How to Clean Your Blackstone After Cooking: Step-by-Step Guide

Cleaning My Blackstone After Cooking: A Step-by-Step Guide to a Sparkling Griddle

Your blackstone griddle is an essential tool for whipping up delicious meals, from breakfast feasts to grilled dinners. 

But to keep it in top shape, cleaning it after cooking is key. 

Neglecting your blackstone can lead to grime buildup, making it harder to clean and even ruining the non-stick surface. 

Luckily, a little care goes a long way. 

Let’s walk through a simple, effective method for cleaning your griddle after each use.

Pre-Cleaning Preparation

Understanding the Importance of Cleaning

Cleaning your blackstone griddle immediately after use is crucial. 

It preserves the non-stick surface, prevents stubborn food buildup, and extends the life of your griddle. 

By tackling grime while it's still warm, you make future cleanings quicker and easier. 

A few minutes of maintenance can save you from having to do a deep clean down the line.

Read More: Cleaning Grill Griddle: A Comprehensive Guide - Behind The Grill

Gathering Necessary Materials and Tools

Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

• Blackstone griddle

• Metal spatula

• Plastic squeeze bottle

• Heavy-duty scraper

• Heavy-duty paper towels

You might also want to consider using the Easy Function wood grill scraper, an eco-friendly tool made from pine wood that conforms to your grill grates over time. 

It’s a handy and sustainable addition for routine cleanups.

Buy Easy Function Wood Grill Scraper - Amazon USA

Buy Easy Function Wood Grill Scraper - Amazon Canada

Preheating the Griddle for Easier Cleaning

Before cooking, preheat your griddle to the recommended temperature.

This makes food easier to scrape off later and ensures even cooking. 

Keep an eye on the temperature to avoid overheating, which can damage the surface. 

Using a thermometer ensures you’ve hit the right heat level, avoiding hot spots that can scorch your food or leave residue.

Cleaning the Griddle

Removing Food Residue and Debris

As soon as you finish cooking, start by scraping off leftover food with a metal spatula while the griddle is still hot. 

For tougher debris, use a heavy-duty scraper to tackle any stuck-on bits. 

A plastic squirt bottle filled with water can be helpful here—squirt water on the griddle to loosen grime without damaging the surface. 

If you’re using a tool like the Easy Function wood grill scraper, it’ll help remove debris gently but effectively.

Buy Easy Function Wood Grill Scraper - Amazon USA

Buy Easy Function Wood Grill Scraper - Amazon Canada

Applying the Right Cleaning Solution

Sometimes, all you need is water.

For really tough, sticky messes, you can use a cleaning solution. 

Spray it directly onto the surface and use a metal-edge scraper to loosen debris. 

Be careful not to use too much water, as excess moisture can lead to rust. 

If you’re dealing with particularly stubborn grime, a non-damaging scrub pad or even a pumice grill stone can work wonders.

Scrubbing and Rinsing the Griddle

After scraping, dip a non-metal scrub into a bucket of hot water mixed with a mild dishwashing solution. 

Scrub the griddle until all food particles are gone. 

Once it’s clean, dry the griddle thoroughly with a microfiber towel. 

This ensures that no moisture is left to cause rust.

Seasoning and Maintenance

The Importance of Seasoning for Griddle Longevity

Seasoning your blackstone griddle after each cleaning helps to create a protective layer that improves non-stick properties and prevents rust. 

A well-seasoned griddle will develop a blackened, slick surface that’s perfect for cooking.

Best Practices for Seasoning a Blackstone Griddle

To season, use a high-smoke-point oil like peanut or avocado oil. 

Apply a thin layer across the surface and heat the griddle until the oil begins to smoke. 

Then, wipe off any excess oil.

Seasoning regularly will make future cooking and cleaning easier.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Addressing Common Cleaning and Maintenance Issues

Rust and grime can build up if you don’t clean your griddle regularly. 

If you notice corrosion, use a metal scraper to remove it. 

For heavier rust, you might need to sand it off with 60-grit sandpaper. 

For light stains, a mix of water and white vinegar sprayed onto the surface can dissolve residue.

Solutions for Rust, Stains, and Other Problems

If rust is a concern, apply oil to the griddle and rub it in with a small towel. 

A gentle scrub can usually take care of stains. 

Regular cleaning and seasoning will prevent most issues from becoming long-term problems.

Storage and Safety

Storing the Griddle in a Cool, Dry Place

Proper storage is key to protecting your griddle from the elements. 

Store your griddle in a room with a consistent temperature, between 60°F and 80°F (15°C and 27°C). 

High humidity can lead to rust, so avoid places like basements or attics.

Covering the Griddle for Protection

Cover your griddle with a soft cloth or paper towel when not in use to prevent dust from settling on the surface. 

Avoid plastic covers, which can trap moisture and cause rust.

Safety Precautions for Griddle Use and Storage

Always be cautious when handling a hot griddle. 

Use oven mitts and keep children and pets at a safe distance. 

Never leave a hot griddle unattended.

Discover More: Cleaning Off Grill Grates: A Grime-Busting Guide

Advanced Tips and Tricks

When cleaning your blackstone griddle, steer clear of harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbers that could damage the surface. 

Instead, use a gentle cleaning solution and soft cloth for a deep clean without causing harm.

To keep your blackstone griddle in peak condition, consider investing in the Easy Function bristle-free brush with scraper, which is designed to last longer and clean more safely. 

The ergonomic handle ensures a comfortable grip, while the bristle-free design minimizes the risk of leaving harmful bristles behind. 

And for a more traditional approach, the Easy Function bristle brush is another great option, offering deep cleaning power with added safety features.

Take advantage of our current offers on the bristle brush:

• Buy 2 to get 10% off – promo code: GOGRILL2

• Buy 3 to get 15% off – promo code: GOGRILL3

• Buy 4 to get 20% off – promo code: GOGRILL4

Conclusion

Cleaning your blackstone griddle after each use is essential for maintaining its non-stick surface and prolonging its life. 

Seasoning your griddle regularly creates a protective layer that prevents rust and enhances cooking performance. 

With the right tools, cleaning becomes easier and safer.

By following these tips and keeping up with routine maintenance, your griddle will continue delivering delicious meals for years to come. 

For more tips, tricks, and product recommendations, explore our blog Behind the Grill.