The 7 Best Grill Cleaners

Transforming your backyard cookouts from enjoyable gatherings to dreaded cleanup sessions is a common struggle. Dealing with caked-on grease, stubborn sauce residues, and carbonized food remnants on the grill grates can be a daunting task. Regular soap and water won’t suffice in removing the stubborn buildup completely. What you truly need is a remarkable grill cleaner capable of effortlessly cutting through grease and dirt, even in the most challenging nooks and crannies. By employing a reliable grill cleaner, you can restore your grill to its former glory, leaving it gleaming and fully prepared for your next BBQ adventure. Say goodbye to tedious cleanup and hello to hassle-free grilling!

Why Use a Grill Cleaner?

After every delightful grilling session, remnants of food and savory sauces become firmly baked onto your grill’s surfaces. This accumulation of carbon deposits and grease creates a stubborn residue that can taint the flavor of your food and disrupt the proper flow of heat and air within the grill. Moreover, this leftover buildup poses a potential hazard, as it can trigger unsettling flare-ups.

To ensure the safe and efficient functioning of your grill, regular cleaning is essential. While scrubbing the grates between uses is a good start, employing a high-quality grill cleaner takes the cleanliness to the next level. These powerful solutions are specifically formulated to penetrate grease and dislodge carbon deposits, ensuring a thorough clean. Whether you prefer a quick-acting formula or a longer soak, there are options available with both chemical-based and all-natural ingredients.

Regardless of your grill type, whether it’s charcoal, propane or natural gas, a reliable grill cleaner will work its magic. Get ready to reclaim the pristine condition of your grill and elevate your grilling experience to new heights!

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Grill Cleaner

Before diving into the top grill cleaners, it’s important to consider a few factors to ensure you select the right one for your grill. Here are some key factors to keep in mind:

1. Type of Grill Cleaner: Grill cleaners come in various forms, including sprays, brushes, wipes, and more. Consider which type suits your cleaning style and preferences.
2. Ingredients and Effectiveness: Check the ingredients of the grill cleaner and ensure they are effective in removing grease, grime, and food residue from your grill.
3. Safety and Non-Toxicity: Look for grill cleaners that are safe to use on food-contact surfaces and free from harmful chemicals.
4. Ease of Use and Application: Consider the ease of use and application of the grill cleaner. Is it convenient to use and does it require minimal effort?
5. Compatibility with Different Grill Surfaces: Make sure the grill cleaner is suitable for the type of grill surface you have, such as stainless steel, cast iron, or porcelain-coated grates.

Now, let’s explore the top 7 grill cleaners that have proven to deliver exceptional cleaning results and make grill maintenance a breeze.

The 7 Best Grill Cleaners

These are our top picks for grill cleaners that will make quick work of charred food and grease on the surfaces of your grill. 

Weber Grate Grill Cleaner

Volume: 16 fl oz

Experience the power of effective cleaning without the drawbacks of harsh chemicals with the Weber Grate Grill Cleaner. Unlike many heavy-duty formulas, this remarkable grill cleaner is crafted from all-natural ingredients, ensuring a non-toxic and non-corrosive solution.

Say goodbye to unpleasant odors and skin irritation caused by chemicals, as this cleaner contains no acids, caustics, or phosphates. Plus, it’s non-flammable, allowing you to fire up your grill immediately after cleaning. Simply spray the cleaner on your grates and grill surfaces, and watch as it quickly dissolves grease and loosens stubborn carbon deposits. With a quick scrub using a brush, you’ll effortlessly remove the grime, leaving behind a clean surface ready for your next grilling adventure. The convenient bottle shape enables easy application, reaching even the most tucked-away areas. Just aim the nozzle, pull the trigger, and a fine mist gently coats the surface in a fan-like pattern.

Worried about accidental spills? Fear not, as this biodegradable formula is safe for the environment and won’t harm your lawn, deck, or patio. Embrace the natural power of the Weber Grate Grill Cleaner for a clean and eco-friendly grilling experience.

Pros:

• All-natural ingredients
• Powerful
• Non-toxic, non-corrosive and non-flammable
• No need to turn on the grill to activate it
• Biodegradable

Cons:

• Can leave streaks on metal surfaces

Citrusafe BBQ Grill Cleaner

Volume: 16 fl oz

Experience the refreshing scent of Citrusafe BBQ Grill Cleaner as it effortlessly cuts through grease and grime, leaving your grill shining like new. This remarkable grill cleaner is not only powerful but also non-toxic, making it safe to use on various cooking appliances, including grills, smokers, stovetops, and microwaves. With its non-flammable and non-corrosive formula, you can clean with peace of mind.

The secret to Citrusafe’s effectiveness lies in its main ingredient, d-Limonene, derived from the natural oils found in citrus fruit peels. This potent agent excels at dissolving grease, making it ideal for tackling stubborn grill residue. Combined with alcohol and other natural disinfectants, Citrusafe provides a thorough and hygienic cleaning experience. Simply flip the nozzle to the on position, spray the cleaner onto your cooking surfaces and areas with grease splatters, and let it work its magic for a few minutes. Then, wipe away the softened residue with a damp paper towel. Additionally, this biodegradable formula ensures that your cleaning efforts are environmentally friendly.

Embrace the power of Citrusafe BBQ Grill Cleaner for a fresh and spotless grill.

Pros:

• All-natural ingredients
• Citrus scented
• Non-toxic, non-corrosive and non-flammable
• No need to turn on the grill to activate it
• Biodegradable

Cons:

• Not as powerful as some other grill cleaners

Kona Safe/Clean Grill Cleaner

Volume: 23 fl oz

Discover the remarkable power of Kona Safe/Clean Grill Cleaner, an industrial-strength solution that also prioritizes environmental friendliness through its compliance with the US EPA Safer Choice Program. This water-based formula is the epitome of non-toxic, non-flammable, and non-corrosive, making it suitable for all your cooking essentials, from porcelain and ceramic grates to stainless steel utensils. Not only is it an exceptional grill cleaner, but it also doubles as a versatile all-purpose cleaner for your car or boat.

Experience the ease of application as the water-based formula sprays effortlessly and thickens upon contact, ensuring it clings to stubborn residue without running off vertical surfaces. Simply spray the desired areas, allow the cleaner to work its magic for up to 30 minutes, and then effortlessly wipe or rinse the surfaces clean.

With Kona Safe/Clean Grill Cleaner, there’s no need to worry about harsh chemicals causing skin irritation or respiratory discomfort. This odor-free solution is perfect for those with sensitivities to strong scents. Moreover, its phosphate-free and biodegradable nature allows you to wash it away without concern for environmental impact or groundwater contamination. Embrace the power of Kona Safe/Clean Grill Cleaner and achieve a pristine grill without compromising your eco-conscious values.

Pros:

• Non-toxic, non-corrosive and non-flammable
• Non-shearing formula sticks to surfaces instead of dripping and running
• Works in 30 minutes or less
• Biodegradable

Cons:

• Can leave a hazy film on glass

Goo Gone Oven & Grill Cleaner

Volume: 28 fl oz

Discover the exceptional cleaning power of Goo Gone’s Oven & Grill Cleaner, expertly crafted to tackle the most stubborn carbon deposits and grease. This fast-acting foam is specifically formulated to cling to stains and residue, effortlessly penetrating in just minutes to break down even the toughest particles. With Goo Gone, you can confidently clean every part of your grill, including the grates, burner covers, drip pans, and the exterior. However, please note that Goo Gone advises against using it on aluminum or faux stainless steel surfaces.

Experience precise application with the convenient spray bottle and trigger dispenser, allowing you to target the exact spots that require deep cleaning. Simply spray the foam onto your cool grill, let it sit for three to five minutes, and then effortlessly wipe the targeted areas with a damp cloth, paper towel, or sponge. For more stubborn baked-on messes, you can leave the foam to work its magic for up to one hour.

Enjoy the peace of mind knowing that Goo Gone Oven & Grill Cleaner is free from harsh fumes often associated with chemical cleaners, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. Furthermore, its phosphate-free and biodegradable formulation ensures that it won’t introduce harmful chemicals into the environment. While you can use the formula on nearly any food preparation surface, it is crucial to thoroughly wipe down the surfaces before adding food for a clean and safe cooking experience. Experience the powerful cleaning capabilities of Goo Gone and embrace a spotless grill with ease.

Pros:

• Fast-acting
• Powerful
• No fumes
• Biodegradable

Cons:

• Can irritate sensitive skin

Carbona 2-in-1 Oven Rack & Grill Cleaner

Volume: 16.8 fl oz

Experience the unrivaled cleaning power of Carbona’s 2-in-1 Oven Rack & Grill Cleaner, a chemical powerhouse designed to tackle even the toughest burnt messes and grease. While it may require a bit more time to work its magic compared to some spray cleaners, you’ll be rewarded with effortless cleaning as the cleaner diligently dissolves particles of stuck-on food and fats. Sit back, relax, and let the cleaner do the hard work for you. After a thorough soak, a simple rinse with minimal brushing is all it takes to restore your grates to their pristine condition.

The Carbona 2-in-1 Oven Rack & Grill Cleaner includes a convenient bag that allows you to effortlessly clean your grill grates or oven racks. Once cooled, place them inside the bag, pour in the cleaning solution, seal it up, and give it a shake to ensure even coverage. Let it sit for the day or overnight, and after approximately eight hours, the dirt and oils will have broken down, making rinsing them off a breeze.

What sets this grill cleaner apart is its versatility. The non-corrosive formula is gentle on surfaces and won’t scratch, making it safe for use on stainless steel and enamel grill grates, burner plates, and standard oven racks. It’s even effective at tackling stubborn gunk on pots and pans that refuse to scrub away. However, please note that it is not suitable for use on coated surfaces.

Pros:

• Powerful
• Comes with a bag and rubber gloves
• Works overnight (or throughout the day)
• Non-corrosive and won’t scratch

Cons:

• Not suitable for plastic, aluminum or coated surfaces
• Chemicals can irritate skin if used without gloves

Easy-Off Heavy Duty Oven & Grill Cleaner

Volume: 24 fl oz

Experience the unparalleled cleaning power of Easy-Off’s heavy-duty oven and grill cleaner, conveniently packaged in an easy-to-use aerosol spray can. This remarkable cleaner swiftly dissolves grease and stubborn baked-on food, saving you valuable time and sparing you from hours of tedious scraping and scouring. Its versatile formula is designed to tackle a range of surfaces, from BBQ grills to oven racks, broilers, and stainless steel appliances and utensils. Whether your grill is still warm or has cooled down, Easy-Off can be used to restore its pristine condition.

To unleash the cleaning prowess of this spray, simply hold the can upright and direct the nozzle towards the surface you wish to clean. Depress the button on the top of the nozzle, releasing a fine mist of the solution. Allow the solution to work its magic, leaving it on for 30 seconds for lighter clean-ups and up to 15 minutes for tougher, stubborn spots. Then, with a damp sponge, cloth, or paper towel, thoroughly wipe away the dissolved grime.

It’s important to note that this is a chemical cleaner, so proper precautions should be taken. Wear gloves to protect your skin, and be mindful of avoiding contact with your eyes. It’s recommended to use Easy-Off in a well-ventilated area to minimize exposure to fumes. While the aerosol can and chemicals may not be the most environmentally friendly option, the remarkable effectiveness of this cleaner in penetrating grease and carbon makes it an ideal choice for tackling even the toughest cleaning tasks.

Pros:

• Powerful
• Easy-to-use aerosol can
• Fast-acting
• Affordable

Cons:

• Not suitable for aluminum or chrome surfaces
• Not great for the environment

Therapy Stainless Steel Cleaner & Polish

Volume: 16 fl oz

Elevate the appearance of your grill and stainless steel appliances with Therapy Stainless Steel Cleaner & Polish, designed to banish streaks, smudges, and stains. While it may not be suitable for heavy-duty cleaning of grates caked with years of residue, this cleaner excels at tackling light grime and reviving stainless steel surfaces to their former luster.

Therapy Stainless Steel Cleaner & Polish boasts a plant-based formula, free from harsh chemicals that may pose risks when inhaled or in contact with the skin. With a blend of filtered water, coconut oil, and lavender essential oil for a delightful floral fragrance, it not only cleans and polishes surfaces but also imparts a protective layer.

Effortlessly rejuvenate any stainless steel surface, from your grill’s exterior to the kitchen sink and refrigerator. Simply spray the cleaner directly onto the soiled or streaked surface, allow it to sit for a minute or two, and then wipe it away with a clean cloth. For added convenience, the cleaner comes with a microfiber towel renowned for its gentle touch and ability to eliminate smudges and streaks.

Pros:

• All-natural ingredients
• Pleasant lavender scent
• Coconut oil cleans, polishes and protects
• Suitable for all stainless steel surfaces
• Comes with a microfiber cloth

Cons:

• Not great for tough caked-on residue and grease

Tips for Effective Grill Cleaning

Cleaning your grill can be a daunting task, but with the right techniques and tools, it can become much easier. Here are some tips to ensure effective grill cleaning:

• Preparing the grill for cleaning: Allow the grill to cool down before starting the cleaning process. Remove any remaining food particles or debris from the cooking grates.
• Choosing the right time to clean the grill: Regular cleaning after each use is ideal to prevent buildup. However, if you have neglected cleaning your grill for a while, it’s best to choose a time when you can dedicate sufficient time and effort to thoroughly clean it.
• Proper cleaning techniques and tools: Follow the instructions provided by the grill cleaner manufacturer for optimal results. Use appropriate brushes, scrapers, or wipes to remove grime from the grill surfaces. Apply the grill cleaner evenly and let it sit for the recommended time to allow the formula to work effectively.
• Regular maintenance to prevent buildup: To reduce the need for intensive cleaning, perform regular maintenance tasks such as brushing the grates before and after each use, and periodically deep clean your grill to prevent grease and residue buildup.

Safety Considerations When Using Grill Cleaners

While grill cleaners are designed to effectively clean grills, it’s important to prioritize safety during the cleaning process. Here are some safety considerations to keep in mind:

• Protective gear and ventilation: Wear protective gloves and eye goggles to shield yourself from any cleaning chemicals. Ensure the area where you are cleaning the grill is well-ventilated to prevent inhaling fumes.
• Handling and storing grill cleaners properly: Follow the instructions on the grill cleaner packaging regarding proper handling, storage, and disposal. Keep grill cleaners out of reach of children and pets.
• Safe disposal of cleaning residues: Dispose of used grill cleaner solution and residues in accordance with local regulations. Avoid pouring them directly into drains or the environment.

Parting Words

Maintaining a clean grill is essential for optimal grilling performance and longevity. With the variety of grill cleaners available, you can find the perfect solution to keep your grill looking its best. From all-purpose sprays to heavy-duty brushes, the 7 best grill cleaners mentioned in this article offer effective cleaning options for every grill enthusiast.

Remember to consider factors such as type, effectiveness, safety, and compatibility with your grill surfaces when selecting a grill cleaner. Follow the provided tips for effective cleaning and prioritize safety throughout the process. With proper grill maintenance and regular cleaning using high-quality grill cleaners, you can enjoy delicious and perfectly grilled meals for years to come.