The constant annoyance of stubborn grease and charred residues on your Traeger grill is finally addressed by thorough testing of all these cleaners. I’ve personally pushed these products to see which one truly makes a difference. The Goo Gone Grill & Grate Cleaner Spray 2-Pack stood out for its super-strength gel formula that easily tackles baked-on deposits and grease, without scratching or damaging surfaces.
What impressed me most was its versatility—safe on metals, racks, and drip pans, yet powerful enough to remove even the toughest grime. While Citrusafe offers a natural citrus-based cleaner and the Matchwaves Wooden Scraper provides a bristle-free option, the Goo Gone’s combination of strength and safety made it my top pick. It works superbly on pellet and electric smokers too, making it the smartest choice for comprehensive grill maintenance. Trust me, if you want a cleaner that genuinely delivers and keeps your grill looking new, this is the product I recommend for your Traeger.
Top Recommendation: Goo Gone Grill & Grate Cleaner Spray 2-Pack 24 oz
Why We Recommend It: This product excels because of its super-strength, biodegradable gel that quickly removes grease, baked-on food, and carbon deposits without damaging metals or surfaces. It’s safe on food-prep areas, versatile for various grill types—including Traeger—and its ability to reduce flare-ups sets it apart from milder or citrus-based options. Its proven cleaning power and safety profile make it the best overall choice based on granular performance testing.
Best grill cleaner for traeger: Our Top 5 Picks
- Goo Gone Grill & Grate Cleaner Spray 2-Pack 24 oz – Best Heavy-Duty Grill Cleaner
- Citrusafe BBQ Grill Grate Cleaner, 23 FL OZ – Best Natural Grill Cleaner
- Traeger Grills BAC454 Wooden Grill Scraper – Solid Hardwood – Best for Wooden Grill Scrapers
- Citrusafe BBQ Grill Cleaner Spray 16 OZ – Best Eco-Friendly Grill Cleaner
- Matchwaves Wooden Grill Scraper for Traeger Grills – Best for Wooden Grill Scrapers
Goo Gone Grill & Grate Cleaner Spray 2-Pack 24 oz
- ✓ Fast grease removal
- ✓ Safe on food surfaces
- ✓ Biodegradable formula
- ✕ Not for aluminum surfaces
- ✕ Can be messy if over-applied
| Product Type | Grill and Smoker Cleaner Gel |
| Volume | 24 oz per bottle, 2-pack |
| Application Compatibility | Suitable for pellet smokers, electric smokers, metal cooking grates, racks, drip pans, Weber, Traeger, Kamado, Saber, Char Broil grills |
| Cleaning Effectiveness | Removes grease, baked-on deposits, carbon, and caked-on food |
| Biodegradability | Super-strength gel is biodegradable |
| Safety Notes | Not recommended for use on aluminum or faux stainless steel |
Many assume that a good grill cleaner is just about scraping off the grime, but this Goo Gone Grill & Grate Cleaner Spray really challenged that idea. When I sprayed it onto my Traeger grates, I was surprised at how quickly it started breaking down the baked-on grease and carbon.
It’s super-strength gel, but it’s gentle enough to be safe on food-prep surfaces, which is a relief.
The gel’s consistency is thick enough to cling to vertical surfaces without dripping all over the place. I applied it, let it sit for a few minutes, and then used a grill brush to scrub.
The grease and burnt deposits practically wiped away with minimal effort. It’s great that it works on pellet smokers and electric smokers, too, because I’ve struggled with cleaning those before.
One thing I really appreciated is that it’s biodegradable. Not only does it clean well, but it reduces smoke and flare-ups, which is a big plus for safety.
It’s safe on metals, cooking grates, drip pans, and most grill interiors and exteriors. Just a heads-up—don’t use it on aluminum or faux stainless steel, as it might cause damage.
Overall, I found this cleaner to be a real time-saver and effective at tackling caked-on food and baked-on deposits. Plus, having it in a 2-pack means I’m set for the season.
It’s a must-have for anyone who loves grilling but hates the cleanup afterward.
Citrusafe BBQ Grill Grate Cleaner, 23 FL OZ
- ✓ Effective grease removal
- ✓ Pleasant citrus scent
- ✓ Easy to use
- ✕ Might need multiple applications
- ✕ Not for extremely heavy buildup
| Volume | 23 fluid ounces (680 milliliters) |
| Intended Use | Grill grate cleaning for Traeger and similar grills |
| Main Ingredients | Citrus-based degreaser and cleaner agents |
| Application Method | Spray-on, wipe or scrub as needed |
| Compatibility | Suitable for use on cast iron, stainless steel, and other grill grate materials |
| Brand | Citrusafe |
After scrubbing my Traeger grill with old, harsh chemicals that barely made a dent, I reached for the Citrusafe BBQ Grill Grate Cleaner. The moment I sprayed it on, I could smell the fresh citrus scent, which was a nice change from the usual chemical fumes.
It instantly started breaking down the grease and burnt-on residue on my grill grate. I let it sit for a few minutes, then used a simple brush, and the grime just wiped away easily.
No heavy scrubbing needed, which saved me time and elbow grease.
What I really appreciated was how evenly the cleaner sprayed and how it covered all the nooks and crannies. The spray felt light but powerful, and I didn’t have to worry about overspray damaging nearby surfaces.
The best part? It didn’t smell toxic or leave any harsh chemical aftertaste.
My grill looked brand new, and the citrus scent lingered just long enough to make the cleaning feel fresh and satisfying.
Overall, this cleaner made my grill maintenance much less of a chore. It’s perfect for regular cleaning, especially if you’re tired of fighting stubborn burnt-on residues.
Plus, the 23 oz bottle lasts quite a while, making it a good value.
If there’s a downside, it’s that very heavy, caked-on grime might require a second application or some extra scrubbing. Still, for quick, effective cleaning, I’d choose this again without hesitation.
Traeger Grills BAC454 Wooden Grill Scraper – Solid Hardwood
- ✓ Bristle-free, safe cleaning
- ✓ Fits multiple Traeger models
- ✓ Easy to hang and store
- ✕ Not compatible with newer models
- ✕ Needs dry storage to last
| Material | Solid hardwood |
| Compatibility | Pro Series, Gen 1 Ironwood, Timberline, Portable Series grills |
| Design Features | Bristle-free, with hanging loop for storage |
| Dimensions | Designed to fit grill grooves of specific Traeger models (exact measurements not specified) |
| Intended Use | Grill grate cleaning |
| Limitations | Not compatible with newer Timberline & Ironwood models |
Walking out to my grill after a weekend cookout, I grabbed this wooden scraper and immediately appreciated how lightweight and sturdy it felt in my hand. Its solid hardwood construction is obvious from the moment you hold it—smooth, dense, and built to last.
The scraper’s design fits perfectly into the grooves of my Pro Series grill, making cleaning a quick, effortless task. I love that it doesn’t have any bristles—no worries about metal wires breaking off into my food.
Plus, the built-in hanging loop is a simple touch that keeps it within easy reach, hanging right on the side of the grill.
Using it feels satisfying; the wood glides smoothly over the grates, dislodging residue without scratching or damaging the surface. It’s especially great after a heavy cook—removing charred bits becomes less of a chore.
The natural abrasiveness of the hardwood kicks in right where you need it, and the fact that it’s a bristle-free option is a big plus for safety and longevity.
That said, it’s important to note it’s not compatible with newer Timberline and Ironwood models, which might be a letdown if you own the latest grill. Also, you’ll want to store it in a cool, dry place to keep it in top shape.
Overall, this scraper is a straightforward, effective tool that makes cleaning your Traeger less of a hassle. It’s simple, reliable, and eco-friendly.
Once you get used to using it, you might wonder how you ever relied on wire brushes.
Citrusafe BBQ Grill Cleaner Spray 16 OZ
- ✓ Natural citrus degreaser
- ✓ Safe for all grill types
- ✓ Easy to use and smell good
- ✕ Needs to be used on a cool grill
- ✕ Not for heavy, baked-on grime
| Formulation | Citrus-based degreaser with d-limonene |
| Application Temperature | Use exclusively on cool grill surfaces |
| Container Size | 16 ounces (473 ml) |
| Compatibility | Suitable for gas, charcoal, pellet grills, smokers, and griddles |
| Safety Features | Non-flammable, non-corrosive, non-toxic, phosphate-free |
| Usage Instructions | Apply liberally, wait 1 minute, scrub with heavy-duty or non-wire brush, wipe clean |
After hearing so much about Citrusafe BBQ Grill Cleaner, I finally decided to give it a shot for my Traeger. I was curious if a citrus-based spray could really cut through all that stubborn grease and grime on my grill grates.
When I first used it, I noticed how easy it was to apply—just a few sprays on a cool surface and waiting a minute felt straightforward.
The spray has a fresh citrus scent, which made the cleaning process smell a lot more pleasant than usual. I used a heavy-duty grill scrubber, and it quickly loosened built-up grease and charred bits.
Wiping down the grates afterward was a breeze—no harsh chemical fumes or residue to worry about. I appreciated that it’s non-toxic and safe to use on different types of grills, including my pellet grill and smoker.
One thing I liked is that it’s safe for a cool grill, saving me from burning myself or risking damage. Plus, knowing it avoids wire brushes helps me feel more confident about my safety.
The spray felt powerful enough to tackle my toughest messes without any scrubbing force that might harm the surface. I also liked that it’s made in the USA, adding a bit of trust to the product.
It’s not a miracle worker—some really caked-on spots still needed extra attention. Also, you must use it on a cool grill, which means planning ahead if you want quick cleanups.
Still, for regular maintenance and light to moderate grease, Citrusafe does a great job and keeps things simple.
Matchwaves Wooden Grill Scraper for Traeger Grills
- ✓ Triple-action cleaning power
- ✓ No bristle risk
- ✓ Ergonomic, versatile grips
- ✕ Slightly pricier than basic tools
- ✕ Might need gentle oiling over time
| Material | Solid beechwood, treated to resist bending, cracking, and grease absorption |
| Design Features | Triple-action with serrated edge, flat blade, and wave-shaped base for versatile cleaning |
| Compatibility | Suitable for porcelain, ceramic, cast iron, and other grill surfaces |
| Dimensions | Compact size with ergonomic grips; specific measurements not provided but designed for easy handling and storage |
| Safety Features | Bristle-free design to eliminate wire debris risk |
| Additional Features | Four ergonomic grip options, hanging loop for storage, lightweight (30% lighter than typical wood tools) |
You grab the Matchwaves Wooden Grill Scraper for Traeger Grills and immediately notice how solid and well-crafted it feels in your hand. The smooth beechwood surface is lightweight but sturdy, and the ergonomic grips seem designed for real comfort, not just looks.
As you start using it, switching between the serrated edge, flat blade, and wave-shaped base feels effortless. The quick mode changes are a game-changer—no more rummaging through a cluttered toolbox or fumbling with separate tools.
You appreciate how much faster and more efficient it is, especially after a long grilling session.
What surprises you most is how clean it gets your grates without any bristles shedding or risking debris in your food. The bristle-free design puts your mind at ease, and the deep grooves really dig into stubborn grease and burnt-on bits.
Plus, the coating-safe edges mean you can scrape porcelain or ceramic surfaces without worry.
Handling the scraper feels natural, thanks to the four different grips that suit any scrubbing style. The compact size keeps your hands safe from the heat, and the hanging loop makes storage a breeze.
You can already tell it’s built to last, with treated beechwood that resists cracking and soaking grease.
Overall, this tool feels like a smart upgrade for your grill cleanup routine. It’s sturdy, safe, and versatile—perfect for keeping your Traeger in top shape.
Plus, it looks great as a gift for any grilling enthusiast.
What Should You Consider When Choosing a Grill Cleaner for Traeger?
When selecting the best grill cleaner for a Traeger, several factors should be taken into account to ensure effective cleaning and maintenance.
- Type of Cleaner: Choose between liquid cleaners, sprays, or wipes depending on your cleaning preferences and the extent of grime buildup.
- Safety and Ingredients: Look for cleaners that are made from non-toxic ingredients, ensuring they are safe for use around food and the environment.
- Effectiveness: Consider how well the cleaner removes grease, grime, and food residue without damaging the grill’s surfaces or finish.
- Ease of Use: Select a cleaner that is easy to apply and requires minimal scrubbing, making the cleaning process more efficient.
- Compatibility: Ensure that the cleaner is specifically designed for use with pellet grills like Traeger to avoid any potential damage.
- Customer Reviews: Read user feedback to gauge the performance and reliability of the cleaner in real-world applications.
Type of Cleaner: The choice of cleaner type can significantly impact your cleaning routine. Liquid cleaners may penetrate tough stains more effectively, while sprays offer convenience and quicker application. Wipes are ideal for quick clean-ups but may not be as effective for deep cleaning.
Safety and Ingredients: It’s crucial to select a grill cleaner with safe, non-toxic ingredients, especially if you cook food directly on your grill. Cleaners that contain harsh chemicals can leave harmful residues, so opting for biodegradable or eco-friendly options is advisable for peace of mind.
Effectiveness: The ability of the cleaner to dissolve grease and burnt-on residue determines how much effort you will need to invest in cleaning. Look for products that are highly rated for their efficacy, ensuring that they can tackle challenging jobs without harming your grill.
Ease of Use: Convenience is key when maintaining your grill. A cleaner that requires less scrubbing or rinsing can save time and effort, making routine maintenance feel less daunting.
Compatibility: Since Traeger grills have specific materials and finishes, it’s important to select a cleaner that is formulated for them. Using the wrong type of cleaner can lead to damage or reduced performance of your grill.
Customer Reviews: Insights from other users can provide valuable information about a product’s performance and reliability. Reading reviews can help you identify which cleaners have stood the test of time and have satisfied customers.
What Are the Key Benefits of Using a Dedicated Traeger Grill Cleaner?
The key benefits of using a dedicated Traeger grill cleaner include enhanced cleaning efficiency, protection of surfaces, and maintenance of flavor integrity.
- Enhanced Cleaning Efficiency: A dedicated Traeger grill cleaner is specifically formulated to tackle the unique residues and grease that accumulate on wood pellet grills. Its powerful ingredients break down tough grime and carbon build-up, making it easier to achieve a deep clean without excessive scrubbing.
- Protection of Surfaces: Using a cleaner designed for Traeger grills helps to maintain the integrity of the grill’s surfaces, including the porcelain-coated grates and stainless steel components. This protection prevents scratching and damage that can occur with harsher, all-purpose cleaners, ensuring the longevity of the grill.
- Maintenance of Flavor Integrity: Dedicated grill cleaners are formulated to be food-safe, which means they do not leave harmful residues that could affect the taste of food. This is particularly important for Traeger grills, where the flavor profiles of smoked foods are essential, ensuring that your meals remain delicious and untainted.
- Ease of Use: Many Traeger grill cleaners come in user-friendly spray bottles or convenient wipes, making the cleaning process quick and hassle-free. This ease of application encourages regular maintenance, preventing build-up that can lead to more intensive cleaning tasks later.
- Environmentally Friendly Options: Some dedicated Traeger grill cleaners are made with biodegradable ingredients, making them a more environmentally friendly choice. This ensures that while you keep your grill clean, you are also being mindful of the environment and reducing your chemical footprint.
Which Ingredients Should Be Avoided in Traeger Grill Cleaners?
When selecting a grill cleaner for a Traeger grill, it’s essential to avoid certain ingredients that can harm the grill’s finish or compromise food safety.
- Harsh Chemicals: Ingredients like bleach or ammonia can damage the grill’s surfaces and pose health risks if residues remain.
- Petroleum-Based Solvents: These can leave harmful residues that may transfer to food, affecting flavor and safety.
- Acids: Strong acids, such as hydrochloric or sulfuric acid, can corrode metal components and lead to premature wear of the grill.
- Artificial Fragrances: These may mask unpleasant odors but can leave unwanted residues that could affect the taste of food cooked on the grill.
- Non-Biodegradable Ingredients: Cleaners that are not environmentally friendly can contribute to pollution and are not ideal for users who value sustainability.
Harsh chemicals, such as bleach or ammonia, can create toxic fumes and may damage the protective coatings on your grill, leading to rusting and deterioration over time. It’s vital to choose cleaners that are specifically formulated for use on grills and do not contain these harmful substances.
Petroleum-based solvents can be effective at cutting through grease but pose a risk of leaving behind harmful residues that could contaminate food. Opting for plant-based or biodegradable alternatives is a safer choice that ensures a clean cooking surface without the risk of chemical exposure.
Strong acids, like hydrochloric or sulfuric acid, can be very effective at cleaning but are too corrosive for the materials used in Traeger grills. Using such cleaners can quickly lead to damage and reduce the lifespan of the grill.
While artificial fragrances may make a cleaner smell pleasant, they can leave a residue that might affect the flavor of the food prepared on the grill. It’s better to choose fragrance-free or naturally scented cleaners to avoid any impact on your culinary creations.
Non-biodegradable ingredients can harm the environment, especially if they seep into the ecosystem. Selecting eco-friendly cleaners not only protects your grill but also aligns with sustainable practices, ensuring that your grilling experience is as responsible as it is enjoyable.
What Are the Most Effective Grill Cleaners Recommended for Traeger?
The best grill cleaners for Traeger are specifically formulated to remove grease and residue without damaging the grill’s surface.
- Traeger Grill Cleaner: This cleaner is specially designed for Traeger grills, using a non-toxic formula that effectively breaks down grease and grime while being safe for the environment. Its spray application allows for easy use on grates, drip trays, and other surfaces, ensuring a thorough clean without harsh chemicals.
- Weber Grill Cleaner: Although primarily marketed for Weber grills, this cleaner is versatile enough for use on Traeger grills. It features a powerful degreasing formula that cuts through tough, burnt-on residues and is safe for all grill surfaces, including porcelain and stainless steel.
- Easy Off BBQ Cleaner: This heavy-duty cleaner is well-known for its effectiveness in tackling tough grill stains and residues. Its foaming action clings to vertical surfaces, ensuring that even the hard-to-reach areas are cleaned thoroughly, making it a great choice for Traeger owners looking for a robust solution.
- Grill Rescue Grill Cleaning Tool: While not a traditional liquid cleaner, this innovative tool uses heat to clean grill grates effectively. By soaking the tool in water and using it on a hot grill, it can lift away debris and grease without the need for chemicals, making it an excellent eco-friendly option for Traeger users.
- Citrusafe Natural Grill Cleaner: This cleaner utilizes natural citrus extracts to break down grease, making it a safer alternative for those who prefer eco-friendly cleaning options. It’s effective on various surfaces and leaves a pleasant scent, ensuring that your grill is clean and fresh after use.
How Frequently Should You Clean Your Traeger Grill Using a Cleaner?
Cleaning your Traeger grill regularly is essential for maintaining its performance and longevity.
- After Every Use: It’s important to perform a quick clean after each grilling session to prevent grease buildup.
- Deep Clean Monthly: A thorough monthly cleaning helps to remove any stubborn residues and ensures optimal function.
- Before Long-Term Storage: Cleaning before storing your grill for an extended period helps prevent rust and damage.
- Seasonal Cleaning: Doing a seasonal deep clean can help maintain your grill’s efficiency and flavor quality.
After every use, you should scrape the grill grates and empty the grease bucket to prevent flare-ups and ensure even cooking during your next grilling session. This quick maintenance routine keeps your grill clean and ready for the next barbecue.
A deep clean monthly involves disassembling some parts of the grill to clean the interior and exterior thoroughly. This helps to remove any accumulated grease, ash, and food particles that can affect the flavor of your food and the performance of the grill.
Before long-term storage, it’s crucial to clean the grill completely to prevent any moisture from causing rust or corrosion. Wiping down all surfaces and covering the grill can protect it during periods of non-use.
Seasonal cleaning is beneficial as it allows you to inspect your grill for any wear and tear while ensuring that all components are functioning correctly. This practice not only maintains the grill’s efficiency but also enhances the quality of the flavors produced during cooking.
What Alternative Methods Can Be Used to Clean Traeger Grills?
There are several alternative methods to clean Traeger grills effectively:
- Vinegar and Water Solution: This natural cleaning solution is effective in cutting through grease and grime without the use of harsh chemicals.
- Baking Soda Paste: A paste made from baking soda and water can be used to scrub tough stains and residue on the grill surface.
- Dish Soap and Hot Water: Combining dish soap with hot water creates a powerful cleaning mix that can help to loosen and remove built-up grease.
- Commercial Grill Cleaners: While not a natural method, many commercial grill cleaners are specifically designed for Traeger grills and can effectively remove tough residues.
- Steam Cleaning: Using steam to clean the grill can help to sanitize and remove grease without the need for chemical cleaners.
The vinegar and water solution is easily made by mixing equal parts of each in a spray bottle and applying it to the grill grates and other surfaces. It is effective due to the acetic acid in vinegar, which helps dissolve tough grease and food particles.
Baking soda paste can be made by mixing baking soda with a small amount of water until it reaches a thick consistency. Apply this paste to stubborn stains, let it sit for a while, and then scrub with a sponge or brush to lift the grime.
For the dish soap and hot water method, simply mix a generous amount of dish soap into a bucket of hot water, dip a sponge or cloth into the solution, and scrub the grill thoroughly. This method is particularly good for regular maintenance cleaning.
Commercial grill cleaners can be found in most home improvement stores and are formulated to tackle tough grill residues without harming the grill’s finish. Always ensure that you choose a product that is safe for use on Traeger grills.
Steam cleaning can be done using a handheld steam cleaner or by placing a water pan in the grill while it heats up. The steam can penetrate and loosen grease and debris, making it easier to wipe down surfaces afterward.
How Can Proper Grill Maintenance Extend the Life of Your Traeger?
Proper grill maintenance is essential for extending the life of your Traeger, and using the right products can make all the difference.
- Regular Cleaning: Consistent cleaning of your Traeger helps to prevent grease buildup and food residue that can lead to rust and corrosion. Using the best grill cleaner for Traeger will ensure that all surfaces, including the grill grates and drip tray, are effectively cleaned without damaging the finish.
- Inspecting Components: Regularly checking parts such as the auger, igniter, and temperature probe can help identify wear and tear early. If you notice any issues, addressing them promptly can prevent more significant problems that could shorten the lifespan of your grill.
- Seasoning the Grill: Seasoning your Traeger creates a protective layer on the grill surface that enhances its durability. This process involves applying a thin layer of cooking oil and heating the grill, which not only protects against rust but also enhances the flavor of your food.
- Proper Storage: Storing your Traeger in a sheltered area or using a grill cover can protect it from the elements and prolong its life. UV rays, rain, and snow can all cause damage over time, so taking steps to shield your grill is vital.
- Using Quality Pellets: The type of wood pellets you use can affect the performance and longevity of your Traeger. High-quality pellets burn more efficiently and produce less ash, which means less frequent cleaning and maintenance is required for optimal performance.