There’s nothing more Aussie than firing up the barbie on a warm summer afternoon.
Whether it’s family dinners, weekend catch-ups with friends, or celebrating Christmas outdoors, your BBQ area becomes the heart of your home during the warmer months.
But after a long winter of wind, rain and neglect, most outdoor spaces need a good dose of TLC before they’re guest-ready.
Preparing your BBQ area for summer is about more than just scrubbing the grill — it’s about creating a clean, safe and inviting space where everyone can relax and enjoy themselves.
Here’s your complete guide to getting your BBQ area summer-ready — and why calling in the professionals at V.I.P. Home Services can save you hours of effort and give you the best results.
1. Start with a Clean Slate
First things first — your outdoor entertaining space needs a thorough clean.
Months of winter weather mean dust, cobwebs, mould and fallen leaves have probably built up in every corner.
A proper clean should include:
- Sweeping or pressure washing floors and decking.
- Removing cobwebs from ceilings, pergolas and outdoor furniture.
- Wiping down tables, benches and chairs.
- Clearing out the BBQ itself of ash, grease and old food scraps.
It’s a big job, but it sets the tone for the entire season.
A fresh, clean space instantly makes your outdoor area more inviting.
Don’t have the time (or energy) to tackle it all yourself? V.I.P. Home Services can take care of the heavy lifting so you can enjoy the fun part — cooking and entertaining.
2. Deep Clean the BBQ Itself
Your BBQ is the star of the show, so it deserves special attention. Built-up grease isn’t just unappealing — it’s a fire hazard.
A dirty BBQ can also affect the flavour of your food and attract pests like ants, mice and cockroaches.
Steps for a proper clean:
- Remove and soak the grills in warm soapy water.
- Scrub off baked-on grease with a wire brush.
- Empty and clean the drip tray.
- Wipe down burners and check they’re working properly.
- Polish the exterior so it looks as good as it cooks.
If your BBQ hasn’t been used for months, it’s worth giving it a test run before the big event to make sure everything is functioning safely.
3. Freshen Up Outdoor Furniture
Outdoor chairs and tables cop a beating from the weather.
Wipe down surfaces, scrub away mould or mildew, and wash or replace outdoor cushions.
Not only does this make your space look more appealing, but it also ensures your guests aren’t sitting on dusty or grimy surfaces.
For timber furniture, consider sanding and re-oiling to restore its natural beauty and extend its lifespan.
Plastic and metal furniture should be washed with mild detergent to avoid damage.
4. Check Gutters and Rubbish Removal
A sparkling BBQ area can quickly be spoiled if your gutters are overflowing with leaves or if piles of rubbish are sitting nearby.
Blocked gutters not only look messy, but they’re also a fire risk in summer and can lead to water damage if a sudden storm hits.
Likewise, rubbish or garden waste piled up near your outdoor entertaining area can attract pests and give off unpleasant smells.
V.I.P. Home Services offers professional gutter cleaning and rubbish removal, so your outdoor area is safe, clean and summer-ready.
5. Don’t Forget the Windows
If your BBQ area looks out onto your home, dirty windows can spoil the view.
Professional window cleaning ensures streak-free glass that lets in maximum natural light, making your space feel bigger and brighter.
It’s the finishing touch that takes your outdoor entertaining area from “pretty good” to “wow”.
6. Lawn and Garden Care
Your BBQ area doesn’t stand alone — it’s part of your backyard.
A lush green lawn and tidy garden beds are the perfect backdrop to your outdoor entertaining space.
Key steps to get your garden BBQ-ready include:
- Mowing and edging the lawn for a neat finish.
- Trimming hedges and shrubs so they don’t look overgrown.
- Mulching garden beds to lock in moisture and reduce weeds.
- Planting colourful summer flowers for extra curb appeal.
With V.I.P. Home Services, you can book a combined service — lawn mowing, garden tidy-ups and cleaning — so everything is done in one go.
7. Lighting and Safety Checks
As the sun sets, good lighting is key to keeping the party going.
Check that outdoor lights are working, and consider adding solar-powered options for extra ambience.
It’s also a good time to check safety essentials:
- Make sure the BBQ gas bottle is full and leak-free.
- Store flammable materials away from the cooking area.
- Ensure paths and steps are free from clutter to avoid trips and falls.
8. Create a Relaxing Atmosphere
Once the cleaning and maintenance are out of the way, it’s time to set the mood.
Add potted plants, outdoor candles, or a string of fairy lights to create a welcoming vibe.
If you have space, set up a small drinks station so guests can help themselves while you focus on the food.
Remember, the more comfortable and inviting your BBQ area feels, the more you’ll use it — not just for special occasions, but for everyday meals with the family.
Why Preparing Now Makes Sense
Getting your BBQ area ready early in the season means you won’t be scrambling before your first big event.
Plus, summer is one of the busiest times of year for professional cleaning and gardening services, so booking ahead ensures you secure a spot before the rush.
It’s all about being able to relax when it matters most — knowing that your space is already clean, safe and ready for guests.
Why Choose V.I.P. Home Services?
Preparing your outdoor entertaining area doesn’t have to be overwhelming.
With V.I.P. Home Services, you can:
- Book a once-off deep clean for your outdoor space.
- Add on services like gutter cleaning, window cleaning, rubbish removal, or lawn care.
- Trust experienced, local franchisees who take pride in their work.
- Save time and stress, knowing everything is taken care of in one visit.
For over 45 years, Australians have trusted V.I.P. to keep their homes and gardens in top condition — and your outdoor entertaining area is no exception.
Get Summer-Ready with V.I.P.
A BBQ area that’s clean, safe and welcoming sets the scene for a summer full of great food and even better memories.
Don’t let dirty grills, cluttered spaces or overgrown gardens hold you back.
Book a professional clean and garden service with V.I.P. Home Services today and get your BBQ area summer-ready.
Your guests (and your stress levels) will thank you.
