How to Prep a Charcoal Grill

What You'll Need

To make the process flow smoothly, be sure to gather everything on the list below before you get started. And as always, use Kingsford™ Charcoal for a great grilling experience.

FUELS AND TOOLS
  • Kingsford™ Charcoal

  • Charcoal Grill

  • A Stiff Bristled Wire Brush (or a Ball of Aluminum Foil and Tongs)

  • Garbage Bag

  • Tongs

  • Paper Towels

  • Matches or Lighter

Empty any old ash

Empty any old ash

  • Old ash in the bottom of your grill can obstruct vents and make temperatures difficult to control.

  • Put the ash in a bag and put it in the trash. To prevent accidental fires, the ash must be completely cool before emptying it from the grill.

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Clean the Grill Gates

Clean the Grill Gates

  • Use a stiff bristled wire brush to clear any rust or residue off your grill grates. If you don’t have a wire brush, you can also scrub with a ball of aluminum foil held with long-handled tongs.

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Preheat the Grill Grates

Preheat the Grill Grates

  • Preheating your grill grates before putting food on them will help prevent foods from sticking.

  • Once your coals are lit, put the grates on and let them heat up for a few minutes.

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Oil the Grill Grates

Oil the Grill Grates

  • Oil the grill grates by putting cooking oil on a folded paper towel. Grab the oiled paper towel with long-handled tongs and oil the grate thoroughly.

  • Once your grill reaches the desired temperature, it’s time to add your favorite foods and start cooking. Have fun!

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