How to Clean Blackstone Griddle Like a Pro: Step-by-Step Guide

Blackstone griddles have become a favorite among outdoor cooking enthusiasts. Whether flipping pancakes, searing steaks, or grilling vegetables, a Blackstone griddle offers versatility and excellent cooking performance. But to keep your griddle in top shape, regular and proper cleaning is essential. Neglecting maintenance can lead to rust, grease buildup, and diminished nonstick performance.

Understanding Your Blackstone Griddle

What Is a Blackstone Griddle?

A Blackstone griddle is a flat-top cooking surface, typically made of cold-rolled steel. It’s designed for even heating and is perfect for cooking various meals outdoors. Unlike traditional grills, which use grates, griddles provide a smooth, flat surface ideal for ingredients that might fall through the gaps of a grill.

Key Features That Impact Cleaning

Material: Blackstone griddles are made of steel, which requires seasoning to maintain a nonstick surface and prevent rust.
Design: The flat surface is prone to accumulating grease and leftover food particles, making cleaning necessary after every use.
Grease Management System: Many Blackstone models come with built-in grease traps. Cleaning these traps is crucial to prevent grease fires and unpleasant odors.

Why Proper Cleaning Is Essential

Prevents Rust: Steel is prone to rust if exposed to moisture. Cleaning and drying your griddle thoroughly prevents rust buildup.
Maintains Nonstick Surface: Proper cleaning preserves the seasoning layer that gives your griddle its nonstick properties.
Enhances Flavor: A well-maintained griddle ensures your food tastes fresh without residual flavors from previous meals.

Essential Tools and Supplies Needed to Clean a Blackstone Griddle

Cleaning Tools

Here’s a list of tools you’ll need for effective cleaning:

Griddle scraper: Removes stuck-on food and grease.
Metal spatula: Helps with scraping during daily cleaning.
Scouring pad: Ideal for gentle scrubbing without damaging the surface.
Paper towels or microfiber cloth: For wiping the surface clean and drying.
Grill stone or steel wool: Useful for removing rust or tough stains.

Cleaning Agents

Warm water: Gentle and effective for basic cleaning.
Mild dish soap: Only for preseasoned griddles or deep cleaning.
Cooking oil: Use canola oil, cast iron conditioner, or Blackstone spray to maintain the seasoning layer.

Safety Gear

Heat-resistant gloves: Protect your hands during cleaning when the griddle is still warm.
Apron (optional): Keeps your clothes grease-free.

Why These Tools Matter: Each tool plays a specific role in cleaning, from scraping debris to protecting your griddle from rust. Using the right tools ensures your griddle stays in excellent condition.

How to Clean a Blackstone Griddle for the First Time (Removing Factory Coating)

When you unbox your Blackstone griddle, it comes with a factory coating to protect the surface during shipping. Removing this coating is crucial before seasoning and using the griddle for the first time.

Step-by-Step Guide

Prepare Warm, Soapy Water: Mix mild dish soap with warm water in a bucket or bowl.
Scrub the Surface: Use a sponge or soft towel to scrub the griddle and remove the coating gently. Avoid abrasive tools to prevent scratches.
Rinse Thoroughly: Wipe away the soap using a clean damp cloth to ensure no residue remains.
Dry Completely: Use paper towels or a microfiber cloth to dry the surface thoroughly.
Season the Griddle: Apply a thin layer of oil and heat the griddle to bond the seasoning layer to the steel.

Pro Tip: Be patient during the first cleaning process. Taking your time ensures the griddle is ready for years of reliable use.

Daily Cleaning Routine: How to Clean Blackstone Griddle After Each Use

A daily cleaning is crucial to maintain your griddle’s performance and extend its lifespan.

Step-by-Step Guide

Let the Griddle Cool Slightly: After cooking, let the griddle cool down but remain warm for easier cleaning.
Scrape Off Debris: Use a griddle scraper or metal spatula to remove food residue and grease.
Wipe the Surface: Use paper towels or a microfiber cloth to remove the grease.
Optional Steam Cleaning: Spray a small amount of water onto the warm griddle. The steam will loosen stuck-on food. Wipe clean with a cloth.
Scrub Gently: Use a scouring pad and warm water for stubborn spots. Avoid harsh chemicals.
Final Wipe and Dry: Dry the surface completely to prevent rust.
Apply a Thin Layer of Oil: Coat the griddle with oil or seasoning spray to protect it until subsequent use.

Pro Tip: Cleaning while the griddle is warm makes the process much easier and prevents food from hardening on the surface.

Deep Cleaning Your Blackstone Griddle: When and How to Do It

Over time, grease and food particles can build up, even with daily cleaning. Here’s how to perform a deep clean:

When to Deep Clean?

After 10–15 uses.
If you notice excessive grease buildup, stuck food, or discoloration.

Step-by-Step Process

Cool and Scrape: Let the griddle cool slightly and scrape off any debris.
Use Warm, Soapy Water: Gently scrub the surface with a scouring pad and soapy water.
Rinse Without Soaking: Wipe away soap with a damp cloth. Avoid soaking the griddle in water.
Dry Thoroughly: Use a microfiber cloth to remove all moisture.
Re-Season the Griddle: Apply oil and heat the griddle to restore its nonstick surface.

Pro Tip: Always dry the griddle thoroughly to avoid rust formation.

How to Remove Rust from Your Blackstone Griddle Like a Pro

Rust can develop if the griddle is exposed to moisture or not cleaned properly. Don’t worry—rust removal is straightforward.

Tools Needed

Grill stone or steel wool
Medium grit sandpaper
Cooking oil

Step-by-Step Guide

Heat the Griddle: Turn the griddle on high to loosen rust.
Cool and Scrape: Let the griddle cool slightly, then scrape off loose rust with a scraper.
Scrub the Surface: Apply oil and scrub the rusty areas with a grill stone or steel wool. Repeat as needed.
Final Coating: After removing rust, apply a thin layer of oil and re-season the griddle.

Preventive Tips:

Always dry your griddle completely after cleaning.
Store it in a dry, covered area.

Tips and Best Practices for Maintaining a Clean Blackstone Griddle

Clean After Every Use: Prevent grease and food from hardening by cleaning immediately after cooking.
Avoid Harsh Soaps: Use mild soap sparingly to preserve the seasoning.
Season Regularly: Apply oil with a high smoke point, like canola or flaxseed oil, to maintain the nonstick surface.
Store Properly: Use a cover to protect your griddle from moisture and dirt.
Check the Grease Trap: Empty and clean the grease trap regularly to avoid buildup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using Dish Soap Too Often: Can strip the seasoning layer.
Cleaning a Hot Griddle: Increases the risk of burns and damage.
Soaking the Griddle in Water: Leads to rust.
Neglecting to Oil the Griddle: Leaving the surface unprotected can cause rust.

Conclusion

Cleaning your Blackstone griddle regularly is essential to maintain its performance and longevity. By following these step-by-step instructions, you’ll ensure your griddle remains in top condition for years.

You may also read (top rated wood floor cleaner for a spotless shine in 2025)