Taking care of your Blackstone griddle isn’t hard, but it’s important. Whether you cook every weekend or just sometimes, proper Blackstone griddle cleaning helps your griddle last longer and cook better. A dirty or rusty griddle can cause food to stick and spoil the flavour. By following simple cleaning steps, you can keep your griddle smooth, non-stick, and ready for your next meal.
At SKYREX, we know how much you love outdoor cooking. This easy 2026 guide covers everything from first-time seasoning and daily cleaning to rust removal, storage tips, and safety advice.
Whether you’re new to Blackstone or a weekend griller, SKYREX is here to help you keep your griddle in great shape. Have questions or need expert help? Feel free to contact us for residential or commercial cleaning services anytime.
Is It Easy to Clean a Blackstone Griddle? Simple Cleaning Explained
Yes, Blackstone Griddle cleaning is super easy once you know the steps. It’s not like cleaning a stove or oven. You don’t need fancy cleaners, just a few simple tools and a little know-how.
The trick is to clean it while it’s still warm. Food scraps and grease come off easier, and a quick scrape, wipe, and oil coat keeps your griddle looking like new. Just like brushing your teeth, doing it often helps prevent rust and sticking.
And here’s a bonus, it’s a green cleaning method. No harsh chemicals needed. Just water, heat, and oil. Safe for your food and better for the planet. Here’s a quick list of tools you’ll use often:
- A metal scraper or spatula
- Paper towels or a dry cloth
- Hot water (never cold on a hot surface)
- Cooking oil (like canola or flaxseed oil)
- A non-abrasive scouring pad or grill stone
Once you learn the routine, it takes less than 10 minutes. And trust us, your food will taste way better on a clean, seasoned griddle.
First Time Blackstone Griddle Cleaning: How to Prep a Brand New Griddle
If you just got your griddle, the first thing you need to do is a proper Blackstone Griddle cleaning. Before you cook anything, it’s important to wash off the factory oils, dust, or shipping residue. This step keeps your food safe and helps prepare the surface for seasoning. Here’s how to clean your new griddle before using it:
Step by Step New Griddle Cleaning:
- Mix warm soapy water in a bucket or bowl (dish soap is fine for this first cleaning only).
- Use a soft towel or cloth to scrub the entire surface, top, corners, and sides.
- Rinse with clean water and wipe down with paper towels to remove all the soap.
- Let it dry completely in open air. Make sure no water is left on the surface to prevent rust.
"Only use soap this one time. After this first clean, never use soap again it can strip away your seasoning and mess with the taste of your food."
Once your griddle is clean and dry, it’s time for the most important part: seasoning. This is what creates the non stick layer and gives your griddle that signature dark finish. Ready to season your griddle? Let’s move on.
How to Season a Blackstone Griddle (Step by Step Guide)
Seasoning your Blackstone griddle is one of the most important steps before cooking. It builds a smooth, non-stick layer that protects the metal and makes food taste better. Think of it like creating a shield on your griddle surface, it keeps rust away and helps your meals slide right off.
What You’ll Need for Seasoning:
- Cooking oil (Best options: canola oil, flaxseed oil, vegetable oil, or Blackstone Griddle Seasoning)
- Paper towels or a soft cloth
- Tongs or heat-resistant gloves
Step by Step Seasoning Instructions:
- Apply a thin layer of oil: Pour 2-3 tablespoons of oil on the griddle. Use paper towels to spread it across the entire surface, even the corners and edges.
- Turn on the heat: Set all burners to high. The oil will start to smoke. That’s a good sign, it means the oil is bonding with the metal.
- Let it smoke for about 10-15 minutes. Once the smoke stops, turn off the burners and let the griddle cool.
- Repeat 2 more times: Add more oil and heat it up again. Three layers build a solid base for cooking.
After seasoning, your griddle should look black and shiny, this is exactly what you want. From here on out, you’ll just need to reapply a little oil after each use to keep the surface strong and non stick.
Daily Cleaning: After Cooking Griddle Cleaning Routine
Cleaning your Blackstone griddle after each meal keeps it in top shape. It only takes a few minutes, and it helps prevent rust, food buildup, and sticky spots. Regular cleaning also keeps your seasoning layer strong and your food tasting fresh. Following a simple cleaning routine after every cook will make your griddle last longer and work better every time.
What You’ll Need:
- Metal spatula or scraper
- Paper towels or a dry cloth
- Warm water (not cold)
- Scouring pad (non-abrasive)
- Cooking oil (like canola or Blackstone seasoning spray)
Step by Step Daily Griddle Cleaning:
- Let the griddle cool down slightly. It should still be warm but not too hot to touch.
- Scrape off food bits using a metal spatula or scraper. Push crumbs and grease toward the grease trap.
- Add a splash of warm water to loosen stuck-on food. The steam helps break down the mess.
- Wipe the surface clean with paper towels or a soft cloth. For stubborn spots, gently rub with a scouring pad.
- Dry the surface completely. Any leftover water can cause rust.
- Add a thin layer of oil. Use paper towels to rub it all over the cooking surface to protect the seasoning.
That’s it. With just a few minutes of care after cooking, your griddle will stay smooth, shiny, and ready for the next use.
How to Remove Rust from a Blackstone Griddle [Step by Step Fix]
![How to Remove Rust from a Blackstone Griddle [Step by Step Fix]](https://skyrexpropertyservices.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/How-to-Remove-Rust-from-a-Blackstone-Griddle-Step-by-Step-Fix.webp)
Rust happens. Even the toughest Blackstone griddles can rust if they’re left wet, uncovered, or stored in humid places. But don’t worry, rust doesn’t mean your griddle is ruined. You can bring it back to life with the right steps.
What Causes Rust?
Blackstone griddles are made of cold rolled steel, which is strong but can rust if exposed to water + air. Common causes include:
- Storing the griddle in a damp place
- Forgetting to oil after cooking
- Leaving food or water on the surface for too long
Tools You’ll Need:
- Metal scraper or spatula
- Cooking oil (canola, vegetable, or flaxseed)
- Grill stone or Blackstone scouring pad
- Heat-resistant gloves
- Paper towels or cloth
How to Remove Rust from Your Griddle:
- Turn the griddle on high heat. This will loosen the rust and make it easier to scrape.
- Use your scraper to remove as much rust as you can. Work while the griddle is hot (use gloves).
- Turn off the heat and let the surface cool down a bit.
- Pour 3-5 tablespoons of oil over the rusty areas.
- Scrub with a grill stone or scouring pad until the rust is gone. Be patient, this may take a few rounds.
- Wipe clean with paper towels.
- Repeat the oil and scrub process if needed until the rust is completely removed.
- Dry and re-season the griddle just like you did the first time. This helps prevent future rust.
"Always re-season your griddle after removing rust to rebuild the protective non-stick coating."
With just a little effort, even a rusty Blackstone can look brand new again. Next up, let’s go over the best ways to store your griddle when it’s not in use.
Long Term Storage Tips for Your Blackstone Griddle
Storing your Blackstone griddle the right way is just as important as cleaning it. Whether it’s winter, rainy season, or just a few weeks between cookouts, safe storage keeps your griddle rust free, clean, and ready to use.
Where Should You Store Your Griddle?
You should always store your griddle in a cool, dry place. Avoid humid areas like damp garages, wet patios, or spots near sprinklers. Moisture is your griddle’s worst enemy, it causes rust and wears down the seasoning layer. Here are some good storage options:
- Indoor closets or sheds (dry and dust-free)
- Covered porches or patios (with a proper weatherproof cover)
- Garages, as long as the humidity stays low
- Basements – only if they’re dry, well-ventilated, and not prone to moisture buildup
If you do store your griddle in a garage or basement, check on it every few weeks to wipe off dust and look for signs of rust or dampness.
"Add a moisture absorber (like silica gel or a dehumidifier pack) in your storage area to keep humidity levels low and protect your griddle year-round."
Always Use a Griddle Cover
A heavy-duty Blackstone griddle cover or canvas grill cover is a must. It keeps out dust, rain, bugs, and scratches. If you don’t have a cover, use a thick towel or tarp, but make sure it doesn’t trap moisture inside.
What NOT to Do:
Don’t stack items on top of the griddle
Don’t store it near chemicals, fuel, or flammable items
Don’t leave the propane tank attached if you’re storing it for months
By storing your griddle properly, you protect your investment and avoid cleaning up a mess next time you cook.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning and Using a Blackstone Griddle
Even though a Blackstone griddle is easy to use, a few small mistakes can cause big problems. From rust to food sticking, these issues usually come from skipping simple steps or using the wrong tools. Let’s help you avoid that.
Don’t Use Soap After the First Wash
Soap is okay only once when your griddle is brand new. After that, never use soap or harsh cleaners. Soap breaks down the seasoning layer and can leave a weird taste on your food.
Avoid Abrasive Scrubbers
Metal brushes or steel wool can scratch the surface and ruin the non-stick layer. Only use a Blackstone scouring pad or grill stone if you’re dealing with rust. For daily cleaning, warm water and a paper towel are enough.
Don’t Skip the Preheat
Before cooking, always preheat your griddle for 5-10 minutes. This helps oil bond to the surface and gives you that perfect sear. Skipping this step can lead to food sticking or uneven cooking.
Don’t Forget the Oil
After each cleaning, always rub a thin layer of oil on the surface. This keeps the seasoning strong and helps prevent rust. No oil? You risk dry spots and flaking.
Don’t Pile Stuff on Top
Storing tools or heavy items on your griddle can scratch the surface or even dent it. Keep it covered and clear of clutter.
Avoiding these common mistakes will keep your Blackstone in great shape and make every meal easier and tastier.
Safety Guidelines When Cleaning and Using a Blackstone Griddle
Using a Blackstone griddle is fun and tasty, but safety should always come first. Whether you’re grilling in the backyard or at the campsite, following a few basic rules can help prevent accidents and protect your family.
Keep Kids and Pets Away
Griddles get very hot. Always keep children and pets at a safe distance when the griddle is on or cooling down. Even after you turn off the burners, the surface stays hot for a while.
Be Smart with Propane
Your Blackstone griddle runs on propane gas, so make sure to:
- Check for leaks regularly using soapy water on the hose connection.
- Turn off the propane tank after each use.
- Store propane tanks outdoors, upright, and away from heat or flames.
If you ever smell gas, stop cooking right away. Turn off the tank, cover it with a wet cloth, and step away. If needed, call 911.
Clear the Area Before Cooking
Remove plastic bags, paper towels, or flammable containers from around your griddle. These can melt or catch fire if they’re too close to the burners.
Use in a Ventilated Area
Always cook in a space with good airflow. Avoid using your griddle indoors, in garages, or in tight patios with no air movement. This helps clear out smoke and prevents gas buildup.
Following these safety tips will keep your cooking area safe and let you enjoy griddling with peace of mind.
FAQs About Cleaning Blackstone Griddles
Got questions about keeping your Blackstone griddle clean and ready to cook? We’ve gathered the most common questions from griddle owners like you and answered them here. Whether you’re wondering about seasoning, rust removal, or storage, this FAQs will help you master your griddle care.
How often should I clean my Blackstone griddle?
You should clean your griddle after every use. Wiping it down while still warm helps remove food residue and keeps the seasoning strong. Deep clean or rust removal can be done as needed.
Can I use soap or detergent on my Blackstone griddle?
Use soap only once when the griddle is new to remove factory oils and debris. After that, avoid soap because it strips the seasoning and may leave a bad taste.
What is the best oil for seasoning a Blackstone griddle?
Good oils for seasoning include canola oil, flaxseed oil, vegetable oil, or specially made Blackstone seasoning oils. Avoid butter or sprays with additives.
How do I know if my Blackstone griddle is properly seasoned?
A well-seasoned griddle will have a smooth, black, and shiny surface that is non-stick. Food should easily slide off without sticking.
How do I remove rust from my Blackstone griddle?
Turn the griddle on high heat, scrape off rust with a metal spatula, scrub with a grill stone and oil, then re-season the surface to protect it.
Can I store my Blackstone griddle outside?
It’s best to store your griddle in a cool, dry place indoors. If stored outside, always use a heavy duty cover to protect it from moisture and dust.
