The George Foreman grill is a popular indoor electric grill known for its fast cooking times and ability to drain away fat. George Foreman grills have removable grill plates that collect grease and other cooking debris. Naturally, the question arises – can you clean George Foreman grill plates in the dishwasher?
The short answer is yes, George Foreman grill plates are generally safe to clean in the dishwasher. However, there are some caveats. Proper cleaning is important to extend the life of your George Foreman grill and for food safety.
Are George Foreman Grills Dishwasher Safe?
According to the manufacturer, most George Foreman grill plates are dishwasher safe. However, there are some exceptions:
- Older models – Some older George Foreman grills may have grill plates made from materials that are not dishwasher safe. Consult your instruction manual.
- Ceramic grill plates – George Foreman grills with ceramic grill plates are usually not dishwasher safe. The ceramic coating can degrade with frequent dishwasher cleaning.
- Marble grill plates – Marble grill plates should be hand washed to prevent cracking and warping in the dishwasher.
If in doubt, check the care instructions that came with your George Foreman grill. There should be information on whether the removable grill plates can be cleaned in the dishwasher.
Tips for Washing George Foreman Grill Plates in Dishwasher
If your George Foreman grill plates are dishwasher safe, follow these tips for safe cleaning:
- Remove all food debris – Use a non-abrasive sponge or soft brush to remove any stuck-on food bits before placing in the dishwasher.
- Allow grill to cool – Always let the grill cool fully before removing plates. Hot grill plates can warp or melt in the dishwasher.
- Use mild detergent – Stick to mild dishwasher detergents, avoid anything too harsh or abrasive.
- Skip heated drying – Let grill plates air dry instead of using the heated drying cycle. The intense heat can damage the non-stick coating.
- Inspect for wear – Check plates regularly for deterioration of the non-stick coating. Pitting or flaking means it’s time to replace.
Following these precautions will help extend the life of your removable George Foreman grill plates.
Hand Washing George Foreman Grill Plates
For grill plates that are not dishwasher safe, hand washing is recommended. Here is a safe method:
- Allow grill to cool fully before handling plates.
- Use a soft sponge or cloth soaked in warm water to loosen any debris.
- Apply a small amount of mild dish soap and scrub gently.
- Rinse thoroughly with warm water.
- Dry immediately with a soft towel to prevent water spots.
Avoid using harsh scrubbing brushes or abrasive cleaners which can damage the non-stick coating over time. A thorough hand washing after each use is all that is needed to keep George Foreman grill plates clean.
Cleaning the George Foreman Grill Body
While the removable grill plates can go in the dishwasher, use caution when cleaning the exterior plastic body of the George Foreman grill:
- Wipe down with soft damp cloth only.
- Never fully immerse in water.
- Do not place in dishwasher.
- Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbing.
The heating element and electrical components can malfunction if the body gets too wet. For tough grease stains, use a degreasing cleaner formulated for kitchen appliances. Rinse and dry thoroughly.
Deep Cleaning a George Foreman Grill
For a deeper clean, tackle the sloped grease channels that allow fat to drain away from food. Here’s how to deep clean a George Foreman:
- Unplug and allow grill to cool before cleaning.
- Remove grill plates and wash separately.
- Use a small brush to scrub grease channels and catch tray.
- Mix warm water and a few drops of mild soap.
- Use a small towel soaked in the soapy water to wipe down the interior.
- Rinse with a wet towel and dry thoroughly before reattaching plates.
Give your George Foreman grill a deep clean every 4-6 months. This prevents grease buildup that can hinder performance and be a fire hazard.
Common Myths About George Foreman Grill Cleaning
There are some common misconceptions about keeping a George Foreman grill clean:
Myth: You should never wash the plates
False! It’s important to wash George Foreman grill plates regularly to prevent bacteria growth and keep them ready for the next use.
Myth: Dish soap damages the non-stick coating
Dish soap is fine for cleaning George Foreman grill plates as long as you use a mild formula. Avoid abrasive cleaners.
Myth: The plates are permanently attached
All George Foreman grills have removable grill plates. They slide or unclip for easy washing.
Myth: You don’t need to clean it after each use
Not true! It’s best to wipe the grill down and wash plates after each use to prevent grease buildup and smells.
Troubleshooting Problems Cleaning a George Foreman Grill
Here are some common George Foreman grill cleaning issues and how to solve them:
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Stuck-on grease | Use a plastic scraper to gently loosen. Avoid metal spatulas that can damage the coating. |
| Discolored plates | Mix baking soda and water into a paste and scrub with a soft sponge to brighten. |
| White film buildup | Wash with warm water and vinegar. Can also use lemon juice. |
| Burned on drippings | Simmer plates in water with baking soda and dish soap to loosen burned bits. |
| Rust spots | Use a non-abrasive stainless steel cleaner. Avoid steel wool. |
When to Replace George Foreman Grill Plates
With regular cleaning, George Foreman grill plates can last several years. But there are some signs it’s time to replace them:
- Deep scratches, pitting or flaking of non-stick coating
- Visible rust or corrosion
- Warping or bending of plates
- Grease buildup that won’t come clean
Replacement George Foreman grill plates are sold directly through the manufacturer. Search the model number to find the matching replacement plates online.
Conclusion
George Foreman grill plates are designed to be washed – with some exceptions, they are dishwasher safe. Allowing plates and grill body to cool first, using only mild dish detergent and skipping the heated drying cycle can help plates last longer. Hand washing is gentler but more time consuming. With regular cleaning after each use and occasional deep cleaning of the grease channels, a George Foreman grill will deliver tasty grilled food for years.