How to clean a stainless steel BBQ

Step-by-step guide to cleaning your portable BBQ:

Materials needed:

1. BBQ scraper
2. Dishwashing detergent
3. Soft sponge
4. Microfibre cloth
5. Bowl or bucket of warm soapy water
6. Non-scratch scouring pad
7. Paper towels
8. Bi-carb soda
9. White cleaning vinegar
10. Silicone-based stainless polish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Safety precautions: Ensure the BBQ is turned off and the hot plate is completely cool before cleaning to avoid burns.
2. Scrape hot plate: Use a BBQ scraper to remove grease, oil, or stuck-on food from the hot plate. Use a paper towel to wipe and remove residue from hot plate and wipe scraper clean throughout this process. Dispose of residues properly.
3. Wipe down: With a soft sponge or microfibre cloth gently wipe down full exterior of the BBQ. The exterior surfaces of the BBQ should be cleaned or wiped regularly to prevent tea-staining and to prolong the high finish of the stainless steel. If tea-staining occurs, it should be attended to in the early stages as it will be much easier to remove. If left, it will gradually get worse until it turns to rust.
4. Prepare soapy water: Using a large bowl or small bucket, mix a solution of warm soapy water.
5. Wipe down: Using the bowl or bucket of warm soapy water, dampen the soft dish sponge or cloth and gently wipe down the full exterior of the barbecue. It may be helpful to remove the control knob while wiping around the control panel. Wiping the exterior will help to remove general contamination found in the air such as dust, dirt, and salt. Do not pour water directly over the BBQ controls.
6. Clean hot plate: Make sure the fat cup is empty. Dampen the non-scratch scouring pad in the warm soapy water and scrub the hot plate. The duplex grade stainless steel hot plate is extremely durable and as much force as is necessary may be applied to the scouring pad. To remove stubborn burns and black marks, pour a small amount of white cleaning vinegar onto the hot plate and add a sprinkling of bi-carb soda. Allow the bi-carb soda to fizz for approximately 10-20 seconds then continue to scrub the burn marks with the non-scratch scouring pad. Do not pour water directly over the BBQ controls.
7. Clean the fat cup: Remove the fat cup from the front of the BBQ and dispose of the contents properly. Clean the fat cup with warm soapy water, then return it to the BBQ.
8. Dip a soft sponge or microfibre cloth into the soapy water, squeeze excess water out and gently scrub the exterior and interior surfaces of the BBQ. Pay special attention to areas with grease or stains. For stubborn stains, create a paste with bi-carb soda and water, apply it, let it sit, and then gently scrub.
9. Dry thoroughly: Use a clean microfibre cloth to give a final wipe down and dry all stainless steel surfaces of the BBQ; exterior, interior and hot plate. Drying helps prevent water spots, tea-staining, and streaks from forming.
10. Polish exterior (optional): If you want to enhance the shine of the stainless steel, you can apply a stainless steel polish to the BBQ exterior according to the manufacturer's instructions. Buff the surfaces with a clean cloth after applying the polish. When applied to the external surfaces, silicone-based polishes are ideal to help the stainless steel form a protective layer to prevent tea-staining and rusting. (Do not use silicone-based stainless polish on the cooking surface/hot plate).
11. Regular maintenance: Clean the BBQ exterior and hot plate after each use to prevent staining and build-up of grease. Regular cleaning will make the overall maintenance easier.
12. Blackening hot plate: Due to the high heat produced by the appliance it is normal for blackening to occur to the hot plate. This can be from the heat of the appliance alone and/or a combination of the food being cooked. To help remove burn marks, mix a small amount of white vinegar and water together and spray or apply the solution to the hot plate. Work this into the surface of the hot plate with a non-scratch scouring pad to bring the hot plate back to its original finish. Rinse with water and dry thoroughly.
13. Covering the BBQ: Consider using one of our portable BBQ covers when your BBQ is not in use to protect it from the elements, which can lead to rusting. We also have a large storage bag to store the BBQ away, if needed.

Step-by-step guide to cleaning your built-in BBQ:

Materials needed:

1. BBQ scraper
2. Mild dishwashing detergent
3. Soft sponge & microfibre cloth
4. Soft scrubbing brush or Scotch-Brite™
5. Large bowl or small bucket of warm water
6. Small towel or paper towels
7. Bi-carb soda (optional)
8. White vinegar (optional)
9. Silicone-based stainless polish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Safety precautions: Ensure the BBQ is turned off and the hot plate is completely cool before cleaning to avoid burns.
2. Scrape hot plate: Use a BBQ scraper to remove any stuck-on food particles and debris from the hot plate. Use a microfibre cloth or paper towel to wipe and remove residue from hot plate. Dispose of these residues properly.
3. Wipe down: With a soft sponge or microfibre cloth gently wipe down full exterior of the BBQ. The exterior surfaces of the BBQ should be cleaned or wiped regularly to prevent tea-staining and to prolong the high finish of the stainless steel. If tea-staining occurs, it should be attended to in the early stages as it will be much easier to remove. If left, it will gradually get worse until it turns to rust.
4. Prepare soapy water: Using a large bowl or small bucket, mix a solution of warm soapy water.
5. Wash exterior & interior: Dip a soft sponge or microfibre cloth into the soapy water, squeeze excess water out and gently scrub the exterior and interior surfaces of the BBQ. Pay special attention to areas with grease or stains. For stubborn stains, create a paste with bi-carb soda and water, apply it, let it sit, and then gently scrub. Washing the exterior will help to remove general contamination found in the air such as dust, dirt, and salt. Do not pour water directly over the BBQ controls.
6. Wipe exterior & interior: Rinse the sponge or microfibre cloth well and wipe exterior and interior clean to remove all detergent and residue from the BBQ. Make sure to wipe thoroughly to avoid leaving any soap/detergent behind.
7. Wash hot plate: Dip a soft sponge or microfibre cloth into the soapy water, squeeze excess water out and gently scrub the hot plate. Pay special attention to areas with build-up, grease, or stains. For stubborn stains and marks, create a paste with bi-carb soda and water, apply it, let it sit, and then gently scrub. Do not pour water directly over the BBQ controls.
8. Rinse hot plate: Before rinsing check the fat cup is empty. Fill a small cup with water, pour a little bit of water onto the hot plate to rinse off the detergent, grease, and residue. Be careful not to pour too much water at once onto the plate - ensure that the fat cup does not overflow. Use a BBQ scraper to scrape the water towards the hole in the middle of the hot plate to remove excess water. Empty the fat cup in-between rinses, if needed. Ensure all the cleaning solution is removed.
9. Vinegar solution (optional): If there are still stains or residue on the hot plate, you can create a mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar. Apply the solution to the affected areas, let it sit for a few minutes, then gently scrub, and rinse off (Step 8: Rinse hot plate).
10. Dry thoroughly: Use a clean microfibre cloth or paper towel to dry all stainless steel surfaces of the BBQ; exterior, interior and hot plate. Drying helps prevent water spots, tea-staining, and streaks from forming.
11. Blackening hot plate: Due to the high heat produced by the appliance it is normal for blackening to occur to the hot plate. This can be from the heat of the appliance alone and/or a combination of the food being cooked. To help remove burn marks, mix a small amount of white vinegar and water together (Step 9: Vinegar solution) and spray or apply the solution to the hot plate. Work this into the surface of the hot plate with a non-scratch scouring pad to bring the hot plate back to its original finish. Rinse with water (Step 8: Rinse hot plate) and dry thoroughly (Step 10: Dry thoroughly).
12. Polish exterior (optional): If you want to enhance the shine of the stainless steel, you can apply a stainless steel polish to the BBQ exterior according to the manufacturer's instructions. Buff the surfaces with a clean cloth after applying the polish. When applied to the external surfaces, silicone-based polishes are ideal to help the stainless steel form a protective layer to prevent tea-staining and rusting. (Do not use silicone-based stainless polish on the cooking surface/hot plate).
13. Regular maintenance: Clean the BBQ exterior and hot plate after each use to prevent grease build-up and staining. Regular cleaning will make the overall maintenance easier and subsequent cleanings easier.

Materials Needed:

1. Wire grill brush, BBQ scraper or grill block
2. Mild dishwashing detergent
3. Soft sponge & cloth
4. Warm water
5. Bucket or basin
6. Towel or paper towels
7. Bi-carb soda (optional)
8. White vinegar (optional)
9. Silicone-based stainless polish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Safety Precautions: Ensure the BBQ is turned off and the BBQ plate is completely cool before cleaning to avoid burns.
2. Scrape Grill Plate: Use a wire grill brush, BBQ scraper or grill block to remove any stuck-on food particles and debris from the grill plate. Scrub in the direction of the plates' bars to dislodge residue. If you don't have a grill brush or similar tool, you can use a crumpled ball of aluminium foil to achieve a similar effect. Use a cloth or paper towel to wipe and remove residue from grill plate. Dispose of these residues properly.
3. Wipe Down: With a soft sponge or cloth gently wipe down full exterior of the BBQ. The exterior surfaces of the BBQ should be cleaned or wiped regularly to prevent tea-staining and to prolong the high finish of the stainless steel. If tea-staining occurs, it should be attended to in the early stages as it will be much easier to remove. If left, it will gradually get worse until it turns to rust.
4. Prepare Soapy Water: Fill a bucket or basin with warm water and add a few drops of mild dishwashing detergent. Mix the solution thoroughly.
5. Wash Exterior & Interior: Dip a soft sponge or cloth into the soapy water, squeeze excess water out and gently scrub the exterior and interior surfaces of the BBQ. Pay special attention to areas with grease or stains. For stubborn stains, create a paste with bi-carb soda and water, apply it, let it sit, and then gently scrub. Washing the exterior will help to remove general contamination found in the air such as dust, dirt, and salt. Do not pour water directly over the BBQ controls.
6. Wipe Exterior & Interior: Rinse the sponge or cloth well and wipe exterior and interior clean to remove all detergent and residue from the BBQ. Make sure to wipe thoroughly to avoid leaving any soap/detergent behind.
7. Remove Grill Plate: Remove the grill plate from the BBQ to wash.
8. Soak Grill Plate: If the grill plate is particularly greasy or has stubborn residue, you can soak it in the soapy water for a while. This will help loosen the grime and make cleaning easier.
9. If Soaked, Repeat Scrape: Once soaked, repeat scrape process. Use a wire grill brush, BBQ scraper or grill block to remove any stuck-on food particles and debris from the grill plate. Scrub in the direction of the plates' bars to dislodge residue.
10. Wash Grill Plate: Either submerge grill plate in a bucket or basin of soapy water or dip a soft sponge or cloth into the soapy water, squeeze excess water out and gently scrub the grill plate over a towel or wipeable surface. Pay special attention to areas with build-up, grease, or stains. For stubborn stains and marks, create a paste with bi-carb soda and water, apply it, let it sit, and then gently scrub.
11. Rinse Grill Plate: Rinse grill plate with water to remove the detergent, grease, and residue. Ensure all the cleaning solution is removed from the grill plate. Do not pour water directly over the BBQ controls.
12. Vinegar Solution (Optional): If there are still stains or residue on the grill plate, you can create a mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar. Apply the solution to the affected areas, let it sit for a few minutes, then gently scrub, and rinse off (Step 9: Rinse Grill Plate).
13. Dry Thoroughly: Use a clean cloth or paper towel to dry all stainless steel surfaces of the BBQ; exterior, interior and grill plate. Drying helps prevent water spots, tea-staining, and streaks from forming.
14. Check Drip Tray: If necessary, remove drip tray, empty, replace fat absorbent material then return to BBQ.
15. Blackening Grill Plate: Due to the high heat produced by the appliance it is normal for blackening to occur to the grill plate. This can be from the heat of the appliance alone and/or a combination of the food being cooked. To help remove burn marks, mix a small amount of white vinegar and water together (Step 12: Vinegar Solution) and spray or apply the solution to the grill plate. Work this into the surface of the grill plate with a non-scratch scouring pad to bring the grill plate back to its original finish. Rinse with water (Step 11: Rinse Grill Plate) and dry thoroughly (Step 13: Dry Thoroughly).
16. Polish Exterior (Optional): If you want to enhance the shine of the stainless steel, you can apply a stainless steel polish to the BBQ exterior according to the manufacturer's instructions. Buff the surfaces with a clean cloth after applying the polish. When applied to the external surfaces, silicone-based polishes are ideal to help the stainless steel form a protective layer to prevent tea-staining and rusting. (Do not use silicone-based stainless polish on the cooking surface/grill plate).
17. Regular Maintenance: Clean the BBQ exterior and grill plate after each use to prevent grease build-up and staining. Regular cleaning will make the overall maintenance easier and subsequent cleanings easier.

Materials needed:

1. Plate lifter tool
2. Mild dishwashing detergent
3. Soft sponge or microfibre cloth
4. Soft scrubbing brush or Scotch-Brite™
5. Large bowl or small bucket of warm water
6. Small towel or paper towels
7. Bi-carb soda (optional)
8. Silicone-based stainless polish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Safety precautions: Ensure the BBQ is turned off and the hot plate is completely cool before cleaning to avoid burns.
2. Wipe down: With a soft sponge or microfibre cloth gently wipe down full exterior of the BBQ. The exterior surfaces of the BBQ should be cleaned or wiped regularly to prevent tea-staining and to prolong the high finish of the stainless steel. If tea-staining occurs, it should be attended to in the early stages as it will be much easier to remove. If left, it will gradually get worse until it turns to rust.
3. Prepare soapy water: Using a large bowl or small bucket, mix a solution of warm soapy water.
4. Remove hot plate: Using the plate lifter tool, remove the hot plate from the BBQ.
5. Soak hot plate: If the hot plate is particularly greasy or has stubborn residue, you can soak it in the soapy water for a while. This will help loosen the grime and make cleaning easier.
6. Wash hot plate: Instructions on how best to clean each of the Eclipse hot plate types below:
   1. Teflon coated aluminium hot plate - How to wash: Submerge a soft sponge or microfibre cloth in the soapy water, then gently wipe down the Teflon coated hot plate. Pay special attention to areas with build-up, grease, or stains. If needed, use a soft scrubbing brush, and gently scrub the affected area.
   2. Glass enamel coated cast iron hot plate - How to wash: Submerge a soft sponge or microfibre cloth in the soapy water, then gently wipe down the glass enamel hot plate. Pay special attention to areas with build-up, grease, or stains. If needed, use a soft scrubbing brush, and gently scrub the affected area. For stubborn stains and marks, create a paste with bi-carb soda and water, apply it, let it sit, and then gently scrub.
7. Rinse hot plate thoroughly: Rinse the hot plate under warm running water to remove the soapy residue. Make sure to rinse it thoroughly to ensure there's no soap left on the surface.
8. Dry hot plate: After cleaning, use a clean and dry microfibre cloth to pat the hot plate dry or leave to air dry. Make sure hot plate is completely dry before storing or returning to the BBQ to prevent any water spots or rust from forming.
9. Wipe drainage gutter: Once the hot plate is removed you will see the internal drainage gutter. Dip a soft sponge or microfibre cloth into the soapy water, squeeze excess water out and gently wipe the drainage gutter clean.
10. Wipe BBQ exterior & control panel: Dip a soft sponge or microfibre cloth into the soapy water, squeeze excess water out and gently wipe the control panel and the BBQ exterior. Pay special attention to areas with grease or stains. Washing the exterior will help to remove general contamination found in the air such as dust, dirt, and salt. Do not pour water directly over the BBQ controls. Rinse the sponge or microfibre cloth well, squeeze excess water out and wipe control panel and BBQ exterior clean to remove all detergent and residue from the BBQ. Make sure to wipe thoroughly to avoid leaving any soap/detergent behind.
11. Dry BBQ exterior thoroughly: Use a clean cloth or paper towel to dry all stainless steel surfaces of the BBQ; exterior and control panel. Drying helps prevent water spots, tea-staining, and streaks from forming.
12. Polish exterior (optional): If you want to enhance the shine of the stainless steel, you can apply a stainless steel polish to the BBQ exterior and control panel according to the manufacturer's instructions. Buff the surfaces with a clean cloth after applying the polish. When applied to the external surfaces, silicone-based polishes are ideal to help the stainless steel form a protective layer to prevent tea-staining and rusting. (Do not use silicone-based stainless polish on the hot plate).
13. Regular maintenance: To maintain the Teflon and glass enamel coating's longevity, avoid using high heat settings and metal utensils while cooking. Always clean the BBQ exterior and hot plate after each use to prevent grease build-up and staining. Regular cleaning will make the overall maintenance easier and subsequent cleanings easier.
14. Avoid Abrasives: Do not use abrasive cleaners, steel wool, or harsh scrubbing tools as they could scratch the hot plate.

DO NOT guide:

1. Do not hose your electric BBQ.
2. Do not pour water directly over the BBQ controls.
3. Do not use a scouring pad on the stainless steel body, surround or control panel as it will damage the stainless steel surface, leaving it prone to rusting.
4. Do not use steel wool on any part of the BBQ.
5. Do not use carbon steel on stainless steel surfaces as it will permanently scratch and damage your BBQ.
6. Do not use silicone-based stainless polish on the hot plate.
7. Do not do not use abrasive cleaners, steel wool, or harsh scrubbing tools as they could scratch the hot plate.

View Eclipse BBQ

Materials needed:

1. Plate lifter tool
2. Mild dishwashing detergent
3. Soft sponge or microfibre cloth
4. Soft scrubbing brush or Scotch-Brite™
5. Large bowl or small bucket of warm water
6. Small towel or paper towels
7. Bi-carb soda (optional)
8. Silicone-based stainless polish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Safety precautions: Ensure the BBQ is turned off and the hot plate is completely cool before cleaning to avoid burns.
2. Wipe down: With a soft sponge or microfibre cloth gently wipe down full exterior of the BBQ. The exterior surfaces of the BBQ should be cleaned or wiped regularly to prevent tea-staining and to prolong the high finish of the stainless steel. If tea-staining occurs, it should be attended to in the early stages as it will be much easier to remove. If left, it will gradually get worse until it turns to rust.
3. Prepare soapy water: Using a large bowl or small bucket, mix a solution of warm soapy water.
4. Remove hot plates:  Using the plate lifter tool, remove the hot plates from the BBQ.
5. Soak hot plates: If the hot plates are particularly greasy or have stubborn residue, you can soak them in the soapy water for a while. This will help loosen the grime and make cleaning easier.
6. Wash hot plates: Submerge a soft sponge or microfibre cloth in the soapy water, then gently wipe down the Teflon coated hot plates. Pay special attention to areas with build-up, grease, or stains. If needed, use a soft scrubbing brush or Scotch-Brite™, and gently scrub the affected area.
7. Rinse hot plates thoroughly: Rinse the hot plates under warm running water to remove the soapy residue. Make sure to rinse it thoroughly to ensure there's no soap left on the surface.
8. Dry hot plates: After cleaning and rinsing, use a clean and dry microfibre cloth to pat the hot plates dry or leave to air dry. Make sure hot plates are completely dry before storing or returning to the BBQ to prevent any water spots or rust from forming.
9. Wipe drainage gutter: Once the hot plates are removed you will see the internal drainage gutter and centre strip. Dip a soft sponge or microfibre cloth into the soapy water, squeeze excess water out and gently wipe the drainage gutter clean.
10. Wipe BBQ exterior & control panel: Dip a soft sponge or microfibre cloth into the soapy water, squeeze excess water out and gently wipe the control panel and the BBQ exterior. Pay special attention to areas with grease or stains. Washing the exterior will help to remove general contamination found in the air such as dust, dirt, and salt. Do not pour water directly over the BBQ controls. Rinse the sponge or microfibre cloth well, squeeze excess water out and wipe control panel and BBQ exterior clean to remove all detergent and residue from the BBQ. Make sure to wipe thoroughly to avoid leaving any soap/detergent behind.
11. Dry BBQ exterior thoroughly: Use a clean cloth or paper towel to dry all stainless steel surfaces of the BBQ; exterior and control panel. Drying helps prevent water spots, tea-staining, and streaks from forming.
12. Polish exterior (optional): If you want to enhance the shine of the stainless steel, you can apply a stainless steel polish to the BBQ exterior and control panel according to the manufacturer's instructions. Buff the surfaces with a clean cloth after applying the polish. When applied to the external surfaces, silicone-based polishes are ideal to help the stainless steel form a protective layer to prevent tea-staining and rusting. (Do not use silicone-based stainless polish on the hot plate).
13. Regular maintenance: To maintain the Teflon coating's longevity, avoid using high heat settings and metal utensils while cooking. Always clean the BBQ exterior and hot plates after each use to prevent grease build-up and staining. Regular cleaning will make the overall maintenance easier and subsequent cleanings easier.
14. Avoid abrasives: Do not use abrasive cleaners, steel wool, or harsh scrubbing tools as they could scratch the hot plate.

DO NOT guide:

1. Do not hose your electric BBQ.
2. Do not pour water directly over the BBQ controls.
3. Do not use a scouring pad on the stainless steel body, surround or control panel as it will damage the stainless steel surface, leaving it prone to rusting.
4. Do not use steel wool on any part of the BBQ.
5. Do not use carbon steel on stainless steel surfaces as it will permanently scratch and damage your BBQ.
6. Do not use silicone-based stainless steel polish on the hot plate.
7. Do not use abrasive cleaners, steel wool, or harsh scrubbing tools as they could scratch the hot plate.

View Epicure Pro BBQ

External cleaning step-by-step guide:

Materials Needed:

1. Mild dishwashing detergent
2. Soft sponge & cloth
3. Warm water
4. Bi-carb soda (optional)
5. Silicone-based stainless polish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Wipe Down: The exterior surfaces of the BBQ should be cleaned or wiped down regularly with a soft sponge or cloth to prevent tea-staining and to prolong the high finish of the stainless steel. If tea-staining occurs, it should be attended to in the early stages as it will be much easier to remove. If left, it will gradually get worse until it turns to rust.
2. Prepare Soapy Water: Fill a bucket or basin with warm water and add a few drops of mild dishwashing detergent. Mix the solution thoroughly.
3. Wash Exterior: Dip a soft sponge or cloth into the soapy water and gently scrub the exterior surface of the BBQ. Pay special attention to areas with grease or stains. For stubborn stains, create a paste with bi-carb soda and water, apply it, let it sit, and then scrub. Washing the exterior will help to remove general contamination found in the air such as dust, dirt, and salt. Do not pour water directly over the BBQ controls.
4. Rinse Exterior: Rinse the sponge or cloth well and wipe clean to remove the soap and residue from the BBQ. Make sure to wipe thoroughly to avoid leaving any soap behind.
5. Dry Thoroughly: Use a clean cloth to dry the stainless steel exterior surface of the BBQ. Drying helps prevent water spots and streaks from forming.
6. Polish Exterior (Optional): If you want to enhance the shine of the stainless steel, you can apply a stainless steel polish according to the manufacturer's instructions. Buff the surfaces with a clean cloth after applying the polish. When applied to the external surfaces, silicone-based polishes are ideal to help the stainless steel form a protective layer to prevent tea-staining and rusting. (Do not use silicone based products on the cooking surface).
7. Regular Maintenance: Clean your stainless steel BBQ after each use to prevent grease build-up and staining. Regular cleaning will make the overall maintenance easier.