Question 1

Is it necessary that I clean my grill?

Accepted Answer

It is imperative to clean your grill regularly so it functions properly. Over time, the debris on the grates will keep building up and eventually affect the smell and taste of your food. In the long term, carbon fuels can also result in potentially harmful health conditions.

Question 2

What type of brush should I use to clean my grill?

Accepted Answer

This depends on the type of grill you have. While some work great with Nylon brushes, others seem to benefit from electric or metal brushes. 

Regardless, you should clean your grill shortly after every session. Because grills clean better while hot or moderately warm, you can potentially tamper with the effectiveness of your brush by cleaning after your grill has cooled. 

If your grill brush has a plastic handle, it&rsquo;s important to pay attention to the material if you&rsquo;re cleaning a hot surface. Exposure to very high heat and your brush can end up warping or, even worse, begin to melt &ndash; and the last thing you want is a burger with a side of the plastic.

Question 3

What is the best way to clean my grill?

Accepted Answer

While there are a few different techniques to clean a grill, the method that works well for you is really a matter of preference and repetition. As with any cleanup technique, you may find that certain factors &ndash; like the choice of a cleaning product &ndash; did not benefit your cleanup as much as they did for other people.

Question 4

Are wire grill brushes safe?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Wire grill brushes are very popular these days and the default option. Keep in mind, however, that if the chosen material is of cheap metal quality it may do more damage than help. Poorer quality brushes can scratch the surface of your grill and even scrub off its protective coating, and if it&rsquo;s money you&rsquo;re looking to save you may find yourself wasting money on replacement brushes &ndash; or even, a new grill &ndash; due to improper usage. 

If the wires come loose, the bristles can end up in your food. Stiff wires can also damage the coated grates &ndash; so it&rsquo;s important to be careful with them.

Question 5

How long does a grill brush run?

Accepted Answer

It depends on how frequently you use the grill. Generally speaking, a brush that doesn&rsquo;t clean as well as it used to is ready for the trash. Other signs it&rsquo;s time to retire your brush include the bristles coming loose or the brush handle itself looks worn out or damaged. 

While it may be tempting to save your brush or push its life span, it&rsquo;s important to toss your brush out at even the slightest sign of decline. Using a grill brush past its ability can result in fallen bristles or wires &ndash; and although harmless to the face, ingesting one of these objects can result in potentially fatal consequences.

Kitchen Essentials