How to Clean a BBQ Grill — Toronto Home Guide

A well-maintained BBQ grill is safer, cooks more evenly, and lasts significantly longer. The spring seasonal clean (before first use) and the fall close-down clean are the most important. Regular after-use cleaning prevents major build-up.

Burn-Off Method (After Every Use)

1. After grilling, turn burners to high and close the lid for 10–15 minutes
2. The high heat incinerates food residue into ash
3. Turn off and let cool slightly
4. Brush grates with a stiff wire grill brush while still warm — the residue comes off easily
5. Turn burners off, close the gas valve, and close the lid

Deep Grate Clean (Seasonal)

1. Remove grates and place in a garbage bag
2. Spray with oven cleaner or a paste of baking soda and dish soap — seal the bag and let sit for several hours or overnight
3. Scrub with a stiff brush and rinse thoroughly
4. For cast iron grates: dry immediately and apply a thin layer of cooking oil before reinstalling to prevent rust

Burner Tubes

1. Remove the grates and flavourizer bars to access burner tubes
2. Use a wire brush or pipe cleaner to clear debris from the burner ports (the small holes along the tube)
3. Brush side-to-side, not front-to-back — brushing front-to-back pushes debris into the ports
4. Check for spider webs or insect nests in the venturi tubes (where gas enters) — a common cause of uneven flames

Interior and Drip Tray

1. Scrape grease and carbon build-up from the inside of the lid and firebox with a putty knife
2. Remove and empty the grease tray — a full tray is a fire hazard
3. Wash the tray with soapy water and line with aluminum foil for easy future clean-up

Exterior

Wipe stainless steel exteriors with warm soapy water and a cloth, then buff dry. For stubborn grease spots on stainless: a few drops of vegetable oil on a cloth, rubbed in the direction of the grain, removes grease and restores shine.

Fall Close-Down

Do a full deep clean before winter, then cover with a fitted grill cover. For propane: close the tank valve and disconnect the regulator. For natural gas: simply close the supply valve. Store in a shed or under an awning to protect from ice accumulation on the lid.