How to Season Porcelain Coated Cast Iron Grill Grates‍

The added durability of porcelain-coated cast-iron makes these grates a great option for owners who tend to abuse their grill. Coated cast-iron grates can withstand the heat and harsh conditions of your grill, which means you’re less likely to warp or burn them. 

However, you should still handle these grates with care when seasoning, cleaning and storing. Caring for a new piece of cookware can be intimidating, but learning the basics can make keeping it in top condition simple.

Keep reading for instructions on how to season porcelain coated cast iron grill grates properly, as well as tips on how to maintain them going forward.

What is porcelain-coated cast iron?

A porcelain-coated cast-iron grill grate is an enhanced version of a traditional cast-iron grate made with a non-stick coating. The coating is applied to the grate during the manufacturing process, providing a hard and smooth surface that resists food sticking. 

While both types of grates can be used on the grill, a porcelain-coated cast-iron grate is more likely to maintain its non-stick properties over time because the surface is harder than traditional cast iron.

The porcelain coating can also prevent rust or scratches from forming on the grill grate. As with any other cast-iron piece, the porcelain coating does not last forever and will eventually break down.

Seasoning porcelain-coated cast iron grill grates

When seasoning a new porcelain-coated cast-iron grill grate, it is important to start with a clean surface. Wipe the grate with a damp cloth to remove any dust or residue left over from the manufacturing process. 

Follow up with a dry cloth to ensure the surface doesn’t become too moist. You’ll want to use cooking oil with a high smoking point, such as canola, grapeseed, or avocado oil. 

Seasoning is a two-step process. 

• First, spread a thin layer of oil on the surface of the grate using a paper towel or clean rag.
• Next, place the grill grate on the grill and turn on the heat to 350 to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. 
• Place a sheet of aluminum foil below the grate to catch any drips that may occur. 
• Let the grate heat for about 30 minutes and then wipe the excess oil off with a paper towel. 
• Let the grill cool to room temperature and then remove the foil and paper towels. 
• Your porcelain-coated cast-iron grill grate is ready for use!

Tips for caring for porcelain coated grill grates

Seasoning your cast iron grill grates properly is the first step to maintaining them. However, it’s important to remember that your grates will require more care than a standard cast iron pan.

If you use your grill grates regularly, you’ll need to season them every few months to prevent food from sticking or rust from forming.

• Cleaning your grill grates after each use is essential. You can do this by wiping down the grates with a damp cloth. 
• Avoid scrubbing the grill grates with a wire brush or abrasive scrubbers, as this could lead to rust.
• If your grill grates do become rusty, you can use very fine sandpaper or steel wool to remove the rust, followed by a light sanding with a steel wool pad. 
• Be careful not to scratch the porcelain coating while cleaning. 
• When the grill grates are clean and dry, coat them with oil using the same method as when seasoning.

How to Store Porcelain Coated Cast Iron Grates

Because cast iron is porous, it can rust if it comes into contact with moisture or other elements that can cause corrosion. To prevent this from happening, make sure to dry the grates thoroughly after each use and store them in a dry place when you’re not using them. 

Keep the grates away from extreme hot or cold temperatures and make sure to store them in a location where they won’t be exposed to direct sunlight. If you store the grates in a dry, cool place, they should last for many years.

Cleaning of Porcelain Coated Cast Iron Grill Grates

Cleaning cast iron grill grates is easy, but you’ll want to be sure to avoid using harsh chemicals and abrasive scrubbing pads. Instead, you should use a mild, natural detergent and a scouring pad to remove built-up food. 

Make sure to completely dry the grates before storing them, as water can lead to rust. For extra thorough cleaning, you can place the grates in a 400-degree Fahrenheit oven for an hour.

To keep the grill grates away from smoke stains you should also know how to use smokeless grill. In this manner, the grills and grates both will be stainless and easy to clean and season.

Conclusion

Cast iron is an excellent material for grates, but they need to be properly seasoned before they can be used. If you’re new to cast iron, you may want to practice using it on a smaller scale, such as with a cast-iron skillet or waffle maker, before tackling the grill. 

Once you’ve got the process down how to season porcelain coated cast iron grill grates then, you’ll be able to create delicious meals with ease on your new cast iron grill grates.

By seasoning and cleaning your grill grates properly, you can preserve the non-stick properties of the porcelain coating and extend their lifespan. 

If you have any questions about seasoning and cleaning your new grill grates, be sure to talk to a trusted grill expert in your area.

FAQ’s