Rust on your barbecue grill can be an eyesore, and also poses potential health hazards if it flakes off onto your food. Thankfully, removing rust from your BBQ grill is easier than you might think. With some simple cleaning solutions and a little elbow grease, you can get your grill looking shiny and new again.
Why Rust Forms on Grills
BBQ grills are constantly exposed to outdoor elements like rain, humidity and changing temperatures. This exposure causes the metal parts of your grill to oxidize, which is the technical term for rust formation.
Rust typically appears as reddish-brown flaky deposits on cast iron or stainless steel grill components. It’s most commonly found on the grill grates, but can also develop on burner covers, drip trays, doors and other exterior parts.
If neglected over time, the rust will progressively eat away at the metal, eventually causing permanent damage. So it’s important to remove rust from your BBQ grill promptly when you notice it starting to form.
Cleaning vs. Replacing Grates
If your grill grates are only lightly rusted, you can likely clean off the rust successfully. But if the rust is extensive and covers most of the surface, or if you notice pitting and corrosion, it might be time to replace the grates entirely.
Look for the following signs that your grill grates need replacing:
- Deep rust that cannot be scrubbed off
- Large flaky areas and lots of pitting
- Thin, compromised sections that are warped from corrosion
- Broken or missing grate bars
Replacing heavily rusted grill grates ensures you start the season with a safe, functional cooking surface.
Supplies Needed to Remove Grill Rust
Removing rust from a BBQ grill is a hands-on job, but requires just a few supplies. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Protective gloves
- Stiff scrub brush or abrasive pad
- Rust removal solutions such as vinegar, naval jelly or commercial cleaners
- An old towel or rags
- Water hose
- Replacement grill grates (if needed)
It’s best to work on a cool grill to avoid burns. If cleaning a hot grill, use extreme caution.
How to Remove Rust from Grill Grates
Here is a step-by-step guide to removing rust from your BBQ’s grill grates:
Step 1: Allow the Grill to Cool
Heat expands the metal, making scrubbing off rust more difficult. So start by allowing the grill to cool completely.
Step 2: Wear Protective Gloves
Don gloves to guard your hands from both the cleaning solutions and sharp edges on rusted metal. Thick rubber gloves work best.
Step 3: Scrub with a Stiff Brush
Use a sturdy brass grill brush or other stiff scrub brush to scrape off as much loose rust flakes as possible. Apply elbow grease to dislodge stubborn deposits.
Step 4: Apply a Rust Removal Solution
Spray or pour your chosen rust remover directly onto the affected areas. Let it soak in for 5-10 minutes. Vinegar, naval jelly or commercial cleaners all work to dissolve rust.
Step 5: Scrub Again
Re-scrub the grates using a stiff brush or abrasive pad, concentrating on the rustiest spots. The rust should start scrubbing off at this point.
Step 6: Rinse Thoroughly
Use a garden hose on a high pressure setting to rinse away all traces of the rust remover and loosened deposits. Allow the grates to fully air dry.
Step 7: Spot Clean Persistent Rust
If any smaller spots of rust linger, spot clean them using fine grit sandpaper, steel wool or a wire brush. Avoid removing the protective coating underneath.
Step 8: Apply Seasoning
Once fully dry, coat the grill grates in a thin layer of vegetable or olive oil to season the surface. This prevents future rust formation.
Step 9: Replace Grill Grates If Needed
If the rust cannot be removed without damage, replace the affected grill grates with new ones. Measure carefully to get the right size.
How to Remove Rust from Other Grill Parts
The same general process applies to removing rust from other BBQ grill components:
For stainless steel: Use a dual-action cleaner formulated for stainless steel. Apply with a soft cloth and rinse well. Coat with stainless steel polish or olive oil when dry.
For cast iron: Scrub with very fine steel wool and rinse. Dry completely and coat with high-heat cooking spray or wipe a thin layer of oil on.
For painted metals: Spot clean gently with a plastic scouring pad and soapy water. Avoid removing the paint.
For burner covers: Gently scrape off any loose rust, then use a vinegar and baking soda paste to dissolve stubborn deposits. Rinse and dry thoroughly before replacing.
For drip trays: Scrub out as much rust as possible using baking soda and water. For deeper rust, use a commercial rust remover. Rinse thoroughly and allow to fully dry.
BBQ Grill Rust Removal Tips
Follow these tips for best results when tackling rust on your barbecue:
- Always scrub in the direction of the grain – Avoid scratches by scrubbing back and forth along the metal.
- Rinse away all chemicals – Don’t let any cleaning solutions linger on the metal parts.
- Dry thoroughly before oiling or using – Trapped moisture worsens rust over time.
- Work in a well-ventilated area – Avoid inhaling fumes from harsh chemical solutions.
- Spot test cleaners first – Check for any adverse reactions on a small area before full use.
- Handle oven cleaner safely – Apply these caustic chemicals cautiously to avoid injury.
- Avoid wire brushes on coated metals – Wire brushes remove protective finish along with rust.
With the right tools and techniques, you can keep your BBQ grill looking pristine and rust-free for many seasons of outdoor cooking to come. Just remember to properly care for and cover your grill when not in use.
Frequently Asked Questions About Removing Rust from BBQ Grills
Can I use wd-40 to remove rust from my grill?
No, WD-40 is not recommended for removing rust from grill surfaces. It can burn off seasonings and leave behind oil residue. Stick to designated rust removers.
What is the best homemade rust remover for grills?
A mix of vinegar and baking soda works well as a DIY rust removal solution. For tough rust, boiling vinegar is an effective homemade remedy.
How do I remove rust from my grill without taking everything apart?
For exterior rust that’s visible, you can scrub and use removers without taking components off. But for rust buildup underneath, disassembly is required to fully clean.
Can I remove rust from my grill without chemicals?
You can try scrubbing only with an abrasive pad, steel wool or rough sponge. But chemical solutions help lift and dissolve stubborn rust much more effectively.
Will a power washer remove all the rust from my grill?
Power washing may blast off loose rust flakes but doesn’t dissolve the stubborn rust still adhered to the metal. You need a chemical treatment followed by scrubbing.
Conclusion
Rust on a grill is common, but thankfully removable with some diligent scrubbing using natural or chemical cleaners. Minor rust can usually be cleaned off, while extensive rust might necessitate replacing grill grates.
Keeping your BBQ grill rust-free extends its lifespan and keeps it safe to use. Just be sure to properly care for the grill by covering it during wet weather and oiling grates after each use.
With these tips, you can tackle rust buildup and restore your grill to like-new condition. Get ready to barbecue your favorite foods on a clean surface this season!