In seIf you've got a grill, you've likely heard of palmyra bristles before. Whether it was a warning against steel brushes from a concerned mother or an environmentalist barbecuer preaching sustainability, everyone seems to be talking about palmyra bristle grill brushes lately. With that being said, you should know all about palmyra bristle barbecue brushes too. Here are the most commonly asked questions when it comes to palmyra bristles:

What Are Palmyra Bristles Made Of?

For the folks that don't know, palmyra bristles are a natural wood fiber made from the stalk of palm trees. Most commonly these palmyra wood fibers are found in palm trees in Brazil, Africa, and Sri Lanka.

Are Palmyra Bristles Safe?

Yes, Palmyra bristles are safe. Due to the fact they're made of natural wood fibers, you'll be able to pass them through your system, if you ever accidentally swallow them. They also won't poke you as hard as steel bristles, if they ever end up in your food. With that being said, steel bristles aren't as bad as you think.

Although food-grade steel bristles are also safe, people are concerned that they'll fall out and end up in someone's food - which is a valid concern if you're not inviting your enemies to your barbecues. The truth is, as long as you replace your grill brush once per six months to a year (depending on how often you use it) with another good quality brush, you shouldn't have a problem. You wouldn't keep using a toothbrush if the bristles were falling out, this is no different. 

What Are the Benefits of Palmyra Bristles Grill Brushes?

• One of the benefits of using Palmyra bristle barbecue brushes is that they're technically safer than steel bristled brushes, although both are safe.
• Another benefit is the price point; Palmyra bristle brushes tend to be less expensive than their steel counterparts.
• Last but not least, a huge benefit of Palmyra bristles is that it will lightly season your grills after a number of uses. This is because the wood fibers will absorb oils from your grill grates when you clean and then put it back on the grates the next time you use your brush (usually when your grill is just warming up and you're about to cook).

What Are the Drawbacks of Palmyra Bristles Grill Brushes?

• The biggest drawback of Palmyra bristles is that they can only withstand heat up to 449.6°F (232°C). Any hotter and your bristles will get singed. We suggest getting in the habit of cleaning your grill as it warms before your cook or cools down afterward.
• Although they're good brushes, another drawback is that Palmyra bristles aren't as durable as steel ones. However, both types of brushes should last at least a couple years - and your brush should be replaced in a year or less, anyways.

There you have it, answers to the four most commonly asked questions when it comes to Palmyra bristled barbecue brushes. Hopefully we were able to help you make a decision on whether or not you'd like a Palmyra bristled brush to be your next cleaner companion. If you still have questions, feel free to contact us or visit any one of our 5 stores across Canada and talk to a barbecue expert.

Barbecues Galore has the best selection of barbecues, patio furniture, and outdoor heating supplies. We sell barbecues, accessories, and everything else you need for exceptional grilling and backyard experiences. With locations in Calgary and the GTA, you can visit us in store or shop online. North Calgary Store: (403) 250-1558 | South Calgary Store: (403) 258-4440 | Burlington Store: (905) 639-5952 | Oakville Store: (905) 844-3224 | Etobicoke Store: (416) 546-3266