Clean Grill Grates After Winter the Best Way This Spring

Spring is finally here, and that means it’s time to fire up the grill! But before you throw on the burgers and kebabs, there’s one important thing to tackle first—cleaning your grill grates after winter.

If your grill has been sitting outside or tucked away in the garage for months, it’s probably not in cooking shape just yet.

Don't worry.

This guide will walk you through the best way to clean grill grates after winter, using simple steps and tools that’ll make your grill look almost brand new.

Whether your grates are rusty, grimy, or just need a little love, we've got you covered.

What Happens to Grill Grates During Winter?

Grill grates go through a lot when they sit unused during cold, damp months.

Moisture can build up and cause rust, especially on cast iron or steel grates.

If your grill wasn’t cleaned before winter hit, you might also see grease buildup, old food bits, or even mold.

Gross, right?

Temperature swings—from freezing nights to sunny afternoons—don’t help either.

They can cause metal to expand and contract, making existing buildup even harder to remove.

Skipping a good spring clean can affect how your food tastes and even cause flare-ups or unsafe cooking surfaces.

That’s why getting your grill grates clean before your first BBQ of the season is so important.

Read More: The Easiest Way to Clean Grill Grates for a Healthier BBQ

The Best Way to Clean Grill Grates After Winter: Step-by-Step

Safety First

Before anything else, make sure your grill is safe to work on.

• Turn off the gas if you’re using a gas grill.

• Unplug electric grills before cleaning.

• Wear gloves and safety goggles, especially if you’re dealing with rust or using any cleaners.

Pre-Check Your Grill Grates

Take a good look at your grates.

• Check for rust, heavy grime, or cracks.

• Identify what kind of grates you have: cast iron, stainless steel, or porcelain-coated. This helps you choose the right cleaning method.
  
  

Start with a Dry Scrape

Before soaking anything, try a dry scrape to get off loose buildup.

One great tool for this is the Easy Function wood grill scraper.

It’s made of pine wood and gently conforms to your grill’s shape over time.

It’s especially useful for routine post-winter cleaning because it removes debris without scratching the surface.

Plus, it’s eco-friendly and built to last.

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If your grill has thick buildup, a bristle-free brush might be the safer route—no stray wires, and it slides between grates to get the job done without worry.

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Buy Easy Function Bristle Free Scraper Brush - Amazon Canada

Soak and Scrub

Now it’s time to give your grates a good soak.

• Fill a sink, bucket, or heavy-duty trash bag with hot water and baking soda.

• Let the grates sit for 30–60 minutes.

• Once they’ve soaked, scrub them with a solid grill brush.

The Easy Function bristle brush is a great pick here—it’s a 3-in-1 cleaner with deep-cleaning power, an ergonomic grip, and even a built-in scraper.

It’s designed for heavy-duty jobs, just like the post-winter mess you’re dealing with.

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For extra-tough spots, try a mix of white vinegar and lemon juice. 

These natural cleaners break down grease and rust without harsh chemicals.

Rinse and Dry Completely

Rinse your grates with clean water to remove any residue. 

Then, dry them fully.

You can air-dry or use a clean towel—just don’t leave them damp!

Any leftover moisture can bring back rust, which undoes all your hard work.

Re-season if Needed

If you have cast iron grates, now’s the time to re-season them.

• Rub a light coat of cooking oil over the grates.

• Heat your grill for about 15–20 minutes to let the oil bake in.

This helps prevent rust and keeps your grates non-stick.

Related Read: The Best Way to Clean Grill Grates for a Perfect BBQ - Behind The Grill

Tools That Make It Easier

Having the right tools can make spring cleaning your grill a breeze:

• Wood grill scraper – Gentle, eco-friendly, and perfect for regular cleaning.

• Bristle brush – Great for deep cleaning thick, stuck-on gunk. Easy Function’s version is safer than traditional brushes and comes with lifetime replacements.

• Bristle-free brushes – Safer alternative with no loose wires, great for families and frequent grillers.

• Soaking tub or trash bag – Helpful for soaking large grates when your sink won’t cut it.

Natural Cleaners vs Store-Bought Grill Cleaners

You don’t always need chemicals to get your grill clean. 

Here’s a quick breakdown:

Natural Options:

• Baking soda: Lifts grease and neutralizes odors

• Vinegar: Cuts through grime

• Lemon juice: Adds scrubbing power and freshness

These options are budget-friendly, safe for food surfaces, and easy to find in your kitchen.

When to Use Store-Bought:

• If your grill has months of thick buildup

• When natural cleaners aren’t cutting it

• Always choose grill-safe cleaners to avoid harmful residue

Easy Function’s grill brush was designed to handle this kind of job safely. 

While wire brushes can be dangerous, ours is engineered with eZclean™ tech to prevent bristle shedding—so you get the same deep clean without the risk.

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Maintenance Tips to Avoid Heavy Spring Clean-Ups

Want to skip the big clean next year? 

Try these easy habits:

• Clean your grates after each use. Just a quick brush while it’s still warm works wonders.

• Store your grill indoors or under a tight cover during the off-season.

• Empty the grease tray and wipe down surfaces before winter to prevent buildup.

Final Thoughts

That’s it! 

Now you know the best way to clean grill grates after winter.

Start with a dry scrape, soak and scrub with safe tools, and finish with a proper rinse and season.

Use natural cleaners when possible, and invest in quality tools to make the job easier.

A clean grill means better-tasting food, safer cooking, and a smoother start to BBQ season.

Whether you're firing up the smoker, charcoal, or gas grill, spring is your chance to start fresh.

Want to explore more tools to make grill cleaning easier? 

Check out our full range of Easy Function BBQ products available on Amazon USA and Canada.

You can click the product image below to learn more.