Seasoning Your Grill Grates

Seasoning isn’t just for wok's, it’s also key to protecting and preserving your stainless steel grill grates.

When it comes to grilling, seasoning your stainless steel grates isn’t just a nice-to-have, it’s essential. Regular seasoning helps protect against rust, makes food release easier, and builds up a natural non-stick layer that improves with every cook.

Why Seasoning Your Grates Matters

Even though stainless steel is more resistant to rust than raw steel, it can still suffer from moisture, high heat, and food acids over time. By seasoning your grates, you:

✔ Prevent surface rust and corrosion.

✔ Create a durable, non-stick layer that makes grilling and cleaning easier.

✔ Boost heat resistance and improve the overall performance of your grates.

Best Oils for Seasoning Stainless Steel Grates

Choose oils with a high smoke point to get the best seasoning layer. Great options include:

• Canola oil (200–230°C) – affordable and effective.

• Rapeseed oil (190–232°C) – a UK favourite with a neutral flavour.

• Grapeseed oil (198–215°C) – light and great for repeated seasoning.

• Flaxseed oil (107°C) – creates a hard, durable layer but needs careful application.

  
  

Step-by-Step Guide to Seasoning Your Grill Grates

1. Give the Grill grates a clean in warm soapy water, making sure not to use anything too abrasive. This makes sure any residue from manufacturing is removed.

2. Start with clean, dry grates. Remove any food debris and moisture.

3. Use a lint-free cloth or paper towel to rub a light, even coat of oil over the entire surface of the grates — top, bottom, and sides.

4. Place the grates back on your grill. (do this at the same time as seasoning your fire grill) Light a full chimney starter of coals and spread them evenly. Bring the grill grates temperature to 200–250°C and let it run for 30–60 minutes. The oil will bond with the metal, forming your first layer of seasoning.

5. Let the grill cool. For best results, repeat the oiling and heating process 2–3 times to build up a stronger non-stick coating.

   
   

Ongoing Maintenance Tips

• Lightly oil the grates after each cook, while they’re still warm.

• If rust spots appear, scrub them gently, reapply oil, and heat again.

• Avoid soaking grates in water — moisture is the enemy.

• Let the seasoning develop naturally over time.

  
  

With regular seasoning and a little care, your stainless steel grates will stay protected, easy to cook on, and ready for countless BBQ sessions. A little maintenance now means better flavour, easier grilling, and gear that lasts for years.