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Does your grill have burned on black muck that is impossible to get off? You need to learn how to find the best grill cleaner.
I know what you’re thinking: “Ugh, this is going to be such a pain.” Well, don’t worry because that’s why we put together this blog post.
One of the most important things to keep your grill in good condition is a quality cleaner. Grill cleaners are designed to remove built-up grease and grime that can clog the surface, making it hard to cook with or just dirty looking. It is important that you find a product that will not only clean but also protect your grill so it stays looking new for years.
So, let’s dive into what types of cleaners there are and which ones work best for different grills or situations (e.g., gas vs charcoal). Read on and learn about the top picks for turning your grill from black to shiny silver again.
What is a Grill Cleaner?
Grill cleaners are chemicals that remove built-up grease and grime from your grill.
Generally speaking, there are two main types of grill cleaner: liquid and solid. Liquid ones can be sprayed or poured on surfaces to work their magic, while solid forms need to either dissolve in water before being applied directly onto the surface or dry out first to work.
There are also plenty of handheld products that can assist with cleaning a grill, for example, brushes, scrapers, and wipes.
The best grill cleaner depends on the specific product you are working with, but generally speaking, it should work quickly while being environmentally friendly!
How Does a Grill Cleaner Work?
Before using any type of grill cleaner, make sure always to read the instructions on the product label. Different products work in different ways, and it’s important to follow directions closely.
A common way for liquid cleaners like sprays or foams to remove grease is by simply spraying the product onto the dirty areas. The cleaning will then work its magic and start dissolving the muck.
Solid grill cleaners, on the other hand, generally need to either dissolve in water or dry out first. For example, one common type is made of small pellets that will eventually expand and work their magic once they soak up enough moisture (in this case, through water). Other types are simply designed to “eat” away built-up grease over time.
When it comes to handheld cleaners, they will require a bit of elbow grease to clean your grill, but after a bit of scrubbing, you’ll be surprised how shiny they can make it.
It’s also important to note that some grill cleaners are meant for certain types of grills, for example, charcoal grills or grill plates.
Some of the other products can not only be used on grills but also on other surfaces like worktops, stoves, and ovens. This is a great option if you’re looking for a two-in-one (or more than two in obe) product that can clean many of your kitchen appliances at once.
However, make sure to check the label before using any product around your house, just in case!
What are the Different Types of Grill Cleaners?
So, let’s look into the different types of grill cleaners. All these products are great for cleaning grills, but some suit a different type of surface than others.
Liquid grill cleaners are great for fast cleaning jobs but can also be used on surfaces other than grills (like ovens). These products usually contain some form of acid or base to break down fats and grease quickly. They’ll generally need to sit for a few minutes before scrubbing away the residue with water or another cleaner.
Solid grill cleaners dissolve in water before being applied to surfaces. They’re usually mess-free and easy to use but can be messy when they dry out first (which is often the case for products designed specifically for grills).
Handheld items like brushes or scrapers are great if you need something quick – just press your tool of choice onto the surface, and you’re good to go. Be sure not to use one of these on sensitive surfaces, as they can be quite abrasive!
In terms of ingredients, most grill cleaners will contain similar things like organic acids or alkalis which are great at breaking down grease and grime quickly. Some products might also include surfactants which can help with emulsifying fats and oils.
So, here are some of the top types of grill cleaner:
Grill Cleaner Solution
This is the simplest type of grill cleaner. The liquid usually contains organic acids or alkalis to break down grease and grime quickly, but can also include surfactants to help with emulsifying fats and oils.
Liquid cleaners are typically weakly acidic (like vinegar) which is great for breaking down fat molecules without corroding the metal too much as stronger acids can. However, this also means they aren’t great at removing rust which is often the case for older grills (which might require stronger cleaners).
Liquid grill cleaners are usually best suited to surfaces other than the grill itself like ovens or worktops based on what ingredients they include in their formula.
Grill Cleaning Spray
Grill cleaning spray is slightly different from a liquid solution in that it’s not always intended to soak into surfaces. Instead, it’s more of a quick solution that you spray on your grill before wiping away with water or another cleaner (to get rid of any residue).
Spray cleaners are usually messier than solutions since they require two steps – one for cleaning and the other for removal. This can make them less convenient to use in some cases.
Solid Grill Cleaner
A solid cleaner is often either made of pellets that expand when soaked with water or a similar product. The idea behind these cleaners is that they need to dissolve, dry out, or emulsify before removing built-up grease and food particles from your grill grates (which can take a few minutes).
Solid grill cleaners might be messier than the other types since they can sometimes leave residue in and around your grates after application. However, this isn’t always the case, depending on how you use them.
Grill Cleaning Wire Brush
Wire brushes are great for removing stuck-on food particles or grease but can be quite abrasive – so you might not want to use them on your grill grates!
Some wire brush cleaners will come with a handle that screws into the base of each bristle. Others will have longer handles which allow you to really scrub down your grate without making your hands dirty.
Handheld brush cleaners are usually good for cleaning other surfaces around the grill, like the sides or lid, but aren’t ideal for grates on their own since they can be quite abrasive!
Grill Scraper Cleaner
A solid grill cleaner that’s made of small pellets which expand into a foam when soaked with water.
These cleaners are usually messier than other types since they expand and create a foamy texture which can take some time to dry out (if it does at all). This means you’ll need to leave them on longer before wiping away the residue with another cleaner or soapy water – not ideal for those who don’t have much spare time!
Grill Cleaning Drill
A grill cleaning drill is a lot like a wire brush cleaner as it can be used to remove stuck-on food particles from your grill grates.
However, they’re usually connected to an electric drill that spins the bristles or pads so you don’t have to do all of the hard work yourself! This makes them very convenient since you can just hold them in place and let the power of your drill do all of the hard work for you (though they aren’t ideal if you don’t have a suitable electric drill).
Grill Cleaning Vapor Brush
A grill cleaning vapor brush is a great choice if you want to clean your grates but don’t have any other spare tools around.
These brushes are usually connected to an aerosol can that contains water and some sort of cleaner (often in the form of foams or sprays). You simply spray down the grill grate, wait for it to dry, and then brush away the residue with your vapor brush to remove built-up grease or food particles along with rust.
Grill Cleaning Powder
A grill cleaning powder is another solution that’s great for removing stuck-on food particles from grates – but can also leave a bit of a mess afterward!
These cleaners are usually made of a mixture of several ingredients, including some sort of abrasive cleaner. This means they can be quite strong when used alone so you’ll need to mix them with water or another solution before using – or risk damaging your grill grates in the process!
What Should You Look For in a Grill Cleaner?
So, what sort of things should you look for in a grill cleaner?
Well, the most important thing is to pick one that’s right for you! This might seem simple enough at first glance, but there are so many different types of cleaners out there it can be hard to know where to start.
For example: Do you want an easy-to-use solution that’s mess-free? Or do you want to invest in a more powerful cleaner that does the job even faster?
If this is your first time buying grill cleaner, it might be best to start with something simple like a spray (just make sure not to use any of these on porcelain grates unless they’re specifically designed for these types of surfaces).
If you’re looking for more powerful cleaners, then a vapor brush or grill cleaning drill might be the best choice. These are perfect if you don’t have any spare tools around and want to get your grates clean in no time! Just remember that they’ll usually do a better job than other solutions so it’s a good idea to mix them with some water first.
The only other thing you should consider is the type of grates on your grill – as this will affect how effective each cleaner can be!
Here are the most important things to look for in a grill cleaner:
Size
Although it may seem like a strange requirement, the size of your grill cleaner should match the size of your grill. This is especially important for those with handheld cleaners and small grates, as you’ll need a smaller cleaner to get into the nooks and crannies.
Grill Type
You should also consider what type of grill your using – whether it has porcelain or cast iron grates. Porcelain-coated grills are usually very smooth so cleaners that contain a lot of grit (like grill cleaning powders) can do serious damage if you’re not careful.
On the other hand, cast-iron grates tend to have more cracks and crevices that are perfect for trapping dirt and residue – so you’ll need something with some extra power to match!
Ingredients
You should also read up on the ingredients in any grill cleaner before buying. Some cleaners are full of harsh chemicals that can damage your grates over time – or even cause health issues if they’re not used properly!
Efficiency
You should also consider how efficient your grill cleaner is when it actually comes to cleaning. Some cleaners (like the ones in aerosol cans) are very simple and usually take less than a minute – while others can take up to half an hour depending on how dirty your grates are!
Ease of Cleaning
Once you get a cleaner, it’s important to think about how easy it is to use. Do you want something that you can place on and leave to do its thing, or prefer a tool that requires a bit of elbow grease, but the results might be better?
Price
Lastly, you should consider the price of your grill cleaner. Some cleaners are cheap while others can be quite expensive – but if you’re looking for something that’s good quality, then it may be worth spending a bit extra in some cases!
It’s also worth considering whether you want a one-time expense – such as a wire brush – or an ongoing monthly cost like a solution.
The Major Differences Between Commercial and Household Grill Cleaners
There are several differences between household and commercial grill cleaners.
Household cleaners are specifically designed for home use. They’re usually less expensive, easier to find in stores or online, and don’t contain any harmful chemicals that could damage your grill grates.
Commercial cleaners, on the other hand, are often made with more powerful ingredients that can dissolve grease and food particles far better than household versions – making them perfect if you want to get your grill grates extra clean.
The type of surface you’ll need to scrub depends on the ingredients in each cleaner Some cleaners are designed specifically for porcelain surfaces, while others are more effective when used with cast iron grills. It’s important to read up on what types of surfaces your grill has before buying – just to make sure it’s compatible and you don’t end up ruining your grill.
Our Top Grill Cleaner Recommendations
GrillArt Grill Brush and Scraper
Take control of your grilling with the GrillArt Two-in-One Grill Cleaning Brush, which combines the power of three brushes in one.
It has a strong 360-degree head made up of tightly turning woven stainless steel wires – this covers more surface area than previous versions and is perfect for getting into the hard-to-reach spots on your grill grates.
The 18-inch non-slip handle prevents your hands from the heat while allowing you to work in hard-to-reach locations at an ideal vantage point.
It works perfectly with both home and professional-grade cleaning pastes to lift off tough stuck-on food particles in seconds, leaving your cooking surface clean and ready for another round of delicious BBQs!
This top-rated brush is highly praised and can cleanse everything from burned food to sticky sauces from your grill with ease. It’s also highly durable and efficient, ridding the area of all grease and grime.
Pros
- Durable and rust-resistant
- Works with both home and commercial cleaners
- Cleanses burnt food, grease stains, etc. in seconds
Cons
- Some people have said that the brush was confusing to put together
Goo Gone Grill and Grate Cleaner
From a brush to a formula, this fast-acting gel formula dissolves grease from your grill grates. It is effective in removing even the most stubborn, caked-on carbon stains and burnt deposits. It’s also heavy-duty and adaptable, making it ideal for both inside and outdoor cleaning projects.
Anyone can use it, even if you’re in a bit of a hurry! You simply spray it on your grill, leave it for a while, and then return to give the grill a good scrub. Your grill plates will look almost new again once you’ve used it.
Pros
- Cleans outdoor and indoor grills
- Easy to use – simply spray on your grill, leave for a while, scrub off with a brush or scouring pad.
- The heavy-duty formula is adaptable and effective at cleaning even the most stubborn burnt food deposits etc.
- Doesn’t have a strong smell like many other formulas
Cons
- There are some mixed opinions about the effectiveness of the cleaner
Elaziy Grill & Griddle Cleaning Brick
A grill cleaning stone, like Elaziy’s popular Grill and Griddle Brick, is a low-cost approach to clean your barbecue without using harsh chemicals or damaging it.
These reusable stones, which are a much less traditional way of cleaning your grill – nonetheless, they have more than 1,000 five-star ratings, so they must be doing something right!
The brick is entirely of natural components and ecologically sourced, odorless, and non-toxic material. It’s also safe for porcelain-coated grill grates and stainless steel surfaces and won’t absorb any of the grease and gunk that they are so efficiently removing from your hob.
All you need to do is apply some elbow grease with the stone – it’ll remove all that burnt on foodstuff in no time.
They have a non-slip grip and are constructed of a long-lasting de-scaling substance to easily remove stubborn stains. After just a short scrub, the stone will be able to remove a surprising amount of grease from your grill top.
You’ll definitely be pleasantly surprised by how these turn out! Plus, they don’t leave behind any annoying spikes or bristles during the cleaning process.
Pros
- Non-slip grip
- Constructed of a de-scaling substance to easily remove stubborn stains
- Can be used on ceramic, porcelain-coated grills, or stainless steel surfaces
Cons
- You may need to use the stone in conjunction with a cleaning spray
Sienna Grilltastic Grill Cleaner
The Sienna Grilltastic Grill Cleaner is the most expensive device on our list, but it’s also the most powerful. This electric stainless steel cleaning brush is perfect for when your grill is caked with grease or carbon, making it ideal for frequent use.
It has a powerful motor that makes light work of even the most stubborn burnt food particles and stains on all types of cooking surfaces. It’s designed in such a way that you can clean both sides of your grill at the same time, making it a very efficient product.
It also disinfects the surface without using harsh chemicals. Instead, it creates 1,000 watts of steam and disinfects your grill with the touch of a button. For a grill that looks professionally cleaned and doesn’t require any elbow grease, this is the device for you!
Pros
- Powerful motor that can make light work of even the most stubborn stains
- Can clean both sides at once to save time
- Steam disinfects your grill without harsh chemicals, leaving it looking new again.
Cons
- The price tag is quite high compared to other options on our list.
Non-Stick Disposable Grill Wipes
For a convenient and easy-to-use method of cleaning your grill, these disposable grill wipes are your best bet. Simply open the pack and wipe them over your greasy cooking surfaces to instantly transform them into a lovely clean cooking surface.
They’re made from recycled materials and use an eco-friendly solution that will never leave any sticky residue behind. They’re also safe for use on porcelain-coated grills and stainless steel surfaces, which is perfect if you don’t want to damage your expensive appliances!
There’s no need to reach for the heavy-duty cleaner if you haven’t made a lot of mess. Wipes that can be used for a rapid once-over to ensure that no more dirt or dust remains on your grill.
Pros
- Reusable wipes are easy to use
- They’re safe for all grill types, including porcelain-coated grills and stainless steel surfaces.
- Rapid once-over way of cleaning your grill without making a mess!
Cons
- It may not be suitable for more heavy-duty cleaning projects
Evapo-Rust ER004 Rust Remover
Evapo-Rust’s top-rated rust remover is a necessity for cleaning your grill tops. The rust remover is a powerful solution that breaks up and dissolves rust deposits, allowing them to be easily wiped away without any scrubbing required. This non-corrosive, non-flammable liquid cleanses your grill and rejuvenates it.
It’s completely safe on all metals, such as stainless steel grills or cast iron grates, making it a versatile product that can’t cause any damage. The rust remover solution also works to remove surface stains, making it a great option for those who want their grill to look spotless and showroom-ready!
It can also be used on almost any kitchen gadget, appliance, or other household item that requires some TLC. It can remove up to a half-pound of dry rust from one gallon of solution, so it’s more cost-effective than a lot of other spray or solutions options.
It’s also easy to use. Simply, douse the grill grates with the product, wrap it in a wet rag, and place it inside a big plastic bag overnight. The next day, give it a wash, and you’ll wonder where all the rust has gone!
Pros
- Powerful rust remover that works without scrubbing
- Safe to use on all metal types
- Removes surface stains as well as rust
Cons
- Quite expensive to use
What Criteria Did We Use to Come Up With These Selections?
We selected these products based on their effectiveness as well as durability, ease of use, and price. We considered a number of different factors such as how often they needed to be replaced, the cost per unit, and so forth.
First, we analyzed the effectiveness of each product and checked to see how well they removed rust, stains, and grime. We also considered what specific types of surfaces could be used on – for example, was it safe to use with stainless steel or porcelain-coated grills grates?
We then looked at durability and ease of maintenance. How long did a single unit last against regular usage, as well as how easy it was to use the product, store it away, and so forth?
Finally, we considered what users thought of each product in terms of value for money. How much did a single unit cost compared to other similar products? Did they work out cheaper over time once you factored in replacement costs, or were there better dealt available elsewhere?
We were also mindful of the negative feedback users had left and looked at whether there might be problems with quality control or other manufacturing issues which could cause products to break down unexpectedly.
As such, we only selected products that received over 90% positive feedback from both professionals as well as consumers.
FAQs
Answer: The best cleaner for a grill is one that removes grease, dirt, and food stains without damaging the grill or harming people. There are lots of different types of grill cleaners that suit different types of grills, so it’s important that you choose one that will work best for your grill.
Answer: There are lots of different types of grill cleaners, which include: spray-on cleaners, grill stones, and electric brushes.
Answer: The best brush for your grill will depend on your grill type. Brush sizes vary, but you should make sure that the brush is suitable for your specific grill.
Answer: Choosing a great grill cleaner will depend on what type of grill you have, whether it is gas or charcoal, and if it has porcelain-enameled cast-iron grates. You should also think about how often you use your grill as this can affect the quality of cleaning that you require.
Answer: The best way to clean grill grates is to use an abrasive, non-abrasive cleaner that won’t damage the surface of your grill. A few examples of this include soft sponges, grill stones, and special brushes.
Answer: The best way to get burnt grease off a grill is to let it soak overnight in a solution of one part water and three parts vinegar before scrubbing with steel wool or nylon-bristle brush. The other way to remove the grease is to use a grill solvent that will remove it without scrubbing.
Answer: Keeping your cast iron grill grates from rusting is easy. All you need to do is rub them with cooking oil, lard, or bacon grease before storing and after use. If this doesn’t work well enough for you, then the best way to prevent it is by using a grill cover when not in use.
Answer: Prices for reliable grill cleaners vary depending on the type of cleaner you’re buying and what brand it is. You can expect to pay between $20 and up to $70 or more. You can expect to pay about $20 each month or more if you’re buying a solution.
Conclusion
A grill cleaner is a type of cleaning solution, usually in liquid or aerosol form, that can be applied to the surface of a gas or charcoal-powered barbecue grill. These cleaners are designed to remove dirt and grease from grates as well as food residue such as burnt-on pieces of food.
There are many different types of grill cleaners with varying degrees of effectiveness depending on your needs, but it’s important that you choose one that will work best for your specific type of grill.
Our top picks include Evapo-Rust ER004 Rust Remover, which removes rust without harsh chemicals, and GrillArt Grill Brush and Scraper, which is long, flexible, and easy to use.
Thank you for reading our blog post on how to find the best grill cleaner! We hope that it helped answer any questions or concerns that you may have and that you can now find the best grill cleaner for your situation!