The Best Way to Clean Cast Iron Grates for a Like-New Finish

Cast iron grates are a popular choice for BBQ grills due to their durability and excellent heat retention. 

However, keeping them clean can be tricky since cast iron needs special care to prevent rust and maintain its natural non-stick finish. 

In this guide, we’ll cover the best ways to clean cast iron grates using easy, effective techniques, plus a few tips to keep them looking like new.

Let’s dive into how to get your cast iron grates gleaming, using simple materials and a bit of elbow grease. 

And don’t worry, we’ll also sneak in a few maintenance tricks to keep them performing well for years to come!

Preparing for Cleaning

Before we get into the cleaning methods, it's essential to gather the right tools and materials. 

Learn More: The Best Tips to Clean BBQ Grates Made of Cast Iron

Cast iron is tough but can be sensitive to harsh chemicals and abrasive materials, so stick to these:

Essential Tools and Materials

• Soft-bristled brush or nylon non-scratch scrub sponge

• Mild dish soap

• Hot water

• Baking soda

• White vinegar

• Microfiber cloth or paper towels

• Cooking oil (for seasoning)

If you want an eco-friendly tool that conforms perfectly to your grill grates over time, consider Easy Function’s Wood Grill Scraper. 

It’s made from pine wood and helps make post-cooking cleanup a breeze without the worry of damaging your grates.

Buy Easy Function Wood Grill Scraper - Amazon USA

Buy Easy Function Wood Grill Scraper - Amazon Canada

Cleaning Methods

There are several ways to clean cast iron grates. 

You’ll find that some work better for quick cleanups, while others are perfect for deep cleaning. 

Let's break it down.

Cleaning with Soapy Water

For a regular, light cleaning, soapy water is your best friend.

• Fill a sink or large container with hot, soapy water.

• Submerge the grates for 5-10 minutes to loosen stuck-on food and buildup.

• Use a soft-bristled brush or nylon non-scratch sponge to scrub away food debris gently. This prevents scratching your cast iron.

• Rinse well with hot water to remove soap residue.

If you're looking for a strong cleaning tool that can tackle tough grime, the Easy Function Bristle Brush is an excellent option. 

Designed with our eZclean™ technology, it offers heavy-duty cleaning without the risk of bristle breakage. 

Perfect for maintaining those deep, tough-to-reach spots on your cast iron grates.

And, don’t forget! 

Right now, if you buy two Easy Function Bristle Brushes, you get 10% off using the code: GOGRILL2.

Buy Easy Function Bristle Brush - Amazon Canada

Cleaning with Baking Soda

Baking soda is a natural, non-abrasive cleaner that works wonders on greasy, stubborn grime.

• Mix three parts baking soda with one part water to create a paste.

• Coat the cast iron grates with the paste, ensuring you get into all the crevices.

• Leave the paste to sit for 15-20 minutes to lift off greasy residue.

• Use a soft-bristled brush or even an old toothbrush to remove the caked-on grime.

Baking soda is an excellent option for regular cleanings, but if you need something more powerful, our Bristle-Free Brush can clean those awkward spots more effectively. 

It's designed for deep cleaning without the risk of any stray bristles, making it 3X safer than traditional brushes.

Related Read: Best Way to Clean Cast Iron Grill Grates with Porcelain Coating

Cleaning with White Vinegar

White vinegar is another effective, natural cleaner that can break down residue without harsh chemicals.

• Mix one part white vinegar with one part water in a spray bottle.

• Spray the solution over the cast iron grates and leave it to sit for 15 minutes.

• Wipe down with a clean, damp sponge or cloth to remove any leftover food particles and vinegar.

This method is great for a quick clean or to remove lighter grease buildup after grilling.

Deep Cleaning and Maintenance

For those times when your cast iron grates are heavily soiled or showing signs of rust, a deeper clean is required.

Removing Tough Stains

• Use a steel wool pad with warm, soapy water to scrub away rust spots. Be gentle to avoid scratching the cast iron.

• After cleaning, immediately apply a thin, even layer of cooking oil to the grates.

• Bake the grates in a 350°F to 400°F oven for 30-60 minutes to restore the protective seasoning layer.

To ensure your grates stay rust-free for longer, we recommend using Easy Function’s Wood Grill Scraper. 

Not only is it environmentally friendly, but it also conforms to your grill’s shape over time, making it more effective each time you use it.

Buy Easy Function Wood Grill Scraper - Amazon USA

Buy Easy Function Wood Grill Scraper - Amazon Canada

Soaking the Grates

Sometimes, soaking is necessary to loosen heavy grime buildup.

• Soak the cast iron grates in hot, soapy water for about 20 minutes.

• After soaking, use a soft-bristled brush to scrub off any remaining food particles.

• Make sure to dry the grates immediately after cleaning to avoid rust.

Drying and Seasoning

Properly drying and seasoning your cast iron grates after each clean will prevent rust and maintain the non-stick surface.

• Dry the grates immediately with an absorbent dish towel or paper towels to remove all moisture.

• Apply a thin layer of neutral cooking oil (such as vegetable oil) after drying.

• To restore the seasoning, bake the oiled grates in the oven at 350°F to 400°F for 30-60 minutes.

This seasoning step is crucial for protecting the cast iron and giving it a natural non-stick coating.

Best Practices for Cast Iron Grates

Keeping your cast iron grates clean and rust-free doesn’t have to be a hassle. 

Here are some best practices:

• Clean your cast iron stove grates weekly if you use them often. For less frequent use, a monthly clean will do.

• Season your cast iron regularly to maintain its non-stick coating and prevent rust from forming.

• Avoid using harsh cleaning agents or abrasive tools like metal brushes, as they can scratch and damage your grates.

• Don’t soak uncoated cast iron grates for long periods, as this can lead to rust damage.

FAQs

• How often should I clean my cast iron stove grates?

Clean them weekly in high-use kitchens. Monthly cleaning works for lower-use kitchens.

• Can I use harsh cleaning agents to clean my cast iron stove grates?

No. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive tools that can damage the cast iron.

By following these methods, your cast iron grates will stay in top shape for longer. 

Whether you’re a weekend griller or an everyday BBQ enthusiast, keeping your grates clean ensures better performance and tastier results every time!

And if you're looking for tools to make cleaning easier, Easy Function’s Bristle-Free Brush or Wood Grill Scraper can help take your cleaning routine to the next level. 

Check out our products and grab a discount while you’re at it!