Cleaning Your Barbecue and Storing Grilling Supplies
There’s nothing better than having a barbecue with family, sunny skies, yummy food on charcoal and gas barbecue grills, and the smell of burgers and veggies in the air. But before you start grilling this season, it’s important to take care of your grill. Cleaning your grill and storing your tools the right way helps it last longer and makes cooking easier. Whether you’re looking for fun backyard cookout ideas or just want to stop rust from forming, this guide will help.
Why Grill Maintenance and Storage Matter
Taking care of your grill and storing your grilling tools the right way helps everything last longer and makes cooking easier.
Extend the Life of Your Grill
Bad weather can be rough on your grill. Rain, snow, sun, and grease can cause it to get rusty or break down over time. Whether you use a charcoal or gas grill, cleaning it often and storing it the right way can help it last longer and save you money.
Easy Grilling for the Whole Family
When your grill area is clean and everything is easy to find, you spend less time searching for tools and more time having fun. Taking care of your grill makes family gatherings more fun, so you can enjoy cool backyard grilling ideas like making kebabs, mini burgers, or tasty grilled treats.
How To Deep Clean Your Barbecue Grill
Deep-cleaning your barbecue grill helps it work better, last longer, and keeps your food tasting great all season long.
Prep Your Cleaning Area
Before you start cleaning, gather what you need:
- Strong gloves
- Grill brushes
- Cleaner
- Vinegar
- Water
- A bucket
Put down an old newspaper or a cloth to catch any mess. If you don’t want to clean at home, a drive-up storage unit is a great place. You can bring your grill there, clean it without making a mess in your yard, and store it when you’re done.
How To Clean Barbecue Grill Gates
Learn how to clean your grill grates, depending on your grill type:
- Charcoal grills. Remove the grates and soak them in a mixture of hot water and vinegar. Scrub with a stiff-bristle grill brush.
- Gas grills. Turn the heat to high for 15 minutes to burn off residue, then let it cool. Remove and clean the grates with a degreaser.
Don’t forget the inside of the lid and firebox. Use a putty knife to scrape off built-up carbon and old grease.
Rust Prevention Tips for Different Types of Barbecue Grills
Keeping your grill from rusting is important, especially if it stays outside. Charcoal grills can collect moisture, so after cleaning them, make sure they are completely dry. Then, lightly coat the grates with vegetable oil to stop rust from forming. It’s also a good idea to store the grill under a weatherproof cover or inside a shed.
For gas grills, always disconnect the propane tank before storing. Wipe down all the metal parts after using it, and cover the grill with a strong, weatherproof cover that defends against sun and rain.
Organizing Grill Accessories and Tools
While having the right barbecue accessories like tongs, spatulas, and meat thermometers may make grilling easier and more fun, it’s also important to know how to organize them for the next time you need them. You can easily sort them by type, such as cleaning and cooking items. Also, make sure you put the ones you’ll use the most in an easy-to-reach spot.
You can also keep your tools tidy by using wall hooks or magnetic strips, storing them in plastic bins, or even creating a designated grill zone at home with labeled shelves for tools, seasonings, and utensils.
Indoor vs. Outdoor Storage Options
If you use the right cover, you can store your grill and tools outside. Try weatherproof cabinets or deck boxes to keep things dry, or use a barbecue cart with storage drawers. A strong grill cover is also a must, as it should be your first line of defense against rain, sun, and dust.
When it gets colder or if you won’t be grilling for a while, it’s best to move your items indoors. Store your grill accessories in labeled bins and keep them in a basement, storage unit, garage, or mudroom. This helps shield them from bad weather and pests until you’re ready to grill again.
Benefits of Using Self Storage for Grilling Gear
Using self storage for your grilling gear helps keep it tucked away, clean, and ready to use, especially when you’re not grilling every day.
Take Care of Your Investment
Self storage is a great way to keep your grilling gear organized when you’re not using it. Storing your grill, tools, and even spare bags of charcoal or propane tanks in a storage unit helps keep them away from bad weather, rust, and dirt. It also helps keep your stuff from getting bumped, broken, or lost.
Convenient Access With Drive-Up Storage
Drive-up storage units make loading and unloading super easy. You can drive your car or truck right up to the door of your storage unit, just like pulling into your garage. This is really helpful when you have a heavy grill or big tools to move, like storage bins full of accessories. You won’t have to carry them through long hallways or squeeze through small doors.
Getting Ready for Your Next Backyard Cookout
Getting your grill and tools ready ahead of time makes your next backyard cookout easy and fun.
Stay Organized and Ready
When your grill is clean and your tools are all in one spot, you don’t have to waste time getting ready, as you’re already set to go! Just give your grill a quick wipe and check that you have everything you need, like tongs, spatulas, and fuel. That way, you can easily plan a last-minute barbecue with family whenever the weather is nice or you’re just in the mood for some good food and outdoor fun.
Inspiring Backyard Barbecue Ideas
Once your grill is clean and your gear is in order, you’re free to get creative. Try these backyard barbecue ideas:
- Create a burger bar with toppings stored in stackable bins.
- Use a wheeled cooler as a drink station.
- Prep skewers and sides in advance, storing them in labeled refrigerator-proof containers.
- Set up a hot dog station.
- Make a s’mores tray.
- Use string lights or lanterns.
Store Your Grilling Gear the Easy Way With The Storage Manager
Whether you’re storing your gear for the season or prepping for the next big cookout, The Storage Manager is here to help. With affordable storage units, drive-up storage, and clear guidance on self storage prices, we’ll make sure your grilling game stays strong all yearlong. Contact us online today to find the perfect self storage solution for your grilling gear and keep your backyard sizzling.