Cleaning Options for Stainless Steel Grill Racks
Cleaning stainless steel grill racks in preparation for your summertime barbecues does not have to be a chore. If you have a little cleaning know-how, this task can be quite simple.
Methods of Cleaning Stainless Steel Grill Racks
Keeping your stainless steel barbecue grill racks in good shape requires cleaning them soon after each use. Letting the "burnt on food" debris sit on the rack will only make cleaning more difficult and possibly cause dulling of the grill finish. Using a wire brush or steel wool may cause pits and scratches that will later fill up with burnt on debris and make the grill more difficult to clean. Never use an abrasive cleaner when cleaning stainless steel grill racks. As your grill gets used more often you will find that your stainless steel grates become discolored. While they may never regain their shiny appearance, you can prevent pits, scrapes and rust from corroding them if you maintain them properly.
Vinegar
Vinegar can dissolve burnt on food while gently cleaning your grill racks. To clean with vinegar, let your barbecue grill cool off. Dilute two cups vinegar with two cups water in a spray bottle. Spray your grill with the water-vinegar solution, saturating top and bottom. Let the solution soak into the debris on the racks for approximately ten minutes. Use aluminum foil folded in such a manner to a thickness that will not tear. Scrub the grill racks with the foil. You may want to spray the foil with more vinegar solution before you scrub the grill. Foil can be effective in removing debris without scratching the surface.
Burning
Turn up the flames and burn off any debris on your grill racks. While the grill is still hot use a soft brush to scrub off any remaining debris. Follow up, when the racks have cooled, with an old rag soaked in water or the vinegar solution.
Another method to burn off stuck on food, is covering the rack with foil. Shut the lid to your barbecue and turn the flames up. Leave it on for about 15 to 20 minutes, supervising the grill to ensure safety. Turn off the flame and use a soft bristle brush to remove burnt debris.
Soaking
Cleaning stainless steel grill racks may require an overnight soaking. Place your grill racks into a large sturdy garbage bag. In a bowl mix two cups vinegar with one cup baking soda. Pour the solution into the garbage sack and tie it securely shut. Lay the garbage sack with the racks in it, on the ground. The vinegar and baking soda will cover the racks. Let it soak overnight. The next day, take out the racks and hose them down or use a soft cloth to wipe off the debris.
High Pressure Hose
Remove your grill grates from your barbecue and place them against a wall. Use a high pressure hose end sprayer and spray off the burnt on debris. Dry your grill grates off thoroughly with a towel or place it back on the grill and turn on the flames to dry it off before storing.
Preventative Cleaning Techniques
Most barbecues are used outdoors and therefore left outside all year long. Your barbecue, exposed to the elements, may oxidize and get rusty. Cover your barbecue with a special cover made specifically for its shape to keep your grill dry. To further protect your stainless steel grills, brush them lightly with vegetable oil after each cleaning and before you put away the barbecue in the winter.
Enjoy Your Grill For Years To Come
Cleaning your stainless steel grill racks can preserve your grill for many years of healthy and enjoyable family parties. Read the owners manner of your grill for specific care instructions.
