You've set up your grill correctly. But is meat sticking to your grill? Are flare-ups and intense smoke a common occurrence? Does food taste smoky or burnt? These can all be signs that your grill needs to be cleaned. If you answered yes to any of these questions, it's probably time to clean your grill.

Tools and Materials for Cleaning Your Grill

Grill Brush and scraper: A stiff wire grill brush is a necessity for maintaining your grilling grates. Many also have scraper attachments that are helpful. Replace your grill brush once a year.

Grill cleaner: We prefer using a white vinegar solution and dish soap over specialized grill cleaners. They're just as effective as specialized cleaners, without harsh chemicals, and you typicaly already own these cleaning agents.

Fine steel-wool pad, sponge and clean rags: These are your tools for scrubbing the grates, cleaning grease off surfaces and drying.

Rubber gloves: If you'd like to protect your hands while cleaning, reach for rubber gloves. However, a benefit of using natural cleaners is that you won't have to protect yourself from harsh chemicals and fumes.

How To Clean a Charcoal Grill

Supplies You Need To Clean a Charcoal Grill

• Fine steel wool pad
• Vinegar and baking soda
• Scoop or shovel
• Grill brush
• Sponge
• Dish soap
• Clean rags

Step 1: Remove and Clean the Grates

To clean a charcoal grill, start by removing the grates. Using steel wool, gently scrub them with a 2-to-1 mixture of vinegar and baking soda. Allow to soak for at least 1 hour then rinse and pat dry.

Step 2: Remove Old Coals and Ashes

Next, remove old coals and ashes from the cook box using a scoop or shovel. To ensure that the coals are completely extinguished and cool, close the grill lid and vents for at least 48 hours after grilling before proceeding. Discarding coals that are not completely extinguished can cause a fire.

Step 3: Scrub the Inside of the Grill and the Lid

Use a grill brush to scrub away built-up debris along the bottom and sides of the cook box and inside the lid.

Step 4: Clean the Outside of the Grill

And gently scrub the outside of the grill with a sponge and warm soapy water, then wipe dry.

How To Clean a Gas Grill

Supplies You Need to Clean a Gas Grill

• Fine steel wool pad
• Vinegar and baking soda
• Grill brush
• Scraper
• Sponge
• Dish soap
• Clean rags

Step 1: Scrub the Grates

To deep clean your gas grill, start by turning off the fuel source. Then scrub the grates with a 2-to-1 mixture of vinegar and baking soda and a steel wool pad, rinse well and pat dry.

Step 2: Wash the Warming Rack and Grill Basket

While you're scrubbing the grates, the warming rack and grill basket can be washed using warm soapy water and a sponge. Rinse well and dry thoroughly with a rag to prevent rusting.

Step 3: Clean the Burners and Heat Distribution System

Brush the burner portholes using an up-and-down motion. Never brush side-to-side, since this can push debris from one hole into the next and clog the burners. Scrub grime off the heat distribution system using a grill brush and scraper.

How To Store Your Grill

After cleaning your grill, store it covered with a grill cover. If exposed to the elements, your grill will rust over time.

Routine Grill Care and Maintenance

Every time you grill, you should do some routine cleaning. Always refer to the manufacturer’s guide for specific maintenance, but follow these general guidelines. After each grilling season, deep-clean your grill so it's in tip-top shape for next year.

Scrape the Grates of Gas and Charcoal Grills

Before you put any food on the grill, preheat it for 15 minutes with the lid closed. The high heat will burn off any residue and turn it into ash. Brush off the ashes with your grill brush, then grill as your recipe instructs. After grilling, scrape the grates with a brush again while they are still hot.

Routine Gas Grill Care

Gas grills have a removable tray that collects drippings and grease. If not cleaned regularly, the grease can catch fire, causing smoke and flames and giving your food an "off" flavor. Pull out the tray and scrape any grease and debris straight into a garbage can. For safety, do this only when the grill is off and completely cool. If it's extra grimy, wash with warm soapy water.

Routine Charcoal Grill Care

If your charcoal grill has an ash catcher, empty it before lighting. A clean ash catcher ensures adequate airflow. Good ventilation is essential for charcoal to burn — without it, your fire won't stay lit. Ashes also absorb moisture, which can cause rusting. For safety, make sure the ashes are completely extinguished before disposing of them.

Related Links:

50 Easy Grilling Recipes To Keep in Your Back Pocket

93 Grilled Dinners You'll Want To Make All Summer Long

40 Healthy Recipes That Are Made for the Grill