Step 4: Scrub with an Onion (Nana’s Trick)

Take half an onion, stick it on the end of a fork, and dip it into the paste. Use it to scrub the grates in circular motions. The natural juices from the onion have antibacterial properties and help break down grease while leaving behind a subtle smoky sweetness.

(If you don’t have an onion, half a lemon works too—it adds extra acidity for cutting through fat.)

Step 5: Use Aluminum Foil as a Brush

Crumple a sheet of aluminum foil into a ball and use it to scrub the grates. The foil acts as a tough abrasive without scratching the metal. Dip it into the paste occasionally to boost cleaning power.

Step 6: Rinse and Dry

Once the grime is gone, wipe down the grates with a damp cloth to remove any residue. Then dry them thoroughly with a clean towel to prevent rust.

Extra Tip from Nana

After every barbecue session, while the grill is still warm, rub the grates quickly with half an onion or lemon. This keeps buildup from forming in the first place and makes deep cleaning much easier.

Final Thoughts

Nana’s method may sound old-fashioned, but it works wonders. No expensive cleaners, no back-breaking scrubbing—just a little steam, a natural paste, and her clever onion trick. The best part? Your next cookout won’t taste like chemical spray, only smoky perfection.

So next time your barbecue grill looks hopeless, remember: sometimes the best cleaning hacks don’t come from a store—they come from Nana’s wisdom.

Would you like me to also rewrite this article in a shorter, social media–friendly version (like something catchy for Facebook or Instagram), or keep it only as a full-length guide?