How to Clean Stainless Steel Grates Stainless steel grates are used on many grills and barbecue pits. These grates are heat-safe, withstanding years of wear and tear without diminished appearance. Cleaning the stainless steel grates is a fairly simple procedure, and should be done with each use. This will remove food particles, charcoal and other elements that quickly collect on the grates while grilling. 1 If the grates are small enough to fit, take them to the kitchen sink. If the grates are large, take them to the hose outside. 2 Mix a soapy water solution in a bowl or bucket. Use 1 gallon of warm water to one squirt of liquid dish soap. 3 Scrub over both sides of the grates with a dry brass brush to remove any dried-on buildup. Scrub back and forth, in the direction of each grate. 4 Dip the brass brush in the soapy water solution, then continue scrubbing over both sides of the stainless steel grates. Continue until cleaned entirely. 5 Rinse the grates with warm water if using the kitchen sink, or hose them down with the hose.