Keep Your Blackstone Shining: The Best Ways to Clean Your Griddle

Blackstone griddles have become a backyard cooking staple, offering a versatile surface for everything from pancakes to stir-fries. But after whipping up delicious meals, the inevitable task of cleaning arises. Knowing the best methods will not only keep your griddle looking great but also ensure optimal cooking performance and longevity.

The good news is that cleaning a Blackstone doesn’t have to be a chore. With the right techniques and a little elbow grease, you can have your griddle ready for its next culinary adventure in no time. Here’s a breakdown of the most effective ways to clean your Blackstone grill:

The Immediate Post-Cook Cleanup (Highly Recommended):

This is arguably the most crucial step in maintaining your Blackstone and preventing stubborn buildup.

1. Scrape Away Food Debris: Immediately after you’re finished cooking and while the griddle is still warm (but not scalding hot), use a sturdy metal spatula or scraper to push all food scraps and grease towards the grease trap.
2. Squirt with Water or Oil: Once the bulk of the debris is removed, squirt a small amount of water or cooking oil onto the hot griddle surface. The steam from the water will help loosen any remaining stuck-on food. Alternatively, oil can help lift residue.
3. Scrub with a Paper Towel or Griddle Pad: Using tongs or a spatula to hold a thick wad of paper towels or a dedicated high-heat griddle cleaning pad, carefully wipe down the entire surface. Be cautious of the steam if using water. The goal is to remove any remaining food particles and grease.
4. Wipe Clean and Apply a Thin Layer of Oil: Once the surface is clean and dry (if you used water), apply a thin, even layer of cooking oil (such as vegetable, canola, or Blackstone’s conditioning oil) using a clean paper towel. This re-seasons the griddle and protects it from rust.

The Deep Clean (As Needed):

Sometimes, despite regular cleaning, you might encounter more stubborn buildup. Here’s how to tackle a deep clean:

1. Let the Griddle Cool Slightly: Allow the griddle to cool down to a warm but manageable temperature. Avoid pouring cold water on a very hot griddle as this can potentially warp the metal.
2. Pour Water and Let it Soak (Briefly): Pour a moderate amount of warm water onto the griddle surface, focusing on the areas with the most buildup. Let it sit for a few minutes to help loosen the debris. Avoid letting water sit for extended periods, as this can lead to rust if the seasoning is compromised.
3. Scrub Vigorously: Use a more abrasive tool like a stiff brush (specifically designed for griddles), a Scotch-Brite pad (avoiding overly abrasive ones that can scratch), or even a pumice stone specifically made for griddles (use with caution and plenty of lubrication). Scrub the affected areas thoroughly.
4. Scrape and Wipe Away Debris: Use your spatula or scraper to push the loosened debris and water towards the grease trap. Wipe the surface clean with paper towels.
5. Dry Thoroughly: Ensure the griddle surface is completely dry to prevent rust. You can do this by wiping it with clean paper towels or by turning the burners on low for a short period to evaporate any remaining moisture.
6. Re-Season: Once dry, apply a generous layer of cooking oil to the entire surface and spread it evenly with a paper towel. Heat the griddle on medium-low heat until the oil starts to smoke slightly, then let it cool. Repeat this seasoning process a couple of times to build back the protective layer.

Things to Avoid:

• Dish Soap: While tempting, dish soap can strip away the seasoning of your Blackstone, which is essential for preventing rust and ensuring non-stick cooking.
• Harsh Chemicals: Avoid using oven cleaner or other harsh chemicals not specifically designed for griddles.
• Abrasive Metal Scrubbers: Steel wool or overly aggressive metal scrubbers can scratch the griddle surface.

Regular Maintenance is Key:

The more consistently you clean your Blackstone after each use, the less often you’ll need to perform a deep clean. By following these simple steps, you can ensure your griddle remains a reliable and enjoyable centerpiece of your outdoor cooking setup for years to come.