With a bank holiday heatwave forecast across much of the UK, including London, the Midlands and the East, many Brits are preparing to fire up their barbecues for the first time this season. However, after months of disuse, grills are often caked in dirt, grease and old food residue, which can pose a health risk if not properly cleaned.
Experts from BBQ Champs recommend using two common household staples—white vinegar and baking soda—to restore your barbecue to a sparkling condition. These natural cleaners are ideal for avoiding harsh chemicals near food preparation areas.
For a thorough clean, remove the grill grates and place them in a large, sturdy bin bag or plastic tub filled with a two-to-one mixture of vinegar and bicarbonate of soda. Leave them to soak overnight, then rinse thoroughly. Any remaining residue can be scrubbed away with a grill brush.
If you need a quicker solution, combine equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Coat the grates and let it sit for 10 minutes, then scrub with crumpled tin foil sprayed with vinegar to remove stubborn marks.
Alternatively, acidic foods like onions or lemons can be used. Heat the grates, then rub a halved onion or lemon cut-side down across them using tongs. For tough stains, dip the lemon in salt before scrubbing.
Keeping your barbecue clean not only ensures safer cooking and better-tasting food but also extends the life of your grill, according to the experts.
