Getting started with grilling is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming if you don’t have the right tools. Whether you’re firing up a gas grill or tackling the smoky flavor of charcoal, having the essential grilling tools at hand will make the experience safer, easier, and more enjoyable.
From long-handled tongs to keep your hands away from the heat to thermometers that ensure perfectly cooked food, the right gear sets the foundation for great grilling. There are additional things needed for charcoal grills to help start and manage the fire efficiently.
If you’re a beginner or shopping for someone new to the ‘cue, this guide covers all the grilling essentials you need to get started and grill with confidence.
Let’s get grilling.
1. Spatulas, tongs, and tool sets
If you’re just dipping your toe in the waters of grilling, you need at least a good long-handled spatula and a pair of long-handled tongs. You can use the same spatulas and tongs you use indoors, but a longer handle will help keep your hands away from the open flame and high heat of a gas or charcoal grill. A complete grilling tool set will set you up for success down the line when you start branching out into basting and more challenging grillables.
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2. Thermometers
There’s nothing more important when you are grilling than keeping an eye on the temperature of your food, especially when you’re a beginner and you’re still learning how the grill works. Overcooking can happen quickly when you are grilling over an open flame, and it’s a real risk when you are a beginner who is not yet well-versed with the intricacies of your grill’s temperature control.
A good thermometer can also help you make sure everything is cooked through to a safe temperature—when you’re still learning how to manage heat, it’s easy to overcook the outside of your food while the inside remains undercooked.
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3. Grill brush & scraper
Nobody loves to clean their barbecue (well, somebody probably does), but your grill works better and lasts longer when clean and well-cared for. And with the right tools, cleaning your grill is quick and easy. A grill brush (without metal bristles) and a scraper are essential tools for grilling and must-have items for your grilling arsenal:
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4. Grill gloves
Not only is there an open flame to worry about, but the grill components, tools, and food will all get very hot throughout the cooking process. Keep your mitts protected while you grill with heat-resistant grill gloves.
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GRILL SPOT TIP: Look for grill gloves with grippy palms to ensure a strong hold on griddles, pots, pans, trays, and tongs.
5. Aprons
Grilling can be a messy business—between the juices, marinades, spices, grease, and charring, you are sure to get some mess on your clothes. An apron will protect your clothes from stains, and you can use the pockets for holding tools and other essential grilling tools.
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6. DEK brand accessories
If you’re looking for high-quality grilling tools, look no further than DEK accessories. These accessories are made with durable components and built to last, making them essential grilling tools for any beginner griller.
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7. Charcoal tools
Choosing charcoal over gas? Don’t forget to pick up these additional must-have things needed for charcoal grills:
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Gear Up for Grilling Success
Having the right tools can make all the difference when you’re starting your grilling journey. With these grilling essentials—from sturdy spatulas and tongs to reliable thermometers and grill brushes—you’ll be well-equipped to handle the heat. If you’re using charcoal, don’t forget the things needed for a charcoal grill, like a chimney starter and charcoal rake, to make the process smoother.
Investing in essential grilling tools not only makes grilling safer and more enjoyable but also helps you achieve better results. Whether you’re flipping burgers, searing steaks, or mastering barbecue ribs, the right equipment sets you up for success. Now, fire up that grill and get cooking!
