Grilling season is here, which means backyard cookouts, dinners outside, and plenty of time gathered around the grill. And, over at Drummond Ranch, Ladd Drummond typically takes the lead on grilling duties, which probably also means he’s giving those grill grates a good scrub. Right, Ladd? 😬
But what about the fish basket shoved in the back of the cabinet? Or the skewers still coated in last summer’s sticky barbecue sauce? Even grilling tongs, burger presses, and veggie toppers can hold onto grease long after cookout season ends.
Well, Memorial Day weekend is the perfect excuse to finally give those overlooked BBQ tools a deep clean before the official kickoff to summer entertaining. Most of them clean up fast with a simple soak, a good scrub, and a few smart tools that make the job much easier.
Stainless Steel Skewers
Reusable skewers are one of those grilling tools that somehow never make it into the regular cleanup routine. Kebabs is a summer staple, but marinades and burnt-on sauce can cling to the metal, especially around handles and edges. Soaking them in warm water before scrubbing makes cleanup much easier.
A baking soda and water paste can also help loosen baked-on residue without scratching the surface. To help prevent spotting or rust marks, dry skewers thoroughly before storing them away for the season.
Grill Baskets and Grill Toppers
Grill baskets and grill toppers work hard to help you cook up all those delicious summer veggies, which means oil and seasoning can quickly carbonize into the mesh. Cleaning them while they’re still slightly warm usually works best.
Many newer grill baskets feature removable handles, which makes soaking and storing much easier. Some are even dishwasher-safe!
Burger Presses and Cast-Iron Grill Tools
Cast-iron burger presses and grill plates need a little extra care to stay in good shape. Skip long soaks and instead wipe them clean while still warm. A stiff brush or scraper tool can help remove stuck-on bits, while a light coating of oil before storage helps protect the surface between uses.
Fish Baskets
Ree loves salmon, especially when grilled, but it can be tricky to cook. Fish baskets are a great alternative to cooking it right on the grates, but the narrow wires and hinged edges tend to trap grease fast. Start by soaking the basket in hot, soapy water for about 15 minutes to loosen stubborn residue. Then use a small scrub brush to clean around hinges and corners where buildup likes to hide.
While you’re in cleaning mode, don’t forget the drawer full of those smaller grilling accessories! Corn holders, sticky basting brushes, grill mats, and even cedar planks can all benefit from a quick seasonal cleanup before your first cookout.
Once you’ve cleaned up all your gear, there are so many BBQ recipes to try over the summer. Why not start over the long Memorial Day weekend?
