SPOILER ALERT: The Good news is that you do NOT need to replace your barbecue lid – the paint is NOT peeling. Read the whole blog for more details.
As Barbecue experts, we get those panicked calls each season: “The paint’s flaking off my barbecue lid!” Relax, it’s not paint—it’s creosote. This flaky, black stuff is a buildup of grease, smoke, and soot that settles inside your lid after all those delicious grilling sessions. Over time, creosote can harden and flake, potentially falling into your food (yikes!). But don't worry—it’s easy to clean, and we’ll show you how.
The Science of Creosote
Creosote forms when fats, oils, and other organic materials burn, releasing hydrocarbons that cool and stick to surfaces—like the inside of your barbecue lid. Over time, these hydrocarbons build up into that black, flaky stuff known as creosote. This is the same type of creosote that clogs chimneys, so you’re basically getting a mini chemistry lesson every time you grill! But don’t worry, you’re not running a science lab—just a barbecue.
If you don’t keep this creosote buildup in check it will start flaking into your food which is not good because carbon flakes can affect the flavour of your cooking. Have you ever had burgers that tasted just a bit... off? That’s likely the creosote meddling with your meal. It adds a bitter, burnt flavour that overpowers the smoky goodness you’re aiming for. So, unless you’re trying to give your food a "charcoal surprise" flavour, regular cleaning of both the lid & grill is essential.
Not only does a creosote-free grilled food taste better, but it also cooks better—more consistent heat and fewer flare-ups. So, grab that right cleaner and give your lid some love!
Side note: Barbecues Galore also offers fireplace services! So, if your fireplace needs a little TLC like your grill, we’ve got you covered.
How to Clean Creosote
Cleaning creosote from your barbecue? Easy peasy! Just grab some Brander Cleaner and Degreaser along with one of our fantastic brushes, and with a bit of elbow grease, you'll be saying sayonara to that stubborn buildup.
Watch the Video – Simply click the Brander Bottle image above.
Important to note: None of the barbecues we sell at Barbecues Galore have painted lids. That means if you bought your grill from us, that flaky stuff is definitely not painted—it’s creosote. The lids on our barbecues are typically coated with a baked-on enamel (similar to cars) that is durable, weather-resistant, and won’t be damaged during regular use.
Preventing Creosote Buildup
To keep creosote build-up at bay, it's essential to wipe the inside of your lid with a damp rag or paper towel after every second or third cook. This simple step helps eliminate the residue before it has a chance to accumulate. To make this task easier and safer, be sure to use heat-resistant gloves, which offer protection against high temperatures while you clean. Regular maintenance keeps your grill looking great and ensures it performs at its best.
At Barbecues Galore, we offer a full lineup of brushes tailored for every scrubbing scenario, whether you need a tough grill brush to tackle tough spots or a gentler option for delicate surfaces. To keep creosote build-up manageable, a quick wipe of the lid every second or third cook will help prevent significant accumulation. However, to ensure your meals are always top-notch, it’s wise to clean your grill grates before each use. This way, you avoid any creosote transferring to your cooking surface. Just grab a sturdy grill brush, give those grates a thorough scrub, and you’ll be ready to fire up your next barbecue feast!
Any questions about cleaning? Reach out to our experts in-store by visiting one of our Canadian locations in Calgary, Burlington, Oakville, or Etobicoke (Toronto).
