Having barbecue parties is fun especially during the summer. You can have your friends and family over and grill some steaks and hotdogs with some side dishes such as salads or sandwiches.
But you have to clean your charcoal as part of ongoing maintenance, and also for it to function well. It may be additional work, but it is necessary or else your food might not be cooked very well.
How often will you need to clean your grill? Is it only during summers when in use? How about other times? Well, charcoal grills build up rust and ash, so you need to have them cleaned once during grilling season at the very least or more if you use them frequently. Always scrape the built-up crust and remove ash for maintenance. Also, have the grill itself oiled when in use to avoid food sticking to it.
How do you clean a charcoal grill?
Equipment
The first thing you need to know is the equipment that will be used for cleaning. You will need cleaning instruments such as brushes or sponges. This also includes cleaning solutions, and you should avoid the toxic ones because it will affect the food you will cook. A simple mix of warm water and dish soap then also paste of vinegar and baking soda are enough. Then you will also need trash bags for the charcoals and debris.
Lids
Lids are advised to be cleaned often to avoid the collection of grease and smoke. You can do this by simply wiping it with soap and water solution after use.
Grates
Grates should be cleaned before cooking. Have it heated for about 15 minutes then use a stainless steel brush to remove the debris. This way, you will not stick to the grill. Aluminum foil is also an excellent scrubber for the grate.
Bowl and Ash Catcher
The bowl should be brushed or wiped with any debris with a mild detergent soap or glass cleaner. Be sure to have the ash catcher emptied too.
Additional Tip: You can also do some pressure cleaning for your grill to make things easier. Just make sure you know how to use your washer.
How to maintain a charcoal grill?
It was asked before how often grills should be cleaned, but maintenance is also a must so how should that be performed?
At the end of the grilling season
a. Always remove and dispose of the ashes.
b. Clean your grill.
c. Oil the grate.
d. Cover it to protect from weather and seasons to come.
At the beginning of the grilling season
a. If there are any excess ashes, remove them.
b. Wash your grill.
c. Stock the charcoal.
3. During the grilling season
a. Always check if you have a supply of charcoal.
b. Clean your grill once in a while especially if it is used often especially the grates.
c. Brush your grates before and after grilling so that debris will easily loosen.
d. Always oil the grate to avoid the food sticking. It also helps prevent any rusting. It also adds flavor to the food you are cooking.