When you bring out the BBQ grills before the next summer for regular use throughout the season, you would want them to be very clean. Why? Because a clean BBQ grill functions and performs well.
The maintenance and cleanup of a Weber grill are not as chaotic as it seems. In fact, regardless of the model of Weber grill you own, Weber grills have very easy and forgiving maintenance. A straightforward cleaning plan can keep your beloved Weber grill in a perfect state for years at a very low cost.
So, let’s learn how to clean a Weber grill in the easiest way.
Why You Should Clean a Weber Grill
A clean grill will ensure it is efficient and safe to use. You wouldn’t want any unhealthy and potentially dangerous buildups of grease or scary flare-ups in your grill, would you? If the grill you own is a gas grill, you would want the gas to be able to easily flow through the ports.
Furthermore, you also would not want the food you are cooking to have any unpleasant smell. Cleaning and maintaining a grill will ensure the above three scenarios, along with preventing many other potential disadvantageous situations. A properly cleaned grill will ensure you get the best barbecue every time.
Tools You Will Need
Make sure you have the following stuff on hand before you get started:
- Sponge
- Paper towels or microfiber towels
- Mild and warm dish soap
- Nylon terry cloth
- Stainless steel cleaner or porcelain cleaner
- Steel wool pad
- Cleaning gloves
- Stainless steel grill brush
- Putty knife
For safety, if your grill is a gas grill, ensure the gas is turned off and detach the gas tank before you start cleaning. Before you disconnect the gas supply, double-check, and ensure that the gas is turned off. This will prevent gas-related fire accidents.
The Lid and Exterior Surface
Below we will walk you through the step-by-step guide for cleaning the lid and exterior surface.
- Step 1: Clean the Exterior Surface
To clean the lid, regardless of whether it’s made of stainless steel or porcelain coating, start working with a cooled-off grill. Wipe the exterior with a towel and a cleanser, and then buff for shine if needed.
If there are grease drippings on the outside, use mild soapy water to clean it, then wipe the surface with a towel dipped in clean water to remove the soap and dry completely. For stainless steel lids, use cleaners specifically made for stainless steel and microfiber towel. Avoid paper towels because they can scratch the steel.
- Step 2: Buff with the Grain of the Steel
After cleaning, you need to buff with the grain of the steel for shine. For porcelain-coated lids, use cleansers specifically made for them and paper towels. Avoid using lemon-based cleaners, oven cleaners, or abrasives because they can scratch the steel surface or remove the paint finish.
Weber has its own cleaner called Weber’s grill cleaner. It is worth purchasing instead of generic cleaners because the cleaner does not only dissolve grime and fat quickly but also adds a protective layer on the surface for easy clean ups in the future.
- Step 3: Remove the Grease Buildup
The inside of the lid may get flakes caused by smoke and grease buildup. Remove the residue using a grill brush and gently wipe the inner lid with warm soapy water with a nylon terry cloth or sponge; rinse thoroughly afterward.
Weber Grill Side Tables
Follow the same method explained above to clean the side tables. If the side tables are made of stainless steel, use a stainless steel cleaner and a microfiber towel. For thermoset plastic side tables, use a cloth and mild soapy water.
When using a cleaner, have patience and allow the cleaner to sit for 5 to 10 minutes to do its job before you go in with a brush or something else to scrub.
Weber Cast Iron Grill Grates
Cast iron grill grates require special care. Avoid using hard steel brushes on these. To keep the grates from rusting, grease them thoroughly with neutral cooking oil on both sides. Let the grates cool down slightly before cleaning. When they are still warm, brush the grates down with a grill brush to remove food residue or particles.
Then remove the grates from the grill and clean thoroughly with soapy water and a soft sponge or brush; then rinse and dry before putting them back in. It is important to make sure that the sponge or brush is soft and would not scratch the cast iron.
Weber Porcelain Grill Grates
The most effective tool for porcelain grates is a round brush; they can get in the nooks and crannies of the grates. Run the grill brush at an angle across the grates to remove food chunks and residue; then flip the grate and repeat. For stubborn stains, dip the grill brush in water. That makes it easier to remove them.
Use brushes made of brass bristles because they are softer, and therefore, less harsh on the porcelain.
Weber Gas Grill Burner and Burner Tubes
If the grill you own uses gas, it is important to ensure there are not any buildup inside the burner tubes that may obstruct gas flow. Brush the burner tubes in an up and down motion using a stainless-steel wire brush to clean them. Do not use lengthwise motions when brushing.
It is also important to use separate brushes to clean the burner tube and the grill grates; because if you use the same one for both, there are chances of getting food residue and grease inside the portholes.
For a more thorough semi-yearly or yearly cleaning of the burner, take them out of the unit. Then use a needle or paperclip to remove the buildup from the portholes. Clean the portholes with a towel or cloth and put them back in place. Replace the burners if you find any crack or deterioration on the ports.
Weber Grill Cook Box
Ensure that the grill is completely cooled, then take off the grates and Flavorizer bars (if present). Use a stainless-steel grill brush to remove all the debris and grease collected inside the cook box. The debris should come off easily, but if there are any stubborn stuck bits, use a putty knife or a scouring pad to remove them.
Take the collection tray out and clean out the grease and debris collected in it. Then wash the tray with soap water, rinse, and dry before putting it back in. Remember to examine the catch pan every month and replace it if needed.
Heat Distribution System and Flavorizer Bars
Generally, Weber grills come with Flavorizer bars in order to prevent accidental flare-ups. These may get gunky with grease build up as well. To clean them, pull them out and scrape off the gunk using a putty knife. Alternatively, you can also use a grill brush to clean.
For a more thorough clean up, dunk them in warm soapy water and then use a soft sponge to clean. Rinse well and wipe the bars with a towel or rag to dry, then reinsert them in place.
Conclusion
There you have it, the most basic guideline to clean any kind of Weber grill. Aside from regular cleaning, you should also do a deep clean once or twice every year. Now you are well equipped to get back in the season of grilling and barbecues!