(Image credit: Traeger)
You lift the grill lid for the first time since last summer and immediately regret looking. Rust covers the grates. Grease has hardened into a sticky film. Remnants of last year's burgers are baked onto surfaces.Before splurging on a replacement, try cleaning with household items that cost little. Liam Glennon, Head of Buying at Vonhaus explains: "A lot of people assume they need to replace their grill as soon as they see rust or heavy build-up, but that's not always the case...a proper clean can often bring it back to a good standard."Here's how to assess whether your grill is salvageable and clean it using cheap kitchen staples.
1. Heat the grill before cleaning
Trying to scrub cold, hardened grease is why most people give up on grill cleaning halfway through. Heat softens buildup and makes it release from metal surfaces with minimal scrubbing.Turn on your grill and let it heat for 10-15 minutes before cleaning. "A bit of heat goes a long way. Warming the grill before cleaning softens any residue, so you're not having to scrub as aggressively to get the same result," notes Glennon. "Warm grates can be easier to clean but only work on a grill that is off and cool enough to handle safely. Use long-handled tools or heat-resistant gloves."This step alone cuts cleaning time in half compared to starting with a cold grill.
