As the barbecue season winds down, it is tempting to simply leave the barbecue exactly where it stands and forget about it until the following spring. Left uncovered and uncleaned through autumn and winter, however, grease residue combines with rain and frost to speed up rust considerably, especially around joints and hinges.
Before anything else, all grease and food residue should be cleaned away thoroughly while it is still relatively soft, since dried-on grease becomes far harder to remove once it has sat through a few cold, damp weeks. A stiff brush and warm soapy water usually deal with most surfaces without needing anything stronger.
Metal parts need particular attention Grates and other metal parts benefit from a light coating of cooking oil once they are completely dry, as this creates a barrier against moisture that would otherwise encourage rust to form over the winter months. Hinges and wheels also appreciate a small amount of general lubricant to keep them moving freely once the barbecue comes back into use.
A properly fitted, waterproof cover makes the single biggest difference of all, keeping rain, frost and fallen leaves away from the surfaces underneath. Even a barbecue stored under a covered patio benefits from a cover, since damp air alone can still encourage rust to form over several months of inactivity.
With this care taken before the cold months set in, a barbecue comes out of storage in spring ready to use immediately, rather than needing a lengthy and frustrating restoration first.
Choosing a spot slightly raised off the ground, or placing a simple board underneath, keeps the legs and wheels away from standing water that tends to collect after heavy rain or melting frost. This small extra step, combined with a good cover, often makes the difference between a barbecue that lasts many seasons and one that starts showing serious rust within a single winter.
