If you love cooking on your Blackstone griddle, you know how delicious meals come with a bit of cleanup afterward. But cleaning your griddle doesn’t have to be a chore! With the right method, you can keep your Blackstone griddle in tip-top shape, ready for your next cooking adventure. Here’s a simple, friendly guide on how to clean a Blackstone griddle after cooking that will help you maintain its performance and extend its life.
Why Cleaning Your Blackstone Griddle Matters
Cleaning your griddle after each use is essential because it:
– Removes food particles and grease that can cause flare-ups or bad flavors next time.
– Prevents rust and corrosion on the steel surface.
– Keeps the cooking surface non-stick and ready for your next meal.
– Helps your griddle last longer and perform better.
What You’ll Need for Cleaning
Before you start, gather these simple tools and materials:
– Metal spatula or scraper
– Paper towels or microfiber cloths
– Spray bottle with hot water
– Non-metallic scrub pad (optional)
– Cooking oil with a high smoke point (like canola or vegetable oil)
Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Your Blackstone Griddle After Cooking
1. Let the Griddle Cool Slightly but Stay Warm
Right after cooking, turn off your griddle and let it cool for a few minutes. It should still be warm but not too hot to handle safely. This warmth helps loosen stuck-on food and grease, making cleaning easier.
2. Scrape Off Food Debris
Use a metal spatula or scraper to gently push all leftover food scraps and grease toward the grease trap or drip tray. Scrape thoroughly but carefully to avoid scratching the surface. This step removes the bulk of the mess.
3. Steam Clean with Hot Water
Fill a spray bottle with hot water and spritz the griddle surface. The steam created will soften any stubborn bits stuck to the griddle. After a minute or so, use your scraper again to lift off the loosened residue.
4. Wipe Down the Surface
Grab some heavy-duty paper towels or a microfiber cloth to wipe away the loosened food particles and moisture. Make sure to dry the surface well to prevent rust.
5. Optional: Scrub Stubborn Spots
If you notice any tough, stuck-on spots, use a non-metallic scrub pad or a Blackstone scouring pad gently on the warm surface. Avoid harsh abrasives that could damage the seasoning.
6. Dry the Griddle Completely
Use a clean microfiber towel or paper towels to dry the griddle thoroughly. Moisture left on the surface can cause rust, so this step is important.
7. Season Your Griddle
Once dry, apply a thin, even layer of cooking oil over the entire cooking surface using a paper towel or cloth. This helps maintain the non-stick seasoning and protects the metal from rust. Use oils with a high smoke point like canola or vegetable oil.
Tips for Maintaining Your Blackstone Griddle
– Clean after every use: Don’t let grease or food residue sit overnight.
– Avoid soap for routine cleaning: Soap can strip the seasoning and leave a residue that affects flavor.
– Use proper tools: Metal scrapers and non-metallic scrub pads work best.
– Season regularly: Keep your griddle oiled to maintain its non-stick surface and prevent rust.
– For rusty griddles: Heat the griddle, scrape off rust, and reseason with oil to restore the surface.
Cleaning a New Blackstone Griddle Before First Use
Before cooking on a brand new Blackstone griddle, wash it with hot soapy water to remove factory oils and debris. Rinse well and dry completely. Then, season it by applying a thin layer of oil and heating the griddle to bond the oil to the surface. This step ensures a great cooking surface from day one.
Cleaning your Blackstone griddle after cooking is straightforward and quick with the right approach. Keep your griddle clean, seasoned, and ready to deliver delicious meals every time!