If you love outdoor cooking, chances are you have a Blackstone griddle or you want one. Blackstone’s have become quite a staple in the backyard cooking/grilling world. From sizzling steaks to perfectly crispy bacon, it’s an essential tool for whipping up delicious meals. But, how to deep clean Blackstone griddle and maintain it seems to be a tricky part of owning these amazing cooking flat tops!
But, after countless cooking sessions and food residue, grease can easily build up. This will leave your griddle looking grimy and affect its performance. Have you noticed a sticky surface, uneven heating or rust? Those are a couple signs your griddle needs a deep clean!
A clean griddle not only enhances the flavor of your food but also extends the lifespan of your cooking surface. Whether you’re preparing for the next big cookout or just want to maintain your Blackstone in top condition. A thorough cleaning will make all the difference. Plus, a well-maintained griddle ensures consistent heat distribution, preventing frustrating flare-ups or undercooked meals.
Cleaning a Blackstone might seem like a daunting task, but with the right approach, it’s easier than you think. Let’s dive into the best methods for deep cleaning your Blackstone griddle and restoring it to its original glory. Regular maintenance is key to preserving your griddle’s surface.
Over time, carbon buildup, grease accumulation, and stuck-on food particles can negatively impact your cooking results. If left unchecked, this buildup can lead to uneven heating and even rust formation.
Fortunately even if this is your first time. With this step-by-step deep cleaning routine, you can keep your griddle in pristine condition and ready for your next cooking session.
Before we start, here’s a fun fact most don’t know….Did you know that a Blackstone Griddle Top is made from Carbon Rolled Steel and not Cast Iron like most think? So, when you mix Steel, Water and Oxygen you get what is called Oxidation and that is why rust can and will form on your Griddle Top. Depending where you live and humidity levels in your area this can increase the chances of this process occurring more with your outdoor griddle based on your climate.
With proper care of your griddle and proper seasoning this can help prevent rust from forming and maintaining the surface of the griddle for many years to come! Let’s get into it!
Step 1: Preparing for the Deep Clean of your Blackstone Griddle
Before you begin scrubbing away, it’s important to gather the right supplies and prepare your griddle properly. We have put together a list to make finding these supplies a breeze for you! Make sure to gather all of your supplies before you get started.
What You’ll Need:
- Metal Scraper or Metal Spatula
- Grill stone or Pumice Grill Stone
- Warm water
- Paper towels or microfiber cloths
- Cooking oil (vegetable oil, canola oil, or Blackstone griddle conditioner)
- Bucket or spray bottle
- Mild dish soap (optional for heavy grease buildup)
Pre-Cleaning Preparation:
- Turn Off and Cool Down – If you recently cooked on your griddle, allow it to cool slightly but not completely. A warm surface makes it easier to remove stuck-on debris.
- Scrape Off Residue – Use a scraper or spatula to remove food particles and excess grease. Work from the back of the griddle towards the front grease trap.
- Wipe Down Surface – Use paper towels or a microfiber cloth to remove loose debris and grease before applying any cleaning agents.
Step 2: Deep Cleaning the Blackstone Griddle Surface
Now that your griddle is prepped, it’s time to tackle the built-up grime. This is hands down the most satisfying part of your Blackstone griddle cleaning project. Watching all the grime and yuck disappear never gets old.
The Deep Cleaning Process:
- Apply Water – Pour warm water onto the griddle surface to loosen stubborn residue. Avoid using cold water on a hot griddle to prevent warping. The water helps to break down the layers of grease and makes it easier to scrub off stubborn debris.
- Use a Grill Stone or Pumice Stone – Gently scrub the surface using circular motions to lift burnt-on grease and food debris. This will help restore a smooth cooking surface without damaging the seasoning. A grill stone is particularly effective in removing tough residue without causing scratches.
- Rinse and Wipe – Use a clean cloth or paper towels to wipe away loosened debris. Repeat the process if necessary until the griddle is clean. Ensuring that no residue is left behind is essential for a clean cooking surface.
- For Heavy Grease Buildup – If your griddle has excessive grease, mix a few drops of mild dish soap with warm water and scrub the surface. Be sure to rinse thoroughly to remove any soap residue. While soap is not typically recommended for daily cleaning, it can be useful for occasional deep cleans when grease buildup becomes unmanageable.
Step 3: Re-Seasoning Your Blackstone Griddle Surface
After deep cleaning, it’s essential to re-season your griddle to protect it from rust and maintain its non-stick surface. Making sure your griddle is dry of any water and seasoned/oil well help to keep it from rusting.
How to Re-Season:
- Dry Completely – Use a dry microfiber cloth to ensure no moisture remains on the surface. Any leftover moisture can lead to rust, so be thorough in this step.
- Apply a Thin Layer of Oil – Add a few drops of cooking oil or griddle conditioner and spread it evenly with a paper towel. This creates a protective barrier against oxidation and helps maintain the griddle’s non-stick surface.
- Heat the Griddle – Turn the burners on high and let the oil cook into the surface until it starts to smoke. This process helps create a protective seasoning layer. The oil bonds with the metal, creating a slick, water-resistant coating that improves with repeated use.
- Repeat if Necessary – If your griddle looks dry or uneven, repeat the seasoning process 2-3 times for the best results. With consistent seasoning, your griddle will develop a durable, non-stick patina that enhances cooking performance.
Bonus: How to Season Your Blackstone Griddle for the First Time
Maybe you are a new owner of a flat top griddle and not to the point of needing to know how to deep clean Blackstone griddle top yet. So, in case your griddle is brand new and has never been used, this is for you. Here is how to season your New Blackstone Griddle for the first time. It is basically like the process above to restore a used flat top grill just no need to deep clean it first essentially.
Properly seasoning your Blackstone griddle is the best way to create a nonstick surface and prevent rust from the very beginning. Here is your step-step tutorial on how to season a brand new griddle top below!
Here’s a quick step-by-step guide:
- Clean the Surface: Before the first use, wash the griddle with warm soapy water. Use a mild soap to remove any factory residue. Dry it thoroughly.
- Preheat the Griddle: Turn your Blackstone on high heat and let it run for 10–15 minutes until the surface darkens.
- Apply Oil: Using a paper towel or tongs, spread a thin layer of high-smoke-point oil (flaxseed, canola, or vegetable oil) across the entire cooking surface, including the sides.
- Burn Off the Oil: Let the oil heat until it smokes and burns off, usually about 15 minutes. Repeat the oiling and burning-off process 3–4 times.
- Cool and Maintain: Once your griddle turns a deep brown or black color, turn off the heat and let it cool. Regularly apply a thin layer of oil after each use to maintain seasoning.
By following these steps, you’ll ensure your Blackstone griddle is in tip-top shape and ready for perfect cooking every time! Routine Cleaning and Proper Maintenance over time will also extend the life of your grill top and make it cooking ready everyday.
Keep Your Blackstone Griddle in Top Shape
Deep cleaning your Blackstone griddle is a simple yet crucial step in maintaining its performance and longevity. By regularly scraping off residue, deep cleaning when needed, and re-seasoning after each thorough wash, you’ll ensure your griddle remains non-stick and rust-free for years to come. A well-cared-for griddle means consistently delicious meals, fewer maintenance issues, and a more enjoyable cooking experience.
Neglecting to clean your griddle can lead to stubborn buildup, uneven cooking, and even rust, which can shorten its lifespan. But with a proper deep cleaning routine, you can avoid these issues and keep your Blackstone in excellent shape. The effort you put into maintaining your griddle will pay off with superior cooking results and a surface that lasts for years.
Taking the time and learning how to deep clean Blackstone griddle will not only improve its durability but also keep your food tasting fresh and free from unwanted residue. Whether you use your Blackstone for quick breakfasts, weekend cookouts, or gourmet outdoor dinners, proper care will keep it performing like new.
Ready to level up your outdoor cooking game? Check out our guide on the best tools for griddle maintenance or follow us on Instagram for more DIY and grilling tips! Happy cooking!
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