You can grill with a fork and a dish towel, but the right tools make it safer, faster and far more consistent. This list replaces several older posts on tongs, forks, utensil sets and holders with a single checklist, roughly in order of importance.
The core four
1. Long tongs
Your most-used tool. Look for 16 to 18 inches, a locking mechanism, and scalloped tips that grip without tearing meat.
2. A sturdy spatula
A wide, stiff stainless spatula with a long handle flips burgers and fish cleanly. A beveled edge slides under food more easily.
3. An instant-read thermometer
The single biggest upgrade to most people’s grilling. Cook to temperature, not time.
4. Heat-resistant gloves
For moving grates, charcoal and hot pans. Aramid gloves with silicone grip are the usual choice.
Tools that make cooking easier
5. A grill fork
Useful for lifting roasts and turning large cuts. Avoid stabbing steaks and chops repeatedly, which lets juices out.
6. A basting brush
Silicone bristles clean easily and don’t shed.
7. Skewers
Flat metal skewers stop food from spinning. A set with a storage tube, like these stainless skewers with a carry tube, keeps them together for camping and tailgates.
8. A grill basket
For vegetables, shrimp and fries that would fall through the grates. A rolling stainless grill basket turns the food for you.
9. A chimney starter
The easiest way to light charcoal without lighter fluid. Our charcoal grill guide shows how.
10. A grill brush or scraper
Clean grates are non-stick grates. Replace worn wire brushes promptly.
Tools for leveling up
11. A marinade injector
Puts flavor inside thick cuts like turkey, pork shoulder and brisket. A marinade injector with a carry case keeps it all together.
12. A cutting board with a juice groove
Keeps brisket and pork juices off the counter.
13. A good slicing knife
A long, sharp slicer cuts brisket and roasts cleanly against the grain.
14. A tool set that lives at the grill
Kitchen utensils wander. A dedicated set stays outside where you need it. Personalized sets also make good gifts.
What to skip
- Gadgets that do one thing you can do with tongs.
- Short-handled kitchen tools near open flame.
- Plastic-handled tools that can melt if left on a hot side shelf.
Store them well
Hang tools on a rail or hooks near the grill, keep them dry and clean them after each cook. For safety basics, see our BBQ grilling safety tips.
Choosing materials
- Stainless steel: durable, rust-resistant and dishwasher-friendly. Look for thick, solid stainless rather than thin plated metal.
- Wood handles: comfortable and cool to hold, but need hand-washing and occasional oiling.
- Silicone tips: gentle on nonstick and porcelain grates, but not for direct, long contact with very high heat.
- Rubber or plastic handles: comfortable but can melt if left near heat.
How to test tongs
- Squeeze them. They should spring back smoothly without wobbling.
- Pick up a single grape or cherry tomato. Good tongs grip small items precisely.
- Lift something heavy, like a full can. They shouldn’t bend.
- Check the lock. It should engage and release with one hand.
Thermometer tips
- Insert into the thickest part, avoiding bone and fat.
- Calibrate occasionally in ice water (it should read 0°C or 32°F).
- For long cooks, a leave-in probe thermometer with an alarm saves you from opening the lid.
Organizing the grill station
- Keep a sheet pan for carrying raw food out and a clean one for bringing cooked food back.
- Have a squeeze bottle of oil and a small bowl of water for flare-ups.
- Keep paper towels and a trash bag nearby.
- Use separate tools for raw and cooked food, or wash them in between.
Caring for your tools
- Wash after every cook with hot soapy water.
- Dry right away to prevent rust.
- Oil wood handles a few times a year.
- Replace worn grill brushes and damaged tools promptly.
Gift ideas
A good utensil set makes a great gift, especially a personalized one. See our barbecue gift guide for more.
Building a kit on a budget
You don’t need everything at once. Start with tongs, a spatula, a thermometer and gloves, then add a brush, skewers and a basket as you grill more often. Buying quality versions of the basics lasts longer than a cheap full set.
Tools for specific foods
- Fish: a fish spatula or a grill basket so delicate fillets don’t fall apart.
- Vegetables: a perforated grill pan or basket.
- Burgers: a wide spatula and a burger press for even patties.
- Kebabs: flat metal skewers that keep food from spinning.
- Pizza: a peel and a pizza stone made for grills.
Safety around the tools
Keep a clean, dry towel for wiping handles, never leave tools resting on the grill and hang them out of reach of kids. Check that tongs and spatulas don’t have loose rivets that could fail while lifting hot food.
Frequently asked questions
What’s the most important BBQ tool?
Long tongs, closely followed by an instant-read thermometer.
Should I buy a set or individual tools?
Sets are convenient and make good gifts. Buying individually lets you pick the best tongs, spatula and thermometer.
Are grill forks bad for meat?
Stabbing lets juices escape. Use tongs for steaks and chops; save the fork for large roasts.
How long should grill tools be?
About 40 to 45 cm (16 to 18 in) keeps your hands away from the heat.
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Top image: “Grilled steaks turned by grill tongs near Hostákov, Vladislav, Třebíč District” by Frettie (resized and cropped), CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons.