How to Prepare a Grill for Storage
Updated: Apr. 30, 2020
To make sure all your gear is ready to go, you'll want to follow grill storage best practices.
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It’s important to know how to properly store your grill if you want it to remain in tip-top shape for years to come. Follow these tips for short- and long-term grill storage.
Everyday Grill Storage Tips
If you’re trying to find your grill’s permanent home for the summer. look for a clean outdoor space that’s flat and spacious. Place your grill several feet away from structures or greenery. Aim to create a safety zone that’s away from young children and pets, too.
If you’re a gas griller, take care to keep your propane tank cool. Store the tank in a shaded or covered area during the hottest times of the yea, as the tank should never get over 120 degrees.
After each grilling sesh, follow these rules for proper storage:
- Clean the grill grates after each meal. To keep a clear distance, we prefer to use these long-handled tongs and a crumpled piece of aluminum foil.
- If you’re using a gas grill, return knobs to an “off” position and close the gas tank by turning the knob clockwise. For charcoal grills, let the coals cool by closing the lid and shutting all vents. Never place hot coals in the garbage.
- Do not try to move a hot grill. Gas and charcoal grills will remain hot for several hours after being used.
- Collect all spatulas, meat thermometers, pans and other grilling accessories to be washed.
- A grill cover can be a great way to protect your equipment from bad weather. Be sure your grill has cooled completely before covering.
Preparing Your Grill for Long-Term Storage
It’s essential to thoroughly clean your grill before you put it in storage—otherwise, mice and other critters may be attracted to the residual food and set up camp inside your grill. Follow these grill storage tips to ensure your grill is safe and secure all winter long.
Follow these steps to prep the interior your grill:
- Start by firing up your grill to a high temperature and letting it cook for 15 to 20 minutes. This will allow the heat to burn off any lingering food or grease, making clean-up easier. You can also put a tin of water on the grates to steam clean the interior, if you choose.
- Once the grill has cooled down a bit but is still warm, clean the inside with a grill stone ($6), scraping off any residue and wiping it out with a damp cloth. Psst! Here’s why we avoid wire grill brushes.
- Let the grill cool completely, then use soap and water to wash down the grates and interior. If your grates are particularly grimy, try soaking them in coffee for an hour.
- If you have a charcoal grill, empty and wash the ashtray—if any charcoal gets left behind, moisture can creep in and make it extremely hard to remove come spring. On a gas model, you’ll want to clean out the cook box and flavorizer bars.
- Finally, coat the grates with a high-heat oil ($4) to prevent them from rusting.
Once these steps are complete, use soapy water and a sponge or scouring pad to wash the exterior of your grill. Let it dry completely before taking any next steps. You may also want to inspect your grill for any cracks or other damage so you know what parts to order for the spring.
How to Store a Grill
Once your grill is spic and span, it’s time to put it into hibernation for the winter. You’ll want to invest in a heavy-duty grill cover ($29) to keep critters, dust and dirt from getting onto the appliance.
For gas grills, be sure to disconnect and remove the propane tank before putting the cover on. Propane tanks should be left outdoors—don’t worry, they can withstand temperatures as low as -50 degrees.
In general, it’s best to keep your grill indoors during the winter, whether that means putting it in your garage, shed or basement. This will reduce the chances of it getting rusty or moldy. However, if you don’t have a suitable indoor space, choose a spot that’s sheltered from the elements as much as possible.
Check-in Occasionally
If you’ve stored your grill properly, it should be just fine over the winter, but it never hurts to check-in. Once a month or so, lift up the cover and make sure no animals or bugs have made themselves at home in your grill.
On the off chance that you do find a mouse or two living in there, wear protective gloves and remove their nesting material. Disinfect the interior of the grill, then secure the cover again. You’ll also want to check in regularly to ensure the mice don’t try to move back in.
When you take the time to follow these grill storage steps, you’ll minimize the work you have to do come spring and even prolong the lifespan of your precious barbecue.
Ready to get grilling again? Read up on how to ready your grill for summer.
Must-Try Grilling Recipes
Grilled Corn in HusksYou know it's summer when you can finally enjoy a nice corn on the cob. No need for anything crazy; some butter and parmesan are enough to make this side dish a masterpiece.
Grilled Romaine SaladYou can grill a steak so why shouldn't you be able to grill a salad? The simple dressing really sends it over the top.
Grilled Chicken SaladNever underestimate the power of a good salad. This perfect picnic meal will be your summer showstopper!
Grilled Mahi MahiWant a change of pace at your next cookout? Grill up this mahi mahi with tropical fruit salsa and watch as everyone asks for the recipe. It's sweet, tangy and delicious!
Beef ‘n’ Pork BurgersAdding pork to your burgers is a grill master's best kept secret. The bacon really drives home the smokiness.
Chicken Strawberry Spinach SaladThis sweet poppy seed dressing is everything you want in a salad and more. The grilled chicken, strawberries and almonds are the perfect combination of savory, sweet and crunchy!
Grilled AsparagusGrilled asparagus makes a perfect side dish for grilled meats. It's ready in just 20 minutes and has a nice barbecue sauce taste.
Grilled Chorizo and Shrimp PaellaThis easy shrimp and chorizo paella is a must have this summer. The mango and lime give it a tangy flavor that goes along perfectly with the grilled chicken sausage. You won't want to miss out on this colorful meal.
Artichoke Steak WrapsReady in just 30 minutes, these artichoke steak wraps are a must have! Artichokes are rarely the main event in a meal, but these wraps will have you second guessing that notion.
Bratwurst and Chicken KabobsYou can get the best of both worlds with these double meat kabobs! The chutney packs a bit of heat with the pepper jelly.
Aloha BurgersBurgers and fruit might just be your new go-to debate topic. As for us, we can't get enough of it! These Hawaiian-inspired burgers are smoky from the bacon but fresh from the pineapple. See for yourself!
Grilled Pork and Poblano PeppersThis spice-rubbed pork is not for the faint of heart. It's a party in your mouth and a party at your table! Guests will request you make it every cookout.
Grilled Lobster TailsLobster tails aren't reserved for restaurants. And they're easier to make than you think! If you find yourself ordering lobster out a lot, give this recipe a spin.
Grilled Stone Fruits with Balsamic SyrupA balsamic glaze can turn any dish from good to great. Well, maybe not any but a case can be written for salads and toast and fruit and huh, maybe that is everything. The grilled fruit practically melts in your mouth. So what are you waiting for!
Grilled PattypansIf you've never tried pattypan squash, now is the time! This side dish will change the way you think about fruits and veggies and how they can come together.
Grilled Pork Tenderloin with Cherry Salsa MoleChocolate, cherries and pork? Say no more! The hint of spice in this dish is drool inducing.
Grilled Italian Sausage SandwichesIf you're in the mood for Italian, you've come to the right sandwich. This meal might seem more laid back but that's exactly what makes it perfect for a hot summer day.
Cedar Plank Salmon with Blackberry SauceThis salmon is a nice balance of sweet, smoky and spicy. Maybe you've never thought about salmon and fruits before this moment, but now you'll only wish you'd thought of it sooner.
Grilled Huli Huli ChickenThis overnight marinated Hawaiian chicken is well worth the wait. With brown sugar, ginger and soy sauce, you can use this marinade for anything!
Mango & Grilled Chicken SaladWhen it's hot out, you want nothing more than to bite into a juicy piece of fruit. This mango chicken salad gives all of that and more with added crunch from the snap peas.
Grilled Vegetable PlatterYou really can't go wrong with grilled veggies. This simple honey and balsamic vinegar marinade proves once again that balsamic vinegar is the secret to a great cookout.
Grilled Honey-Balsamic Glazed FruitSweet and salty lovers unite! We might have just found your new favorite dessert. Peaches with honey and balsamic vinegar is the best way to end a barbecue.
Barbecued Chicken PizzasBarbecue sauce on pizza just makes sense. These pizzas are perfect for when you're in a rush to plan a menu, but still want something that'll knock it out of the park. They're smoky, tangy and a sure-fire favorite to all who try them.
Grilled Chicken and Mango SkewersThese skewers bring all the best flavors of summer together. This colorful plate is as Instagram-worthy as it is tasty.
Fresh Artichokes with Lemon-Yogurt DipArtichokes are made to be enjoyed simply and with this tangy lemon-yogurt dip you can do just that. The perfect appetizer for an epic cookout, you won't want to underestimate the veggie again.
Grilled Peach, Rice & Arugula SaladOne reviewer wrote that she'd give the recipe 10 stars if she could, and we couldn't agree more! This summer salad is not a want but a need. The grilled peaches are an impeccable touch.
Grilled Figgy PiesA figgy pie is exactly as it sounds: a combination of figs, maple, walnuts and creamy mascarpone. These hand held pies will go fast!
Bacon & Swiss Chicken SandwichesThis chicken sandwich is restaurant quality! And just when you thought it couldn't get any better, you can make extra honey mustard on the side for dipping.
Tarragon AsparagusAsparagus is an underrated veggie that rarely sees new ways to eat it. Until now! This tarragon-honey marinade is exactly the change of pace we were looking for.
Cilantro Lime ShrimpThis garlic and lime marinade will wow at your next cookout. The flavor is spot on and the preparation is easy enough to add it into your meal rotation.
Bruschetta from the GrillYou can't go wrong with this five-star recipe! Dijon mustard, mayonnaise and oregano make a magical spread.
Lemon Garlic MushroomsThese lemony grilled mushrooms might take some of the spotlight off the main course. They're just that good! Skewers ensure that they're grilled to perfection.
Grilled CabbageYou'll be surprised by how good this is. Gone are the days of begging your kids to eat their veggies. With this on the side, their plates will be cleared!
Grilled Southwestern Potato SaladThis potato salad is the best side dish for some classic steak tacos. With sour cream, corn and lime, it has a nice pop to go with your Tex-Mex dinner.
Spicy Grilled EggplantThis Cajun grilled eggplant is the most versatile dish of the season. It pairs well with any meat and takes up way more space than your average veggies.
Grilled Steak and Mushroom SaladSteak and mushrooms are an unbeatable combination. This light dinner is packed with protein while still tasting like a vinegar-Dijon dream. If you enjoyed this, then you must try our favorite vegetarian grilling recipes.
Fruit ‘n’ Cake KabobsWe love grilling and we love cake. So grilled cake has to be a stroke of genius, right? These fruit and pound cake kabobs are everything you didn't know you were missing.
Burger AmericanaEver had peanut butter and bacon on a burger? What about coleslaw? Try out any toppings that strike your fancy with these versatile, everyday burgers.
Originally Published: April 30, 2020
