Keep Your Outdoor Kitchen in Top Shape Year-Round
An outdoor kitchen is an investment in both your home’s value and your lifestyle. Whether you’re grilling for family dinners or entertaining guests, regular maintenance is key to keeping your outdoor kitchen looking great and functioning at its best. At American Grill & Hearth, we specialize in designing high-quality outdoor kitchens that stand the test of time, and we’re here to share expert tips on how to care for yours.
Grill Cleaning Must-Haves
Before getting into the scrubbing and shining, here are a few go-to products we recommend to keep your grill looking its best:
Microfiber Cloths: Gentle on surfaces and super effective. Use different colours for different products to keep things clean and simple—no cross-contamination.
Bar Keepers Friend (Paste): A serious go-to for tackling brown spots and stainless steel build-up. The paste version is your best bet and easy to find at most grocery stores.
CitruShine Stainless Steel Polish: Leaves your grill gleaming while also helping prevent future stains. Just remember—always wipe with the grain.
Noxon 7: Dealing with rust or stubborn stains? This one packs a punch. Just be sure to use it carefully and follow the label instructions. You’ll usually find it at hardware stores.
CitruSafe: Made with citrus-based d-Limonene, this cleaner is both safe and effective. Great for cleaning grill surfaces without the harsh chemicals.
With the right tools, keeping your grill clean is easier—and way more satisfying.
Clean Your Grill Regularly
Your grill is the heart of your outdoor kitchen, and proper care ensures it performs well for years to come. After each use:
Brush the Grates – Use a grill brush to remove food residue and grease. Be sure to check for any debris or loose bristles before placing food on the grates, as bristles can present a hazard if they are transferred to your food and are accidentally consumed.
Empty Drip Trays – Prevent grease buildup, which can lead to flare-ups.
Deep Clean Monthly – Remove burner covers, clean inside components, and check for blockages in gas burners.
Cover Your Grill – Protect it from the elements with a high-quality, weather-resistant cover, available at American Grill and Hearth.
Protect Your Countertops
Outdoor countertops are exposed to weather, food spills, and heavy use. Maintain their beauty and durability by:
Sealing Natural Stone – If you have granite or marble, apply a sealant to prevent stains and weather damage.
Please note:
If you opted for AGH’s flagship countertop material, Cosentino by Dekton, sealing your countertops is not necessary. With Cosentino countertops, you get the natural stone look without the extra maintenance that comes with it. This is thanks to its ultra-durable, non-porous, and low-maintenance surface.
Wiping Down Surfaces – Use a mild detergent and soft cloth to clean stainless steel, stone, or tile surfaces.
Avoiding Harsh Chemicals – Stick to gentle, pH-balanced cleaners to preserve the material’s integrity.
Care for Your Outdoor Appliances
From refrigerators to sinks, your outdoor kitchen appliances need routine maintenance:
Refrigerators & Ice Makers – Regularly wipe down the interior, clean vents, and check for proper cooling.
Sinks & Faucets – Prevent clogs by flushing drains with a mix of baking soda and vinegar.
Let American Grill and Hearth Help You Maintain Your Outdoor Kitchen
A well-maintained outdoor kitchen will provide years of enjoyment, enhancing both your home’s value and your outdoor living experience. At American Grill & Hearth, we design and build top-quality outdoor kitchens and fireplaces, offering expert advice, premium products, and tailored maintenance solutions to bring lasting beauty and function to your space. If you need help upgrading your outdoor kitchen to one designed just for you, we’re here to help! Over the last 40 years, we have built over 2000 outdoor kitchens, and have all the experience to help you get the outdoor kitchen of your dreams!
