How To Clean Charcoal Grill Ash

I would clean after every cook.

Once you have a layer of ash (which happens shortly after beginning any cook) the only thing that could matter is when it builds enough to impede airflow. If you expect a lot of ash production then emptying is prudent, but you don't necessarily need to do it for short cooks.

I clean my WSM every cook. I believe ash works like a moist Accumulator

Ash can absorb moisture and, if left long enough, cause corrosion. I don't clean it after every cook but probably after every other cook if they're short and little ash was accumulated.

I clean mine the day after the cook as ash will absorb moisture and become very corrosive.

Is dumping the ash good enough or does the bottom section need to be rinsed too ?

no offense Travis, but you do flush the toilet after using it, correct?
yeah, I know it's not the same but I believe cleanliness is next to godliness

I dump it out before most cooks. Moisture isn't that big a problem for me either. No need to scrub it out. The bowl is enameled. If it does get flat out wet it can hold onto moisture and cause corrosion. In my offset it absolutely will cause rust if left in.

Lye for lye soap is made from wood ashes and water, so yes it can be corrosive.
I keep my WSM covered and dry, and do not clean ashes out after each cook but wait until preparing for the next cook, which maybe a couple or more weeks between,

Lye for lye soap is made from wood ashes and water, so yes it can be corrosive.
I keep my WSM covered and dry, and do not clean ashes out after each cook but wait until preparing for the next cook, which maybe a couple or more weeks between,

me too. .......
:wsm:

I have a small galvanized garbage can with a lid on the patio next to the smokers. The next day or so after each cook, I use a small coal shovel and "shuffle" the remaining coals and put them in my grill. I always use new briquettes when smoking so the times are predictable.

After that, I remove the charcoal grate, pick up the base of the smoker and dump the ashes into the garbage can. It takes only a couple of minutes and keeps the smoker ready to go for the next smoke. Further, it probably will lead to a longer life for the unit and that is GOOD!

I use up all of the partially used briqs in my grills. Nothing is wasted but everything is kept clean and ready to go.

Keep on smokin',
Dale53 :wsm: