Rusty grill grates look unappealing and can cause food to stick. Here's how to restore them and prevent rust in the future.
Is it OK to Grill on Rusted Grates?
Cooking on rusty grates isn’t harmful, but it can impart a metallic taste to your food. It's best to remove the rust before grilling.
Why Are My Grill Grates Rusting?
Most grill grates have a protective finish that eventually wears off, leading to rust. Even stainless steel grates eventually rust. Condensation, especially collected at night when temperatures are cool, accelerates rust formation. A tight-fitting cover helps but doesn't prevent rust entirely.
How to Clean Rusty Grill Grates
The first step to cleaning a rusty grill is determining what type of material they are made from. Cast iron grates are the easiest to remove rust from, while stainless steel grates may take a bit more effort. The important thing is to know how to avoid damaging the grates when removing rust.
Supplies Needed:
- Soft brush (for stainless steel or porcelain-coated grates to prevent scratches which lead to more rust in the future)
- Wire brush (for cast iron grates ONLY)
- Baking soda
- White vinegar or lemon juice
- Aluminum foil
Option #1: Baking Soda Paste
This tends to work best for mildly rusty grates, but might not be effective on heavier rust.
- Mix baking soda and water to form a thick paste.
- Apply the paste to the rusty grates and let sit for 10-15 minutes.
- Scrub with aluminum foil or a non-metallic brush to scrub the paste from the grates, taking the rust with it.
- Rinse with water and allow to dry.
Option #2: Baking Soda and Vinegar
This uses the chemical reaction between vinegar and baking soda. Grill grates can also be soaked overnight in vinegar to remove heavy rust. Use a shallow pan so that the grill grates are fully submerged.
- Spray or wipe vinegar onto the rusty grates.
- Sprinkle with baking soda and let it fizz. Vinegar can be reapplied to more stubborn areas.
- Scrub with aluminum foil.
- Rinse and dry.
Option #3: Lemon Juice and Baking Soda
Lemon juice is an acid that will release rust from metal like vinegar does.
- Apply lemon juice to the rusty grates.
- Sprinkle with baking soda.
- Scrub with aluminum foil or a non-metallic brush.
- Rinse and dry.
How to Keep Your Grill Grates Rust-Free
Once you’ve put the time and effort into removing rust from your grill grates, you’ll want to prevent rust from forming.
- Clean grates after each use.
- Wipe grates with vegetable oil before storing.
Conclusion
If rust has deeply pitted your grill grates and are flaky with rust, consider replacing them rather than trying to clean them as the rust has begun eating into the surface. Regular maintenance prevents rust and keeps your grill in top condition. Removing rust is essential for optimal grilling results.
