BBQs

About BBQs

When it comes to outdoor entertaining and al fresco dining, having the right BBQ accessories and equipment can transform your cooking experience. The BBQ category at Tooled-Up.com brings together a carefully curated selection of specialist accessories and tools designed to enhance outdoor cooking, combining the robust engineering quality of professional power tool brands with practical functionality. From innovative attachments that convert your existing cordless tools into versatile barbecue gadgets, to protective covers and lighting equipment, this range features products from trusted manufacturers including Bosch, Festool, Draper, and Sealey.

This unique collection showcases how professional tool brands have extended their expertise into outdoor entertaining. You'll discover clever attachments for cordless screwdrivers that convert them into bottle openers, spice mills, BBQ fans, and corkscrews – perfect for tradespeople and DIY enthusiasts who appreciate multi-functional tools that save space and offer excellent value. The Bosch IXO attachment system, in particular, demonstrates how modular accessories can turn a compact screwdriver into a complete outdoor entertaining toolkit. Alongside these innovative gadgets, you'll find essential barbecue protection solutions including weather-resistant polyethylene covers in various sizes, weed burners for both patio maintenance and chemical-free BBQ lighting, plus premium accessories like pizza cutters, ice cube trays, and cutlery sets engineered to the same exacting standards as professional power tools.

Whether you're a professional tradesman looking to add personality to your tool collection, a homeowner who values quality-engineered products, or searching for unique gifts for tool-loving friends and family, this category offers practical and conversation-starting accessories. These items combine the durability and build quality you'd expect from workshop equipment with the functionality needed for successful outdoor cooking and entertaining throughout the British summer and beyond. Every product is designed to withstand regular use, making them worthwhile investments that significantly outlast typical kitchen gadgets.

Jargon Buster

IXO Attachment System

Bosch's innovative modular attachment system designed for their compact IXO cordless screwdriver, allowing it to be transformed into various BBQ and lifestyle tools including fans, spice mills, bottle openers, and corkscrews. These attachments snap on and off quickly, powered by the IXO's rechargeable battery.

Weed Burner

A gas-powered tool that produces a focused flame for removing weeds from patios, driveways, and between paving slabs. Many models, such as the Draper GWB2000D, are dual-purpose and can also function as effective fire lighters for charcoal barbecues, eliminating the need for chemical lighting fluids and providing even heat distribution.

Polyethylene Cover

Weather-resistant protective covering made from durable plastic polymer material, designed to shield barbecues from rain, UV damage, bird droppings, and debris when not in use. Quality polyethylene covers extend the lifespan of your equipment by preventing rust, corrosion, and weather-related deterioration.

BBQ Fan Attachment

A battery-powered accessory that clips onto compatible cordless tools to generate concentrated airflow, helping to quickly ignite charcoal and maintain optimal burning temperatures without the need for manual bellows or constant fanning. Particularly useful for getting stubborn charcoal started in damp British conditions.

Chimenea Cover

A specially shaped protective cover designed to fit over outdoor chimeneas and certain styles of standing barbecues, providing weatherproofing whilst allowing for proper ventilation and drainage. These covers typically feature drawstring closures or elastic hems to secure them against wind.

Who Uses BBQs?

• Homeowners and Garden Enthusiasts – Anyone with outdoor space who enjoys entertaining guests and cooking al fresco during warmer months, from casual family barbecues to elaborate garden parties.
• Tradespeople and Tool Collectors – Professionals who appreciate novelty accessories from their favourite power tool brands to complement existing collections, particularly fans of Bosch, Festool, and other premium manufacturers.
• DIY Enthusiasts – Hobbyists who value multi-functional tools and clever engineering in both their workshop and outdoor entertaining spaces, appreciating products that serve multiple purposes.
• Landscapers and Groundworkers – Professionals who use weed burners for site maintenance, patio preparation, and clearing between paving as part of their regular work, with the added benefit of BBQ lighting capability.
• Catering and Events Staff – Those involved in outdoor events, festivals, food trucks, and mobile catering operations who require portable cooking accessories and serving equipment that can withstand commercial use.
• Caravan and Camping Enthusiasts – Outdoor recreation fans who need compact, portable, and reliable solutions for cooking whilst travelling, touring, or on holiday at campsites.
• Gift Buyers – People searching for unique presents for tool-loving friends, family members, or colleagues who enjoy outdoor cooking and appreciate premium-quality accessories with brand heritage.

How to Choose the Right BBQs

Compatibility with Existing Tools: If you're interested in the Bosch IXO attachment system, first ensure you own or plan to purchase a compatible IXO cordless screwdriver. These attachments represent excellent value as they leverage tools you may already own, turning them into versatile outdoor entertaining accessories without requiring separate batteries or chargers. The modular approach means you can build your collection gradually, adding attachments as needed.

Protection Requirements: Measure your barbecue or chimenea carefully before purchasing a cover, taking measurements at the widest and tallest points including handles, side shelves, and any protruding fixtures. Draper offers different sized polyethylene covers (OC1 and OC2 models) to accommodate various barbecue dimensions. A properly fitted cover should provide adequate protection whilst allowing moisture to escape, preventing mould, mildew, and corrosion. Consider adding 50-100mm clearance for ease of fitting and removal.

Brand Loyalty and Quality: Consider sticking with brands you trust from your existing tool collection. Festool and Bosch accessories offer the same build quality, precision engineering, and attention to detail you'd expect from their professional power tools, ensuring longevity and reliable performance. Products available from Tooled-Up.com are genuine branded items, not cheap imitations, which matters significantly for durability.

Fuel Type and Lighting Solutions: For charcoal barbecue users, a weed burner like the Draper GWB2000D provides a chemical-free lighting method whilst also serving as a useful garden maintenance tool for clearing patios, driveways, and weed-infested areas. Check that any gas-powered equipment uses readily available butane or propane fuel canisters that comply with UK safety standards. Consider storage requirements for gas bottles and always follow HSE guidance on safe storage of flammable materials.

Versatility and Storage: Opt for multi-functional accessories that serve several purposes, particularly if storage space is limited in your shed, garage, or outdoor storage box. Items that attach to existing power tools take up minimal space compared to standalone kitchen gadgets, and the professional-grade construction means they'll remain functional for years rather than ending up in landfill after a single season.

Power Supply Considerations: For battery-powered accessories like the IXO BBQ fan, consider battery life and charging convenience. The IXO system uses integrated rechargeable lithium-ion batteries charged via 240v mains supply with standard UK 13A plugs. Ensure you have access to charging facilities if you're planning to use these tools away from home at campsites or outdoor venues.

Popular Accessories

Enhance your outdoor cooking setup with these complementary products and accessories:

• Power Tool Attachments – Bottle openers, corkscrew attachments, spice mills, and BBQ fans that connect to cordless screwdrivers, transforming them into versatile entertaining tools
• Weather Protection – Barbecue covers in various sizes, chimenea covers, and outdoor furniture protection to extend equipment lifespan through British winters
• Lighting Equipment – Weed burners that double as BBQ lighters, providing chemical-free ignition for charcoal and eliminating the need for lighter fluid or firelighters
• Food Preparation Tools – Pizza slicers, cutlery sets, magnetic chopping boards, and serving utensils engineered by professional tool manufacturers to exacting standards
• Drinks Accessories – Bottle openers including the Sealey Premier GripMAX and Festool designs, corkscrews, and ice cube maker trays designed with the same attention to detail as professional tools
• Cleaning Supplies – Wire brushes, scrapers, and maintenance products to keep your barbecue grill clean, hygienic, and in optimal working condition
• Safety Equipment – Heat-resistant gloves, protective aprons, fire blankets, and first aid supplies suitable for outdoor cooking environments
• Storage Solutions – Tool boxes and organisers from Milwaukee PACKOUT, DeWalt TSTAK, or Makita MakPac systems for keeping BBQ accessories organised and protected

Safety Information

Gas Equipment: Weed burners and gas-powered lighters should be used strictly in accordance with manufacturer instructions. Always check hoses, regulators, and connections for leaks before use by applying soapy water and watching for bubbles. Store gas canisters in well-ventilated areas away from ignition sources, direct sunlight, and heat. Never store gas bottles inside homes, sheds without ventilation, or in temperatures exceeding 50°C. Comply with HSE guidance on portable gas equipment usage and familiarise yourself with the Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations.

Fire Safety: Position barbecues on stable, level ground away from buildings, fences, overhanging vegetation, and anything flammable. Maintain a minimum clearance of 3 metres from structures and ensure adequate overhead clearance. Keep a bucket of water, sand, or appropriate fire extinguisher nearby for emergencies, and never leave lit barbecues unattended. Ensure adequate ventilation when cooking and never use barbecues indoors, in garages, or in enclosed spaces due to carbon monoxide risks. Wait until coals are completely cold before disposing of ash.

Electrical Attachments: Battery-powered BBQ accessories should be kept away from water, excessive heat, and naked flames. Only use attachments with compatible power tools as specified by the manufacturer – forcing incompatible attachments can damage tools and create safety hazards. Ensure rechargeable batteries and chargers comply with UK electrical standards (240v chargers with 13A plugs conforming to BS 1363). Never charge batteries immediately after use; allow them to cool first.

Weather Protection: Only fit covers to completely cooled barbecues – trapped heat can damage polyethylene covers, create fire risks, and cause dangerous vapours. Regularly inspect covers for wear, tears, and UV degradation, replacing them when necessary to maintain effective weather protection. Secure covers properly using drawstrings or ties to prevent them becoming dangerous projectiles in high winds.

Food Hygiene: Clean and sanitise all food preparation accessories including chopping boards, cutlery, and serving utensils before and after use. Keep raw and cooked foods separate, and ensure meats are cooked to safe internal temperatures. Store accessories in clean, dry conditions between uses to prevent bacterial growth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a Bosch IXO screwdriver to use the BBQ attachments?

Yes, the Bosch BBQ fan, spice mill, corkscrew, and bottle opener attachments are specifically designed for use with Bosch IXO cordless screwdrivers and won't fit other brands or models. The IXO uses a proprietary attachment system that ensures secure connection and proper power transfer. However, these clever accessories represent excellent value if you already own or are planning to purchase an IXO tool, which is an incredibly versatile addition to any toolbox for light assembly work, flat-pack furniture, and now outdoor entertaining.

Are barbecue covers weatherproof enough for year-round outdoor use?

The Draper polyethylene barbecue covers available at Tooled-Up are designed for extended outdoor use and provide reliable protection against rain, UV rays, frost, and debris. They're manufactured from durable, weather-resistant material that withstands typical British weather conditions. However, for maximum longevity of both the cover and your barbecue, consider storing valuable equipment in a shed, garage, or covered area during harsh winter weather, particularly during prolonged freezing conditions. Ensure covers are properly secured to prevent wind damage and inspect them regularly for wear, replacing when tears or significant UV degradation become apparent.

Can I use a weed burner to light my barbecue safely?

Yes, the Draper GWB2000D Weed Burner and Barbecue Lighter is specifically designed for dual-purpose use and provides an effective, chemical-free method for lighting charcoal whilst also serving as a useful garden maintenance tool for patio weeding and clearing between paving slabs. This eliminates the need for potentially harmful lighter fluids or firelighters, and provides more even heat distribution for getting coals started. Always follow the manufacturer's safety instructions, ensure adequate ventilation when lighting barbecues, check gas connections for leaks, and never leave the weed burner unattended whilst lit.

Are these BBQ accessories suitable as gifts for tradespeople?

Absolutely. Items like the Festool bottle openers, pizza cutters, ice cube trays, and Bosch IXO attachments make excellent gifts for tool enthusiasts who appreciate quality engineering, brand loyalty, and products with genuine heritage. They combine practical functionality with novelty appeal, and the premium build quality ensures they'll last far longer than typical kitchen gadgets or novelty items from high street shops. Many tradespeople take pride in their tool brands, so accessories from manufacturers like Festool, Bosch, or Sealey often have significant appeal beyond their practical use. They're particularly popular for retirement gifts, milestone birthdays, or Secret Santa presents among trade colleagues.

How do I measure my barbecue for the correct cover size?

Measure the length, width, and height of your barbecue at its widest and tallest points, including any protruding handles, side shelves, temperature gauges, or control knobs. Use a tape measure and take measurements in millimetres or centimetres for accuracy. Compare these measurements carefully with the cover specifications provided in the product descriptions. For best protection and ease of use, choose a cover that provides 50-100mm of clearance around all sides – this allows for easy fitting and removal whilst being secure enough not to blow away in wind. If your measurements fall between two sizes, opt for the larger cover and use drawstrings or ties to secure any excess material. Remember that covers may shrink slightly over time with UV exposure, so a little extra room is beneficial.