Fastest Way to Clean BBQ Tools, Baskets, and Accessories After a Cookout

Stop dreading BBQ cleanup. Here’s how to quickly and effectively clean your tongs, skewers, baskets, and more—so you can relax and prep for the next round of grilling.

Tools Down, Grill Boss

You served up juicy ribs, sizzling kabobs, maybe even some grilled pineapple. But now your tools look like they went to war—greasy tongs, sticky skewers, and wire baskets caked in burnt-on sauce.

The good news? Cleaning up doesn’t have to be a time-consuming pain. With a few tricks, tools, and a quick workflow, you can have everything clean and ready to go before the last guest finishes dessert.

Step 1: Soak Right After Cooking

The secret to fast cleanup is to act early. As soon as your tools cool slightly, drop them into a hot, soapy soak.

Quick Soak Setup:

• Fill a sink or plastic tub with hot water
• Add a few drops of grease-fighting dish soap
• Optional: 1 tablespoon baking soda or white vinegar for extra lift

Toss in:

• Tongs
• Meat claws
• Skewers
• Grilling baskets
• Spatulas
• Thermometer probes (if waterproof)

Let everything soak for 15–30 minutes while you handle other cleanup tasks.

Step 2: Use the Right Scrub Tools

Once soaked, most grime will come off easily. For the tougher bits:

Best Scrubbers:

• Scouring pad with sponge back: Flexible and safe on most surfaces
• Old toothbrush: Great for detail work in hinges, handles, and basket mesh
• Silicone scrubber: Durable and great for repetitive use
• Stainless steel scrubber: For uncoated metal tools only—avoid on nonstick items

Pro Tip: For skewers or small tools, rub two together under running water to loosen gunk.

Step 3: Rinse and Dry Immediately

After scrubbing:

• Rinse thoroughly with warm water
• Dry tools right away with a towel to prevent rust, especially on metal skewers or spring-loaded tongs
• Avoid air-drying your BBQ gear—moisture can hide in hinges and crevices

Step 4: Restore & Store

Before putting tools away:

• Check for damage: Bent tongs, loose grips, or cracked spatula handles should be replaced
• Oil wooden handles: Rub a bit of mineral oil or food-safe wood conditioner into any wooden handles
• Hang or separate: Use a tool hook or storage bin so tools stay dry and don’t clank together

Special Cases: How to Clean

Grilling Baskets

• Use a bristle-free brush or sponge to clean mesh
• If non-stick, avoid metal scrubbers—use baking soda paste to lift grease
• Line with foil next time to make cleanup faster

Thermometers

• Don’t soak unless waterproof
• Wipe probe with warm, soapy cloth
• Disinfect with rubbing alcohol or vinegar

Meat Claws

• Scrub inside grooves with a toothbrush
• Watch for stuck-on meat near base—rinse with strong water pressure

Preventative Tips

• Spray tools with nonstick grill spray before cooking
• Line baskets or trays with foil for messy meats
• Keep a damp towel or bucket of water nearby for quick mid-cook wiping
• Designate a post-cook tray for hot tools—avoids gunk sticking to surfaces

Final Thoughts

Cleaning your BBQ tools doesn’t have to kill your vibe. With the right soak, scrub, and storage routine, you’ll knock it out in no time—and your tools will last longer, work better, and be ready for action at your next cookout.

Grill hard. Clean smart. Repeat often.

Buy Here: Tool-Saving Cleanup Products on Amazon

Keep your BBQ gear in top shape with these must-have accessories:

1. Cave Tools 3-in-1 BBQ Cleaning Brush & Scraper
   Safe for all grill tools—gets into tight spots with ease.
   https://amzn.to/4cAwAlO
2. Alpha Grillers 4-Piece Tool Set with Storage Bag
   Top-rated stainless steel tools that are easy to clean and store.
   https://amzn.to/4luMClz
3. OXO Good Grips Deep Clean Brush Set
   Perfect for tight crevices, hinges, and tool joints.
   https://amzn.to/3Ek9DH7
4. Bar Keepers Friend Cookware Cleanser (Soft Cleanser)
   Safe and effective for restoring BBQ tools and baskets.
   https://amzn.to/42BbTBZ
5. Rubbermaid Deep Tool Soaking Bin with Lid (Dishwasher Safe)
   Soak your tools all at once—no more messy sink loads.
   https://amzn.to/4ikeMg2