Your guide to long lasting wood-fired barbecues

A wood-fired grill is more than just a cooking device, it’s a centerpiece for social outdoor cooking. With regular maintenance, you’ll ensure it delivers perfect heat distribution, remains safe to use, and retains its iconic look over time. Here’s how to properly care for and maintain your wood-fired grill.

What you'll need

  • Grill brush or scraper
  • Metal ash shovel and bucket
  • Mild dish soap and warm water
  • Scouring pad or wire wool
  • Soft cloth or sponge
  • Food-safe oil (e.g., sunflower or flaxseed)
  • Protective cover (optional but highly recommended)
  • Heat-resistant gloves


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Step-by-Step Cleaning Guide:

Cool down

1. Cool Off

Always allow the grill to cool down completely before cleaning. Wood-fired grills retain heat for a long time, so exercise caution before starting any maintenance.

Ashes

2. Remove Ashes and Burnt Debris

Once the grill is cool, use a metal ash shovel to scoop out all ash and leftover wood from the fire bowl. Place it in a metal ash bucket and dispose of it properly. Leaving ash inside can trap moisture and promote rust.

Tip: Empty the fire bowl after every use or at least once it’s half full of ash.

Cooking plate

3. Scrape the Cooking Plate (Ring)

Use a grill scraper or metal spatula to scrape food debris and carbon buildup off the cooking ring. While the ring is still slightly warm (not hot), it’s easier to remove stuck-on grease.

Tip: for a deep clean, use a scouring pad or fine wire wool to buff out tough spots.

Cleanse

4. Clean with Warm Water and Soap (As Needed)

For a deeper clean of the cooking surface:

Wipe it down with warm soapy water and a soft sponge.

Avoid soaking or using excessive water, as moisture can cause rusting.
Dry thoroughly with a soft cloth.

Do not use harsh detergents or chemicals. These can damage the surface and leave harmful residues.

Season Cooking plates

5. Re-Season the Cooking Plate

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

Apply a thin layer of food-safe oil (like flaxseed or sunflower oil).

Use a cloth or paper towel to spread it evenly.

Repeat this process regularly to build up a strong seasoning layer.

Light a small fire or warm the surface gently to allow the oil to bake in.

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Exterior

6. Wipe down the base and exterior

For Corten steel bases, no special treatment is required. The rusted appearance is intentional and protective.

For coated or black steel bases, clean with a damp cloth and dry thoroughly. Avoid abrasive pads that may scratch the finish.

Firewood inspection

7. Store Dry Firewood Properly

Only use dry, seasoned hardwood for cooking. Store firewood in a dry place, ideally under cover, to avoid excess smoke and inefficient burning.

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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

  • Clean after every use while the grill is still warm—it makes food removal easier.

  • Oil the plate regularly, even if you haven’t cooked on it recently, to prevent oxidation.

  • Inspect for rust periodically, especially in cold or damp climates.

  • Keep ventilation holes clear if your model includes them, to maintain proper airflow and efficient combustion.

    Maintaining your wood-fired grill doesn’t take long, but it makes all the difference in performance, safety, and appearance. With regular care, your grill will be the focal point of outdoor gatherings for many years to come.

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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