: Burnt-on food scraps and grease can impart a bitter taste to your new ingredients. A clean grate allows for proper caramelization and browning, resulting in tastier food.

• Sticking: Food sticks more readily to dirty grates, making it difficult to flip and maneuver. This can lead to tearing, frustration, and potentially burnt food.

• Safety: Grease buildup can lead to flare-ups, which can burn your food or cause injuries.

Pre-Grill Cleaning Routine

Here's a step-by-step guide to cleaning your grill before firing it up:

Tools you'll need:

• Grill brush (preferably with a long handle for safety)

• Easy Function wood grill scraper (we'll get to this in a moment!)

• Spray bottle filled with water

• Dish soap (optional)

• Heat-resistant gloves

Step 1: Preheat the Grill (Optional)

For some grills, especially gas grills, preheating can help loosen stuck-on food particles. Turn the grill on high for about 5 minutes.

Step 2: Turn Off the Grill and Let it Cool Slightly

It's important not to clean a scorching hot grill. Wait until the grates are cool enough to touch comfortably, but still warm.

Step 3: Brush Off Loose Debris

Use a grill brush with stiff bristles to scrape off any large chunks of food or debris from the grates.

Step 4: Deep Clean the Grates

This is where the Easy Function wood grill scraper comes in.

Unlike metal brushes, which can damage your grill grates over time, our wooden scraper is a safe and effective way to remove stubborn grime. 

The scalloped design conforms to the shape of the grates, reaching into all the nooks and crannies.

With regular use, the wood actually molds to your specific grill, improving cleaning results over time.

Here's how to use the Easy Function wood grill scraper:

• Dip the scraper in water.

• Firmly hold the scraper by the handle and use a sawing motion to remove stuck-on food particles.

• The angled design allows you to apply pressure at different points, ensuring a thorough clean.

• For particularly stubborn grime, you can add a little dish soap to the water.

Check out our wooden grill scraper on Amazon USA

Check out our wooden grill scraper on Amazon Canada

Love'em? Customers rave about our other grilling must-haves on Amazon! See for yourself.

Step 5: Wipe Down the Grates

Once you've scraped the grates clean, dip a rag or paper towel in clean water and wipe down the cooking surface.

This removes any remaining debris or soap residue.

Step 6: Clean the Grill Lid (Optional)

While you're at it, you can also wipe down the inside of the grill lid.

This removes any grease splatters that could drip onto your food during cooking.

Step 7: Clean the Exterior (Optional)

You can use a damp cloth with a mild soap solution to wipe down the exterior of your grill.

This will keep it looking its best.

Bonus Tip: Oil the Grates for Easier Grilling

Once your grill is clean and cool, dip a paper towel in a high smoke point oil, like canola or avocado oil, and lightly coat the grates.

This will help prevent food from sticking during cooking.

Additional Cleaning Tips

• Clean your grill after every use. This will prevent grease buildup and make cleaning easier next time.

• For a deeper clean, remove the grates and soak them in hot soapy water. You can also use a grill cleaning solution following the manufacturer's instructions.

• Clean the grease trap regularly. Consult your grill's manual for specific instructions on how to locate and clean the grease trap.

• Inspect your grill brush regularly. Replace it if the bristles become worn or damaged.

Read Next: Clean Your Grill Sans Brush: Easy Methods for Sparkling Grates

By following these simple pre-grilling cleaning steps, you'll ensure your food cooks evenly, tastes delicious, and you'll be well on your way to becoming a grill master!