How To Clean A Braai Grid

A braai is part of everyday life in many homes, and the braai grid is the most used item when cooking meat. With regular use, grease, burnt food, and smoke stains build up, making the grid dirty and affecting the taste of food. Cleaning a braai grid is simple when you use the right methods and keep it in good condition after every braai. Below is a clear guide on how to clean a braai grid at home using common household products.

1. Start With Basic Scraping
   When the braai is still warm but not hot, scrape the grid to remove burnt meat and fat. Use a wire brush or a scrubbing tool designed for braai grids. This helps remove the top layer of dirt before deeper cleaning. If the grid is cold, heat it slightly to loosen stuck particles, then scrape again.
2. Soak the Grid in Hot Soapy Water
   Fill a large basin or sink with hot water and add dishwashing liquid. Place the grid in the water and let it soak for at least 30 minutes. The hot water softens grease and burnt food, making it easier to scrub. After soaking, use a sponge or brush to scrub off dirt from every corner.
3. Use Baking Soda and Vinegar for Tough Dirt
   Stubborn stains need stronger action. Sprinkle baking soda over the grid and then pour vinegar on top. The mixture will foam and help break down burnt grease. Leave it for about 15 minutes then scrub again with a brush. Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
4. Try Oven Cleaner for Heavy Build-Up
   If the grid has not been cleaned for a long time, oven cleaner can help. Spray the oven cleaner on the grid and place it inside a plastic bag to keep the product active. Leave it for a few hours or overnight depending on the dirt level. Next day, wear gloves and wash it well with warm soapy water to remove the chemical smell.
5. Burn Off Residue on the Braai
   Another method is to place the grid back on the braai and light a strong fire underneath. The heat burns off leftover grease and dirt. After the fire burns down, use a wire brush to clean the remaining ash. This method is quick and useful when you want to clean before cooking again.
6. Use Lemon and Salt for Natural Cleaning
   For a natural cleaning method, cut a lemon in half and dip it in coarse salt. Rub it over the grid while it is still warm. The acid in lemon dissolves grease and salt scrubs away stuck-on food. This also removes bad odors and leaves the grid smelling fresh.
7. Rinse and Dry Properly
   Once the grid is clean, rinse it with clean water to remove soap or chemical residue. Dry it completely using a clean cloth or let it air dry. Water left on the metal can cause rust, so drying is important.
8. Prevent Rust With Oil
   After drying, apply a small amount of cooking oil to the grid using a paper towel. This prevents rust and keeps the grid easy to clean next time. Store it in a dry place until the next braai.
9. Clean After Every Use
   The best way to keep a braai grid clean is to wash it immediately after cooking. A quick scrub while food residue is still soft prevents heavy dirt build-up. Regular cleaning also improves hygiene and keeps your meat tasting delicious.

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