Traeger Grill Clean Up Hacks You Never Knew You Needed: Keeping Your Grill Shiny Like New

Traeger Grill Cleaning Hacks You NEED in 10 Minutes

Hey Grill Masters!

Sarah here from Behind the Grill.

We all know the feeling – you've just finished grilling up a masterpiece (because let's be honest, every meal on a Traeger is a masterpiece!), but now you're faced with the not-so-fun part: cleaning.

Don't get me wrong, the smoky goodness of a Traeger cookout is unbeatable.

But that post-grilling clean up can feel like a chore, especially when you're already stuffed and just want to relax.

Well, fret no more, grilling enthusiasts!

We all have been there, battled the caked-on grease, and emerged victorious.

We've compiled a list of hacks for cleaning grill on Traeger that will make the process easier, faster, and maybe even a little fun 😉

The Power of Prevention: Keep Your Traeger Clean Before You Start Grilling

Before we dive into post-grilling clean up, let's talk about preventing a big mess in the first place.

Here are a few simple steps you can take:

• Preheat Your Grill: Always preheat your Traeger to a high temperature (around 400°F) for 10-15 minutes before grilling. This helps burn off any leftover food particles from previous cooks, reducing build-up on your grates.

• Invest in Grill Mats: Lining your Traeger with grill mats can catch drips and splatters, making post-grilling cleanup a breeze. Just be sure to choose mats specifically designed for grills and follow the manufacturer's instructions for use.

• Use a Drip Pan: Many Traeger models come with a drip pan that catches grease drippings. Empty the pan after each use to prevent grease overflow and potential flare-ups.

Taming the Beast: Post-Grill Cleaning Hacks for a Sparkling Traeger

Now, for the main event: cleaning your Traeger after a delicious grilling session.

Here's where our arsenal of cleaning tools comes in:

1) The Wood Grill Scraper

This eco-friendly tool is a lifesaver for routine cleaning.

Made from wood, the scraper conforms to the grates, easily removing leftover food particles while being gentle on the grill surface.

Plus, it's a sustainable option for the eco-conscious griller!

Heads up! Like Traeger, Easy Function also offers a wooden grill scraper.

Let's see how they stack up against each other and find the perfect match for your grill!

👉 Traeger Wood Grill Scraper vs Easy Function Wood Grill Scraper: Features, Pros & Cons

Check out our Wood Grill Scraper on Amazon USA

Check out our Wood Grill Scraper on Amazon Canada

How to Use a Wood Grill Scraper to Clean Your Traeger Grill

• Preheat your grill to a high temperature (around 400°F) for utmost 15 minutes after you've finished grilling. This will loosen up any stuck-on food particles.

• Turn off the grill and wear heat-resistant gloves.

• While the grill is still hot, use the wood grill scraper to brush off any leftover food debris from the grates. The angled head of the scraper allows you to get into those hard-to-reach areas.

• Once you've scraped off the bulk of the food, let the grill cool completely before moving on to the next step.

2) The Bristle Brush (Use with Caution)

A good bristle brush can be a great tool for removing stubborn grime from your grates.

However, it's important to use a bristle brush with caution.

Loose bristles can pose a safety hazard if they fall onto your food while grilling.

We recommend inspecting your bristle brush frequently and replacing it as soon as you see any signs of wear or loose bristles.

Psst… Have you checked out the Easy Function’s 3 in 1 bristle free brush?

Check out our Bristle Brush on Amazon Canada

How to Use a Bristle Brush to Clean Your Traeger Grill

• Make sure your grill is completely cool before using the brush.

• Brush the grates in a back-and-forth motion, applying firm pressure to remove stuck-on food particles.

• After brushing, carefully inspect the grates for any loose bristles that may have become lodged.

3) The Bristle-Free Brush

For those who want to avoid the worry of loose bristles altogether, a bristle-free grill brush is a great option.

These brushes typically use coiled metal or a woven design to scrape away grime.

Read More: Looking for a Grill Cleaner Without Bristles? Check Out These Alternatives + 5 DIY Solutions

How to Use a Bristle-Free Brush to Clean Your Traeger Grill

• Follow the same steps as with the bristle brush – ensure the grill is cool and brush the grates in a back-and-forth motion.

• Since bristle-free brushes can sometimes be less effective at removing stubborn grime, you may need to use a scraper in conjunction with the brush for a thorough clean.

Easy Function offers two types of bristle-free brushes:

• One with a scraper for tough cleaning jobs.

• One without a scraper for everyday cleaning.

Both brushes come with a lifetime warranty and work on all grill types. 

Would you like to see what makes them stand out?

Check out our Bristle Free Grill Brush on Amazon Canada

Check out our Bristle Free Grill Brush With Scraper on Amazon Canada

4) Natural Cleaning Methods

If you want a deep cleaning process, this natural cleaning method is going to be a winner for your Traeger grill.

Here's what you'll need:

• Baking soda

• White vinegar

• Spray bottle

• Large bucket or heat-resistant container

How to Clean Your Traeger Grill Using an All-Natural Cleaning Method

Here's how to do it:

• Once your grill is completely cool, remove the grates and place them in a large bucket or heat-resistant container.

• Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda on the grates, coating them completely.

• In a separate container, mix equal parts white vinegar and water. Pour this mixture over the baking soda-covered grates, creating a foamy paste.

• Let the grates soak in the baking soda and vinegar solution for at least 30 minutes, or longer for stubborn grime.

• While the grates are soaking, you can clean the inside of the grill with a damp cloth or paper towels. For tougher grease buildup, you can make a paste of baking soda and water and apply it directly to the greasy areas. Let it sit for a few minutes before wiping clean.

• After soaking, use a stiff brush to scrub the grates, removing any loosened food particles and grime. You can also use a hose to rinse the grates clean, but be sure to dry them thoroughly before placing them back on the grill.

Know More: Cleaning Grill Grates with Vinegar and Baking Soda

Bonus Tips: Keeping Your Traeger Shiny

Here are a few additional tips to keep your Traeger looking its best:

• Clean the Grease Trap: Don't forget about the grease trap! Empty and clean it regularly to prevent grease buildup and potential flare-ups.

• Vacuum the Inside: A shop vac is a handy tool for removing ash and debris from the inside of your grill. You can also use the vacuum to clean out the hopper, removing any leftover pellets.

• Clean the Exterior: Wipe down the exterior of your Traeger with a damp cloth or soapy water to remove dirt and grime. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the finish.

• Cover Up: When not in use, keep your Traeger covered with a grill cover. This will help protect it from the elements and prevent dust and debris buildup.

The Behind the Grill Team: Here for Your Traeger Journey

We are passionate about all things grilling, and that includes keeping your Traeger in tip-top shape.

With these simple cleaning hacks and a little routine maintenance, you can ensure your Traeger continues to deliver delicious results for years to come.

Remember, grilling should be a fun and enjoyable experience.

By keeping your grill clean, you can spend less time scrubbing and more time creating mouthwatering masterpieces for your friends and family.

Happy grilling, everyone!