Grill Brush 101

Grill Brush 101 – 5280 Culinary Gear Facts

With the start of grilling season we know it’s important to take some time to get our grills checked and cleaned, tanks filled and  ready for the grill season ahead.  Did you know that this is also a great time to check your grill tools and make sure they are ready for battle?

Recently there have been news reports of grill brush bristles shedding onto the grill and becoming lodged into the food you’re cooking.  Let’s walk through what causes this and how to prevent this.

The grill brush is subjected to some amazing temperature extremes and then left to bake in the sun while hanging off the side of our grill.  Colorado sun does a number on our patio furniture, imagine what it’s doing to our grill brush handle or head.

Some of the newer (and our favorite) grill brushes are wire, wound around the bristles and finished with a plastic handle.

Care Tips:  So how do I care for my brush to ensure it lasts longer and is safe?  Here are some tips from our many hours at the helm of grills each year (over 1200 hours per year)

• Store grill brush under the grill, or inside the cooled grill, away from the sun
• Do not brush grill grates that are still over 400 degrees
• Keep brush free from grease and oil build up
• Check brush before each use for cracks, loose bristles or any damage to the integrity of the brush

What type of grill brush should I use?

• We prefer a wire wound brush with bristles woven into the head, long metal handle and plastic grip, like the Weber Grill Brushes pictured above
• Use a longer handled brush to keep you farther away from the heat and potential flinging of grill particles

What’s the bottom line?

Grill brushes come in all shapes and sizes, choose the one that is best for your grill, grill grates and environment.  Be sure to check it before each use to ensure it’s in good condition and not shedding bristles.  With a little TLC and some due diligence, your grilling season will be worry free.  But if I had to pick one grill brush, it’s the Weber.  All-around great brush and can handle the toughest of grate cleaning jobs.  Available at your local Ace Hardware in the grilling department.  Happy Grilling, Chef Jason

Our top brush – Weber Grill Brush