How to Clean a Napoleon Grill (Wave Grates and All)
Napoleon's wave-pattern grates and premium build mean specific cleaning considerations. Here's the routine for any Napoleon Prestige, Rogue, or Mirage model.
Published March 17, 2026 · 3 min read
Napoleon grills are built well. The Prestige line in particular is comparable to Weber Summit in quality, with Napoleon-specific features like the wave-pattern cooking grates and integrated rotisserie capabilities. The cleaning routine reflects the build — periodic attention to the wave grate channels, otherwise standard gas grill maintenance.
What’s distinctive about Napoleon
Wave-pattern cooking grates: the signature feature. The undulating pattern is great for searing — each wave crest contacts food directly while the troughs catch drippings. The trade-off: more surface area where grease can accumulate.
JETFIRE igniter: Napoleon’s hot-tip igniter system is generally more reliable than push-button igniters on cheaper grills. Less frequent replacement needed.
Premium build quality: heavier-gauge steel, better welding, longer-lasting components. Cleaning effort similar to other premium grills (Weber Summit-tier); component lifespan generally longer.
Integrated rotisserie: many Napoleon models include or support a rotisserie. The rear infrared burner used for rotisserie has its own cleaning needs.
After-cook routine (5 minutes)
- Brush the wave grates while warm — work the brush into the troughs of the pattern
- Quick visual check of the grease pan
- Close the lid
Monthly routine (15-20 minutes)
- Pull wave grates and sear plates
- Soak wave grates in hot water with degreaser (the wave geometry benefits from soaking more than flat grates do)
- Wipe sear plates clean
- Vacuum the firebox channels
- Empty the grease pan; replace foil liner if used
- Reinstall and verify
Twice-a-year deep clean
In addition to the monthly steps:
- Full disassembly including burners
- Pull burners and inspect venturi tubes
- Deep-clean the rotisserie burner if applicable
- Clean the cabinet exterior (Napoleon’s enameled and stainless finishes are good quality but benefit from periodic attention)
- Inspect propane connections, regulator hose
Napoleon-specific issues
Wave grate seasoning loss. Cast iron wave grates can lose seasoning faster than flat grates because of the contact patches. Re-season periodically with a thin oil layer and high-heat run.
Sear plate warping. Possible after years of high-heat searing. Replacement sear plates are available from Napoleon.
Rotisserie infrared burner. If you don’t use the rotisserie often, the infrared burner can develop dust accumulation. Run it briefly during your monthly clean to burn off accumulation.
Side burner cleanup. Napoleon Prestige models often have a side burner. Standard gas burner cleaning rules apply; don’t forget it during monthly maintenance.
Lifespan
Premium Napoleon models (Prestige, Prestige PRO) routinely last 12-15 years on regular maintenance. Lower-tier (Rogue, Mirage) models run 8-10 years. Replacement parts are widely available; Napoleon’s parts ecosystem is one of the better ones.
Frequently asked questions
Are wave grates harder to clean than flat grates?
Slightly, in terms of surface area. But the wave pattern responds well to soaking — a 30-minute soak in hot soapy water lifts most accumulated grease without aggressive scrubbing. Net effort is comparable to flat grates if you use the soaking approach.
Can I use the wave grates without seasoning them?
Cast iron wave grates need seasoning for non-stick performance and rust prevention. Stainless wave grates don't need seasoning but benefit from periodic oiling. Check your specific model's grate material.
How often should I replace my wave grates?
Cast iron grates: 8-12 years if maintained, less if rust takes hold. Stainless wave grates: 12-18 years for most owners. Both are model-specific replacement parts; verify dimensions before ordering.
Why are my Napoleon's flames yellow on one burner?
Same diagnostic as any gas grill — most often spider webs in the venturi tube ([dedicated guide](/grill-care/spider-webs-in-grill-burner-tubes)) or clogged burner ports. Pull the burner, inspect, clean. The fix is the same regardless of brand.
Do Napoleon parts last longer than Weber parts?
Roughly comparable on premium models (Prestige vs. Summit). Napoleon's wave grates last about as long as Weber's flat grates with comparable care. Burners, igniters, and gaskets have similar replacement schedules across both brands.
Recommended
Gear for this job
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Recommended
Brass-bristle grill brush
Stiff brass bristles, no stainless wire.
Why: Stainless wire bristles can break off and end up in food. Brass is stiff enough to clean grates and soft enough to fail safely.
Recommended
Bristle-free grill brush
Coil or scraper-head brush with no loose wires at all.
Why: The safest option if you worry about bristles in food — nothing to shed. Works best on warm grates.
Recommended
Plastic putty scraper
A 2-inch plastic putty knife from any hardware store.
Why: Removes carbon and crusted residue without scratching seasoning or porcelain coatings.
More picks like these in our guide: The Best Grill Cleaning Tools (Tested Picks).
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