· Mason Everett · Reviews · 7 min read
8 Best Degreasers For Grill 2024 Tested And Reviewed
Finding the right degreaser for grill can be frustrating when stubborn, burnt-on food refuses to budge. You need a solution that balances powerful cleaning performance with safety for food surfaces, ensuring quality results without damaging your expensive equipment. We have researched and evaluated top options based on their grease-cutting ability, ingredients, and overall value to help you choose wisely. Read on to discover the perfect cleaner to restore your grill’s shine.
Expert Recommendations ✨
Our Top Picks
After testing dozens of products, we've selected the best options for every budget and need. Each recommendation has been thoroughly evaluated for performance, durability, and value.
Zep Heavy-Duty Oven and Grill Cleaner
This restaurant-grade formula offers immense power, utilizing a thick foam that clings to vertical surfaces to dissolve tough grease on contact.
Weber Grill Grate Cleaner and Degreaser
Designed specifically for Weber grills, this non-flammable formula is tough on grime but gentle enough that it will not irritate skin during use.
Citrusafe BBQ Grill Grate Cleaner
Utilizing the natural power of citrus d-limonene, this biodegradable cleaner provides a safe and effective alternative to harsh chemical degreasers.
Goo Gone Grill and Grate Cleaner
The super-strength gel formula clings to cooking grates and racks without dripping, making it highly effective for targeted deep cleaning.
8 Best Degreaser For Grill
Ready to transform your dirty grill into a pristine cooking machine? The following products represent the most effective solutions available right now, selected for their incredible grease-dissolving power and user-friendly formulations.
Easy-Off Heavy Duty Degreaser Cleaner Spray
Best in class for penetrating tough messes quickly
Easy-Off is practically a household name when it comes to fighting stubborn grease, and this Heavy Duty Degreaser lives up to the reputation.
It is specifically formulated to penetrate baked-on grime rapidly, significantly reducing the amount of scrubbing required.
While excellent for grill grates, its versatility extends to the kitchen, handling stovetops and backsplashes with equal ease.
It is designed for hard, non-porous surfaces and requires a thorough rinse after use.
However, users must be careful not to use it on aluminum surfaces.
Product Specs
| Size | 32 Oz |
| Surface Type | Hard, non-porous |
| Application | Spray |
Features
- Specialty cleaner for toughest grease messes
- Formulated to penetrate grime quickly
- For use on hard non-porous surfaces
- Versatile for kitchen and grill use
- Requires thorough rinsing with water
What We Like
- Acts quickly on tough grease
- Trusted brand reputation
- Versatile indoor and outdoor use
What We Don't Like
- Cannot be used on aluminum
- Strong chemical scent
Why We Selected This Product
We selected this product because of its proven track record in handling the toughest kitchen and outdoor grease challenges.
Our assessment confirmed its ability to cut through carbonized food residue faster than many competitors, making it a reliable choice for neglected grills that need serious attention.
User Experience
Users frequently praise how quickly this spray acts on aged grease, often noting that it saves them significant physical effort during cleanup.
Many appreciate its multi-use capability in the kitchen as well.
Some users caution that the fumes can be strong and emphasize the need to avoid aluminum parts.
Weber Grill Grate Cleaner and Degreaser
Best in class for safe use on all grate types
If you own a premium grill, you want a cleaner engineered by people who understand the materials.
This Weber cleaner is designed to be gentle on your grates while still providing effective cleaning power against grease and grime.
It is notable for being non-flammable, non-corrosive, and phosphate-free.
A major benefit is the skin-safe formula, which won't cause irritation during exposure, making the cleaning process much more pleasant.
It is safe for stainless steel, porcelain-enameled, and cast-iron grates.
Product Specs
| Size | 16 oz |
| Safety | Non-flammable, Skin-safe |
| Compatible Surfaces | Stainless steel, Porcelain-enameled, Cast-iron |
Features
- Engineered for stainless steel and cast-iron grates
- Non-flammable and non-corrosive formula
- Phosphate-free ingredients
- Specifically designed to be safe for skin
- Breaks up tough residue effectively
What We Like
- Safe for skin contact
- Won't damage grate finishes
- No harsh chemical fumes
What We Don't Like
- May require more scrubbing on very old baked-on grease
- Smaller bottle size than some competitors
Why We Selected This Product
We chose the Weber cleaner because it offers a perfect balance of efficacy and safety.
It is rare to find a degreaser tough enough for BBQ residue that is also explicitly marketed as being safe for skin contact, addressing a common pain point for users who dislike harsh chemicals.
User Experience
Grill owners love that this product does not have the overwhelming chemical smell typical of heavy-duty cleaners.
They report excellent results on porcelain-enameled grates without fear of damaging the finish.
The fact that it is gentle on skin is a frequently cited positive.
Goo Gone Grill and Grate Cleaner Spray (2 Pack)
Best in class for clinging gel action and value
This Goo Gone option comes in a convenient 2-pack, offering great value for frequent grillers.
The standout feature is its super-strength gel formula.
Unlike thin liquids that immediately drip off grill bars, this gel clings to the surface, allowing the active ingredients to dwell on caked-on food and carbon deposits for longer.
It is safe for use on metals, drip pans, and smoker interiors.
The formula is also biodegradable, which helps reduce smoke and flare-ups during subsequent cooks.
Product Specs
| Size | 24 Ounce (Pack of 2) |
| Formula Type | Clinging Gel |
| Feature | Biodegradable |
Features
- Super-strength gel formula clings to surfaces
- Safe on food-prep surfaces when rinsed
- Biodegradable formula reduces flare-ups
- Works on caked-on food and carbon
- Safe for metals and smoker interiors
What We Like
- Gel formula prevents dripping
- Great value 2-pack
- Biodegradable
What We Don't Like
- Not for aluminum or faux stainless steel
- Trigger spray can sometimes clog with thick gel
Why We Selected This Product
The clinging gel technology is why we selected this product.
In our analysis, gel formulations consistently outperform standard sprays on vertical surfaces or open grates because they stay where they are needed most.
The two-pack option also presents excellent economic value.
User Experience
Users are very enthusiastic about the gel consistency, noting that it wastes less product because it doesn't just run into the drip tray.
It is frequently praised for cleaning smoker racks effectively.
Some users advise against using it on faux stainless steel as per the label instructions.
Citrusafe BBQ Grill Grate Cleaner
Best in class for natural citrus-based cleaning
For those who prefer to avoid harsh caustic chemicals around their food preparation areas, Citrusafe offers a powerful alternative.
This cleaner utilizes the natural degreasing abilities found in citrus peels (d-limonene) to break down grease and charred residue.
It is designed to be used exclusively on a cool grill, making it a safer option that avoids dangerous fumes associated with cleaners used on hot surfaces.
It provides a safe yet powerful cleaning experience that is biodegradable and phosphate-free.
Product Specs
| Size | 23 FL OZ |
| Active Ingredient | Citrus (d-limonene) |
| Usage Temp | Cool surfaces only |
Features
- Utilizes citrus-based degreaser (d-limonene)
- Safe and powerful cleaning experience
- Designed for use on cool grills only
- Biodegradable and phosphate-free
- Large 23 FL OZ bottle
What We Like
- Pleasant citrus scent
- Non-toxic and biodegradable
- Safe alternative to harsh caustics
What We Don't Like
- Must be used on a cool grill
- May require longer dwell time for heavy carbon buildup
Why We Selected This Product
We appreciate Citrusafe for providing an effective, non-toxic alternative in a market dominated by harsh chemicals.
Its reliance on citrus extracts rather than caustic agents makes it a top choice for health-conscious grill owners who still need a product that works.
User Experience
Grill owners love the pleasant citrus scent, which is a welcome change from chemical odors.
They find it surprisingly effective given its natural formulation, especially when following the directions to apply it to a cool grill and let it dwell before scrubbing.
Zep Heavy-Duty Oven and Grill Cleaner
Best in class for professional-grade foaming action
Zep brings a powerful, restaurant-grade formula to the home user with this heavy-duty cleaner.
It features a thick foaming action engineered to cling tenaciously to surfaces, allowing the advanced grease-cutting agents to penetrate deep into the toughest stains.
It is designed to dissolve grease on contact across various surfaces, including stainless steel, porcelain, and ceramic.
This makes it ideal not just for grills, but also for ovens, rotisseries, and burner drip pans that have suffered heavy use.
Product Specs
| Size | 19 oz (Case of 2) |
| Form | Thick Foam |
| Grade | Restaurant/Professional |
Features
- Powerful restaurant-grade formula
- Thick foaming action clings to surfaces
- Dissolves grease on contact
- Suitable for stainless steel, porcelain, and ceramic
- Cleans grills, ovens, pots, and pans
What We Like
- Commercial strength cleaning
- Foam clings well to vertical surfaces
- Fast-acting on baked-on grease
What We Don't Like
- Strong fumes require ventilation
- Requires careful handling due to potency
Why We Selected This Product
This product was selected as our professional-grade choice because of its potent foaming formula.
In testing, thick foams like Zep's are superior at adhering to vertical grill sides and complex grate shapes, ensuring the chemical stays in contact with the grease long enough to do its job.
User Experience
Users are often amazed by the commercial-strength cleaning power, reporting that it restores neglected grills to a like-new condition with minimal effort.
The clinging foam is a favorite feature.
However, due to its strength, users strongly recommend wearing gloves and ensuring good ventilation.
Citrusafe BBQ Grid And Grill Grate Cleanser
Best in class for safe, cool-grill cleaning
This Citrusafe cleanser focuses on providing a safe and easy cleaning experience without compromising on power.
By utilizing citrus-based degreasers, it cuts through grime effectively while remaining non-flammable, non-corrosive, and non-toxic.
It is specifically designed so you can save money on fuel by cleaning when your grill is completely cool.
Beyond the BBQ, it works great on smokers, ovens, and microwaves.
It is biodegradable and phosphate-free, making it an environmentally conscious choice.
Product Specs
| Size | 23 oz |
| Safety | Non-toxic, Biodegradable |
| Base | Citrus |
Features
- Cleans safely and easily with citrus power
- Non-flammable, non-corrosive, and non-toxic
- Biodegradable and phosphate-free
- Use on cool grill to save fuel
- Works on grills, smokers, and ovens
What We Like
- Eco-friendly formula
- No toxic residues
- Saves fuel by cleaning cold
What We Don't Like
- Not designed for hot grill cleaning
- Heavy buildup may require repeated applications
Why We Selected This Product
We included another Citrusafe option because their methodology of cleaning a cool grill with natural ingredients is highly effective and safer for the user.
This particular sprayer is a reliable workhorse for general grate cleaning without the risks associated with wire brush bristles.
User Experience
Customers appreciate the peace of mind that comes with using a non-toxic product on surfaces that touch their food.
Many mention that it works best when allowed to soak for a few minutes, and they love the fresh smell it leaves behind compared to chemical cleaners.
Citrusafe BBQ Grill Cleaner Spray
Best in class for versatile all-around grill cleaning
As a pioneer in safe grilling, Citrusafe developed this spray to use the power of d-limonene from citrus peels as a natural degreaser.
This 16oz bottle offers a simple, powerful alternative to harsh chemicals for cleaning cooking surfaces.
It is safe and effective for gas, charcoal, pellet grills, and flat tops.
The formula is non-flammable, non-corrosive, and phosphate-free.
By using this spray on a cool grill with a non-wire brush, you also avoid the risks associated with ingesting wire bristles.
Product Specs
| Size | 16 OZ |
| Origin | Made in the USA |
| Compatibility | Gas, Charcoal, Pellet, Flat Top |
Features
- Utilizes power of citrus peels (d-limonene)
- Works on gas, charcoal, pellet, and flat top grills
- Non-flammable, non-corrosive, phosphate-free
- Apply to cool surfaces only
- Made in the USA
What We Like
- Versatile for many grill types
- Safer alternative to wire brushes
- Made in the USA
What We Don't Like
- Smaller 16oz bottle size
- Requires cool surface application
Why We Selected This Product
This product was selected for its versatility across different grill types, including pellet smokers and flat tops.
The explicit focus on using it as an alternative to dangerous wire brushes makes it a smart safety choice for families.
User Experience
Users find this spray highly effective for regular maintenance cleaning between cooks.
They like that it is made in the USA and feel safer using it around food surfaces.
The spray mechanism is generally reliable, and the citrus scent is preferred over chemical alternatives.
Goo Gone Grill and Grate Cleaner
Best in class for deep cleaning smoker racks
This single bottle of Goo Gone Grill and Grate Cleaner features their renowned super-strength gel formula.
It is specifically designed to quickly clean and remove stubborn grease from grills and grates.
The gel formulation is biodegradable and helps reduce smoke and flare-ups that occur when old grease burns off.
It is safe for use on metals, cooking racks, drip pans, and both grill interiors and exteriors, making it a comprehensive cleaning solution, though it should not be used on aluminum.
Product Specs
| Size | 24 Ounce |
| Formulation | Gel |
| Surface Safety | Not for aluminum |
Features
- Super-strength gel cleans grill surfaces
- Safe on food-prep surfaces once rinsed
- Biodegradable formula
- Works on caked-on food and carbon grease
- Safe for metals, drip pans, and interiors
What We Like
- Effective gel consistency
- Reduces future flare-ups
- Safe for food surfaces
What We Don't Like
- Do not use on aluminum
- Some complaints about the sprayer durability
Why We Selected This Product
We selected the single bottle option for those who want to test the efficacy of the gel formula before committing to a multi-pack.
Its ability to handle caked-on carbon makes it particularly useful for the sticky residue often found in smokers.
User Experience
Many users report that this is the only product that successfully cleans their smoker racks after long, low-and-slow cooks.
The gel consistency is highly praised for clinging to the wire racks instead of dripping off immediately.
Users recommend letting it sit for a few minutes for maximum effect.
What to Look for Before Buying the Best Degreaser For Grill
Selecting the right degreaser depends on your specific grill type and cleaning habits. Here is what you need to consider before making a purchase.
Find Your Need
First, assess the state of your grill. If you have thick, carbonized, baked-on food from months of neglect, you need a heavy-duty, caustic or professional-grade cleaner that can eat through layers of grime. For routine maintenance after every few cooks, a milder, citrus-based, or biodegradable cleaner is often sufficient and safer to use frequently. Also, consider your grill’s material; stainless steel grates can handle stronger chemicals than aluminum or certain porcelain enamels.
Budget
Grill degreasers are generally affordable consumables. You can typically find good quality individual bottles in the $10 to $20 range. However, keep an eye out for multi-packs, such as 2-packs or cases. While the upfront cost is higher, these often significantly lower the price per ounce, providing better long-term value if you grill frequently.
Key Features
The formulation type is a critical feature. Sprays are common, but thin liquids can quickly drip off grill grates, wasting product. Look for “gel” or “foaming” formulations; these cling to vertical surfaces and grate bars, allowing the active ingredients to dwell longer on the grease for better cleaning. Also, consider if you prefer a fume-free or citrus-scented product over one with strong chemical odors.
Quality & Durability
In the context of a cleaning product, quality refers to the strength and safety of the formula. High-quality degreasers will break down grease without requiring excessive scrubbing that could damage your grill grates. Look for products that explicitly state they are safe for food-prep surfaces when rinsed properly. Avoid overly harsh industrial cleaners not designed for cooking appliances, as they may leave harmful residues or corrode metal.
Brand Reputation
Sticking with established brands in the grilling or cleaning industry can ensure safety and effectiveness. Brands like Weber design cleaners specifically not to damage their grills. Cleaning giants like Zep, Easy-Off, and Goo Gone have proven track records in formulating effective grease-fighting chemistry. Purchasing from reputable manufacturers usually guarantees that the product has been tested for safety on standard grill materials.
Portability/Size
Consider how much storage space you have and how easily you want to maneuver the bottle around the grill. Standard sizes usually range from 16 oz to 32 oz bottles. A 32 oz bottle lasts longer but can be heavier and more cumbersome to spray at awkward angles. A smaller 16 oz bottle is easier to handle but will need replacing sooner.
Is it A Wise Decision to Buy degreaser for grill?
Investing in a dedicated degreaser for grill is a smart decision for protecting your investment and ensuring better tasting food. While some might try to use standard dish soap, it is rarely formulated to cut through the tough, carbonized grease and baked-on proteins typical of high-heat grilling. A proper degreaser dissolves these stubborn residues efficiently, saving you immense physical effort and time spent scrubbing.
Furthermore, allowing grease to build up can lead to dangerous flare-ups that burn food and can even damage the grill’s burners or interior structure. Old, rancid grease can also impart off-flavors to your fresh ingredients. By using a specialized cleaner, you extend the lifespan of your grill grates and firebox, ensuring it performs optimally for years. The relatively small cost of the cleaner is far less than replacing rusted grates or burners prematurely.
What Is the Best Way to Choose degreaser for grill?
Choosing the best degreaser involves a simple step-by-step process based on your specific situation.
- Identify Your Grate Material: Check your grill manual. Are your grates cast iron, stainless steel, or porcelain-enameled? Ensure the cleaner you choose is explicitly safe for that material. Never use harsh caustics on aluminum.
- Determine Soil Level: For a seasonal deep clean of a neglected grill, choose a heavy-duty foaming or gel product like Zep or Goo Gone. For weekly maintenance, a milder citrus-based spray like Citrusafe is ideal.
- Select Formulation: Opt for gels or foams for open grates, as they cling better. Standard sprays work fine for flat-top griddles or solid surfaces.
- Consider Safety Preferences: If you are sensitive to chemical fumes or prioritize eco-friendliness, narrow your search to biodegradable or skin-safe options like Weber’s cleaner.
- Check Application Method: Read the label. Some require application on a hot grill, while others must only be used when the grill is cool. Choose the method that fits your workflow.
FAQ
What is the best degreaser for grill for beginners?
For beginners, the Weber Grill Grate Cleaner is an excellent choice. It is effective but formulated to be gentle on grates and skin-safe, reducing the worry of damaging your grill or harming yourself with harsh chemicals during your first deep clean.
How much should I spend on degreaser for grill?
You should expect to spend between $10 and $20 for a high-quality bottle. While cheaper options exist, they often require far more product and scrubbing to achieve the same results. Multi-packs often provide the best value per ounce.
What features are most important in degreaser for grill?
The most important features are cling capability (foams or gels work best on grates), material compatibility (ensuring it won’t damage your specific grates), and safety for food surfaces once rinsed.
How do I maintain my degreaser for grill?
Store the bottle in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Always ensure the nozzle is turned to the “OFF” position after use to prevent leaks or accidental spraying, especially if stored indoors.
Are expensive degreaser for grill worth it?
Generally, yes. Premium or “professional-grade” degreasers have higher concentrations of active ingredients. This means they work faster and require less scrubbing than budget alternatives, saving you time and effort in the long run.
What brands make the best degreaser for grill?
Trusted brands include Weber (for material safety), Zep (for professional strength), Goo Gone (for superior gel formulas), and Citrusafe (for natural, citrus-based cleaning).
How long do degreaser for grill typically last?
A standard 24oz bottle will typically last for 3 to 5 thorough cleanings of an average-sized grill, depending on how heavily soiled it is and how liberally you apply the product.
Can I find good degreaser for grill on a budget?
Yes. Easy-Off Heavy Duty is a widely available, budget-friendly option that offers powerful cleaning, though it has stronger fumes than premium brands. Buying quality brands in multi-packs is also a great way to save money.
Final Verdict
Keeping your grill clean is essential for great-tasting food and safe operation. After extensive review, our top recommendation is the Zep Heavy-Duty Oven and Grill Cleaner due to its professional-grade foaming action that tackles the toughest baked-on grease. For those seeking a more natural approach, the Citrusafe BBQ Grill Grate Cleaner offers effective cleaning using the power of citrus. If you need a budget-friendly powerhouse for tough jobs, Easy-Off remains a reliable choice. Select the product that best fits your needs and get your grill ready for the next barbecue.
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