Start by preheating your grill on high heat for about 10-15 minutes. This will help loosen any stuck-on debris and make it easier to clean.
Once the grill is preheated, use a grill brush with stiff bristles to scrub the grates thoroughly. Make sure to scrub both the top and bottom surfaces of the grates. This will help remove any burnt-on residue or food particles. If you don't have a grill brush, you can use a ball of aluminum foil folded into a pad and held with tongs.
For a deeper clean, you can wash the grates with warm, soapy water. Remove the grates from the grill and scrub them with a sponge or brush using mild dish soap. Rinse them thoroughly with clean water to remove any soap residue.
If there are any stubborn stains or residue on the grates, you can use a mixture of baking soda and water to create a paste. Apply the paste to the grates and let it sit for a few minutes. Then scrub the grates again with a brush or sponge to remove the stubborn residue. Rinse well with water afterward.
Once the grates are clean, dry them thoroughly with a clean cloth or allow them to air dry. Moisture can cause rusting, so it's important to ensure they are completely dry. Afterward, lightly coat the grates with a thin layer of cooking oil or spray them with non-stick cooking spray. This helps prevent sticking and protects the grates from rust.
To keep your grates in good condition, it's recommended to clean them after each use. Use a grill brush to remove any remaining food particles or debris. For occasional deep cleaning, repeat the steps above.