Still grilling with the same trusty tongs or well-worn gloves? We get it; why fix what’s not broken? But just like your grill needs a little love now and then, your BBQ tools and accessories deserve a refresh, too.
Upgrading isn’t just about shiny new gear (though that’s a bonus). It’s about improving safety, achieving better results, and making your time at the grill more enjoyable and hassle-free. Whether your tools are past their prime or you’re ready to step up your game, knowing when (and what) to upgrade can make all the difference.
In this guide, we’ll break down when to replace essential grilling tools and accessories, like tongs, grill gloves, and thermometers, and what features to look for when upgrading. Whether you’re prepping for summer cookouts or just want to level up your grilling game, knowing what to replace and why can make a big difference in your results.
Grilling Tongs: When to Replace Them and What to Upgrade To
TL;DR: If your BBQ tongs warped or rusted, upgrade to a locking 16″ stainless pair.
Nothing makes handling hot, saucy foods an easier undertaking like a quality pair of grilling tongs. Poorly made or old tongs make it difficult to handle delicate food like fish or vegetables, while new, high-quality tongs provide a firm, safe grip over high heat, giving you the control you need while keeping your hands away from the flames.
Signs you need new grilling tongs:
- The tips are warped or misaligned
- Springs are loose, overly stiff, or missing
- You’ve had them for several seasons, and they’re rusting or losing grip
What to look for in an upgrade:
- A locking mechanism so they don’t burst open
- Long reach (16 inches or more)
- Stainless steel with grips for control and protection from the heat
Shop for grill tongs:
Grill Brush: How to Tell If Yours Is Unsafe or Ineffective
TL;DR: Ditch metal bristles. Go for nylon or coil styles with sturdy handles.
Even the best grill brushes eventually need replacing. When they’re regularly exposed to heat, grease, and rough cleaning, even high-quality products start to degrade. For older brushes (especially those with metal bristles), this can result in loose bristles that may end up in your food, and lead to less effective cleaning.
Signs you need a new grill brush:
- You’re still using a grill brush with metal bristles
- The bristles are bent, falling out, or missing
- The handle is loose or cracked
- Your brush is more than a year old (especially if used frequently)
What to look for in an upgrade:
- Long, ergonomic handle for leverage
- Durable nylon bristles (if bristle style)
- A metal scraper to help get rid of extra stuck-on gunk
Shop for grill brushes:
Thermometer: Signs It’s Time for a More Accurate Upgrade
TL;DR: Slow or inconsistent readings? Time for a fast-read digital model.
A reliable thermometer ensures you aren’t over- or undercooking your food. Thermometers can become less trustworthy as they age, providing less accurate readouts as their sensors break down, so if your thermometer is several years old, it may be time to upgrade.
Signs you need a new thermometer:
- Readings are slow or inconsistent
- The battery drains quickly, or the screen is hard to read
- It’s not waterproof or has visible damage
What to look for in an upgrade:
- Digital readout with quick (2-3 second) response
- Backlit display
- Waterproof design with a wide temperature range
Shop for grill thermometers:
Grill Gloves: How to Know When They’re No Longer Protecting You
TL;DR: Worn-out gloves are just burns waiting to happen. Look for heat-resistant aramid or silicone styles.
Grill gloves protect your hands when working with your grill. Using old or damaged gloves, or even just your regular oven mitts (which aren’t made for grilling), can lead to serious burns and difficulty handling your food or other grilling tools. Upgrading or replacing your gloves leads to better grip, improved mobility, and greater heat protection around your barbecue.
Signs you need new grill gloves:
- Visible burns, holes, or fraying seams
- Lost heat resistance (you feel the heat too fast)
- Poor fit or reduced flexibility
What to look for in an upgrade:
- High heat resistance (at least 500°F)
- Non-slip, flexible material (e.g., aramid fiber or silicone); bonus points for grippy adhesives on the palms
- Extended cuffs for wrist/forearm protection
Shop for grill gloves:
Grill Basket: When a Warped Tray Is Ruining Your Veggies
TL;DR: Replace flaking or warping trays with stainless or cast iron baskets.
Grill baskets make it easier to grill small or delicate items like vegetables. If your grill basket is worn out or you’re just using a DIY foil tray, it can ruin your food and become hard to handle. Upgraded baskets improve airflow and prevent sticking.
Signs you need a new grill basket:
- The coating is flaking or rusting
- Food sticks, no matter how much oil you use
- Your basket warps under heat or is hard to clean
What to look for in an upgrade:
- Stainless steel, cast iron, or nonstick-coated heavy-duty baskets
- Locking lids for flipping
- Fine mesh or slotted designs for different food types
Shop for grill baskets:
Maintenance Tips to Make Your Grilling Tools & Accessories Last Longer
Like your grill, proper maintenance of your grill tools will also ensure that you get the most out of them. After you finish cleaning your grill, make sure you take care of your tools, too:
- Clean and dry grill tools after each use
- Store them in a dry, covered space
- Inspect gear at the start and end of every grilling season
Time to Gear Up: Upgrade Tools, Upgrade Your Grill Game
Great tools don’t just make grilling easier; they help you grill safer, smarter, and with more confidence. A few simple upgrades can take your backyard cookouts from ‘good enough’ to crowd-pleasing legendary. Knowing when to upgrade keeps grilling safe and enjoyable. Inspect your tools, upgrade what’s holding you back, and get grilling.
