Your guide to long lasting kamados


A kamado grill is a high-performance cooking tool that excels in grilling, smoking, and baking. Its ceramic construction allows for precise temperature control and unbeatable flavor, but to maintain that quality, it’s essential to clean and care for it regularly.

What you'll need

  • Grill brush (stainless steel or brass bristles)
  • Plastic scraper or putty knife
  • Ash tool or ash rake
  • Soft cloth or sponge
  • Dish soap and warm water
  • Vacuum (optional, for ash removal)
  • Food-safe oil (for metal parts if needed)
  • Chimney brush (optional for vent cleaning)
  • Heat-resistant gloves
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Step-by-Step Cleaning Guide:

Cool down

1. Let the grill cool down

Always allow the grill to cool down completely before cleaning.

Grates

2. Clean the Grates

Before or after each cook, clean the cooking grates to ensure consistent flavor and prevent buildup.
Clean grates allow for better sear marks and less smoke contamination.

Use a stainless steel grill brush to scrub away residue.

For a deep clean, remove the grates and soak them in warm, soapy water, then scrub and rinse thoroughly.

Ashes

2. Remove Ash and Charcoal Debris

Kamado grills produce fine ash that settles in the firebox and below the fire grate.
Excess ash restricts airflow, leading to poor temperature control.

Use an ash rake or tool to pull out ash through the bottom vent.

Remove larger charcoal pieces and unburnt lumps.

For a deep clean, remove the fire ring and firebox and vacuum out fine ash from beneath.

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Interior

3. Clean the Interior

Ceramic interiors are self-cleaning to a degree, but periodic maintenance helps keep everything running smoothly.


Scrape off any grease or carbon buildup using a plastic scraper.

Once or twice a season, perform a “burnout”: Heat the grill to 500°C (930°F) for 30–45 minutes with all vents open. This incinerates built-up residue inside the grill, similar to a self-cleaning oven.

Don’t use water or harsh chemicals inside the ceramic body—it’s porous and can absorb moisture or odors.

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Vents

4. Maintain the Vent System

After cleaning, always re-season the ring to prevent rust and maintain a natural non-stick layer:

Top vent and bottom vent should move freely. Clean them regularly to avoid sticking or clogging with ash or grease.

If your vent has buildup, remove it and scrub with warm soapy water, then dry completely.

A chimney brush can help clear the top vent cap if it’s especially dirty.

Gasket inspection

5. Check and Clean the Gasket

The gasket (the seal between the lid and base) ensures efficient airflow and temperature stability.

Inspect it regularly for fraying, wear, or gaps.

Clean gently with a damp cloth—do not scrub harshly.

Replace the gasket every 1–2 years or when damaged.

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Bands and Hardware

6. Inspect the Bands and Hardware

The metal bands that hold the lid and base together should be tight and aligned.

Check bolts and screws regularly and tighten them if needed.

Wipe down any metal parts with a damp cloth and apply a light layer of food-safe oil to prevent rust (especially on hinge and band bolts).

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Exterior

7. Clean the Exterior

Keep your kamado grill looking like new.

Use a soft sponge or cloth with mild soapy water to wipe down the ceramic exterior.

Avoid abrasive pads or cleaners that can damage the ceramic glaze or painted finishes.

Protective cover

8. Use a Protective Cover

Protect your grill from rain, snow, or excessive moisture by using a high-quality cover designed for your specific model. This helps prevent rust and extends the life of your grill.

Maintenance Tips

  • Burn off residue after each cook with a short high-temp session.

  • Empty ash regularly to maintain airflow and heat efficiency.

  • Store in a dry area or use a grill cover to protect from weather.
  • Avoid water on the ceramic interior. It's porous and can trap moisture.

  • Use lump charcoal, not briquettes—it's cleaner burning and better for kamado grills.

    Proper maintenance of your kamado grill ensures years of reliable use, beautiful grilling results, and legendary flavor. Regular upkeep doesn’t take long, and it makes every cook easier, tastier, and safer.

Need further assistence?

Let us know what product you are looking to maintain and one of our staff members will be glad to help you discover the best maintenance solutions.

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