How to clean a BBQ, and keep it clean

Aussies love barbecues. Blanket statements like that can be controversial, but in this case it shouldn't ruffle too many feathers. Whether you go for snags and butterflied leg of lamb or veggie kebabs, halloumi and marinated tofu skewers, the joys of al fresco cooking, dining and socialising are pretty universal.

When you hit the mid point of summer's festivities and special occasions - often shortly after Australia Day or when school holidays end - it can be a good time to clean up the pride and joy of the backyard.

Of course, a well-loved barbie is a well-used barbie and, well, dirty. So, get the elbow grease ready and let’s get cracking on turning that grime into a shine!

Firstly, play it safe by disconnecting the barbecue from the gas connection or electricity.

Getting the grime off but still no shine? You may have a rust issue. Try soaking the rusty bits in a bag of vinegar with salt for 24 hours and then give it a really good scrub.

Avoiding the above hassle is easy if you regularly maintain your barbecue – that means giving it a once over after each use.

Lots of Aussies pour beer over the plate as the barbie is still warm, then use some old newspaper and a metal fish slice to scrape off the excess fat and bits of food.

The benefits of using beer are negligible. For starters, the alcohol content is too low to act as a strong cleaning agent. Beer also contains sugar, which could, theoretically leave a slight stickiness when the water and alcohol have evaporated.

In practice, using hot water will be equally or more effective at loosening up grime and burnt-on bits, and you won't waste a beer that could be better enjoyed for its intended purpose.

Vinegar is another option as a cleaning agent, but it can be stinky and steamy work, so good old water's probably your best - and cheapest - bet.

While you’re looking after the barbie it’s a good time to check your gas bottle. In Australia, LPG gas bottles must be inspected and re-certified every 10 years, which includes checking for damage, wear, or corrosion (by a professional). After the 10-year mark, gas bottles that haven't been re-certified can't legally be refilled. You can find the test date stamped into the neck ring of the bottle.

Check the connections and the gas hose as well for corrosion or leaks. You can give barbecue knobs and connections a wipe down as well with a hot damp cloth.

If it’s too late to revive your trusty but rusty old barbie, don’t stress! Appliances Online has a wide range of models including portable BBQs large and small from leading outdoor cooking experts such as BeefEater, Weber, Napoleon and Artusi.