There’s nothing better than hosting a barbecue in summer. That is why investing in a can help elevate your business during the warmer months. Kamado barbecues can be used for grilling, smoking, roasting and baking. This versatility makes them a cost-effective option for commercial kitchens, as they can perform multiple cooking tasks with just one appliance.
Home cooks can also enjoy the efficiency of Kamado barbecues, as they are compact enough to keep in their garden or shed. After all, nothing beats having a summer barbecue with friends and family.
However, to get the most out of your barbecue, it’s important to clean and maintain it. Luckily, Maxima’s Kamado barbecues are made from robust ceramic and are easy to clean. Here are a few tips to help you keep your appliance.
Cleaning the exterior of your barbecue
The enamel coating on your Kamado grill insulates and protects its ceramic structure. To clean the outside of your barbecue, gently wipe the ceramic surface with a damp cloth and mild detergent. Do not use a scourer, wire brush or sharp objects during cleaning, as this may damage the appliance.
Investing in a rain cover for your Kamado protects and keeps your grill clean. Maxima sells for Kamado barbecues of different sizes. This will also protect your grill against the elements during the off-season. We recommend keeping your barbecue undercover, like in a garage or shed during winter, for complete protection.
Cleaning the interior of your barbecue
To maintain optimal performance, leftover charcoal debris should be removed before cooking by agitating it using an ash tool to allow the ashes to fall through the bottom grate. Afterward, remove and replace the ash pan. Clearing out the ash is crucial to maintaining the barbecue’s airflow.
Then, brush the interior of your grill using a non-wire brush. Do not use water or cleaning agents inside the Kamado, as the ceramic material is porous and chemical residues may lead to damage and affect the taste of your food. Kamado grills are designed to be self-cleaning and only require this step before cooking.
When you’re done grilling, remove any food residue from the grates using a suitable hard-bristled brush to ensure it’s ready for next time. Avoid using cheap, low-quality wire brushes, as they may shed bristles onto the grate, posing a safety hazard.
Cleaning your heat deflector/pizza stone
Not using a drip tray can lead to the accumulation of fat and drippings from your cooking. These drippings must be cleaned regularly as they often cause flare-ups during cooking.
Remove any residue with a hard brush (avoid using metal). Do not soak the heat deflector in water or use cleaning agents. You can also wrap your deflector stone in foil for easy removal after cooking.
Maxima Kamado barbecues are self-cleaning
The interior of your Kamado may accumulate dirt over time, especially following low and slow cooking sessions. If left unused for an extended period, mould or mildew could also appear, indicating the need for a deep clean.
Deep cleaning a Kamado barbecue involves scorching any residue or debris on the barbecue and grids.
Step 1: Put all parts and accessories inside the barbecue.
Step 2: Preheat the barbecue with the cover closed and vents fully open. Heat the barbecue to 260°C. Maintain this temperature for roughly 30 minutes, then close the vents and let the barbecue cool.
Step 3: After cooling, lift the lid and remove the grids, accessories and deflector plates. The heat will have incinerated residue and grease, which can be easily removed using a hard brush. Avoid using soap, water or chemicals.
Step 4: Remove the charcoal from the Kamado and parts of the barbecue (e.g., the firebox).
Step 5: Dispose of any remaining ash. The most effective method is using a vacuum cleaner or bristle brush. Finish by wiping any stubborn ash with a slightly damp cloth.
Step 6: Empty the ashtray.
Step 7: Reassemble all the parts and replace the lid.
Handy accessories for easy cleaning
Maxima sells various accessories to help clean and maintain your Kamado barbecue.
- It’s important not to use sharp objects like steel brushes to clean your barbecue. Instead, use this bristled brush from Maxima. It gets rid of any baked-on residue without damaging your barbecue.
- Cleaning your Kamado can be a dirty task. To avoid getting your hands dirty, use this stainless steel ash pan to remove charcoal residue and easily collect ash.
- Maxima’s ash tool can be used for two purposes: safely stoking the fire and collecting the remains of charcoal and ashes. This allows you to clean your barbecue easily.
View all Maxima's Kamado barbecue accessories
How often should I clean my Kamado?
Regular maintenance of your Kamado is crucial to preserving its longevity and performance. The frequency of cleaning your Kamado depends on how often you use it. It is recommended that a thorough cleaning be conducted every 5-6 cooking sessions, with additional attention paid to the cooking grids after each use to prevent residual buildup.
If you use your barbecue frequently, it may be necessary to clean it more regularly. Remember, the cleanliness of the grill impacts its lifespan, efficiency, and the food you cook. By consistently and thoroughly cleaning your Kamado, you can ensure its durability and enjoy it for a long time.
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In conclusion, maintaining your Kamado barbecue ensures optimal performance and prolongs lifespan. Regular cleaning and care can enhance the flavour of your grilled food and prevent unwanted residues from affecting your cooking experience.
This blog post serves as a general guide to maintaining Kamado barbecues. We recommend consulting your user manual for more in-depth and specific maintenance and cleaning practices. If you have any questions or concerns, it’s best to contact a Kamado barbecue expert or the manufacturer of your appliance.
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Looking for a Kamado barbecue that’s easy to use and clean? Shop Maxima’s high-quality today!