The Art of Cleaning a Blackstone Griddle A Comprehensive Guide

Table of Contents

Introduction

A Blackstone griddle is a versatile outdoor cooking appliance that’s perfect for whipping up delicious meals, from sizzling breakfast staples to mouthwatering burgers. However, to keep your griddle in tip-top shape and ensure your food consistently tastes great, regular cleaning is essential. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of cleaning a Blackstone griddle efficiently and effectively.

Why Cleaning Matters

Cleaning your Blackstone griddle is more than just a chore; it’s an essential aspect of griddle maintenance that ensures both safety and food quality. A dirty griddle can accumulate burnt food particles, grease, and other contaminants, leading to unpleasant odours, uneven cooking, and even the risk of a grease fire. To maintain the longevity of your griddle and enjoy delicious meals, you need to make cleaning a routine.

Before You Start

Gather your cleaning supplies

Grill brush with a scraper
Grill bricks or pumice stones
Mild dish soap
Hot water
Paper towels or clean cloth
Grill cover (optional)

Cleaning Steps

Safety First Ensure the griddle is completely cool before you begin cleaning. Attempting to clean a hot griddle can result in burns or damage to your griddle’s surface.
Scrape Off Debris Use a grill brush with a scraper to remove any large food particles and excess grease. Scrub the griddle surface thoroughly to loosen stuck-on debris. Push the debris into the grease trough for easy disposal.
Deep Cleaning with Grill Bricks or Pumice Stones To tackle stubborn, baked-on residue and carbon buildup, dampen a grill brick or pumice stone with water and gently scrub the griddle surface in a circular motion. Be sure to apply even pressure to avoid scratching the surface. Rinse and repeat as needed until the griddle is clean.
Remove Grease Empty the grease trough carefully into a grease disposal container. Wipe it clean with a paper towel or cloth. If the grease trough is removable, take it out for more thorough cleaning.
Hot Water and Mild Soap Fill a bucket or container with hot water and add a few drops of mild dish soap. Dip a soft cloth or paper towel into the soapy water and wipe down the griddle surface. This will help remove any remaining grease and residue.
Rinse and Dry Rinse the griddle surface with clean water to remove any soap residue. Dry it thoroughly using paper towels or a clean cloth. Moisture left on the surface can lead to rusting.
Season Your Griddle After cleaning, it’s crucial to re-season your Blackstone griddle to maintain its non-stick properties. Pour a small amount of cooking oil (such as vegetable oil or flaxseed oil) onto the griddle surface and spread it evenly with a cloth or paper towel. Heat the griddle on low for a few minutes until the oil starts to smoke. This process will create a protective seasoning layer on the griddle.
Cover Your Griddle When not in use, cover your griddle with a grill cover to protect it from the elements. This will extend its lifespan and reduce the need for frequent deep cleaning.

Maintenance Tips

Clean your Blackstone griddle after each use to prevent the buildup of residue and grease.
Use a dedicated container for grease disposal and dispose of it properly.
Regularly inspect the griddle for any signs of rust, and address them promptly.
Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbers that can damage the griddle’s surface.
If you encounter stubborn stains, consider using a specialised griddle cleaner or a mixture of baking soda and water.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is used to clean a Blackstone griddle?

So, in essence, any clear dishwashing soap works.” To use, find a small bowl and add a few drops of dish soap, then fill it with warm water. Once you have a soap bath, gently apply to stubborn splatters and scrub. Once you’re done, don’t forget to add a bit of oil to ensure that it is still seasoned properly.

Does vinegar clean Blackstone griddle?

Spritz the rusted areas of the griddle with white vinegar (we’ve also heard you can use lemon juice) and wait 5 minutes. Begin scrubbing with fine-grade steel wool (available at hardware stores) or a pumice stone, working the rust off. Apply more vinegar if needed to work the rust off the Blackstone Grill.

Conclusion

Cleaning your Blackstone griddle is a necessary step to ensure its longevity and the quality of the food it produces. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can maintain a clean and well-seasoned griddle that consistently delivers delicious results. Remember, a well-maintained griddle not only enhances your cooking experience but also ensures the safety of your outdoor cooking adventures. So, roll up your sleeves, grab your cleaning supplies, and get ready to enjoy cooking on your freshly cleaned Blackstone griddle!