Carbon deposits fall off in pieces
Over time, a thick, stubborn layer of carbonized grease builds up on gas stove and grill grates. Regular dish soap barely touches it, and scrubbing can feel endless—especially with cast iron grates.
For years, many home cooks have quietly relied on one surprisingly powerful helper:
A dishwasher tablet.
Yes—that tablet.
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Why Dishwasher Tablets Work So Well
Dishwasher tablets are designed to remove:
Burnt-on food
Baked grease
Protein residue
Hardened starch
They contain concentrated degreasers and enzymes that activate with heat and moisture—exactly what carbon buildup hates.
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What You’ll Need
1 dishwasher tablet (any brand, not liquid)
Very hot water
A large heatproof basin, sink, or tray
Rubber gloves 🧤
A stiff brush or non-metal scrubber
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How to Clean Gas Stove or Grill Grates
Step 1: Remove the Grate
Take the grate off the stove or grill once it has fully cooled.
Step 2: Place in a Basin
Lay it flat in a sink, bathtub, or large tray that can handle heat.
Step 3: Add the “Magic Tablet”
Drop 1 dishwasher tablet directly onto the grate.
Step 4: Pour Hot Water
Carefully pour boiling or very hot water over the grate until it’s fully submerged.
🔥 You’ll see fizzing—this means the tablet is working.
Step 5: Let It Soak
Leave it for 30 minutes to 2 hours (heavily carbonized grates benefit from longer soaking).
Step 6: Watch the Magic
When you lift the grate, carbon deposits will:
Loosen
Crack
Fall off in flakes or chunks
Light scrubbing will remove the rest easily.
Step 7: Rinse & Dry Thoroughly
Rinse with hot water and dry completely to prevent rust.
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For Cast Iron Grates (Very Important!)
After cleaning cast iron:
Dry immediately
Lightly coat with vegetable oil
Heat on the stove or grill for a few minutes
This re-seasons the surface and protects it from rust.
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