How to Clean Cast Iron Grill

Cast iron grills are known for their durability, heat retention, and ability to deliver incredible flavor, but they also require a bit of upkeep to stay in top shape. Learning how to clean a cast iron grill is one of the most important things any grill owner can do to protect their investment and keep meals tasting great.

In this guide, we'll walk through how often you should clean your grill, what tools you'll need, and exactly how to clean your grill step by step. We'll also share a few simple maintenance tips to help you prevent rust, maintain seasoning, and keep your cast iron grill ready for action every time you fire it up.

At DDR BBQ Supply, we know the difference a clean, well-cared-for grill can make, and we're here to help you get there.

What this article covers:

• How Often Should You Clean Your Cast Iron Grill?
• Tools & Supplies for Cleaning a Cast Iron Grill
• How to Clean a Cast Iron Grill
• Maintenance Tips for a Cast Iron Grill

How Often Should You Clean Your Cast Iron Grill?

Clean your cast iron grill after every use. That keeps food buildup and grease from hardening and prevents rust from forming. A quick clean when the grill is still warm is all it takes most of the time. For deeper cleaning, maybe a couple of times a season or if you notice leftover gunk, a bit more time and elbow grease is worth it.

Tools & Supplies for Cleaning a Cast Iron Grill

• Grill Cleaning Kit
  
• Warm water + coarse Kosher salt
  
• Non‑abrasive scrub pad or soft sponge
  
• Cooking oil with a high smoke point (vegetable, canola, grapeseed)
  
• Clean towels or paper towels

How to Clean a Cast Iron Grill

Cleaning a cast iron grill isn't complicated, but it does take a few key steps done the right way. This section breaks down each part of the process so you can confidently clean your grates without damaging them:

Step 1: Heat the Grill to Loosen Debris

Start by firing up your grill and setting it to high heat. Let it run with the lid closed for about 10 to 15 minutes. This high heat helps burn off stuck-on food and leftover grease, making cleanup much easier. You'll probably see some smoke or hear popping sounds, and that's totally normal.

After the time is up, turn off the burners and let the grill cool slightly. You want it warm enough to help loosen residue but cool enough that you can safely work with the grates.

Step 2: Scrub the Grates While Warm

Now that the grill has cooled a bit, it's time to scrub. Use Q-Swiper Cleaning wipes to scrub the grates clean.

Scrub back and forth across the grates, focusing on areas with visible buildup. A few solid passes are usually enough to knock off most of the cooked-on food.

Step 3: Wash Gently with Soap and Coarse Salt

If brushing didn't get it all, or it's been a while since your last deep clean, mix some warm water with coarse salt like Kosher salt. Use a non-abrasive sponge or soft cloth and gently clean the grates.

The goal is to lift off leftover grease and grime without stripping the seasoning. Avoid steel wool or any harsh scrubbers, which can scratch or remove that protective layer.

Step 4: Rinse and Dry Thoroughly

After washing, rinse the grates with clean water to remove every bit of soap. Then dry them completely. This part really matters. Use paper towels or a clean kitchen towel to wipe everything down.

Pay close attention to corners and grooves where moisture tends to hide. Even a little leftover water can cause rust.

Step 5: Oil and Re-Season the Grates

Once your grates are dry, coat them with a thin layer of oil. Go with something that has a high smoke point, like canola, vegetable, or grapeseed oil. Apply it evenly using a folded paper towel and wipe off any excess.

Then heat the grill for 15 to 20 minutes so the oil bonds to the surface. This restores your seasoning and helps protect the cast iron going forward.

Step 6: Remove Rust (If Needed)

If you spot rust, don't worry. Cast iron can bounce back with a little care and knowing how to clean a rusty grill correctly. Use the Q-Swiper Wipes to gently scrub the rusted areas. It's strong enough to remove rust without damaging the grates.

Once the rust is gone, clean and dry the area again, apply oil, and heat the grill to re-season it. That will seal the surface and keep the rust from coming back.

Working with a flat top grill? Read our guide on how to clean flat top grill for more specific information.

Maintenance Tips for a Cast Iron Grill

Once your grill is clean and seasoned, keeping it in great shape comes down to a few easy habits. These simple maintenance tips can help you get more life out of your cast iron grates and better results every time you cook:

Season Regularly

Even if the grill looks spotless, seasoning should still be part of your routine. Every four or five cooks, lightly coat the grates with oil and heat them to help reinforce that protective layer.

This keeps rust from forming and gives your grill that smooth, naturally non-stick surface that makes grilling a pleasure. The more consistent you are with seasoning, the better your cast iron will perform over time.

Preheat Before Every Cook

Preheating isn't just about getting the grill hot. It also helps burn off any lingering bits from your last meal and gets the grates ready to sear properly. Let the grill heat up for 10 to 15 minutes before you start cooking. This simple step improves flavor, helps prevent sticking, and keeps buildup from forming.

Store in a Dry Spot

Cast iron and moisture do not get along. If your grill lives outside, always keep it covered when not in use. If your grates are removable and you're not grilling regularly, storing them indoors during the colder or wetter months is even better. Preventing exposure to rain and humidity is one of the easiest ways to avoid rust.

Use Gentle Utensils

The seasoning on your cast iron may be tough, but it's not invincible. Avoid using metal spatulas, forks, or tongs that could scrape or chip the surface.

Go with wooden or silicone tools instead. They're easy on the grates and still get the job done. Keeping that layer intact means less maintenance and a longer-lasting grill.

Conclusion

Taking care of your cast iron grill is easier than it sounds. Clean it after each use, dry it completely, re-season regularly, and be mindful of how and where you store it. With the right tools and habits, you can prevent rust, preserve your seasoning, and keep your grill performing at its best.

Whether you're new to cast iron or just looking to maintain what you've already got, following these steps will keep things running smoothly every time you cook.

For reliable tools and other must-have BBQ essentials, check out our collection at DDR BBQ Supply and get everything you need to care for your grill the right way.