You have a stainless steel grill, and it looks like the rust is never going away. There are many different options to remove the rust from your metal so that it does not have to be replaced prematurely.
There are also some tricks and tips on how you can prevent this from happening in the first place. This article will teach you how to remove rust from your grill and what methods work best.
Why Is My Stainless Steel Grill Rusting?
Stainless steel bbq grills are resistant to corrosion, but this resistance doesn’t last forever. If a grill is left out in the weather or isn’t cleaned regularly, it will start to develop a yellowed appearance.
This is often mistaken for rust, but it’s actually just corrosion. In order to remove the corrosion and keep the grill in working order, it needs to be cleaned frequently.
How Does Rust Affect Stainless Steel?
Rust affects stainless steel by staining it less than ordinary steel, but it is not stain-proof. Stainless steel should be regularly cleaned and polished to prevent rust and corrosion.
WD-40 or Sheila Shine can be used as a rust removal product, leaving a white residue that can be rinsed off with water. If there is significant rust or corrosion, Scotch-Brite may be needed to remove the rust.
What Is the Fastest Way to Remove Rust from Stainless Steel?
If you have a stainless steel grill starting to show rust, there is no need to worry. Rust can easily be removed with a few simple steps.
First, mix together a paste of baking soda and water. Rub this paste into the rust stains using circular motions. The baking soda will act as a mild abrasive and help to remove the rust.
Next, rinse the area with clean water and dry it off with a soft cloth. The rust should now be gone and your grill will look good as new.
What You’ll Need to Clean Your Grill
To remove rust from a stainless steel grill, you will need an onion, baking soda, aluminum foil, and a grill brush.
How to Remove Rust from Stainless Steel Grills
Here are some tips to help you remove rust from your stainless steel grills:
Using Vinegar and Salt to Remove Stainless Steel Grill Rust
To remove rust from stainless steel grills, mix undiluted white vinegar and salt together to form a thick paste. Next, wipe the rust off with a soft cloth or paper towel. Finally, rinse with water.
Using Baking Soda
Stainless steel grills are susceptible to rust, but you can easily remove the rust with a simple paste made of baking soda and water. First, clean the area with water and mild soap.
Then mix baking soda and water into a paste and apply it to the rust with a toothbrush. Gently scrub the spot until the stain is gone. Rinse the area with clean water and wipe it clean with a dry cloth.
Using Lemon Juice Combined with Detergent
Combine lemon juice and a powder-type dishwashing detergent in a water mixture. Apply the mixture to rust on grates and allow to sit overnight. Use warm water and a soft sponge or cloth to scrub grates clean. Rinse the grates with warm water.
Using Wire Brush
It’s important to keep your stainless steel grill grates clean and free of rust. To remove rust from your grill grates, you’ll need a wire brush. Start by removing the grates from the barbecue.
Then, take the wire brush and slide it across the grates, removing the rust. Be sure to flip the grates over to remove the rust from the other side. If any residual rust is present after you’ve brushed them, wipe it off with an old rag or towel.
Using Commercial Stainless Steel Rust Remover
To remove rust from your stainless steel grill, you will need to purchase a commercial rust remover. Follow the instructions on the rust remover, but generally, you will need to apply it to the grill and then wipe it clean with a cloth.
Make sure to wear gloves and safety glasses during this process. Once the grill is clean, you can reinstall it on your structure.
Using Sandpaper
To remove rust from your stainless steel grill grates, wrap a section of sandpaper around each rusty rung and slide it up and down.
What to Avoid when Removing Rust from Stainless Steel?
When removing rust from stainless steel grill, it is important to avoid using steel wool, steel brushes, or other cleaners containing fluorine, chlorine, bromine, or iodine.
Chlorides are so abrasive that they’ll mar the “stainless” surface and make it susceptible to corrosion. Rust removers meant for other metals can cause damaging scratches – or worse, leave a pesky remainder of particles that can lead to another unpleasant rust encounter.
What Are Some Tips for Preventing Rust in The Future?
- Swap out your grill for a rust-proof material like stainless steel.
- Keep the grill as dry as possible and store it away from moisture.
- Invest in a heavy-duty cover if storing outdoors. These are all great tips for preventing rust on your stainless steel grill!
Conclusion
A rust-free grill is ideal, but if you do experience a small amount of rust, try these tips for removing it. If the problem persists or gets worse after trying one or two of these methods, it may be time to replace your grill.
FAQ on removing rust from a stainless steel grill grate
Does White Vinegar Remove Rust from Stainless Steel?
Yes, it does. To remove rust from stainless steel with white vinegar, you will need to fill a spray bottle with undiluted white vinegar. Then, using a soft cleaning cloth or paper towel, wipe the vinegar on the surface until it’s dry. Finally, rinse the area with water.
Which Cleaners Should I Avoid When Cleaning Stainless Steel Grill?
It is important to avoid using certain cleaners when cleaning a stainless steel grill, as they can damage the finish or leave behind residue. CLR, Lime-Away, oven cleaner, and Comet cleansers should all be avoided.
Ammonia, bleach, chlorine, steel wool pads, scrapers, and pumice can also damage the finish of the grill. Instant Rust Out should only be used on the exterior of the grill, and WD-40 should only be used on the exterior if absolutely necessary.
Why Are My Grill Grates Rusting?
Your grill grates are rusting because they are made of metal and are exposed to high heat and moisture. Rust forms when oxygen reacts with the metal, and the more oxidized the metal is, the faster it will rust. Metal that is constantly exposed to moisture and heat will rust more quickly than the metal that is not.
