4. Seal the Bag
Seal the bag tightly, trapping the fumes inside. The fumes, not the liquid itself, do the cleaning magic by loosening the grease and grime.
5. Let It Sit
Leave the bag outside or in a well-ventilated area for 8–12 hours, or overnight. This gives the fumes enough time to work on the residue.
6. Wipe Clean
After soaking, carefully open the bag (use gloves to avoid contact with fumes). Remove the grates and use a damp paper towel or cloth to wipe off the loosened grime. It should come off effortlessly.
7. Rinse Thoroughly
Wash the grates with warm, soapy water to remove any remaining residue or cleaning solution. Rinse well and let them dry completely before returning them to the oven or grill.
Tips for Best Results:
Safety First: Always use ammonia in a well-ventilated area, and avoid mixing it with other chemicals, especially bleach.
Check Compatibility: Ensure your grates can handle ammonia or vinegar; some coatings may react differently.
Prevent Future Build-Up: After cleaning, apply a thin layer of cooking oil to grill grates to prevent food from sticking in the future.
Why This Method Works:
The fumes from ammonia or the acidity of vinegar break down the grease, grime, and carbon deposits that build up on grates, making them easy to wipe away. It’s a hands-off, hassle-free solution that leaves your grates sparkling clean without scrubbing.
Enjoy your fresh, clean grill or oven grates with minimal effort!