If you’ve noticed rust creeping onto your Blackstone grill, don’t worry – it’s a common issue that can be tackled with some simple steps and a bit of elbow grease. Rust doesn’t just look bad; it can affect your cooking surface and the flavor of your food. Luckily, cleaning a rusty Blackstone grill is straightforward and rewarding. Here’s a friendly, easy-to-follow guide to bring your griddle back to life.
What You’ll Need
– Metal scraper or spatula
– Grill stone (pumice stone) or steel wool
– Cooking oil (flaxseed oil preferred, but any cooking oil works)
– Paper towels or clean cloths
– Heat-resistant gloves
– Warm water and mild soap (optional for initial cleaning)
Step 1: Heat the Griddle to Loosen Rust
Start by turning your Blackstone grill on to high heat for about 20 minutes. This will loosen rust and any stuck-on debris, making it easier to remove. Heating also helps burn off residual oils or food particles.
Once heated, turn off the grill and let it cool down enough to safely work on it with gloves.
Step 2: Scrape Off Loose Rust
Using a metal scraper or a sturdy spatula, scrape the entire surface of the griddle to remove as much loose rust and debris as possible. Work carefully and methodically, scraping toward the grease trap to collect the rust flakes.
Avoid using water at this stage since moisture can worsen rusting. Keep the surface dry while scraping.
Step 3: Scrub with Grill Stone and Oil
Drip 2 to 4 tablespoons of cooking oil onto the griddle surface. Using a grill stone (a pumice stone designed for griddles) or steel wool, scrub the surface in small circular motions, focusing on rusty spots and corners. This step may require some elbow grease but will smooth the surface and lift stubborn rust.
If you don’t have a grill stone, medium-grit wet/dry sandpaper can work as a substitute.
Step 4: Wipe and Repeat
Use paper towels or a clean cloth to wipe off the oil and loosened rust residue. You may need to use many towels as the rust and grime come off. Repeat the oiling, scrubbing, and wiping process until the surface looks clean and smooth, with no visible rust or orange discoloration.
Step 5: Wash the Surface (Optional)
After removing the rust and grime, you can wash the griddle surface with warm soapy water to remove any leftover debris. Rinse and dry thoroughly. This step helps ensure no residue remains before seasoning.
Step 6: Season Your Blackstone Grill
Seasoning is crucial to prevent future rust and create a non-stick cooking surface. Apply a thin layer of cooking oil (flaxseed oil is ideal, but olive oil works too) evenly across the griddle.
Turn the grill on medium-high heat until the oil starts to smoke and the surface changes to a matte gray color. Let it burn for about 20 minutes, then repeat this oiling and heating process 3 to 5 times to build up a strong protective layer.
Tips for Maintaining Your Blackstone Grill Rust-Free
– Always dry your grill thoroughly after cleaning or exposure to moisture.
– Store your grill covered or indoors when not in use to avoid humidity exposure.
– Regularly season your griddle to maintain the protective oil layer.
– Clean the grill after each use to prevent buildup that can trap moisture.
Cleaning a rusty Blackstone grill may take some time, but the results are worth it. With patience and proper care, your griddle will be ready for many delicious meals ahead!