It's almost time to dust off your patio furniture and stoke up the barbecue (or your pizza oven) as we welcome guests over once again for al fresco feasts.
But before you start flipping burgers, investing in a few useful BBQ tools and accessories will make life easier — and safer — while you're grilling.
A decent spatula and some tongs are must-haves, as is a good thermometer to ensure you're hitting safe temperatures, and a chopping board for salad prep. While less fun, the right post-party cleaning tools will keep things hygienic and ensure your expensive barbecue remains in good condition for seasons to come.
The best BBQ tools to pick up this year
Grill tool sets
After the grill itself, a set of tools is the next most important item to tick off your shopping list. You need to be able to flip food safely to avoid burns, and standard kitchen utensils might not be long enough to maintain a safe distance from the heat. Opt for long-handled tongs with metal tips and heat-resistant (rubber or wood) handles so you don’t burn your fingers.
Penobon BBQ Utensil Set
OXO Good Grips Grilling Turner and Tongs Set
Dunelm 3 Piece BBQ Tool Set
Lakeland Lakeland BBQ Tool Set
BBQ gloves
You’ll also want something to protect your hands while you’re cooking. Gloves are a better bet than mittens, as you'll still have ample movement. Long gloves are best for when leaning over a searing barbecue and, as they tend to be machine washable, they’ll remain in good condition.
Ooni Pizza Oven Gloves
Weber BBQ Leather Gloves
Weber BBQ Mitt
Cooking accessories
Chimney starter
While not strictly necessary, a chimney starter makes life easier. Forget waiting hungrily for the coals to reach temperature; keeping them in a compact, conical position ensures quick and even heating. Once they’ve turned grey, pour them onto the lower grate using heat-proof gloves and place the cooking rack on top. Then you’re ready to go!
Thermometer
Rather than leaving a chicken for half an hour, after which it could be over or underdone, by cooking to temperature you can ensure that it’s always perfect (and, most importantly, safe to eat). We like this Thermapen, which we find speedy and accurate, so you’re not wasting time prodding food. It's expensive, but is noticeably hardwearing.
Fish basket
When cooking fish on the BBQ, a fish basket makes life easier. These allow you to cook several fillets at once, without risk of them falling through your barbecue's grill. Choose one with a heat-resistant handle and a non-stick coating to avoid disturbing the fish’s delicate skin.
jopoo Jet Flame Refillable Lighter
Cleaning products
Once the fun’s all over, it’s important to do some routine maintenance on your barbecue. This will ensure it stays at it's best and avoid grease build-up and damage from ash or the weather.
Always keep your barbecue under a cover to protect it from the elements when not in use. It's also best not to leave it dirty until the next time you want to use it. A going over with a cleaning spray and a scrubber to rid it of burnt food remains after each use will ensure it stays hygienic and, of course, ready for its next outing.
Invero Barbecue Cleaning Brush Scraper
MckLords BBQ Genie Grill Cleaner
HG Oven, Grill & Barbecue Cleaner Spray
