How do I remove tar stains from my grill?

You can clean tar stains from grills by pre-soaking the grate, scrubbing with a bristle brush, rinsing with hot water, and seasoning with oil or butter to restore its protective coating.

What should I use to clean the tar stains?

A bristle brush or wire brush should be able to remove light tar stains. For more stubborn tar stains, you can use steel wool and kerosene.

WikiLaundry > Stains > Tar > Grills

Remove Tar Stains and Restore Your Grill to Its Former Glory

Nothing beats a BBQ on the grill, but when tar stains build up, the result isn't so appetizing. Cleaning tar stains from grills doesn't have to be a daunting task though. Here are some simple steps to get your grill looking as good as new!

Updated 23 Jun 2023

By Peter Blackwood

From burgers to bacon, having friends over for a cookout is one of life's simple pleasures. Grilling the food adds an extra layer of flavor, but it can also come with a price - tar stains. Tar from the charcoal or wood chips used for grilling can get stuck on grates, leaving nasty dark spots. But don't worry! Cleaning tar stains from grills is straightforward and doesn't require any harsh chemicals or expensive cleaners. Follow these easy steps and you'll have your grill looking as good as new.

Step 1: Pre-Soak the Grate

The first step in cleaning tar stains from your grill is to pre-soak the grate. Fill a tub with warm water and add a mild detergent or mixture of baking soda and dish soap. Place the grate into soapy water and let it soak for at least half an hour. This will help loosen the tar for easier removal.

Step 2: Scrub the Grate

Once the pre-soaking is done, take the grate out of the water and scrub it with a bristle brush. Don't forget to focus on tough-to-reach spots! If the brush isn't strong enough to remove the stains, try a wire brush or steel wool. Be careful not to scratch surface, though, as this could lead to further staining.

Step 3: Rinse Grate

Once you've scrubbed the grate, rinse it off with hot water and let it dry. Once dry, if any tar stains remain, you can use steel wool and kerosene to remove them. Dip a small section of steel wool into the kerosene and rub it onto the stain. Make sure you do this in a well-ventilated area.

Step 4: Season the Grate

Finally, season the grate with oil or butter to restore its protective coating. This will prevent rust and make it easier to clean next time. Make sure to apply the oil or butter evenly and rub it in using a paper towel.

Cleaning tar stains from grills isn't hard, but it does require some elbow grease. With a bit of patience and the right tools, you can get your grill looking as good as new. Now get out there and enjoy that delicious BBQ!

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