That headline usually refers to using a dishwasher tablet to help loosen heavy grease and carbon buildup on grill grates.
Here’s what’s actually going on — and how to do it safely.
🧼 The “Magic Tablet” = Dishwasher Tablet
Dishwasher tablets contain:
- Degreasers
- Mild alkali cleaners
- Enzymes
These help break down baked-on grease and carbon residue.
🔥 How People Use It
- Remove grill grates and let them cool completely.
- Fill a large tub or heavy-duty trash bag with very hot water.
- Drop in 1 dishwasher tablet and let it dissolve.
- Submerge the grates and soak for 1–3 hours.
- Scrub with a non-metal brush and rinse thoroughly.
The buildup often loosens and flakes off more easily.
⚠️ Important Safety Notes
- Never use this on a hot grill.
- Rinse extremely well — cleaning residue should not remain on cooking surfaces.
- Avoid this method on cast iron grates (it can strip seasoning and cause rust).
- Dry completely before reinstalling.
🧯 Alternative (Safer for Cast Iron)
- Heat grill for 10–15 minutes
- Turn off
- Scrub with a grill brush
- Lightly oil grates afterward
🚩 A Reality Check
Carbon doesn’t magically “fall off in chunks” on its own — soaking simply softens grease so scrubbing is easier.
If you tell me what type of grill grates you have (stainless steel, porcelain-coated, cast iron), I can give you the safest cleaning method for that specific surface.
