Blackstone griddles are a popular choice for outdoor cooking enthusiasts due to their versatility and durability. To ensure your griddle lasts for years to come and continues to provide delicious meals, it’s essential to keep it clean and well-maintained. Cleaning a Blackstone griddle may seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and techniques, it can be a straightforward process. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps on how to clean a Blackstone griddle effectively.
Gather Your Cleaning Supplies
Before you begin cleaning your Blackstone griddle, make sure to gather all the necessary supplies. Here’s a list of the items you’ll need:
- Blackstone griddle scraper or spatula: To remove food residue and grease.
- Paper towels or clean cloth: For wiping down the griddle surface.
- Hot water: To help loosen stubborn grease and grime.
- Mild dish soap: For washing the griddle surface.
- Grill stone cleaning block: Optional for tougher stains.
- Vegetable oil or griddle seasoning oil: To re-season the griddle after cleaning.
Cleaning Steps
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to clean your Blackstone griddle:
1. Allow the Griddle to Cool Down
Before you start cleaning the griddle, make sure it has cooled down completely. Attempting to clean a hot griddle can be dangerous and may cause burns.
2. Scrape Off Food Residue
Using a Blackstone griddle scraper or spatula, scrape off any food residue or grease from the surface of the griddle. Make sure to remove all debris to prevent it from burning on the griddle surface.
3. Wipe Down the Griddle
Once you’ve scraped off the food residue, use a paper towel or a clean cloth dampened with hot water to wipe down the griddle surface. This will help remove any remaining grease and dirt.
4. Wash with Dish Soap
Fill a bucket with hot water and add a small amount of mild dish soap. Use a sponge or cloth to wash the griddle surface thoroughly. Make sure to remove all soap residue after washing.
5. Rinse with Clean Water
After washing with dish soap, rinse the griddle surface with clean water to remove any remaining soap residue.
6. Dry the Griddle
Use a dry cloth or paper towel to dry the griddle surface completely. Leaving the griddle wet can cause rust to develop.
7. Apply Griddle Oil
To maintain the seasoning on your Blackstone griddle, apply a thin layer of vegetable oil or griddle seasoning oil to the griddle surface. This will help prevent rust and maintain the non-stick properties of the griddle.
Additional Tips
Here are some additional tips to keep your Blackstone griddle in top condition:
- Season regularly: Re-season your griddle after each cleaning to maintain its non-stick surface.
- Avoid harsh chemicals: Use mild dish soap and avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the griddle surface.
- Clean after each use: Cleaning your griddle after each use will prevent food residue from building up and becoming harder to remove.
- Store properly: Store your griddle in a dry place to prevent rust from forming.
Conclusion
Cleaning a Blackstone griddle doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By following the steps outlined in this guide and using the right cleaning supplies, you can keep your griddle in excellent condition and ensure it continues to provide delicious meals for years to come. Remember to clean your griddle regularly and maintain its seasoning to prolong its lifespan and performance.
Happy griddling!
