How to clean a barbecue: the best BBQ cleaning hacks that actually work (no more scrubbing for hours!)
Come rain or shine, it wouldn't be a British summer without firing up the barbecue. Whether you're planning your first garden feast of the season or your grill has already cooked its fair share of burgers, sausages and halloumi, there's one job that can't be avoided forever – cleaning it.
The good news? You don't always need expensive products or endless elbow grease. From clever steam tricks to pantry staples that help cut through grease, these simple BBQ cleaning hacks really do work. Here's how to get your barbecue looking its best before your next cookout.
1. Steam away burnt-on food
One of the easiest ways to loosen stubborn food residue is with steam.
Once you've finished cooking, allow the barbecue to cool slightly until it's warm rather than piping hot. Lay a few sheets of newspaper soaked in water over the grill, close the lid and leave it for around 30 minutes.
The trapped steam helps soften baked-on grease and burnt food, making it much easier to remove with a brush afterwards.
No newspaper? A few damp paper towels or an old tea towel (that you don't mind sacrificing) can produce a similar effect.
2. Clean while the grill is still warm
A common mistake is waiting until the barbecue is completely cold.
Food residue is much easier to remove while the grill is still warm, so give it a quick brush after every use. This simple habit prevents grease from building up and makes deep cleaning far less of a chore later in the summer.
Just remember the grill should be warm – not blazing hot – to avoid burns.
3. Hot water and washing-up liquid still work wonders
Sometimes the simplest methods are the best.
Mix hot water with a generous squirt of washing-up liquid and use a stiff grill brush to scrub away loosened grease and food.
If you don't have a dedicated grill brush, a non-scratch scouring pad can help clean many enamel-coated grills. Just check your manufacturer's instructions first, as some finishes can be damaged by abrasive cleaning tools.
4. Let your dishwasher do the hard work
If your barbecue has removable cooking grates or hotplates, check whether they're dishwasher-safe.
Many modern gas barbecues have components that fit inside a dishwasher, making cleaning almost effortless. Just avoid forcing oversized parts into the machine, as they could damage the racks or prevent proper cleaning.
5. Try a baking soda paste
One of the oldest cleaning hacks remains one of the most effective.
Mix baking soda with a small amount of water until it forms a thick paste. Spread it over greasy areas and leave it to sit for 20 to 30 minutes before scrubbing.
Baking soda is mildly abrasive and helps lift stubborn grease without relying on harsh chemicals.
6. Reach for white vinegar to cut through grease
White vinegar is another kitchen cupboard staple that works surprisingly well.
Mix equal parts white vinegar and warm water in a spray bottle, spritz the grill and leave it for around 15 minutes before wiping clean.
The mild acidity helps break down grease and can also freshen up greasy side shelves and barbecue lids.
Just avoid using vinegar on natural stone worktops nearby, as the acid can damage certain surfaces.
7. Use a BBQ cleaner for really tough jobs
If your barbecue hasn't been cleaned in months, household remedies may not be enough.
A specialist barbecue cleaner is designed to tackle thick grease and carbon deposits quickly. Follow the instructions carefully, wear gloves if recommended and rinse thoroughly afterwards.
Once everything is clean, dry the grill immediately to help prevent rust from forming.
8. Oil the grill before you put it away
A little oil goes a long way.
Once the grill is clean and completely dry, lightly coat it with a high-smoke-point oil such as sunflower or rapeseed oil using folded kitchen paper.
This creates a protective barrier against moisture, helps prevent rust and makes food less likely to stick the next time you cook.
Just remember that less is more. Excess oil can cause flare-ups when the barbecue is next heated.
9. Don't forget the drip tray
The drip tray is often overlooked, but it's one of the greasiest parts of the barbecue.
Allow any fat to cool and solidify before scraping it into the bin. Wash the tray thoroughly with hot soapy water or replace disposable liners if your barbecue uses them.
Cleaning the drip tray regularly also reduces unpleasant smells and lowers the risk of grease fires.
10. Give the outside some attention too
Your barbecue's exterior deserves a clean as well. Warm soapy water and a microfibre cloth are usually enough to remove fingerprints, pollen and food splashes from painted or stainless-steel surfaces.
For stainless steel, wipe in the direction of the grain to help avoid streaks.
Side tables, handles and control knobs often harbour bacteria after handling raw meat. Wipe these surfaces down with an antibacterial cleaner after every barbecue, paying particular attention to any areas where raw meat packaging or utensils have been placed.
It's a quick job that can help reduce cross-contamination.
11. Cover it once it's dry
One of the best cleaning hacks isn't really about cleaning at all – it's about keeping your barbecue clean for longer.
Once the barbecue is completely cool and dry, fit a weatherproof cover over it. This protects it from rain, dust, bird droppings and leaves, meaning you'll spend far less time scrubbing before your next barbecue.
A few things to avoid
While plenty of barbecue cleaning tips circulate online, some are best skipped.
Avoid using harsh metal scrapers on enamel-coated grills, as they can damage the protective coating. Resist the temptation to blast a hot barbecue with cold water too, as sudden temperature changes may warp some components. And while wire grill brushes are effective, inspect the grill afterwards to ensure no loose bristles have been left behind before cooking.
Keep it clean all summer
The easiest way to avoid a dreaded deep clean is to spend just five minutes looking after your barbecue after every use.
Brush the grill while it's still warm, empty the drip tray regularly and wipe down work surfaces before putting the cover back on. These simple habits will keep your barbecue cleaner, help it last longer and make it ready to fire up whenever the British weather finally decides to cooperate.
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