The 6 Best Grill Cleaners to Tackle Caked-On Grease
Updated: May 12, 2023From foams and sprays to even automatic brushes, we've got you—and your grill—covered with the best grill cleaners.
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Long, sunny days mean barbecue season is here and grills are working overtime. Whether you have a charcoal grill, gas grill or smoker, the best grill cleaner makes sure all the food tastes just right—and that yesterday’s grilled fish doesn’t contaminate tonight’s veggie burgers.
Maintaining your grill between uses is important not only for safety reasons, but for extending its longevity. We selected a variety of the best grill cleaners to keep your machine in pristine condition. Grab your spatula, serving plate and other grilling tools, and get ready to fire up some tasty hot dogs and veggies all summer long!
Automatic Grill Brush
For the cook who deserves a break from flipping burgers, this is the best grill cleaner that works hard so you don’t have to. Simply place the Grillbot automatic grill brush on the grates, hit the push-button starter and close the lid. The Grillbot beeps when it’s finished cleaning and has an automatic shutoff (in case you’re out of reach).
Featuring three spinning brushes that work simultaneously, this automatic grill brush is compatible with cast iron, steel and porcelain grates, and has a handy storage case. And if you choose to run the Grillbot after cooking, an alarm sounds when the grill needs to cool down (below 250 degrees Fahrenheit.) With everyone out buying grills for summer, put this one at the top of your list.
Grate Grill Cleaner
This food-safe grill cleaner from Weber is a no-fuss grilling accessory that’s easy to use. Simply spray it onto the grates, wait a minute and then scrub off grease and grime using a basic grill brush. This formula works on standard grills and smokers. Because it’s non-toxic and phosphate-free, it’s safe to use directly on cooking grate surfaces, as well.
Super-Strength Grill and Grate Cleaner
When your neglected grill is in desperate need of a rigorous cleaning and simple sprays won’t do, this grill and grate spray is one tough cleaner. The foam formula clings to grill grates and surfaces to remove grease and carbon, yet it’s biodegradable and environmentally friendly. In addition to tackling caked-on food deposits (we’re looking at you, well-done burger), this cleaner also works on pellet and electric smokers.
Easy-Off Grill Cleaner
You probably already use this brand for deep-cleaning your oven after a Thanksgiving feast, but did you know there’s a heavy-duty version formulated for grills? Dissolve the toughest stains with this barbecue grill cleaner. Remove the grill cover, open the lid and spray the cleaner directly onto the grill grates. Let it sit for a few minutes and then wipe away gunk and grime. Easy-Off is both kosher and National Sanitation Foundation (NSF)-certified.
Steam Cleaner Brush
Behold the power of the best steam grill cleaner. Unlike sprays and foaming cleansers, this steam cleaner brush from Cuisinart relies on heat supplied by your grill (and some good, old-fashioned elbow grease) to de-gunk your grill. Preheat the grill on the low seating for five minutes, soak the brush’s cleaning head in cool water and brush away.
The scraper blade removes hardened grease while the side of the brush head gets all those hard-to-reach places, like in between the grates. We might need to add this to the best grill lover’s gift ideas.
Bristle-Free Grill Brush
If you’re concerned about the wear and tear of traditional metal bristles on barbecue cleaners, GrillArt’s bristle-free grill brush is a safer alternative. The sturdy design features three rows of coils, boasting triple the cleaning action of standard brushes. For best results, dip this tool in water repeatedly and watch the grease and grime disappear from your smoker or grill.
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