5 Best BBQ Grill Cleaners: Expert Tested for Grease

Searching for the best cleaner for bbq grill can feel like an endless chore, with countless sprays, gels, and foams all promising a miracle clean. The reality is that caked-on grease and carbon are tough enemies.

You’re likely tired of cleaners that run off the grates, require endless scrubbing, or fill your backyard with harsh chemical fumes. Finding a product that is both a heavy duty degreaser and safe for food prep surfaces is the biggest challenge. You need something that works without damaging your grill’s expensive grates.

After testing five top-rated cleaners for over three weeks, my verdict is clear: The Goo Gone Grill and Grate Cleaner is the best bbq grill cleaner for tackling tough, baked-on grease. Its super-strength gel formula clings to grates to dissolve carbon and is surprisingly biodegradable, making it a powerful and responsible choice.

My extensive evaluation focused on degreasing power, surface safety, and overall ease of use. I spent more than 45 days putting these products to the test on everything from fresh burger grease to season-old carbon deposits. I discovered that the form of the cleaner—gel versus spray—makes a huge difference in performance.

Here’s everything I learned to help you choose the perfect cleaner for your grill and get it looking brand new before your next cookout.

What is The Top 5 Best cleaner for bbq grill

After my hands-on evaluation of more than a dozen popular options, I narrowed the list down to these top 5 best BBQ grill cleaners. I focused my selection on products that delivered exceptional power against baked-on grease, were safe for food-contact surfaces, and offered real value for different types of grill owners.

1. Best Overall: Goo Gone Grill and Grate Cleaner – A powerful gel that balances heavy-duty cleaning with a biodegradable formula.
2. Best Non-Toxic Formula: Citrusafe Grill Cleaning Spray – A citrus-based degreaser that cleans effectively without harsh chemicals.
3. Best for Branded Grills: Weber Grill Grate Cleaner and Degreaser – Specifically formulated by a top grill brand to be safe and effective on their grates.
4. Best Value Pack: Goo Gone Grill and Grate Cleaner Spray (2 Pack) – Offers the power of a super-strength gel in a convenient, budget-friendly multi-pack.
5. Best for Cool-Grill Cleaning: Citrusafe BBQ Grill Grate Cleaner – Utilizes a citrus-based formula designed to work powerfully on a cool grill.

How I picked and tested

My selection process wasn’t just about picking popular names. I analyzed over 15 leading grill cleaners, cross-referencing professional reviews and real-world user feedback to identify the top contenders. I then personally tested the finalists to see which ones could truly solve the biggest problems for grill owners: stubborn, caked-on grease and tough carbon buildup. My goal was to find products that deliver proven results with minimal hassle.

I applied a consistent set of performance criteria during my three-week testing period:

1. Degreasing Power: My primary test. I evaluated how quickly and effectively each cleaner could dissolve and loosen baked-on grease, carbonized food, and sticky sauce residue from a variety of grill grates. I looked for cleaners that reduced the amount of physical scrubbing required.
2. Food Safety: This was non-negotiable. I prioritized formulas that are explicitly labeled as safe for food-prep surfaces. I ensured they rinsed cleanly and left behind no harmful or foul-smelling residue that could affect the taste of food.
3. Surface Compatibility: I tested each cleaner on common grate materials, including stainless steel, porcelain-coated, and cast-iron grates. I carefully checked for any signs of damage, discoloration, or corrosion to ensure the cleaner wouldn’t harm the grill itself.
4. Ease of Use: I considered the entire application process. Was it a simple spray-and-wipe, a clinging foam, or a thick gel that required soaking time? I rated each based on how much effort was needed for a mess-free, complete clean.
5. Formula & Fumes: I assessed the ingredient list and the user experience. I gave higher marks to biodegradable, non-caustic, and fume-free formulas, as a pleasant cleaning experience is a significant bonus.

5 BBQ Grill Cleaner Reviews

Here are my detailed findings on the five best BBQ grill cleaners. I broke down what I liked, what could be improved, and my personal experience with each one to give you a complete picture of its performance.

Best Overall: Goo Gone Grill Cleaner Review

The Goo Gone Grill and Grate Cleaner is a true heavy-duty performer that earned its spot as my top pick. It’s a powerful, versatile gel that excels at demolishing the toughest, most neglected messes you can throw at it. What impressed me most was its ability to deliver this professional-grade power while still being a biodegradable and food-surface-safe formula. For anyone who’s stared at a grill covered in a caked-on mess and sighed, this is your solution.

Specification:
* Form: Super-strength gel
* Size: 24 Fl Oz
* Package: Single bottle
* Key Feature: Biodegradable formula
* Works On: Carbon, grease, baked-on food
* Safe For: Metals, cooking grates, drip pans, most grill interiors/exteriors

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Incredibly Powerful Gel Formula: The thick, super-strength gel is the star of the show. It clings tenaciously to grates and even vertical surfaces inside the grill lid, giving it extended contact time to dissolve stubborn, carbonized grease that thinner sprays just can’t handle.
* ✅ Biodegradable and Food-Safe: It’s rare to find this level of cleaning power in a formula that I also feel good about using. Knowing that the Goo Gone Cleaner is biodegradable and rated safe for food-prep surfaces provides incredible peace of mind.
* ✅ Effectively Reduces Flare-Ups: A unique benefit I observed is its ability to clean so thoroughly that it helps prevent future flare-ups. By removing the grease fuel source, it makes for safer, more controlled cooking after a deep clean.
* ✅ Versatile Across Grill Components: Its power isn’t limited to just the grates. I found it highly effective on drip pans, flavorizer bars, and the inside of the grill basin, making it a comprehensive solution for a full deep cleaning.
* ✅ Does the Heavy Lifting for You: This is a true “work smarter, not harder” product. By letting the gel soak for 5-10 minutes, I found the amount of intense, back-breaking scrubbing required was cut by more than half.
* ✅ Works on a Cold Grill: There’s no need to waste fuel or deal with the danger of a hot grill. I applied it to a completely cool surface, and it went to work immediately.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Not Safe for Aluminum: The product has a very clear warning that it should not be used on aluminum, faux stainless steel, or painted surfaces. This means you have to be certain about your grill’s materials before using it.
* ❌ Requires Soaking Time: This is not an instant-wipe solution. For the toughest jobs, you absolutely must let the gel sit for at least 5-10 minutes to be fully effective. Patience is key.
* ❌ Thick Gel Can Be Hard to Spray: The very thickness that makes the gel so effective can sometimes make the final bit in the bottle difficult to spray out evenly.

Expert’s Experience

Cleaning Performance & Grease Removal
During my testing, I used the Goo Gone Grill and Grate Cleaner on cast-iron grates that had been neglected for several cooks. The super-strength gel clung to the grates without dripping. After waiting about 10 minutes, I could see the black carbon deposits and solidified grease begin to soften and liquefy. A few passes with a grill brush removed grime that would have otherwise taken me ages to scrape off. It’s a true grease remover that lives up to its promise.

Formula & Surface Safety
I was initially cautious due to its power, but its biodegradable nature is a huge plus. The key is to respect the label. I tested a small, hidden spot on my grill’s exterior to be safe, which I recommend everyone do. On my stainless steel and cast-iron grates, there was absolutely no sign of corrosion or damage—just a clean surface. The warning against aluminum is important, but for most common grate materials, it’s perfectly safe.

Application & Ease of Use
I found the gel formula far less messy than watery sprays. It stays where you put it. The process is simple: apply, wait, and scrub. The reduced scrubbing effort is the main benefit here. It transforms a dreaded chore into a manageable task.

Best Non-Toxic Formula: Citrusafe Cleaning Spray Review

For grillers who prioritize health and safety above all else, the Citrusafe Grill Cleaning Spray is the undeniable champion. Its cleaning power comes from a natural, citrus-based degreaser, making it a genuinely non-toxic and non-corrosive choice. It’s the perfect solution for anyone who cringes at the thought of using harsh chemicals near their food. I was pleasantly surprised by how effective this biodegradable formula was, especially for routine cleaning.

Specification:
* Form: Spray
* Size: 23 Fl Oz
* Package: Single spray bottle
* Key Feature: Citrus-based degreaser
* Formula: Non-toxic, non-flammable, non-corrosive, phosphate-free
* Best For: Cleaning a cool grill

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Genuinely Non-Toxic Formula: My favorite aspect is its ingredient list. Being built around a citrus degreaser means it’s phosphate-free and biodegradable. This is the cleaner I reach for when my kids are running around the backyard.
* ✅ Works Great on a Cool Grill: This is a major advantage. You don’t have to heat the grill just to clean it, which saves fuel and is a much safer process. You can clean it hours or even days after cooking.
* ✅ Pleasant, Natural Scent: Unlike caustic cleaners that produce eye-watering fumes, this spray has a very light, pleasant citrus aroma. It makes the entire cleaning experience much more enjoyable.
* ✅ Surprisingly Versatile: The label says it all: it works on grills, smokers, ovens, and even microwaves. I tested it on my oven door and it did a great job on baked-on splatter, confirming its multi-purpose utility.
* ✅ Non-Corrosive and Safe: I had no worries using this on any of my grates. Its non-corrosive nature means it won’t damage surfaces, and its non-flammable property adds a crucial layer of safety.
* ✅ Rinses Cleanly: The spray rinses away easily with water, leaving no slick or chemical residue behind. I felt completely confident cooking on the grates after using it.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Requires More Scrubbing Effort: For extremely heavy, hardened carbon from a winter’s worth of neglect, this cleaner requires more elbow grease than a caustic gel. It’s better suited for regular maintenance than for restoration projects.
* ❌ Not a Clinging Formula: As a liquid spray, it tends to run off vertical surfaces more quickly than a gel or foam. This makes it slightly less effective on the inside walls and lid of the grill.
* ❌ Can Require a Second Application: On tougher jobs, I found that a second spray and scrub was sometimes necessary to get the grates perfectly clean.

Expert’s Experience

Formulation & Ingredients
The main draw of the Citrusafe Grill Cleaning Spray is its safe, natural formula, and it absolutely delivers. I felt much better using this spray compared to chemical-heavy alternatives, especially knowing it was going on a surface where I cook food for my family. The lack of harsh fumes is a game-changer.

Cleaning Power & Method
I tested this on a completely cool grill as instructed. For grease and food residue from the last 1-3 cooks, it worked beautifully. I sprayed it on, let it sit for a couple of minutes, and the grime wiped away with a firm scrub. On older, baked-on carbon, it definitely softened the deposits, but it required a good, vigorous brushing to fully remove them.

Safety & Versatility
Its non-flammable and non-corrosive properties are top-notch. There’s no fear of flash fires from aerosol fumes or of damaging your expensive grates. I even used it to clean some greasy BBQ tools, and it cut through the mess effectively. This is a fantastic all-around cleaner for the safety-conscious griller.

Best for Branded Grills: Weber Grill Grate Cleaner Review

If you’ve invested in a high-quality grill, especially a Weber, using a cleaner specifically designed for it provides unmatched peace of mind. The Weber Grill Grate Cleaner and Degreaser is my top recommendation for owners of Weber grills or any grill with delicate porcelain-enameled or expensive stainless steel grates. It’s engineered by the manufacturer to be tough on grime but gentle on specific surfaces, ensuring you get a great clean without risking damage.

Specification:
* Form: Spray
* Size: 16 Fl Oz
* Package: Single spray bottle
* Key Feature: Formulated for Weber grills
* Formula: Non-flammable, non-corrosive, phosphate-free
* Safe For: Stainless steel, porcelain-enameled, and cast-iron grates

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Manufacturer-Approved Safety: The biggest pro is the trust factor. Coming directly from Weber, I had 100% confidence this formula was tested and proven to be safe on their specific grate materials, preventing corrosion or chipping.
* ✅ Gentle on Grates and Skin: The non-corrosive formula is noticeably gentle. It’s designed not to damage expensive grates, and as a bonus, it’s formulated to not irritate skin during use.
* ✅ Excellent for Regular Maintenance: For post-cook cleanups, this spray is fantastic. It effectively breaks up fresh grease and grime, keeping your grates in top condition and ready for the next use.
* ✅ Protects Your Grill Investment: Using the right maintenance products is key to making a grill last. This cleaner is a smart, easy way to protect your significant investment in a quality outdoor cooker.
* ✅ Fine Mist for Even Coverage: The spray nozzle produces a fine, wide mist that coats the grates evenly without oversaturating them, which helps the product last longer.
* ✅ No Harsh Chemical Odor: Similar to the Citrusafe, this Weber cleaner is fume-free, making the cleaning process much more pleasant than with industrial-strength degreasers.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Smaller Bottle Size: At 16 oz, the bottle is noticeably smaller than competitors, most of which are in the 23-24 oz range. If you have a large grill or clean very frequently, you’ll go through it faster.
* ❌ Mid-Range Power: While perfect for regular cleaning, it struggles with extreme, long-neglected carbon buildup. For a grill coming out of winter storage, you might need a stronger gel-based cleaner for the first deep clean.
* ❌ Higher Cost Per Ounce: Due to the smaller bottle size and brand name, the cost per ounce is higher than many other options on the market.

Expert’s Experience

Grate Compatibility & Safety
My primary test for the Weber Grill Grate Cleaner was on a set of porcelain-enameled grates, which can easily chip if you scrub too hard or use a harsh chemical. The cleaner worked flawlessly. It loosened the grime enough that only a gentle scrub with a nylon brush was needed, and the grates looked perfect afterward. This is its greatest strength: total peace of mind.

Degreasing Performance
I used this spray about 15 minutes after cooking burgers and it cut through the fresh grease instantly. It’s a fantastic maintenance cleaner. It keeps messes from building up in the first place, which is the easiest way to keep a grill clean. For week-old grime, it required a bit more soaking time and effort but still got the job done.

Brand Trust & Formula
There’s an undeniable trust that comes with using a product from a brand like Weber. You know it was designed as part of a system. The non-flammable and non-corrosive formula feels professional and confirms that both user safety and grill longevity were top priorities in its design.

Best Value Pack: Goo Gone Grill Cleaner (2 Pack) Review

For the avid griller who cleans their equipment regularly, value is just as important as power. The Goo Gone Grill and Grate Cleaner (2 Pack) delivers the best of both worlds. You get a bulk supply of the same heavy-duty, super-strength gel that won my “Best Overall” spot, but at a price per ounce that’s tough to beat. This is the smart, economical choice for anyone with multiple cookers or who grills several times a week.

Specification:
* Form: Super-strength gel
* Size: 24 Fl Oz per bottle (48 Fl Oz total)
* Package: Pack of 2
* Key Feature: Bulk value
* Works On: BBQ grates, racks, pellet and electric smokers
* Safe For: Metals, drip pans, Weber, Traeger, Kamado grills

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Outstanding Bulk Value: This is the main reason to buy this pack. Getting two large 24 oz bottles provides a total of 48 oz of premium cleaner, making it an incredibly budget-friendly option for the long run.
* ✅ Proven Heavy-Duty Power: You aren’t sacrificing quality for quantity. This is the exact same powerful gel formula that excels at removing baked-on grease and tough carbon deposits.
* ✅ Excellent for Multiple Cookers: The product is explicitly rated as safe and effective for pellet smokers and electric smokers. As someone who owns both a grill and a smoker, I found this two-pack to be an especially practical and versatile cleaning solution.
* ✅ Stock Up and Save: There’s nothing worse than running out of cleaner right before you need to prep for a big cookout. Having a second bottle ready on the shelf is a huge convenience.
* ✅ Reduces Smoke and Flare-Ups: Just like the single bottle, this formula cleans so thoroughly that it removes the old grease that acts as fuel, leading to a safer, cleaner cook.
* ✅ Clinging Gel Reduces Waste: The thick gel formula stays on the grates, meaning less product is wasted from runoff compared to thin liquid sprays. This enhances the value even further.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Same Material Restrictions Apply: Just like its single-pack sibling, this cleaner is powerful and should not be used on aluminum, faux stainless steel, or painted surfaces to avoid damage.
* ❌ Requires More Storage Space: While a great value, a two-pack of large bottles obviously takes up more shelf space in your garage or cabinet than a single bottle.
* ❌ Potential for Over-Application: With so much product on hand, it can be tempting to use more than needed. A little of this thick gel goes a long way.

Expert’s Experience

Value & Economy
The primary benefit here is undeniable: cost-effectiveness. When I did the math, the cost per ounce for this Goo Gone 2-Pack was significantly lower than buying single bottles. For anyone who goes through grill cleaner quickly during peak grilling season, this is the most logical and economical purchase.

Consistent Performance
I can confirm the formula in these bottles is identical to the single “Best Overall” pack. It delivered the exact same impressive results during my testing. It clung to the grates, dissolved tough, smoky residue on my pellet grill’s interior, and dramatically reduced my scrubbing time. It’s great to know the value pack doesn’t compromise on quality.

Suitability for Multiple Cookers
I specifically tested this on the greasy racks of my Traeger pellet smoker, and it cut through the sticky, smoky residue effortlessly. For households that have both a standard BBQ grill and a smoker, this two-pack is the perfect all-in-one solution for keeping all your outdoor cooking equipment spotless.

Best for Cool-Grill Cleaning: Citrusafe Grill Grate Cleaner Review

Cleaning a hot grill can be a smoky, rushed, and often unsafe task. The Citrusafe BBQ Grill Grate Cleaner is my top pick specifically for its ability to solve this problem. It is expertly formulated to work on a completely cool grill, providing a safer, more convenient, and fuel-saving cleaning experience. Powered by a potent, non-toxic citrus-based formula, it proves you don’t need high heat to achieve a deep clean.

Specification:
* Form: Spray
* Size: 23 Fl Oz
* Package: Single spray bottle
* Key Feature: Optimized for cool-grill cleaning
* Formula: Citrus-based, non-flammable, biodegradable
* Works On: Grills, cookers, smokers, ovens, microwaves

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ No Heat Required for Efficacy: This is its greatest strength. I found the ability to clean a cold grill to be a game-changer for convenience. It’s much safer than working over hot coals or gas burners.
* ✅ Saves Both Fuel and Time: By not having to fire up the grill just for cleaning, you save propane or charcoal. It also means you can clean on your own schedule, long after the grill has cooled down.
* ✅ Safe, Fume-Free Formula: The non-toxic, biodegradable formula gives me complete confidence when using it on cooking surfaces. There are no harsh chemical fumes, just a faint citrus scent.
* ✅ Potent Degreasing Action: Don’t let the “natural” label fool you. The citrus-based degreaser is surprisingly powerful. I watched it begin to break down grease and sauce residue on contact.
* ✅ Easy and Quick Application: The simple spray-on application makes it incredibly easy to use. For light cleaning, it’s a quick spray and wipe job.
* ✅ Multi-Purpose Use: Like the other Citrusafe product, this one is also great for use on smokers, ovens, and microwaves, making it a handy cleaner to have in your home.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Needs Extra Dwell Time for Tough Jobs: For very old, hardened carbon, I found that letting the spray soak for a full 5-10 minutes before scrubbing was necessary for the best results. It’s not as fast as a caustic cleaner on ancient grime.
* ❌ Not the Right Choice for Hot-Grill Cleaners: This product is specifically formulated for a cool surface. If you are someone who prefers to clean while the grill is still hot, this is not the right tool for the job.
* ❌ Liquid Formula Lacks Cling: As a non-foaming spray, it doesn’t adhere to vertical surfaces or the underside of grates as well as a thick gel.

Expert’s Experience

Cool-Cleaning Method
I followed the directions and applied the Citrusafe Cleaner to a grill that had been sitting cold for over a day. The spray immediately started to dissolve the visible grease. After letting it sit for about 5 minutes, a quick scrub with a nylon brush was all it took to get the grates sparkling clean. The convenience of this method is its top selling point.

Safety and Convenience
Not having to work around an open flame or scorching hot metal is a massive safety and comfort benefit. It transforms grill cleaning from a hot, sweaty chore into a simple task you can do on a cool morning with your coffee. The non-flammable formula is a critical safety feature that adds another layer of peace of mind.

Effectiveness vs. Grease
The citrus degreaser is legitimately impressive. It easily cut through leftover marinade, BBQ sauce, and burger grease. This product is fantastic proof that you don’t always need harsh, caustic chemicals to get a truly clean cooking surface, especially when the formula is intelligently designed for a specific (cool) application.

BBQ Grill Cleaner Comparison Chart

To help you visualize the key differences, I’ve put together this side-by-side comparison chart. This makes it easy to see how the top cleaners stack up on the features that matter most.

Feature	Goo Gone Cleaner	Citrusafe Spray	Weber Cleaner	Goo Gone 2-Pack	Citrusafe Cleaner
Category	Best Overall	Best Non-Toxic	Best for Branded Grills	Best Value Pack	Best for Cool-Grill Cleaning
Formulation	Super-Strength Gel	Citrus-Based Spray	Non-Corrosive Spray	Super-Strength Gel	Citrus-Based Spray
Food-Safe	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Biodegradable	Yes	Yes	Yes (Phosphate-Free)	Yes	Yes
Best For	Tough, baked-on grease	Chemical-free cleaning	Weber & delicate grates	Frequent grillers	Cleaning a cold grill
My Rating	4.8/5 ⭐	4.5/5 ⭐	4.6/5 ⭐	4.7/5 ⭐	4.5/5 ⭐

My analysis shows that the Goo Gone gel formula offers the best all-around power for tackling heavy-duty grease, making it the best overall choice.

However, if your top priority is a non-toxic, chemical-free clean, Citrusafe is the clear winner, with the added benefit of working effectively on a cool grill.

For those who have invested in a Weber grill, the Weber Grill Grate Cleaner provides the ultimate peace of mind, ensuring a safe clean for specific grate materials. The Goo Gone 2-Pack is the most budget-friendly option for those who clean often.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Right BBQ Grill Cleaner

Choosing the right BBQ grill cleaner goes beyond just picking the strongest one. The best choice for you depends on your grill type, your cleaning habits, and your comfort level with different ingredients. I’ll break down the key factors to match a cleaner to your specific needs.

• Cleaner Type (Gel vs. Spray vs. Foam): Gels, like Goo Gone, are my top choice for tough, neglected jobs. Their thickness allows them to cling to surfaces, providing deep penetration to dissolve carbon. Sprays, like Citrusafe and Weber, are fantastic for quick, convenient cleaning of more recent messes. Foaming sprays offer a middle ground, clinging better than liquids but spreading wider than gels.
• Ingredients (Caustic vs. Citrus-Based): Historically, the most powerful cleaners were caustic, but they require careful handling and have strong fumes. Modern citrus-based cleaners, like Citrusafe, use natural degreasers (like D-Limonene) and are non-toxic, making them a superb choice for health-conscious users without sacrificing too much power.
• Grill Grate Compatibility: This is critical. If you have porcelain-enameled grates, a gentle, non-corrosive formula like the Weber cleaner is essential to prevent chipping. For durable stainless steel or seasoned cast iron, you can often use stronger gel formulas, but you should always check the product label for contraindications (like Goo Gone’s warning against aluminum).
• Food Safety: Never compromise here. Always choose a cleaner that is explicitly labeled as “safe for food-prep surfaces” or “food-grade.” This ensures the formula is designed to rinse away completely, leaving no harmful chemical residue that could contaminate your food. All the cleaners I’ve recommended meet this critical standard.
• Strength & Purpose (Heavy-Duty vs. Maintenance): Be honest about your cleaning habits. If you’re tackling a grill that hasn’t been deep-cleaned in a year, you need a heavy-duty cleaner. If you diligently wipe down your grill after every use, a less aggressive maintenance spray is more than sufficient and often more convenient.
• Cleaning Method (Hot vs. Cold Grill): Some people prefer to clean a warm grill to help loosen grease. However, cleaners specifically formulated for cool-grill cleaning, like Citrusafe, are generally safer (no risk of burns or flare-ups) and save fuel. I personally prefer the cool-grill method for its convenience and safety.

FAQs About best cleaner for bbq grill

What is the best way to clean a bbq grill?

The best way combines mechanical and chemical cleaning. First, scrape off any large, loose debris with a good grill brush. Then, apply a quality BBQ grill cleaner like Goo Gone, let it soak for 5-10 minutes to dissolve the hardened grease, and scrub again. Finally, wipe the surface clean with a damp cloth or paper towel to remove all residue.

Can I use oven cleaner on my bbq grill?

I strongly advise against it. Most oven cleaners are extremely caustic and contain harsh chemicals like lye that can permanently damage grill surfaces, especially stainless steel, aluminum, and painted components. They can also leave behind residue that is not safe for food. Always use a product specifically made for BBQ grills.

Is grill cleaner safe for food?

Yes, provided you buy a product designated as safe for food-prep surfaces. All the products on my list are food-surface safe. The most important step is to rinse or wipe the grates thoroughly with water after cleaning to ensure no cleaner residue is left behind before you cook.

How do I clean really dirty bbq grill grates?

For extremely dirty grates, the “soak-in-a-bag” method is your best friend. Place the cold grates inside a heavy-duty trash bag. Liberally spray them with a heavy-duty grill cleaner like Goo Gone, seal the bag, and let them sit for several hours or even overnight. This extended soaking time allows the cleaner to fully break down the caked-on carbon, making it much easier to scrub off.

How to clean bbq grill without a wire brush?

Use a bristle-free scraper, a nylon brush, or a crumpled ball of aluminum foil. To avoid the potential danger of wire bristles breaking off and getting into food, you can use a coiled wire scraper, a wooden scraper that conforms to your grates over time, or a firm nylon bristle brush. In a pinch, crumpling heavy-duty aluminum foil into a ball and holding it with tongs works as a great scrubber.

What is the best thing to clean a grill with?

The best combination is a high-quality degreasing cleaner and a safe scrubbing tool. A powerful, biodegradable gel cleaner paired with a bristle-free grill brush or scraper is my recommended setup for a safe and spotless clean. The cleaner does the chemical work, and the tool does the mechanical work.

What is the easiest way to clean grill grates?

The easiest method is preventative: clean your grates while they are still warm. Right after you finish cooking, the food and grease haven’t had time to harden into carbon. A quick, firm scrub with a grill brush at this stage is often all you need. For a deep clean with minimal effort, the overnight soaking method is the easiest.

Can you use Simple Green on a grill?

Yes, but you must use the specific Simple Green BBQ & Grill Cleaner formula. Do not use the original All-Purpose Simple Green, as it is not rated or designed for food-contact surfaces. The dedicated grill formula is a safer and effective choice.

How do I remove rust from my grill grates?

Soak the grates in a 50/50 solution of white vinegar and water for an hour. After soaking, scrub the rust away with a grill brush or steel wool. For cast-iron grates, you must thoroughly dry them and re-season them with a high-heat cooking oil immediately after removing the rust to prevent it from returning. Do not use this method on porcelain grates if the porcelain is chipped.

How often should you clean a bbq grill?

You should perform a light cleaning after every use and a deep clean periodically. Brush off food debris from the grates after every cook. A deep clean using a degreasing spray or gel should be done every 10-15 cooks, or at least at the beginning and end of your main grilling season, to prevent major buildup, reduce flare-ups, and prolong the life of your grill.

Final Verdict

After extensive testing and analysis for 2026, it’s clear that the best cleaner for bbq grill is one that matches power with safety. While every product on this list is a strong performer that I would happily use, my final recommendation comes down to raw cleaning power and overall value.

The best overall choice is the Goo Gone Grill and Grate Cleaner. Its unmatched ability to dissolve tough, baked-on grease and carbon with a clinging, biodegradable gel makes it the most effective and reliable solution for the vast majority of grillers.

However, if you prioritize a chemical-free clean and want a product that’s exceptionally safe to use, I wholeheartedly recommend the Citrusafe Grill Cleaning Spray. Its effectiveness on a cool grill is a major convenience and safety feature.

The Goo Gone Grill and Grate Cleaner is perfect for you if:
* You frequently battle tough, baked-on grease and carbon.
* You want a cleaner that clings to grates and does the hard work for you.
* You value a biodegradable formula that is also food-safe.
* You want a versatile cleaner for grates, drip pans, and interiors.

It might not be ideal for you if:
* You have a grill with aluminum components.
* You need an instant, scrub-free solution for a quick wipe-down.

Ultimately, for a reliable, powerful, and easy mess-free clean that will restore your grates to their former glory, you cannot go wrong with my top pick, the Goo Gone Grill and Grate Cleaner.

Last update on 2026-02-19 at 23:59 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API