Tips for Cleaning Up a BBQ
Become the New Mr. (or Mrs.) Clean
Simplify your bbq cleanup and enjoy the party
Your bbq party was a success, based on the praise given by your guests. Likely because you followed our tutorial on how to make a bbq look good, of course. Now your next head scratcher ensues… the dreaded cleanup. Fear not, you won’t have to cringe at the thought of this with our tips to shorten and simplify the cleaning process.
Hacks to solve the party cleaning dilemma… mid party
1. Don’t wait until the end of the event to start managing the chaos. Casually picking up trash as you go will help the aftermath feel less overwhelming. Or, place a trash can or bag in eyesight so guests throw items away themselves. Here are our favorite trash holders that don’t look like, well, trash:
- Wicker laundry basket - pretty, yet does the job (for dry items, so see options below)
- Large wicker-style design trash can - your functional yet decorative trash can
- Plastic party tub - easy to hose down, great for plates with sauces etc.
2. Lighting candles throughout the event helps with food odors and makes a space seem cleaner than the way it looks.
3. Keep guests clean throughout the party by offering hand wipes (bulk or individual) in multiple spots and even placing sanitizer on the table so they can get sticky bbq sauce off their hands. Licking fingers may do the job, but this is a more sanitary approach. This will also solve the problem of sticky fingers dirtying up other surfaces. If you ever wondered if a cute, mini trash bin existed to easily dispose of wipes…it does.
Post-party cleanup
- Disinfectant wipes: life saving and used on everything. Grab the whole box and get to practicing your wax on, wax off skills! Great for tables, chairs, pool floaties, decorations, any surface that was touched by the person who doesn’t use the provided hand wipes (not calling out names).
- A combo of all natural bbq cleaner spray and a tough scrub brush removes the char and grease with ease. To solidify the clean slate, a wipe of a stainless steel polish does the party trick.
The cleanup battle can be won. Instead of hours spent cleaning up a bbq after guests leave, you’ll be able to sit back and relax with a glass of wine. Check out more party planning hacks here.
More articles
The Challenge No One Talks About After the First Event
While a successful first event generates initial interest, the real challenge is transforming that one-time gathering into a repeatable, ongoing program. True brand and community value comes from building a consistent rhythm of connection that creates long-term trust through participation.
The Hottest Summer Birthday Party Themes for 2026
Summer birthdays offer the perfect opportunity to create memorable, experience-driven celebrations. From sunset picnics to poolside gatherings and garden brunches, this year's trending themes focus on connection, personalization, and effortless summer entertaining.
Why Everyone Wants a Martha Girl Summer
Martha Girl Summer is a cultural shift toward slower, more intentional living centered on seasonal rituals, simple hosting, and everyday moments of beauty that make home feel meaningful and shared.
Sign up for expert tips, exclusive content, and the 411 on the latest parties—all straight to your inbox.
Your shortcut to stress-free hosting
Spend less time coordinating and more time actually connecting.