Your Backyard BBQ Checklist: Tips for a Great Summer Cookout

There's something about the first real cookout of the season that just feels like summer has officially started. The smell of the grill firing up, a cold drink in hand, neighbors coming over. It doesn't get much better than that in West Michigan.

A truly great backyard BBQ doesn't happen by accident, though. A little prep goes a long way toward making sure the food is on point, the yard looks great, and your guests leave happy. Whether you're hosting a big Fourth of July bash or just a low-key Sunday cookout with the family, here's your go-to guide for pulling it all together (with supplies you can pick up right at Godwin).

Start with a Clean Grill

We'll say it plainly: nobody wants to taste last summer's burnt remnants on their burger. Before you fire up the grill for the first time this season, give it a proper deep clean.

Remove the grates and scrub them down with a good grill brush and some degreaser. Wipe out the interior, check the burners for clogs (especially if your grill sat outside all winter), and make sure the grease trap is clean and in place. If you have a charcoal grill, clear out any old ash that's been sitting in the bottom.

A clean grill isn't just about taste, it also prevents flare-ups and helps your grill last longer.

Godwin Hardware stocks grill brushes, grill cleaner, and the tools you need to get your setup ready for the season.

Stock Up on the Right Supplies

There's nothing worse than running out of charcoal halfway through or realizing your lighter fluid is bone dry. Here's what to check:

• Charcoal or propane: Don't assume you have enough. Check your tank level or pick up an extra bag.
• Lighter fluid or a chimney starter: A chimney starter is a great investment if you haven't made the switch. It lights charcoal evenly without the chemical taste.
• Grilling tools: Long-handled tongs, a spatula, and a good meat thermometer are non-negotiable.
• Heavy-duty aluminum foil: Great for wrapping veggies, corn, or anything you want to cook low and slow on the side of the grill.

Stop by Godwin Hardware and stock up on everything on this list. Our staff can help you find what you need and point you toward any new tools worth adding to your arsenal.

Set Up an Outdoor Space You'll Actually Love

The food is only part of the experience. Your outdoor setup matters more than you think. A few upgrades that make a real difference:

• Outdoor lighting: String lights, pathway lights, or a few well-placed lanterns extend the party into the evening without anyone squinting in the dark.
• Extension cords and outdoor power: If you're running a speaker, a fan, or any outdoor appliances, make sure you've got a quality outdoor-rated extension cord that can handle the load.
• A sturdy folding table: You need somewhere to set up condiments, drinks, and all the sides. A good folding table is one of those things that pays for itself the very first cookout.
• Trash and recycling bins: Set them out before guests arrive. Your future self will thank you.

Godwin Hardware carries outdoor lighting, extension cords, folding tables, storage solutions, and plenty more to get your backyard ready to host.

Don't Forget the Lawn

Your backyard is the backdrop for the whole thing. A little lawn care before the cookout goes a long way.

• Trim any overgrown shrubs along fences or walkways.
• Freshen up mulch in garden beds to give the yard that cared-for look.
• Treat for weeds if you've been putting it off. A weed-free lawn makes the whole yard look sharper.

Godwin Hardware carries lawn mowers, edgers, trimmer line, mulch, fertilizer, weed control, and everything else your yard needs to look its best before the guests pull in.

Beat the Heat (So Your Guests Can Too)

Here's the honest truth about summer cookouts in Michigan: they can get hot. If you're grilling in the afternoon sun, you need a plan.

• Set up a shaded area with a canopy or umbrella for guests who need a break from direct sun.
• Keep drinks ice cold with a quality cooler (spring for one with a tight seal, you’ll be surprised how much longer it holds ice than a basic cooler).
• Use outdoor fans to keep air moving on the patio. They make a bigger difference than most people expect.

And if the inside of your house feels like a sauna every time guests walk in? That might be a sign your air conditioning system could use some attention. A quick tune-up before summer hits can make a big difference in how efficiently your system runs and how comfortable your home stays all season.

Godwin's HVAC team services, repairs, and installs heating and cooling systems throughout West Michigan. If your AC is struggling to keep up, give us a call before the hottest days of summer arrive. It's always better to get ahead of it.

Godwin's Got Everything You Need

Whether you're picking up charcoal, grabbing a new set of grill tools, or finally fixing your AC, Godwin's Got It. We've been helping West Michigan homeowners tackle home projects big and small for over 70 years, and a backyard BBQ is the kind of thing we love to help with.

Stop by either of our hardware stores in Grand Rapids or Ada, or shop online at shop.godwinhardware.com. And if your home needs any plumbing or HVAC attention before summer hits, our service team is ready—just give us a call at 616-243-3131.