Over the years, I’ve tried a lot of different things to clean my grill(s). I’ve used vinegar, which works okay. I’ve used dish soap, which makes a huge mess. Other options I’ve used are a variety of self-titled “grill cleaners,” but again, they’re all about the same. There are degreasers and stronger chemical-based cleaners you can use, but it’s probably not a good idea to use those on a surface you’ll be cooking or putting food on. No, I’m not crunchy, but I do try to stay away from toxins whenever possible. So, imagine my surprise when I discovered a rather unorthodox grill cleaning solution in OxiClean. Yes, that OxiClean.
Billed as a “max efficiency stain remover,” OxiClean can be used to degrease pots and pans, remove tough stains from clothing, freshen up a garbage can — just sprinkle a little at the bottom — as a spot treatment on tablecloths and upholstery, and much more. But again, it works wonders on a grill, especially a Blackstone or flattop grill. According to the brand, its new Max Efficiency formula offers more cleaning power per pound versus previous versions. It helps remove grass, grease, dirt, wine, blood, ink, and, yes, grill stains. All of which are tough, unsightly, and, if I’m being honest, can also be pretty ridiculous. Cook a few burgers or dogs and bam, charr everywhere.
Want to try it out yourself? OxiClean is on sale right now via Costco and Instacart, down to $24 instead of $30 — saving you nearly $6.
How does OxiClean help as a grill cleaning solution?
It’s pretty simple, really. Either preheat the grill for about ten minutes or wait until it cools a little after you’re done grilling some food. The point is, to make sure it’s warm so the debris and food bits will come loose more easily. Mix some of the OxiClean with hot water and then spread that across your grill top or grates. I like to let it soak for a little bit, but if you want to get to work right away use a scrubbing pad or steel wool — grill brushes work too — to clean off the surface.
If you’ve never used OxiClean on your grill before prepare to be amazed. For my Blackstone, I like to re-season with a thin layer of oil after the grill is clean. I’ve found that helps with rust and other issues. But you absolutely have to make sure the entire grill top is clean and there is no food residue before you cover it up.
It’s kind of wild to think about, but OxiClean works just about anywhere else too. In the bathroom, with your laundry, to clean countertops, and similar surfaces. You can either sprinkle a little on the surface and scrub or clean with a wet sponge or brush, or you can mix it with hot water as I recommended for the grill top. In your laundry, or on apparel, you can use it directly on stains. The bigger question is what can’t you use it on?
Plus, OxiClean’s fresh signature scent makes everything smell nice and clean when you’re done. The odor isn’t strong or overwhelming and when you’re cleaning something like a grill it has no effect on what you’re doing later. In other words, when you throw that steak, burger, or hot dog batch on top they won’t come away smelling or tasting like cleaning chemicals or anything of the sort. Either way, if you want to give it a try, OxiClean is on sale right now for about $6 off. I say give a whirl.
