How to Keep A Charcoal Grill Clean?

20 minutes read

Keeping a charcoal grill clean is essential to ensure its longevity and optimal performance. Here are some tips to help you keep your charcoal grill clean:

  1. Preheat the grill: Before cleaning, it's a good practice to preheat the grill for about 10-15 minutes. This will help loosen any stuck-on food particles, making them easier to remove.
  2. Brushing the grates: Once preheated, use a stiff wire brush to scrub the grates. This will remove any residue or charred food from the previous cookout. Brush in back and forth motions to get rid of as much debris as possible.
  3. Removing ash and unburnt charcoal: After each use, make sure to remove the ash and any unburnt charcoal from the bottom of the grill. Allow the grill to cool completely, then use a grill brush or a scoop to clear out the debris. Dispose of the ash and charcoal in a safe manner.
  4. Wiping the exterior: Use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe down the exterior of the grill. This will remove any grease, dirt, or other residue that may have accumulated. For tougher grease stains or baked-on residue, you can use a grill cleaner or warm soapy water.
  5. Cleaning the ash catcher: Charcoal grills often have an ash catcher located at the bottom. Remove this tray or drawer and empty any ash or debris. Wash it with warm soapy water to remove any remaining residue.
  6. Deep cleaning: Periodically, you'll need to give your grill a deep clean. This involves disassembling the grill and cleaning each component thoroughly. Scrub the grates, remove and clean the burner tubes (if applicable), and wipe down all other parts. Refer to the manufacturer's instructions for specific guidelines on deep cleaning.
  7. Covering the grill: When not in use, cover your charcoal grill with a weather-resistant cover. This will protect it from dust, dirt, and the elements. Additionally, it will make maintenance and cleaning easier as it prevents debris from accumulating on the grill.


Regular cleaning and maintenance will not only keep your charcoal grill looking clean and well-maintained, but it will also improve its overall performance and ensure a safer cooking experience.

Best Charcoal Grills of November 2024

1
Royal Gourmet CC1830SC Charcoal Grill Offset Smoker with Cover, 811 Square Inches, Black, Outdoor Camping

Rating is 5 out of 5

Royal Gourmet CC1830SC Charcoal Grill Offset Smoker with Cover, 811 Square Inches, Black, Outdoor Camping

  • 811 Square Inches: Includes 443 sq. in. porcelain-enameled steel wire cooking grates, 184 sq. in. chrome-plated warming rack and 184 sq. in. offset smoker.
  • Tasty Smoke Flavors: The offset smoker is firmly attached to grill to ensure good circulation of heat and smoke. Easy to open side door to add charcoal and remove ashes; air vent stokes fire instantly.
  • Adjustable Pan: 2-level height-adjustable charcoal pan creates better heat control and holds up to 4.4 lbs. of coal.
  • Temperature Monitor: Lid-mounted thermometer gauge helps check and monitor the cooking temperature and you can cook with great confidence.
  • Grill Cover Included: Made of heavy-duty fabric, the cover protects your grill from elements and withstands the harshest weather.
  • Ample Space: Front and side tables offer workspace for seasonings and grilling tools. The bottom shelf provides extra storage space and holds up to only 20 lb. accessories when they are evenly distributed.
2
Weber Original Kettle 22-Inch Charcoal Grill

Rating is 4.9 out of 5

Weber Original Kettle 22-Inch Charcoal Grill

  • Stay true to the modern version of the kettle that started it all—the Original Kettle, invented by Weber’s founder, and loved around the world. Its ultra-durable, porcelain-enameled lid and bowl retain heat, while the damperseasily adjust for precise temperature control. With a One-Touch cleaning system for easy cleanup after a long day of grilling, the Original Kettle will always be the grill built for everyone
  • Holds up to 13 burgers made with a Weber burger press
  • One-Touch cleaning system provides hassle-free ash cleanup.Removable, aluminum ash catcher
  • Porcelain-enameled lid and bowl Retain heat, and won’t rust or peel
  • Use the lid hook to avoid placing the lid on the ground while grilling
  • Dampers allow you to easily control the temperature inside your grill
  • 3D interactive assembly instructions for this product are available through the free BILT app.
3
Char-Griller E1515 Patio Pro Charcoal Grill, Black

Rating is 4.8 out of 5

Char-Griller E1515 Patio Pro Charcoal Grill, Black

  • CHARCOAL GRILL - Barrel style BBQ Grill with heavy duty steel construction and powder coating finish, the perfect grilling solution for small decks, backyards, and patios
  • LARGE COOKING AREA - 250 square inch total cooking area delivers exceptional taste and charcoal flavor
  • BARBECUE GRILL FEATURES - Thick Cast Iron Cooking Grates, Bottom Storage Rack, Heavy-Duty Steel Construction, Side Air Vent, Stay Cool Wood Handle, Wheels for Easy Mobility, and Side Shelf Workstation with Barbecue Tool Storage Hooks
  • EASY TO ASSEMBLE & CLEAN - Assembles easily and quickly cleans up after use with the Easy Dump Ash Pan
4
Royal Gourmet CC1830 30 Barrel Charcoal Grill with Side Table, 627 Square Inches, Outdoor Backyard, Patio and Parties, Black

Rating is 4.7 out of 5

Royal Gourmet CC1830 30 Barrel Charcoal Grill with Side Table, 627 Square Inches, Outdoor Backyard, Patio and Parties, Black

  • 627 Smoking Space: 443 sq. in. porcelain-enameled steel wire cooking grates with 184 sq. in. chrome-plated steel wire warming rack offer enough space to cook.
  • Heat Control: Close the side air vent completely that cuts off the oxygen flow to help extinguish coals and adjust the smoke stack for extra heat control.
  • Adjustable Fire Grates: 2-level height-adjustable fire pan ensures more controlled cooking and holds up to 6 lbs. of coal.
  • Temperature Monitor: Lid-mounted thermometer gauge helps check heat fluctuations for confident grilling.
5
Royal Gourmet CD1824M 24-Inch Charcoal Grill, BBQ Smoker with Handle and Folding Table, Perfect for Outdoor Patio, Garden and Backyard Grilling, Black, Medium

Rating is 4.6 out of 5

Royal Gourmet CD1824M 24-Inch Charcoal Grill, BBQ Smoker with Handle and Folding Table, Perfect for Outdoor Patio, Garden and Backyard Grilling, Black, Medium

  • Spacious Cooking Area: 384 sq. in. porcelain-enameled steel wire cooking grates and 106 sq. in. stainless steel warming rack provide a total of 490 sq. in. cooking space respectively, serving up to 10 people.
  • Height-adjustable Charcoal Pan: The crank handle controls the distance between the charcoal pan and food for fine-tuning temperature and regulating heat. The charcoal pan holds charcoal up to 4.5 lb. for each use.
  • Convenient Access Door: Front charcoal access door with heat-resistant spring handle provides more convenience for adding charcoal and controls heat loss to a minimum during cooking.
  • Built-in Thermometer Gauge: The lid-mounted thermometer indicates the temperature changes precisely in real-time.
  • Air Flow: Two adjustable air vents control air circulation to enhance sufficient burning of charcoal for efficient smoking.
6
Royal Gourmet Barrel Charcoal Grill with Front Storage Basket, Backyard BBQ Party and Outdoor Cooking Grill on Clearance Prime with Wheels, Black, CC1830T

Rating is 4.5 out of 5

Royal Gourmet Barrel Charcoal Grill with Front Storage Basket, Backyard BBQ Party and Outdoor Cooking Grill on Clearance Prime with Wheels, Black, CC1830T

  • Additional Cooking Options: The charcoal grill can meet your versatile cooking demands by slow smoking or grilling ribs, veggies, lobster tails, or other preferred ingredients.
  • Ample Cooking Area: To accommodate 23 hamburgers at once, there are 443 sq. in. porcelain-enameled steel wire cooking grates and a 184 sq. in. chrome-plated steel wire warming rack as a secondary heating area.
  • Impressive Storage: Store seasonings in the front basket, hang some cooking utensils on the integrated hooks, place plates and other food on the side tables, and meanwhile put your charcoal on the bottom storage shelf.
  • Adjustable Charcoal Pan: Easily control the distance between food and fire with the lifting handle to regulate cooking temperature, which also saves fuel in the meantime.
  • Heat Control: Customize your desired temperature by twisting the air damper and smoke stack, thus getting the best cooking results.
7
Weber Original Kettle Premium Charcoal Grill, 22-Inch, Black

Rating is 4.4 out of 5

Weber Original Kettle Premium Charcoal Grill, 22-Inch, Black

  • Holds up to 13 burgers made with a Weber burger press; Built-in lid thermometer. Rust-resistant aluminum dampers
  • One-Touch cleaning system with high-capacity ash catcher provides hassle-free ash cleanup
  • Porcelain-enameled lid and bowl retain heat, and won’t rust or peel
  • Use the lid hook to avoid placing the lid on the ground while grilling
  • Cooking grate is hinged for easily adding charcoal while grilling
8
Royal Gourmet CC1830S 30" BBQ Charcoal Grill and Offset Smoker | 811 Square Inch cooking surface, Outdoor for Camping | Black

Rating is 4.3 out of 5

Royal Gourmet CC1830S 30" BBQ Charcoal Grill and Offset Smoker | 811 Square Inch cooking surface, Outdoor for Camping | Black

  • 811 Square Inches: Includes 443 sq. in. porcelain-enameled steel wire cooking grates, 184 sq. in. chrome-plated warming rack and 184 sq. in. offset smoker.
  • Tasty Smoke Flavors: The offset smoker is firmly attached to grill to ensure good circulation of heat and smoke. Easy to open side door to add charcoal and remove ashes; air vent stokes fire instantly.
  • Adjustable Pan: 2-level height-adjustable charcoal pan creates better heat control and holds up to 4.4 lbs. of coal.
  • Temperature Monitor: Lid-mounted thermometer gauge helps check and monitor the cooking temperature and you can cook with great confidence.
9
Dyna-Glo DGN576SNC-D X-Large Premium Dual Chamber Charcoal Grill

Rating is 4.2 out of 5

Dyna-Glo DGN576SNC-D X-Large Premium Dual Chamber Charcoal Grill

  • Removable firebox divider for single or dual cooking zone
  • Primary cooking area is 576 square inches
  • Secondary cooking area is 240 square inches
10
Royal Gourmet CC1830W 30 Barrel Charcoal Grill with Side Table, 627 Square Inches, Outdoor Backyard, Patio and Parties, Black

Rating is 4.1 out of 5

Royal Gourmet CC1830W 30 Barrel Charcoal Grill with Side Table, 627 Square Inches, Outdoor Backyard, Patio and Parties, Black

  • Spacious Cooking Area: Includes 443 sq. in. porcelain-enameled steel wire cooking grates, 184 sq. in. chrome-plated steel wire warming rack, and 184 sq. in. offset smoker.
  • Offset Smoker: Use the side fire box to get tasty and authentic smoky flavors in the main chamber. Smoking, grilling, or searing all will be your choices.
  • Adjustable Charcoal Pan: 2-level height-adjustable charcoal pan ensures better heat control and holds up to 4.4 lb. of coal.


Can you use vinegar for cleaning a charcoal grill?

Yes, vinegar can be used for cleaning a charcoal grill. Here's a simple method to clean a charcoal grill using vinegar:

  1. Ensure the grill is completely cooled down and remove any leftover charcoal or ash from the grill grate and ash catcher.
  2. In a spray bottle, mix equal parts white vinegar and water.
  3. Spray the vinegar-water mixture onto the grill grates, focusing on any greasy or dirty areas.
  4. Let the vinegar solution sit on the grates for about 10-15 minutes to help break down any grease or grime.
  5. Use a grill brush or scrubber to scrub the grates, removing any residue.
  6. Rinse the grates with warm water to remove any remaining vinegar solution. Make sure to rinse thoroughly to avoid leaving a vinegar taste or smell on your grill.
  7. Dry the cleaned grill grates thoroughly before using the grill again.


Remember to always follow the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning and maintaining your specific charcoal grill model.


How do you clean the charcoal chimney starter?

Cleaning a charcoal chimney starter is a relatively simple process. Here's a step-by-step guide:

  1. Let it cool down: Wait until the chimney starter is completely cool before attempting to clean it. This will prevent any risk of burns.
  2. Empty the ashes: Carefully turn the chimney upside down over a designated area, such as a trash can or compost bin, and shake it gently to remove any loose ashes. Dispose of the ashes appropriately.
  3. Brush off residue: Use a wire brush or a stiff-bristled scrub brush to remove any stuck-on residue on the chimney starter. Scrub the inner and outer surfaces thoroughly to ensure it is clean.
  4. Wash with dish soap: Fill a sink or basin with warm water and add a small amount of dish soap. Submerge the chimney starter in the soapy water and scrub it using a sponge or brush until it is thoroughly cleaned.
  5. Rinse thoroughly: Rinse the chimney starter with clean water, ensuring there is no soap residue left behind. You can use a hose or pour water over it until all the soap is washed away.
  6. Dry completely: After rinsing, allow the chimney starter to air dry completely before storing it. Placing it in direct sunlight or using a towel to dry it can expedite the drying process.


By following these steps, you can keep your charcoal chimney starter clean and ready for future use.


How do you clean the vents and dampers of a charcoal grill?

To clean the vents and dampers of a charcoal grill, follow these steps:

  1. Let the grill cool down: Allow the grill to cool completely before attempting to clean the vents and dampers. This usually takes about 1-2 hours.
  2. Remove ash and debris: Open up the grill and remove any leftover charcoal, ash, and debris from the grill grates and the bottom tray. Use a brush or scraper to dislodge any stubborn stuck-on residue.
  3. Locate the vents and dampers: Look for the vents and dampers located on the lid and the bottom of the grill. These are often adjustable to control airflow during grilling.
  4. Brush away loose debris: Use a small grill brush or a soft-bristle brush to gently brush away any loose debris or ash gathered around the vents and dampers. Be careful not to scrub or scrape too hard, as this can damage the grill's finish.
  5. Remove rust or buildup: If you notice any rust or stubborn buildup on the vents or dampers, mix a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water. Dip a brush or cloth into the solution and gently scrub the affected areas. Rinse with water afterward.
  6. Lubricate movable parts: If the vents or dampers are not moving smoothly, apply a small amount of food-grade cooking oil or cooking spray to the hinges or joints. This will help lubricate and prevent sticking.
  7. Check for proper function: After cleaning, close and open the vents and dampers to ensure they are working properly. They should move easily without any resistance.


Regularly cleaning the vents and dampers of a charcoal grill will keep them free from debris and ensure efficient airflow, allowing for better temperature control during cooking.


How do you remove rust from a charcoal grill?

To remove rust from a charcoal grill, follow these steps:

  1. Safety first: Make sure the grill is completely cool before starting the process.
  2. Remove the grates and any other detachable parts: Take out the cooking grates, warming rack, and any other components that are removable.
  3. Scrub with a brush: Use a wire brush or grill brush to vigorously scrub the rusted areas. This will help remove loose rust, debris, and flaking paint. Make sure to apply firm pressure and work on all surfaces including the interior and the exterior of the grill.
  4. Apply a rust remover: If there are still rust stains remaining, you can use a commercial rust remover product. Follow the manufacturer's instructions on how to apply it. Generally, you would spray or apply the rust remover on the affected areas and let it sit for a specified period. Then, scrub the surface again with a brush to remove the loosened rust.
  5. Rinse thoroughly: After scrubbing, rinse the grill thoroughly with clean water. If possible, use a hose or a pressure washer to remove any remaining rust particles or cleaning solution.
  6. Dry completely: Once rinsed, let the grill dry completely. Wipe off any excess moisture using a clean cloth or allow it to air dry.
  7. Apply a high-heat paint or cooking oil: To prevent future rusting, you can either apply a high-heat paint specifically designed for grills, following the manufacturer's instructions, or coat the surfaces with a thin layer of cooking oil. The oil acts as a protective barrier against moisture and rust.
  8. Reassemble and season the grill: Put back the grates and any other removable parts. Preheat the grill and allow it to heat up for 15-20 minutes to burn off any remaining oils or paint residue. Season the grill grates with cooking oil to create a non-stick surface.


Regular cleaning and maintenance of your charcoal grill can help prevent rust from developing. Store it in a dry place, use a grill cover when not in use, and clean it after each use to extend the lifespan of your grill.

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