It's time to hit the backyard and start grilling. But what about the mess after the meal?

News 12's consumer reporter Janice Lieberman has The Real Deal on easy and nontoxic cleaning hacks:

Heat up your grill, take half an onion, stick a fork in it and rub down your grates.

Place aluminum foil on the grill surface, turn the burners on high for a few minutes. Shut off, lift the foil and scrub remaining debris.

For heavy cleaning, use a paste of baking soda and water. Let it sit on the grill for an hour. Gunk should lift easily.

Use vinegar and water if the job is even tougher. Remove the grill surface and spray with equal parts of white vinegar and water. Let it soak and wipe it clean.

If you have a story idea, question or tip, click here to reach out to Janice.