🕓 Last updated: September 14, 2025
Why Regular Griddle Cleaning Matters
Knowing how to clean Blackstone griddle the right way is essential if you want it to perform like new for years to come. A Blackstone griddle is a long-term investment — and like any high-quality cooking tool, it requires proper care. Regular cleaning helps keep the surface non-stick, food-safe, and full of flavor.
If ignored, your griddle can suffer from rust buildup, poor heating, and even affect the taste of your meals. That’s why it’s important to follow the correct cleaning techniques from day one.
Tools You’ll Need to Clean a Blackstone Griddle
To master how to clean your Blackstone griddle, you need the right tools. Cleaning with the wrong items can cause scratches or strip the seasoning layer you’ve worked hard to build.
Here’s what you should gather before you begin:
- Griddle scraper or metal spatula – for removing stuck-on food
- Microfiber cloth or paper towels – for wiping down the surface
- Spray bottle filled with water – to help lift grease and loosen debris
- Cooking oil (vegetable, flaxseed, or canola) – for re-seasoning
- Heat-resistant gloves – to protect hands during cleaning
- Griddle stone or non-metal scrub pad – for deep cleaning and rust treatment
These essentials make learning how to clean Blackstone griddle much simpler and more efficient.
Daily Cleaning: After Every Cooking Session
One of the most important habits to build is cleaning your griddle after every use. It’s the simplest way to prevent buildup and maintain the surface.
Follow these steps for daily cleaning:
- Let the surface cool slightly, but keep it warm to loosen stuck-on food.
- Scrape away food residue using your griddle scraper, pushing particles into the grease trap.
- Spray water across the surface. The steam will help loosen grime.
- Wipe the griddle clean with paper towels or a microfiber cloth.
- Apply a thin layer of oil across the surface to maintain the seasoning.
- Turn the burners back on for 1–2 minutes to seal in the oil.
If you’re wondering how to clean Blackstone griddle after cooking, this is the most efficient and effective method.
Deep Cleaning Your Blackstone Griddle
Even if you clean your griddle daily, grease and residue can build up over time. That’s when a deep clean becomes necessary. It’s especially helpful if your griddle hasn’t been used for a while or starts looking uneven.
To deep clean your Blackstone griddle:
- Heat the surface slightly to loosen stubborn grease.
- Spray water generously and let it soak for a few minutes.
- Use a griddle stone or gentle scrub pad in circular motions to lift the grime.
- Scrape and wipe the surface until it’s clear of buildup.
- Dry thoroughly with paper towels to prevent moisture.
- Re-season the surface by applying oil and heating until it smokes.
- Repeat the oiling and heating process 2–3 times for best results.
If you’re still unsure how to clean Blackstone griddle deeply, just remember: heat, scrub, dry, and season.
How to Remove Rust from a Blackstone Griddle
Learning how to clean Blackstone griddle also includes knowing what to do when rust appears. Rust is common if moisture sits on the surface too long or if the griddle isn’t stored correctly.
Here’s how to remove rust effectively:
- Heat the griddle slightly to soften the rusted areas.
- Scrape away loose rust flakes with a metal spatula.
- Use a griddle stone or steel wool to scrub deeper rust spots.
- Wipe the surface clean with paper towels or a damp cloth.
- Apply a generous amount of oil and heat until it begins to smoke.
- Repeat seasoning process 2–3 times to rebuild the protective coating.
Knowing how to clean Blackstone griddle rust correctly can save your flat top from early replacement.
How to Re-Season a Blackstone Griddle
Seasoning is the key to a smooth, non-stick cooking surface. It also acts as a protective layer against rust and corrosion.
To properly re-season your griddle:
- Start with a clean, dry surface.
- Apply a thin layer of high smoke-point oil using a cloth or paper towel.
- Turn on the burners and let the oil heat until it smokes.
- Allow the griddle to cool slightly, then repeat the process 2–3 times.
Re-seasoning is especially important after deep cleaning or rust removal. It’s a crucial step in how to clean Blackstone griddle the right way.
How Often Should You Clean and Season Your Griddle?
Consistency keeps your griddle performing at its best. If you’re serious about mastering how to clean Blackstone griddle, follow this maintenance timeline:
- After every use:
Quick scrape, wipe, and light oiling. - Weekly (if used frequently):
Light inspection and spot cleaning. - Monthly:
Full deep clean and re-seasoning. - Before/after long-term storage:
Complete cleaning, multiple oil layers, and proper covering.
Things You Should Never Use on a Blackstone Griddle
When learning how to clean Blackstone griddle, it’s just as important to know what not to do. Some cleaning methods and products can cause more harm than good.
Avoid the following:
- Dish soap. It strips away your seasoning layer.
- Abrasive metal brushes. These can scratch and damage the cooking surface.
- Cold water on a hot griddle. This sudden temperature change can warp the metal.
- Standing water. Always dry the surface thoroughly after cleaning.
- Leaving it unoiled. An unprotected surface invites rust.
Understanding these common mistakes is key to mastering how to clean Blackstone griddle safely and effectively.
Pro Tips for Long-Term Griddle Maintenance
Once you’ve nailed how to clean Blackstone griddle daily and monthly, go a step further with these expert tips:
- Always cover your griddle when not in use.
- Apply a thin coat of oil even when not cooking. This helps prevent rust.
- Store indoors during cold or rainy seasons.
- Use designated tools only. Keep metal utensils that could scratch the surface away.
- Clean the grease trap regularly. Overflow can cause damage to other parts of the unit.
Following these tips ensures your griddle stays in top condition and works like new, season after season.
Final Thoughts
Mastering how to clean Blackstone griddle isn’t just for neat freaks — it’s the key to better cooking, enhanced flavor, and ensuring your griddle lasts for years. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned outdoor chef, knowing how to clean Blackstone griddle properly turns your griddle from a greasy mess into a reliable culinary tool.
A clean Blackstone is a happy Blackstone. And a happy Blackstone delivers perfect meals, every time.
