How to Season Replacement Cast Iron Grill Grates

Replacement cast iron grill grates are not cheap.

So how do you prevent them from rusting and turning into a pile of scrap metal?

This was a question I had after realizing our 10-year-old gas grill needed new replacement cast iron grill grates.

Since I was in a rush to get this project done I had to buy Char-Broil grates for our Weber gas grill. And it was somewhat of a bust (which I’ll explain later) but you’ll get some good tips at my expense 🙂

Here are the supplies you need:

• Replacement cast iron grill grates
• Crisco
• Paper towels
• Microfiber cloth
• Mild dishwashing soap

After reading this post you’ll have the ability to season new or replacement cast iron grill grates. This in turn will prevent rusting and stop your food from sticking-which is annoying at best!!

I guarantee you’ll discover a few good tips. But if you have your own please don’t hesitate to let me know.

 

Removing the Protective Wax Coating from New Cast Iron Grill Grates

While shopping at Lowe’s I discovered these cool replacement cast iron grill grates by Char-Broil. They adjust from 14 to 19.5 inches. Which is awesome.

Although it was hard for me to see it, there was a protective wax coating on the new cast iron grill grates. You’ll have to remove this wax before seasoning the grates.

I used mild dishwashing soap and hot water to accomplish this task.

Place the cast iron grill grates in your kitchen sink along with 1 tablespoon of soap. Add enough hot water to soak all the grates.

Let them soak for 10-15 minutes then immediately dry them with a towel.

Why do you want the grates as dry as David Letterman? Oil and water don’t mix.

Any water left on the grates will ruin the seasoning step, which involves Crisco.

Cast Iron Grill Grate Seasoning: Crisco and Microfiber Cloths are the Key

Crisco is body moisturizer for cast iron grill grates. You’ll need to apply it to every nook and cranny. A thin coating is all you need.

At first I used paper towels to apply the Crisco and this didn’t work all that well because cast iron isn’t perfectly smooth. Thus, tiny bits of paper would get stuck to the grate.

Then I had an epiphany. Why not use one of the 50 microfiber cloths sitting in our laundry room? We use these to clean around the house and they’re not that expensive, at least the ones we buy at Home Depot.

Here’s a short video that shows you the grill grates and how to season them. I’ll reveal my big mistake, and although I’m a bit embarrassed it’s better that I share my big goof so you don’t do the same thing.

What’s Next

Our tutorial showing how to revamp a stone patio also comes in handy if that’s where your grill is stored!!

If you’re doing a bathroom remodel and need help, join one of our online courses – they’ll make your bathroom renovation much easier!

Let me know if you have any questions and I’ll do my best to help.

Cheers,

Jeff

Cast Iron Grill Grates