Can you steam clean a BBQ grill?

Yes, you can steam clean a BBQ grill to remove built-up grease and burnt food residue. Steam cleaning is an effective way to deep clean and sanitize a grill.

Why Steam Clean Your Grill?

There are several benefits to steam cleaning your BBQ grill:

• Removes grease and grime – Steam cleaning dissolves and loosens tough grease and carbonized food residue that regular brushing leaves behind.
• Sanitizes – The high heat of the steam kills bacteria and germs on the grill grates and other surfaces.
• Environmentally friendly – Steam cleaning is a chemical-free cleaning method. No harsh detergents or degreasers are needed.
• Prevents flare-ups – Getting your grill down to the bare metal helps prevent grease fires and excessive smoking.

How to Steam Clean a Grill

Follow these simple steps:

1. Heat up your grill to 200-250°F. Heating the grime will help soften it.
2. Use a wire brush to scrape loose debris off the grill grates.
3. Dip a towel in water and loosely cover the burners with the wet towel. This prevents steam damage.
4. Hold the steam cleaner nozzle 6 inches above the surface. Steam the grates and interior surfaces.
5. Use a grill brush or plastic scraper to remove loosened debris.
6. Rinse away any remaining residue with a garden hose.
7. Dry the grill thoroughly before firing it up again.

Tips for Steam Cleaning Your Grill

• Invest in a dedicated steam cleaner for BBQ grills. Look for one that has adjustable steam levels and attachments for the grill.
• Remove the cooking grates and heat shields. Steam clean all interior surfaces.
• Start steaming from the back to push grease deposits forward.
• Don’t hold the nozzle too close or linger too long. This can damage the metal.
• Re-oil your grill grates after cleaning to prevent rusting.
• Clean your grill 2-4 times a year, depending on use.

Alternative Cleaning Methods

While steam cleaning is highly effective, there are some other ways to clean your grill:

• Baking soda – Make a paste with baking soda and water. Spread on grimy areas and let sit 15-20 minutes before scrubbing.
• Vinegar – Mix equal parts white vinegar and water. Spray or mop onto the grill and use a wire brush to scrub.
• Ammonia – Add 1/2 cup ammonia to 1 gallon of water. Apply to the grill, let soak a few minutes, then scrub clean.
• Citrus cleaner – Buy a commercial citrus-based grill cleaner or make your own from lemon/orange peel and vinegar.

grill interior, frame, burners

While the grill grates take the most abuse, it’s important to thoroughly clean all parts of your grill.

Interior

• Use a putty knife or scraper to remove large food deposits and grease drippings. Vacuum loose debris.
• Steam clean or use a degreasing cleaner/brush on the interior walls and underside of the lid.
• Remove cooking grids and diffuser plates to clean all sides. Soak in warm soapy water if needed.
• Clean out grease traps and empty grease cup.

Frame

• Use a degreasing cleaner and a nylon or brass brush on the outer housing and cart.
• Rinse well and dry completely to prevent rusting.
• Touch up paint chips and flakes with high heat grill paint.

Burners

• Remove burners and clean with a degreaser and stiff brush.
• Rinse and completely dry burners before replacing.
• Clear any clogged burner ports with a straightened paperclip.
• Clean under burners and the igniter assembly of debris buildup.

Conclusion

Steam cleaning is a highly effective method for deep cleaning your grill. The high heat sanitizes while dissolving grease and burnt-on food residue. For best results, clean all parts of your grill – grates, interior, frame and burners. Regular steam cleaning will keep your grill looking like new and prevent grease fires. Always be sure to thoroughly dry your grill after cleaning before firing it up again.