Best Way to Fix a Rusty Grill: Clean a Rusty Flat Top Grill

If you’ve ever walked outside, ready to cook up a meal, only to find your flat top grill covered in rust—don’t worry! 

Rust is a common problem for outdoor griddles, but it’s fixable. 

In this guide, we’ll walk you through step-by-step instructions to get your rusty grill shining again.

Understanding Rust on a Flat Top Grill

Rust happens to many flat top grills, and it doesn’t always mean you’ve been careless. 

Even a well-maintained and seasoned grill can develop rust over time. 

Outdoor griddles face moisture, humidity, and even occasional improper cleaning, all of which can lead to rust buildup.

Here are a few common causes of rust:

• Moisture exposure – Rain, humidity, or dew can lead to rust if your grill is not stored properly.

• Poor seasoning – If your griddle isn’t regularly seasoned, it can lose its rust-resistant coating.

• Harsh cleaning chemicals – Using abrasive or harsh cleaners can strip away the protective layer.

But don’t worry—getting rid of rust is easier than you think!

Learn More: Revive Your Griddle Top: Step-by-Step Cleaning Guide

Assessing the Extent of Rust Damage

Before you start cleaning, it’s important to check how bad the rust is. 

Surface rust is the most common and easiest to fix. 

However, if rust has penetrated too deeply, you might need to replace the griddle plate.

A well-seasoned griddle is less likely to rust, so make sure you re-season after cleaning to prevent future damage. 

If your flat top grill isn’t heavily damaged, you’ll be able to bring it back to life with a few simple steps.

Preparation for Cleaning

You’ll need a few basic tools to clean your flat top grill:

• Grill scraper or wood grill scraper

• Grill brick

• Paper towels

• Protective gloves (like heat-resistant gloves)

Using the right tools makes all the difference. 

For example, the Easy Function Wood Grill Scraper is a great eco-friendly option. 

It conforms to your grill’s shape, making each cleaning session faster and more efficient.

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Cleaning the Rusty Grill

Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of removing rust:

• Warm up the griddle: Turn on your grill and set it to a low heat, around 300-325°F. Warming the surface makes it easier to scrape off rust.

• Scrape away loose rust: Use a grill scraper to remove any flaking rust or debris, pushing it towards the grease tray. The Easy Function Wood Grill Scraper works perfectly here. Its scalloped blade gently conforms to the surface, making sure you remove every bit of loose rust.

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• Apply oil: Spread a thin coat of oil across the griddle to help lubricate the surface. This makes using the grill brick much easier.

• Use the grill brick: Gently rub a grill brick in a circular motion over the rusty spots. Light pressure will do the trick—no need to go too hard. A grill brick helps break down the rust and leaves the surface smooth.

• Wipe it down: Once you’ve scrubbed the surface, wipe down the grill with paper towels to remove rust residue and oil.

Re-Seasoning the Grill

Now that the rust is gone, it’s time to re-season your grill. 

This will protect it from future rust and create a non-stick cooking surface.

• Apply a thin coat of high-heat cooking oil: Use an oil like flaxseed or vegetable oil and spread a very thin layer on the griddle.

• Heat the grill: Turn the heat up until the oil burns off. You’ll know it’s working when the oil starts to smoke.

• Repeat the process: Reapply oil and heat the surface a few times. This builds up layers of protection, ensuring your grill won’t rust again anytime soon.

Related Read: Remove Rust from Your Flat Top Grill: Effective Solutions

Preventing Future Rust

Keeping rust away is all about regular maintenance. 

Here are some tips to keep your flat top grill in top shape:

• Clean regularly: After each use, scrape the grill, wipe it down, and apply a light layer of oil to the surface.

• Dry thoroughly: Make sure the grill is dry before covering or storing it.

• Use a cover: The Traeger Flatrock Flat Top Grill Cover is an excellent option for protecting your grill from the elements.

For those living in colder regions, storing your grill in a warm area is a smart move—especially in places where temperatures drop below -20°F (-29°C).

Common FAQs

• Can you cook on a rusty griddle?

No, it’s not safe to cook on a rusty griddle. 

Rust can affect the flavor of your food and might even pose health risks. 

Always clean and re-season your grill before using it.

• How can you prevent your griddle from rusting again?

To avoid rust, clean your griddle after every use. 

Be sure to dry it well and apply a thin coat of oil. 

Regular seasoning helps maintain its rust-resistant layer.

Conclusion

Taking good care of your flat top grill will ensure it lasts for years to come.

Cleaning rust might seem like a hassle, but it’s a quick fix when done properly.

By following these steps and using the right tools, like the Easy Function Wood Grill Scraper, you’ll have your griddle in perfect shape in no time.

Remember, regular cleaning and seasoning are key to preventing rust in the first place.

Protect your grill, and it will always be ready to fire up when you are!