7 Best Grill Cleaners of 2025, Tested by Experts
Our top pick works while you sleep!
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Firing up your outdoor grill keeps your kitchen cleaner and smoke-free, but dealing with the aftermath, especially sticky, burnt-on messes on grimy grates, can be a hassle. Still, don’t skip the cleanup. Leftover residue can mess with the flavor of your next cookout and even trigger dangerous grease flare-ups.
"A grill brush knocks or scrapes off the heavy residue, but it can only do so much on its own," says Carolyn Forté, executive director of the Good Housekeeping Institute's Home Care and Cleaning Lab. "To get grates truly clean, you need a cleaning product to dissolve and wash away the grease and the sugary baked-on grime."
To find the best performers, our Lab experts put two dozen of them to the test.
Carbona Oven Rack & Grill Cleaner Kit
Pros
- Works overnight
- Cleans up to two grates at once
- Can clean oven racks too
Cons
- Best for new grate or grates in good condition
Type: Liquid | Size: 16.8 ounces
Carbona's 2-in-1 Oven Rack and Grill Cleaner was the standout in our Lab tests, thanks to its easy, mess-free and nearly scrub-free performance. The kit includes a large zip-top plastic bag, a bottle of cleaning solution and disposable gloves. After brushing off loose debris, just place the grates in the bag, pour in the solution, seal it, swish to coat — like marinating your grates — and let it sit overnight.
By morning, a quick wipe or light scrub is all it takes to get them clean. You can safely rinse the used solution down the drain and toss the bag in the trash. Just be sure to keep it out of reach of kids and pets while it soaks. It works best on moderately dirty grates and may struggle a bit with heavy, baked-on grease. Still, its versatility is a big win. You can use it on oven racks too.
Pros
- Works in 2 to 10 minutes
- Clings to grate surfaces
- Can be used on stainless steel grill interiors and exteriors
Cons
- Not for use on aluminum or faux stainless steel
Type: Foam | Size: 24 ounces
Goo Gone Grill and Grate Cleaner delivers a powerful clean in a convenient foam that clings to surfaces for precise, targeted coverage. Testers appreciated the ergonomic trigger spray, which made it easy to reach into every greasy, grimy corner — just steer clear of aluminum and faux stainless steel surfaces.
It acts fast too. In our tests, the foam started breaking down charred-on gunk almost immediately and tackled tougher, stickier buildup within minutes. Despite its cleaning strength, the biodegradable formula is surprisingly gentle, with no overpowering fumes — thanks to grease-cutting citrus oils that get the job done naturally.
Rock Doctor Master Grill Grate Cleaner
Pros
- Safe for all types of grills
- Works quickly
Cons
- May take 20 to 30 minutes for deep cleaning
Type: Spray | Size: 24 ounces
Degreasing your grill often ends up at the bottom of the to-do list — it’s messy, time-consuming and easy to put off. But with a product like Rock Doctor's Master Grill Grate Cleaner, it doesn’t have to be a hassle. In our Lab tests, this past GH Cleaning Award winner lived up to the hype, cutting through grime on cold grates in just five minutes. For heavy-duty buildup, you may need to let it sit for 20 to 30 minutes.
The foam-action spray is simple to use and highly effective. It works well on porcelain and stainless steel grates from gas grills, charcoal grills and smokers alike. Even testers facing seriously dirty grates said it made a major difference. Just be sure to keep it off the grill’s exterior.
Parker & Bailey BBQ Grill Cleaner and Degreaser
Pros
- Cleans without streaking
- Works on grill tools and drip pans
- No fumes
Cons
- Some reviewers noted that the bottle leaks easily
Type: Liquid | Size: 24 ounces
In our tests, Parker & Bailey Grill Cleaner impressed with its speed and effectiveness, cutting through sticky, baked-on barbecue sauce in just two minutes. A quick scrub with a brush and rinse with water was all it took to remove the mess, outperforming many other cleaners we tried.
One at-home tester especially praised how well it cleaned a grill’s stainless steel exterior, leaving it spotless and streak-free. Plus, it worked without the harsh fumes common in other products.
This versatile cleaner can also be used on countertops, grilling tools, microwaves and more. However, since it’s a liquid (not a foam), it doesn’t cling as well to vertical surfaces or accessories. And testers noted that the bottle had some issues with leaking.
Dawn Platinum Powerwash Dish Spray
Pros
- Cuts grease well
- Easy and neat to apply
- Sprayer is reusable
Cons
- Some reviewers struggled with the spray trigger
Type: Liquid | Size: 32 ounces
Dawn Powerwash isn’t just for dishes — it’s a secret weapon for cleaning indoor grills and grill pans too. Just like it cuts through stubborn messes on cookware, it makes quick work of grease and grime on grill surfaces. For removable grill plates, just pop them in the sink, spray with Dawn Powerwash, let it sit for a few minutes, then wipe and rinse. For non-removable plates, spray carefully in place and clean with a damp cloth.
In our tests, it effortlessly dissolved burned-on hamburger grease from a skillet, earning it the Good Housekeeping Seal. It even performed well on outdoor grills and smokers, though we did run into the occasional hiccup with the spray trigger. Another bonus: once you have the sprayer, you only need to buy refills, helping reduce plastic waste.
Proud Grill Company Q-Swiper BBQ Grill Cleaner Set
Pros
- No bristles
- Easy to clean between the grates
Cons
- May need more than one wipe to clean a very messy grate
Type: Brush/wipes | Size: 40 wipes
A past GH Cleaning Award winner, this all-in-one tool from the Proud Grill Company combines a scrubber, scraper and disposable wipes, making it a triple threat for outdoor grill cleaning.
It’s a clever, no-fuss solution that cuts down on the need for multiple tools, and best of all, it’s bristle-free, so you don’t have to worry about stray bristles ending up in your food. Just snap on a fresh wipe. After use, just toss the dirty wipe.
It impressed our experts in testing and even a self-proclaimed grill-cleaning perfectionist was wowed by how easily it scraped and wiped away charred barbecue sauce after cooking ribs.
Weiman Stainless Steel Wipes
Pros
- Versatile and convenient to use
- No spilling or leaking
Cons
- Wipes can dry out over time
Type: Wipes | Size: 30 wipes
A standout with a Good Housekeeping Seal star, Weiman Stainless Steel Wipes are one of our go-to picks for keeping grills looking polished.
Testers loved how these wipes offer a cleaner, more convenient alternative to sprays and aerosols. They’re great for other stainless steel appliances too. Just one or two wipes easily cleaned dirt, smudges and fingerprints from grill exteriors without leaving streaks. Plus, they left behind a protective layer that helped repel future fingerprints.
The compact canister is easy to store, so it’s always within reach. Just be sure to seal it tightly, as the wipes can dry out if the lid isn’t closed properly.
How we test grill cleaners
At the Good Housekeeping Institute Cleaning Lab, grill cleaners are rigorously tested alongside other outdoor cleaning products. To simulate real-world messes, we brushed and broiled multiple layers of sticky BBQ sauce onto stainless steel and enameled grates until they resembled the aftermath of a big backyard cookout.
After the grates cooled, we applied each cleaner according to its label instructions, evaluating how quickly and effectively it cut through the grime and tallying how many scrubbing strokes it took to get the job done.
We also reviewed the labels for clarity, ease of use and any necessary safety precautions based on the ingredients. To take testing even further, we visited the GH Test Kitchen to tackle messes on the indoor grills used to develop grill recipes.
Finally, we sent the cleaners home with consumer testers, who tested them on their own gas and charcoal grills for real-life feedback.
What to look for when shopping for the best grill cleaners
A little knowledge goes a long way in helping you pick the right cleaner for your grill. Here are the key things to keep in mind, plus a few extra tips worth considering:
✔️ Cleaner type: Grill cleaners typically come in three formats: sprayable liquids, foams and wipes. Liquids and foams are best for deep cleans and heavy grease buildup, while wipes are great for quick touch-ups and convenience. If you’re sensitive to strong fumes — a common issue with grill cleaners — look for low-odor formulas or wipes that limit your exposure. Citrus-powered cleaners like Goo Gone Grill & Grate Cleaner can also be effective with fewer harsh fumes.
✔️ Surface compatibility: Not all cleaners are safe for all grill types. Some formulas can damage aluminum or faux stainless steel surfaces. Always check the label to ensure it’s compatible with your grill’s grates — whether porcelain-coated, cast iron or stainless steel.
Also, never assume a grill cleaner is safe for exterior surfaces unless the label says so. The strong cleaning agents that get burnt-on food off your grill grates can permanently damage your grill's exterior shine. To clean the outside of your grill, use a dedicated stainless steel cleaner like you would on kitchen appliances.
✔️ Ease of use: Consider how much effort you're willing to put into cleaning. Foam sprays and overnight soak systems require less scrubbing, while some heavy-duty formulas may need more elbow grease. For a low-effort option, look for cleaners that advertise no-scrub or low-scrub formulas, like our top pick: Carbona Oven Rack & Grill Cleaner Kit.
✔️ Eco-friendliness and safety: Many grill cleaners contain strong degreasers that aren't great for the environment or your skin and lungs. Look for biodegradable formulas or those made with natural degreasers like citrus oil. Also, if you have kids or pets, make sure to choose a product that’s safe to use around them and follow all safety precautions.
✔️ Storage and packaging: Convenient packaging can make a difference. Products in resealable canisters or refillable spray bottles like Dawn Platinum Powerwash Dish Spray are easier to store and more eco-friendly than single-use containers. Some products, like sprays with a long shelf life, are also ideal for keeping on hand for mid-season cleanups.
How often should I clean my grill?
Forté says it's best to do a quick spruce-up before or after each cooking session, a thorough cleaning of the grates several times a season and a deep clean of the entire grill once per year or as needed, depending on the frequency of grill use.
What is the best way to clean grill grates?
Remove grates from the grill. If you're cleaning outside, lay down a few layers of newspaper, cardboard or an old towel to protect the ground or patio surface from grease and debris. Scrub the grates using a grill brush, scouring pad or a dedicated grill cleaner, applying extra pressure on any areas with burnt-on food or sauce. Make sure to wear gloves, especially if you’re using a chemical cleaner.
If you have a utility sink and would rather clean indoors, you can soak the grates and scrub them without making a mess in your kitchen. Spray or coat the grates with a grill cleaner, let them sit for a few minutes (or longer, depending on how dirty they are), then scrub and rinse thoroughly.
No matter where you clean them, always finish by rinsing thoroughly with water and drying the grates completely before putting them back on the grill to prevent rusting. If you’re short on time, a quick pass with a dry towel or a few minutes over low heat on the grill can help evaporate any leftover moisture.
Should you clean your grill hot or cold?
Grill grates are easiest to clean when they are warm, either when heating up the grill before cooking or as the grill is cooling down after cooking.
Can I use a grill cleaner to clean the inside of a grill?
You can use a grill cleaner to clean the inside of a grill but not always on the outside surfaces, so follow the label directions about that.
Why trust Good Housekeeping?
Carolyn Forté has over 40 years of experience researching, testing and writing about appliances like washers, dryers and vacuum cleaners, cleaning products such as detergents and polishes and the tricks and tips needed to keep a home clean and organized.
Perry Santanachote is a writer, editor and content creator with over 15 years of experience in the home and cooking spaces.
Perry Santanachote (she/her) has more than 15 years of experience in service journalism, specializing in food and consumer goods. She tests and reports on kitchen appliances and cooking tools. She also evaluates food products and cleaning supplies. She’s an experienced writer, product tester and recipe developer who has worked in labs, test kitchens and media organizations, including Thrillist and Consumer Reports.
Carolyn Forté brings more than 40 years of experience as a consumer products expert to her role as executive director of the Good Housekeeping Institute's Home Care and Cleaning Lab. Using deep analytical testing and writing expertise in appliances, cleaning, textiles and organizational products, she produces cleaning and home care advice for GH, has authored numerous books and bookazines for the brand and partners with the American Cleaning Institute to co-produce the Discover Cleaning Summits. She holds a bachelor's degree in family and consumer sciences from Queens College, City University of New York.
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