Clean a Rusty Griddle Top: Step-by-Step Guide for Safe Care

Griddles are a fantastic tool for cooking up delicious meals, but if not properly cared for, they can develop rust. 

This can affect both the safety and performance of your cooking surface. 

A rusty griddle top can cause uneven heating, make food stick, and even lead to a poor flavor. 

In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps to clean a rusty griddle top, ensuring your griddle remains in top shape for years to come.

Why Griddle Tops Get Rusty

Rust on your griddle top usually comes from a few common causes. 

The most significant culprit is moisture.

If your griddle is exposed to humidity or left outside in wet conditions, rust can form over time. 

Improper storage is another cause—leaving a griddle unseasoned or uncovered can invite rust. 

Additionally, a lack of regular use can also leave your griddle vulnerable to moisture and rust buildup.

Rust can have a negative impact on your griddle’s performance. 

Not only can it create an unsightly cooking surface, but it can also cause uneven heating. 

This affects the quality of your food and makes it harder to cook effectively.

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

Safety First: What to Know Before You Start

Before cleaning your rusty griddle top, it's important to take a few safety precautions. 

Always wear gloves to protect your hands from sharp edges and chemicals. 

Ensure that your griddle is turned off and completely cooled down before starting the cleaning process. 

Ventilation is also essential, especially if you’re using cleaning products or scrapers that might release fumes.

Never forget that using non-toxic products is always the best option. 

Harsh chemicals can be harmful to your health and affect the taste of your food. 

When cleaning your griddle, always keep safety in mind and use products designed for grilling and cooking surfaces.

Essential Tools for Cleaning a Rusty Griddle Top

To clean a rusty griddle, you'll need a few essential tools:

• Wood Grill Scraper: An eco-friendly tool for scraping off rust and debris, reducing the need for harsh cleaning products.

• Grill Brushes: Either a bristle-free brush or a bristle brush can work well to scrub away the rust and give your griddle top a nice shine.

• Cleaning Cloths: Soft cloths to wipe down the griddle after cleaning.

At Easy Function, we recommend using our wood grill scraper to start your cleaning process. 

Made from pine wood, this scraper conforms to the shape of your griddle over time, improving cleaning efficiency and ensuring a longer-lasting, eco-friendly solution for your grilling needs. 

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The bristle-free brush is also a great option for scrubbing away the rust, providing 3X safer results than traditional wire brushes.

Buy Easy Function Bristle Free Brush - Amazon Canada

Buy Easy Function Bristle Free Scraper Brush - Amazon Canada

Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning a Rusty Griddle Top

Step 1: Scrape off Loose Rust and Debris

Start by using a scraper to remove any loose rust or debris from the surface. 

You can use a wood grill scraper for this task. 

The gentle yet effective design of this scraper will help you clear away the loose rust without damaging the griddle surface.

Make sure to work in a back-and-forth motion to lift up the rust and food particles stuck to the surface. 

This will prepare the griddle for the next steps.

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

Step 2: Use a Cleaning Solution

Next, apply a cleaning solution to help break down the rust and any greasy residue. 

You can either use a store-bought cleaner or a simple homemade solution like vinegar and baking soda. 

Spray the solution generously over the rusty areas and let it sit for a few minutes to loosen the grime.

For extra cleaning power, you can use a bristle-free brush to scrub the surface after applying the cleaning solution. 

The long ergonomic handle of the Easy Function bristle-free brush ensures that you can comfortably reach all parts of the griddle while providing a safer cleaning option.

Buy Easy Function Bristle Free Brush - Amazon Canada

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Step 3: Scrub with a Grill Brush or Wood Scraper

Once the cleaning solution has had time to sit, it’s time to scrub the surface. 

Use a grill brush or the wood scraper to scrub away any remaining rust. 

Be gentle but thorough, focusing on areas where rust has built up.

If you're using a bristle brush, make sure to use it in a circular motion to get into all the grooves of the griddle. 

The bristles will effectively lift off any stubborn rust and grime.

Step 4: Rinse and Dry the Griddle Thoroughly

After you’ve scrubbed the griddle top, rinse it with warm water to remove any residue. 

Use a soft cloth to dry it thoroughly to prevent any water from sitting on the surface and causing more rust.

Make sure your griddle is completely dry before moving on to the next step. 

A wet griddle can quickly develop more rust, so it’s crucial to ensure the surface is completely dry.

Step 5: Re-Season the Griddle to Prevent Future Rust

Re-seasoning your griddle is key to preventing rust from returning. 

Apply a thin layer of cooking oil to the surface and heat the griddle on medium heat for about 30 minutes. 

This helps create a non-stick coating and protects the griddle from moisture.

Regular re-seasoning will also enhance the cooking surface and improve your griddle’s performance.

Best Practices for Preventing Rust on Griddle Tops

Preventing rust is just as important as cleaning it. 

Here are some tips for keeping your griddle in top condition:

• Proper Storage: Always cover your griddle when not in use. This will protect it from moisture and dust that can contribute to rust.

• Store in a Dry Area: If possible, store your griddle in a dry place away from humidity. A garage or shed with good airflow is ideal.

• Maintain Seasoning: Re-season your griddle regularly to keep the surface protected from moisture and rust.

By following these practices, you can keep your griddle rust-free and ready for your next cooking session.

Conclusion

Cleaning and maintaining your griddle top is essential for ensuring safe cooking and optimal performance. 

Regular upkeep will help prevent rust and ensure your griddle lasts for years to come. 

Remember, using the right tools, such as the Easy Function wood grill scraper and bristle-free brushes, can make the process easier and more efficient.

By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can restore your griddle to its original shine and prevent rust from building up in the future. 

For the best griddle maintenance products, check out Easy Function’s range of BBQ tools, which are designed to make cleaning and upkeep a breeze.

Start cleaning your griddle the right way today, and enjoy years of hassle-free cooking!