Electric grills offer a fantastic alternative to traditional gas or charcoal grills, especially in situations where these options might not be viable. With a variety of models available, you can choose the one that best suits your available space and intended grilling purposes. However, it's important to keep electric grills clean! A build-up of grease, grime, and rust will not only affect the taste of your food but will also cause your electric grill to break down quicker. It can also lead to an electrical disaster! It's important to follow proper maintenance routines to ensure a clean electric grill that's ready for your next cooking adventure.
Keep reading to learn how to clean an electric grill, from the equipment you'll need on hand to clean each specific part. Before you get started, it's best that you check the manufacturer for guidance on proper care. Otherwise, continue reading.
What You'll Need To Clean Electric Grills
Paper Towels
Paper towels are a very versatile cleaning tool; you'll use them in many ways when cleaning your electric grill. Wet paper towels can be used right after you finish cooking to wipe fresh grease from the electric grill. Applying them to the grill allows steam to work on the stuck-on food particles and other debris, making them much easier to clean.
Soapy Water
You'll need plenty of warm soapy water to get the grease off of your electric grill! Any dish soap or dishwashing liquid will do, although some swear by blue Dawn dish soap for its ability to cut through grease. Simply mix it up in a bucket of warm water.
Vinegar Solution
Creating a vinegar solution is a natural and effective way to clean an electric grill, particularly for removing stubborn grease, residue, and buildup. The acidic nature of vinegar assists in breaking down stubborn grease and grime, rendering it a valuable cleaning agent.
Baking Soda Mixture
Creating a baking soda mixture is another effective and natural method to clean an electric grill, especially for removing grease and grime. The versatility of baking soda as a cleaning agent stems from its gentle alkalinity and mildly abrasive qualities.
Stainless Steel Cleaner
For electric grills with a stainless steel exterior, employing a stainless steel cleaner can effectively restore its original luster, giving it a renewed and polished appearance.
Grill Brush + Scraper
You should already have a sturdy grill brush and scraper duo if you regularly use a grill to cook. A sturdy, stainless steel grill brush is very effective at scraping stubborn food particles from the grill grates. Steel wool also works well for this purpose.
Soft Brush + Sponge
You'll also need a soft brush or non-abrasive sponge at the other end of the spectrum. Some parts of an electric grill are more delicate, such as the heating element and cooking grates made from ceramic and porcelain. The softer scrub brush and sponge will let you work on the areas the metal grill brush would ruin.
Cloth Towels
Once you've finished the cleaning process, you'll need to wipe everything down with a dry cloth. Microfiber is a great material for this because it doesn't deposit lint and delivers a streak-free shine.
How To Clean An Electric Grill
Unplug The Grill
Electric grills and water are not compatible. Starting to clean an electric grill without ensuring it is turned off and unplugged is a recipe for disaster. Not only could you receive an electric shock, but your power supply could short circuit, and the grill would be ruined.
Remove The Grill Plates
While you can certainly wipe down the grilling grates while they are attached to the electric grill, it's easier to give the grill a deep, thorough cleaning with them removed. Be careful when handling the removable plates immediately after using them. It's easier to remove grease build-up when the grill plates are warm, but you can certainly wait for them to cool down.
Heating Elements
The best way to clean an electric grill is to let it completely cool down first to avoid any electric shock or burn risk. Use a soft or grill brush to gently sweep away any loose debris from the heating element, such as leftover food particles or grease.
Taking this preliminary action will simplify the subsequent cleaning process. Moisten a cloth or sponge with water and a small quantity of mild dish soap. Wring out excess water to avoid dripping. Gently wipe down the heating element to remove grease and grime buildup.
You can use a toothbrush, or soft brush dipped in soapy water to gently scrub the area for stubborn spots or hardened residue. Exercise caution to avoid exerting excessive force or causing scratches on the surface of the heating element. After wiping and spot cleaning, rinse the heating element by wiping it with a damp cloth or sponge soaked in clean water. This step ensures the elimination of any lingering soap residue.
Utilize a dry, clean cloth or a piece of paper towel to wipe the heating element, ensuring its thorough dryness before reconnecting the electric grill to the power source. Moisture could cause electrical issues if not dried properly.
Tips
It's important to note that electric components should never be immersed in water. You also should take care to wring out the paper towels and cloth before you use them so there isn't an excessive amount of water being used.
Many cleaning agents are too harsh to use on heating elements. These include scouring agents, abrasive scrubs, oven cleaners, and solvent chemicals. For the same reason, metal scrubbing pads should not be used on the heating element.
Regular maintenance and cleaning can prevent excessive buildup, making future cleaning sessions easier.
You can clean the electric grill for heavy greasy and residue while it is warm (not hot). Nonetheless, it is crucial to exercise prudence and adhere to safety protocols to prevent burns or accidents.
Using a wooden spatula or a soft, heat-resistant brush, gently scrape off any stuck-on food residue from the grill grates and heating elements. Be cautious not to apply too much pressure to prevent damaging the surfaces.
Moisten a cloth or sponge with warm water, ensuring to wring out any excess water to prevent dripping. Carefully wipe down the warm surfaces of the grill grates and heating elements to remove grease and residue.
When faced with tough stains or the accumulation of grease, you can concoct a mild cleaning mixture by combining equal portions of water and white vinegar. Dip a cloth or sponge into the solution, wring it out, and softly clean the problematic areas. Vinegar's properties aid in dissolving grease and grime.
After wiping with the vinegar solution, rinse the grill surfaces by wiping them with a damp cloth soaked in clean water. This step helps remove any vinegar residue. Use a dry, clean cloth to carefully wipe down the grill grates and heating elements to remove moisture and prevent rust.
Tips
Always prioritize safety. Use heat-resistant gloves or utensils, and be cautious around hot surfaces.
Avoid using abrasive materials, strong chemicals, or abrasive cleaning pads, as they can damage the grill's surfaces.
Regular cleaning, even while warm, can prevent excessive buildup and make future cleaning sessions easier.
Grill Plates
Whether your electric grill model uses grill grates or grill plates, the cleaning process is the same. They are much easier to clean immediately after use before the grease and food residue can solidify and oxidize.
Lift off the cooking grates and employ a grill brush along with a scraper to eliminate sizable debris. Afterward, place the grates in a spacious basin or sink filled with warm, soapy water. Let them soak for a minimum of 15 minutes. Subsequently, use a sponge to scrub the grates until they're clean meticulously. Conclude by rinsing them with fresh water and then drying them using a towel.
If your electric grill's plates are non-stick, this feature makes cleaning the electric grill much easier. But it's important to use gentle methods to avoid damaging the coating. To clean an electric grill with a non-stick surface, use a soft brush or cloth to gently remove any loose food particles or residue from the grill plates. This step enhances the efficiency of the cleaning process.
When facing persistent stains or accumulations of grease, you have options for crafting effective cleaning solutions. For one, a mild mixture can be created by combining equal measures of water and white vinegar. Additionally, a soapy solution can be concocted by blending warm water with a small quantity of mild dish soap in a basin or bucket. Afterward, dip a cloth or sponge into the chosen solution, wring out excess liquid, and softly cleanse the areas in need. The vinegar's properties come into play to effectively break down grease and grime.
Tips
Steer clear of employing abrasive substances, potent chemicals, or rough cleaning pads, as they have the potential to harm the grill's surfaces.
Regular cleaning, even while warm, can prevent excessive buildup and make future cleaning sessions easier.
Avoid using metal utensils or sharp objects on non-stick surfaces, as these can result in scratches or damage to the coating.
In the event that the non-stick coating shows signs of deterioration, consider replacing the grill plates. This approach guarantees both safe and efficient cooking.
Drip Tray
Located under the grilling grates, the drip tray catches fat that drips through. Some electric grill models have a removable drip tray, while others permanently attach them to the grill.
If the drip tray can be detached, immerse it in warm, soapy water and employ a non-abrasive sponge to scrub it clean carefully. Otherwise, allow the drip tray to cool, and then use a wet sponge to clean the attached tray. Rinse in clean water and dry with a towel or paper towel.
A solution can be concocted for particularly stubborn grease or residue by blending equal amounts of water and white vinegar. Dip a cloth or sponge into the solution and utilize it to scrub the impacted areas gently.
If you have stubborn stains that don't seem to budge with regular cleaning, mix up a paste of water and baking soda. Spread this paste onto the stains, allowing it to sit for a minimum of 10 minutes before scrubbing and rinse.
Tips:
Regularly cleaning the drip tray after each use can prevent excessive buildup and make the cleaning process easier.
Consider lining the drip tray with aluminum foil to prevent grease from solidifying. This can make disposal easier and reduce the need for intense cleaning.
If the drip tray is dishwasher-safe, you can place it in the dishwasher for cleaning. Check the manufacturer's guidelines before doing so.
Splash Guard + lid
These detachable parts are frequently dishwasher-safe, although you should confirm them in your owner's manual. Alternatively, clean them in the sink using warm, soapy water and a gentle sponge. Follow up with a clean water rinse and dry with a towel or paper towel.
When faced with more challenging grease or residue, you can craft a solution by combining equal water and white vinegar measures. Moisten a cloth or sponge with the solution and use it to scrub the areas requiring attention. Rinse the splash guard and lid under running water to remove soap or vinegar residue. Make sure to rinse all surfaces thoroughly.
Tips
If the splash guard and lid are not removable, you can still clean them using a cloth or sponge dampened with the soapy solution.
Regularly cleaning these components can prevent grease buildup and make future cleaning sessions easier.
Clean The Frame
Cleaning the frame of an electric grill is important for maintaining its appearance and preventing the buildup of dirt and grease. Periodically wipe down the frame after each use to prevent excessive buildup and make cleaning sessions easier in the long run.
You can clean the legs and frame of the electric grill by using warm water and a sponge. If your electric grill is a large, outdoor model, a garden hose can be used. Clean any crevices, corners, and areas that are not easily visible. These spots can accumulate dirt and grease over time.
Tips:
Avoid using abrasive materials, strong chemicals, or abrasive cleaning pads, as they can scratch or damage the frame's finish.
If the frame has any electronic components or sensitive areas, avoid getting them wet while cleaning.
If the frame has chrome or stainless steel parts, you can use specific cleaning products suitable for those materials to maintain their shine.
Clean The Power Supply
Before cleaning the power cord, make sure the electric grill is unplugged from the power source. Create a solution by combining warm water with a small quantity of mild dish soap in a bucket or basin.
Submerge a soft cloth or sponge into the soapy solution, ensuring to wring out any excess water to prevent dripping. Gently wipe down the power cord using a damp cloth or sponge. Give special consideration to areas where you can see dirt, grease, or residue.
If the power cord is particularly dirty, scrub it gently with a toothbrush dipped in the soapy solution. Rinse the power cord by wiping it with a damp cloth soaked in clean water to remove any soap residue. Use a clean, dry microfiber cloth or towel to wipe down the power cord, ensuring there's no moisture left on the cord.
During the cleaning process, carefully examine the power cord for any indications of damage, such as fraying or exposed wires. If you observe any damage, taking immediate action and contemplating replacing the cord is essential to ensure safety.
Tips
Avoid using abrasive materials, strong chemicals, or abrasive cleaning pads on the power cord, as they can damage the cord's insulation.
Be gentle while cleaning the cord to prevent any strain on the wires or connectors.
Inspect the power cord frequently for any signs of wear or damage. If you detect any issues, contact the manufacturer for appropriate care or replacement instructions.
