Grinding sticky herb day in and day out takes a toll, and if you haven’t cleaned it in a while, there’s a good chance it’s clogged up, gunky, and just not performing like it used to.
The good news? Giving your grinder a proper deep clean is easier than you might think. And if you’re in the market for a fresh one, we’ve got some awesome recommendations for you too.
Why Cleaning Your Grinder Actually Matters
Keeping your grinder clean isn’t just about looks, it’s about performance. A dirty grinder can make your herb harder to grind, dull the teeth, clog the screen, and even affect the flavor of your smoke. Plus, over time, that sticky buildup can attract mold and bacteria. No thanks.
Regular cleaning keeps your sessions smoother and tastier, and helps your grinder last longer.
How to Deep Clean Your Weed Grinder in a Few Simple Steps
You don’t need any fancy equipment. Just grab a few basic supplies and follow these simple steps.
What You’ll Need:

- A small brush or old toothbrush
- Isopropyl alcohol (90% or higher works best)
- A ziplock bag or container with a lid
- Paper towels
Step 1: Take it apart
Disassemble your grinder into all its pieces: lid, grinding chamber, screen, and kief catcher.

Step 2: Soak in alcohol
Pop the metal parts into a container or bag filled with isopropyl alcohol and let them soak for about 20 to 30 minutes. This helps dissolve all the sticky residue.

Step 3: Scrub the tough spots
Use a toothbrush or cotton swabs to scrub out the gunk, especially around the teeth and the screen where buildup loves to hide.

Step 4: Rinse and dry
Rinse everything with warm water and dry it thoroughly with paper towels. Let the pieces air-dry completely before putting them back together.

Thinking About Upgrading? These Grinders Are Worth It
If your grinder is past the point of saving, no worries. We’ve got some solid options you can grab right now from Global Glass Pipes:
Small Matte Black Weed Grinder
This one’s compact, sleek, and super reliable. It’s a great go-to grinder for daily use and easy to travel with too.

Large Metallic Rainbow Weed Grinder
Not only does it look amazing with that rainbow finish, but it also gives you a smooth, consistent grind with plenty of space for bigger sessions.

Black 4 Layer Steel Tobacco Grinder
Solid, durable, and efficient. This one’s perfect if you want a classic, no-nonsense grinder that gets the job done right every time.

With its ergonomic design and sharp teeth, this grinder feels great in your hand and gives you top-notch performance.

Not Sure Which Grinder is Right for You?
Check out our blog, “Which Grinder is Right for You? Our Top Picks Under $25.” We break down the best budget-friendly grinders and help you figure out which one fits your style and needs.
Your grinder is a key part of your smoking setup, and keeping it clean makes a bigger difference than you might think. Whether you’re cleaning your current one or shopping for a new favorite, taking care of this small tool keeps your sessions smoother, tastier, and more enjoyable.