How To Season A Grill The Right Way (Brand New Or Used)

I still remember my first grill and how I used it the first time without seasoning it first.

The hamburgers tasted horrible and my grill smelled and smoked terribly.

It was a cheap grill and I had to put it together first.

After that, I just filled it with charcoal, used some lighter fluid, and started to grill some burgers.

I was told later that you have to season a new grill first and that was why it tasted and smoked so bad.

Since then I have seasoned and re-seasoned many grills and here you can read my version of how to season a grill.

Why Season A Grill?

Seasoning a grill helps to protect it from rust and corrosion, and it also enhances the flavor of your food.

It also needs to be done before using your grill for the first time to remove the oils and other residues left over by manufacturing the grill.

Understand Your Grill

When it comes to seasoning your grill, it’s important to first understand the different types of grills and how they work. This will help you determine the best way to season your grill and ensure that it’s properly maintained.

Different grills require different types of seasoning, so it’s important to know what you’re working with.

Gas grills, for example, require a different type of seasoning than charcoal grills.

Once you know what type of grill you have, you can move on to choosing the right seasoning.

Gas Grills

Gas grills are the most common type of grill and are powered by propane or natural gas. These grills are easy to use and heat up quickly, making them a popular choice for many people.

When seasoning a gas grill, it’s important to make sure that the burners are clean and free of debris. This can be done by removing the grates and using a wire brush to clean the burners.

Charcoal Grills

Charcoal grills are powered by charcoal briquettes or lump charcoal and are known for their smoky flavor.

When seasoning a charcoal grill, it’s important to first make sure that the charcoal is evenly distributed and that the grill is properly ventilated. This will help to ensure that the charcoal burns evenly and heats the grill to the right temperature.

Electric Grills

Electric grills are powered by electricity and are a great option for those who live in apartments or condos where gas or charcoal grills are not allowed.

When seasoning an electric grill, it’s important to make sure that the heating element is clean and free of debris. This can be done by wiping it down with a damp cloth.

“No matter what type of grill you have, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for seasoning and maintenance. “

This will help to ensure that your grill lasts for many years and that you’re able to enjoy delicious grilled food all season long.

Choosing the Right Oil.

The right oil is crucial to getting the best results. There are many different types of seasoning available, but not all of them are suitable for grilling

One of the most important components of seasoning a grill is choosing the right oil. The oil helps to create a non-stick surface on the grill and grill grates, which makes it easier to cook and clean.

“Here are some of the best oils to use for seasoning your grill:”

Vegetable oil

This is a great all-purpose oil that works well for most grilling applications. It has a high smoke point, which means it can withstand high temperatures without burning.

Canola oil

This is another good all-purpose oil that has a high smoke point. It also has a neutral flavor, which makes it a good choice if you don’t want the oil to affect the flavor of your food.

Peanut oil

This oil has a high smoke point and a slightly nutty flavor, which can add a nice depth of flavor to your grilled foods.

Grapeseed oil

This oil has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, which makes it a good choice for grilling foods that have delicate flavors.

Again, when choosing an oil for seasoning your grill, make sure to choose one that has a high smoke point. This will help prevent the oil from burning and smoking, which can create an unpleasant taste and odor.

“Overall, choosing the right oil for your grill is an important step in creating delicious grilled foods.”

By using the right oil and other seasonings, you can enhance the flavor of your food, keep your grill maintained, and create a memorable grilling experience.

TIP: These oils are in my opinion also the best oil for flat top grills.

Cleaning the Grill Before Seasoning

Before seasoning your grill, it’s important to remove any residue that may have accumulated on the grill from the manufacturing.

This will ensure that you have a clean surface to work with and that the seasoning will adhere properly.

To remove this residue, I like to use a soft brush with stiff bristles. This will help to loosen any stubborn bits and pieces that may be stuck somewhere.

After removing this residue, it’s important to give your grill a good cleaning to ensure that it’s ready for seasoning.

To do this, I like to use warm, soapy water and a sponge.

I start by removing the grates and giving them a good scrub with the sponge and soapy water.

I also scrub the inside of the grill, paying special attention to any areas where oil and debris may have accumulated.

Once I’m done scrubbing, I rinse everything off with a hose and let it dry completely.

It’s important to make sure that your grill is completely dry before seasoning it.

Any moisture left on the grates or inside the grill can cause the oil to not stick properly, which can cause some parts to not be seasoned.

The Seasoning Process

The seasoning process is fairly easy to do and can just be a little time-consuming. So, make sure that you have sufficient time!

Applying The Oil

To begin the seasoning process, I first apply a thin layer of oil over the entire surface of the grill grates. I prefer to use vegetable oil or canola oil, but any high-smoke point oil will work.

I used a paper towel or a brush to apply the oil, but also used a spray bottle that I filled with the oil. You have to make sure to cover every inch of the grates.

Heating The Grill

Once the oil is applied, I heat the grill to a high temperature, around 500-600°F. This will help the oil to penetrate the grates and create a non-stick surface.

This is called the polymerization (1) of the oil.

I let the grill heat up for about 15-20 minutes to ensure that the whole grill is evenly heated.

After the grill has heated up, I turn off the heat and let it cool down.

Once the grill has cooled, I wipe it down with a clean cloth to remove any excess oil. The grill is now ready to be used for cooking.

Remember to repeat the seasoning process every few months to maintain the non-stick surface and prevent rusting.

My tip is to do this every time you store your grill for the winter season if you are not using it in this season

By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your grill grates are properly seasoned and ready for your next BBQ.

Maintaining the Seasoned Grill

Once you have successfully seasoned your grill, it is important to maintain it properly to ensure it will last a long time.

Here are some of my tips to help you maintain your seasoned grill:

Clean the Grill Grates

After each use, it is important to clean the grill grates to prevent any buildup of food or debris.

Use a stiff wire brush to scrape off any remaining food particles and debris.

You can read my recommendations in my grill brush reviews.

If necessary, I use a mild detergent and warm water to clean the grates thoroughly.

Rinse the grates with clean water and dry them with a clean towel.

I have read of people sticking them in the dishwasher. However, I think my wife will not appreciate that.

Oil the Grill Grates

To prevent the grill grates from rusting and sticking, it is important to oil them regularly.

You can use a high-heat cooking oil such as I mentioned above.

Apply the oil to a clean cloth and rub it onto the grates.

Tip: Be sure to apply a thin layer of oil to prevent excess oil from dripping onto the burners.

Cover the Grill

When not in use, it is important to cover the grill to protect it from the elements.

I always recommend a grill cover since it will prevent rust and other damage caused by exposure to rain, wind, and other weather conditions.

Also Read: https://bettergrills.com/when-should-i-cover-my-grill/

Check the Burners

Regularly check the burners for any signs of damage or wear and tear.
If you notice any damage, replace the burners immediately to prevent further damage to the grill.

Store The Grill Properly

During the off-season, it is important to store the grill properly to prevent any damage.

Clean the grill thoroughly and cover it with a grill cover.

Store the grill in a cool, dry place away from any potential hazards such as moisture or extreme temperatures.

Related Read: https://bettergrills.com/end-of-grill-season-cleaning-and-storing/

Tip: I suggest seasoning the grill before storing it for the winter season.

By following these tips, you can maintain your seasoned grill and ensure its longevity.

How To Season A Grill – My Experience

Seasoning your grill is an essential step, and I learned the hard way, to ensure that your food is cooked to perfection every time.

By following the steps outlined in this article, you can easily season your grill and keep it in top condition for years to come.

Remember to clean your grill thoroughly before seasoning it, and to use high-quality oil to ensure that the seasoning is effective.

Regular maintenance is also crucial to keep your grill in top condition.

Clean it after every use, and check for any signs of wear and tear.

By taking care of your grill it can last for many years and provide you with delicious meals every time.

The same reason goes for seasoning a smoker as you can read in my how to season a smoker article.

I have met people who wash their car every week but don’t want to spend a little time cleaning and seasoning their grill and then complain that it started to rust and did not last that long.

So go ahead and give your grill a good seasoning. Your taste buds and your wallet will thank you for it!

Robert Chill

Robert Chill loves to cook on BBQs and grills and uses all types of recipes and techniques to cook some awesome food. With his experience, he can share many reviews, tips, and ideas on how to use any grill. You can read more about him here