People who have a BBQ told to turn it on for ’15 minutes’ this weekend

As the warmer weather arrives in the UK this weekend, it’s time to dust off the barbecue, gather friends and family, and fire up the grill for some outdoor feasting. However, before you dive into the sizzling excitement, it’s crucial to give your barbecue a thorough cleaning to ensure you enjoy your meal without risking foodborne illnesses like Salmonella and E. coli. Both can lead to severe gastrointestinal distress, including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea.

Food safety expert, Jabraan Ahmed from meat suppliers, Saffron Alley provides a step-by-step guide to getting your BBQ in top shape for the season.

Why Cleaning Matters 

A dirty barbecue can be a breeding ground for bacteria and other harmful germs. Leftover grease and food debris from previous cookouts can harbour bacteria, which can contaminate fresh food. Additionally, carbon buildup can affect the taste of your food and impact the grill’s performance.

Tools You’ll Need

Stiff-bristle grill brush (preferably brass or stainless steel)

Mild dish soap

Baking soda and white vinegar

Rubber gloves

Bucket

Microfiber cloth or sponges

Toothpicks or wire for burner cleaning (for gas grills)

Step-by-Step Cleaning Guide

Prepare the Grill

Remove any excess debris from the grates with a stiff brush.

If your grill is gas, turn the burners to high for 10-15 minutes to burn off excess grease.

For charcoal grills, empty the ashes and dispose of them properly.

Clean the Grates

Let the grill cool down slightly but remain warm.

Using the grill brush, scrub away burnt residue. Alternatively, remove the grates entirely and soak them in warm, soapy water before scrubbing.

For stubborn buildup, make a paste of baking soda and water, apply it to the grates, and scrub after 10 minutes.

Tackle the Interior

With the grates removed, scrape the interior walls to clear out grease buildup.

Wipe down the interior with a damp cloth dipped in warm, soapy water.

For gas grills, check the burner tubes for clogs and clean with a toothpick or wire.

Focus on the Exterior

– Use warm, soapy water or a vinegar solution to wipe down the lid and exterior surfaces.

– Polish with a microfiber cloth to restore the shine.

Rinse and Dry

– Rinse all soapy surfaces thoroughly to avoid leaving residue that could affect the flavour.

– Dry all components completely before reassembling.

Prevent Future Buildup

– Regularly clean your grill after each use by brushing the grates.

– Empty the drip tray regularly to prevent grease buildup.

Extra Tips

Grill Liners: Use aluminium foil or grill mats for easier cleaning and to prevent flare-ups.

Check the Gas: For gas grills, inspect hoses and connections for leaks or wear before the season starts.