Steam cleaning a barbecue is an effective, chemical-free method for removing grease, grime, and food residue, leaving your grill sparkling clean. It utilizes hot steam to loosen tough buildup.
Tools & Materials
To steam clean your BBQ, you'll need a few essential items:
| Item | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Steam Cleaner | The main cleaning device |
| Hand Tool Attachment | Versatile attachment for various surfaces |
| Microfiber Cloths | For wiping and attaching to tools |
| Stiff Brush/Scraper | For heavily crusted areas (optional) |
| Water | To fill the steam cleaner |
Step-by-Step Guide to Steam Cleaning Your BBQ
Follow these steps for a thoroughly steam-cleaned barbecue:
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Prepare Your BBQ:
- Ensure the barbecue is completely cool before starting.
- Remove the grill grates and any other removable parts like heat tents or grease trays.
- Scrape off any large, loose debris from the grates, interior, and hood using a brush or scraper.
-
Set Up the Steam Cleaner:
- Fill your steam cleaner's reservoir with water according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- Attach the desired tool for the area you are cleaning.
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Steam Clean Surfaces (Hood, Sides, Interior):
- For flat or curved surfaces like the inside and outside of the hood, and side panels, it's best to use the hand tool with the microfiber cloth.
- Apply steam while moving the tool across the surface. This allows you to loosen any grease or marks whilst also wiping the area simultaneously.
- Work in small sections, applying steam to lift the dirt, and letting the microfiber cloth capture it.
- Replace the microfiber cloth as it becomes saturated with grime.
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Steam Clean Grill Grates:
- Place the grates on a protected surface (like an old towel or tarp) or steam them while they are still in the BBQ.
- You may use a brush attachment with your steam cleaner to tackle baked-on grease and food particles on the grates.
- Apply steam directly to stubborn spots, letting the heat penetrate and loosen the buildup.
- Follow up with a stiff brush or scraper if needed to remove softened residue.
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Clean Other Components:
- Use appropriate attachments (like a jet nozzle for crevices or the hand tool with cloth) to steam clean heat tents, grease trays, and burner covers if they are safe for steam cleaning.
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Final Wipe Down:
- After steaming, use clean, dry microfiber cloths to wipe down all surfaces. This removes any remaining moisture and residue.
- Buff exterior surfaces for a polished look.
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Reassemble:
- Once all parts are clean and dry, reassemble your barbecue.
By using the steam cleaner, particularly the method of using the hand tool with the microfiber cloth to loosen grease/marks and wipe simultaneously, you can effectively clean your BBQ without resorting to harsh chemicals, leaving it ready for your next cookout.
