Blackstone griddles are a popular outdoor cooking appliance known for their versatility and exceptional performance. One of their biggest selling points is the large rolled steel griddle cooking surface. Rather than having a grill grate, the steel griddle boasts an even cooking surface and the ability to make everything from juicy smash burgers to fluffy pancakes in just minutes. Similar to cast-iron pans, rolled steel requires specialized care to keep it working and looking great.
Caring for your Blackstone takes a little extra time, but it pays off in the long run. The bulk of your maintenance will come at the end of each cooking session. Regularly cleaning the griddle surface preserves your Blackstone’s quality and will continue to provide you with evenly cooked and flavorful meals every time you fire it up. Following these simple steps will ensure that your Blackstone remains a reliable and durable outdoor cooking companion for years to come.
1. Always clean right after cooking
Cleaning your Blackstone right after cooking can feel like a daunting chore, but it’s an essential step for keeping it in peak condition. Whenever possible, It’s easiest to start by scraping away bits of food while the griddle is still warm. It can be tempting to sit down to eat right after the food is done, but taking a couple of minutes to get started on cleaning can make a huge difference in the long run.
Waiting until the griddle is cold can make it harder to get off finicky pieces of food, meaning you’ll ultimately spend more time and effort cleaning it. But if you’ve let it cool down, don’t worry. Adding hot water to the griddle can help lift off food debris and get your cleaning routine back on track.
2. Don’t use soap
The number one rule for cleaning your Blackstone is to never use soap! There are lots of choices when it comes to cleaning your Blackstone, but soap should be always avoided except for when you first get your griddle, before you’ve seasoned it for the first time. Soap removes the seasoning that gives the food all of its delicious flavor.
Occasionally, some food leaves your griddle in need of a deeper clean. There are specialized cleaners for this, but you can also use coarse salt. Coarse salt is a mild abrasive that won’t damage your Blackstone’s steel coating or require it to be reseasoned.
Simply add a little hot water to your griddle and sprinkle with coarse salt. Use a scraper or Blackstone scouring pad to work the salt into the build-up, then wipe the surface clean with a paper towel before oiling.
3. Oil after each use
Be sure to dry the griddle after every time you’ve scraped it clean or used water on it. A clean kitchen towel or paper towel works great for this. Oil won’t stick to the surface if it’s wet. After drying the griddle, add your oil of choice. A thin but thoughtful layer will prevent rust and keep your Blackstone looking great.
Not sure which type of oil to use on your Blackstone? Look for an oil with a high smoke point and a flavor that fits your preferences. Avocado oil has a slightly sweet avocado flavor and a very high smoke point of 520°F. Grapeseed oil and canola oil are more neutral tasting and have smoke points just over 400°F meaning your steak and burgers can be griddled without concern. Avoid fats with low smoke points such as butter because it can easily burn and cause a bitter taste.
4. Check the hose connections
Regularly check your hose connections to ensure everything is properly attached. Outdoor temperature as well as typical wear and tear can affect your Blackstone over time. Be sure to turn off the propane completely before starting. Look closely for any signs of damage or corrosion along the hose and connectors. On average, gas hoses should be replaced every five years. If you’ve had yours for longer or are unsure of the hose’s expiration date, you may want to pick up a replacement to keep your griddle running safely and efficiently.
5. Properly store the Blackstone
Blackstone covers are essential to keeping your griddle in great condition. Rain and extreme temperatures can quickly cause damage but a heavy-duty cover can lessen the risk. While you shouldn’t cook on the Blackstone inside your home or garage, you can store the appliance indoors when it’s not in use. Once it’s completely cooled off, you can safely store it inside of your garage or a shed to protect it from the elements. It’s important to disconnect the propane and store it separately outside in a well-ventilated area due to the risk of propane leaks.
6. Invest in good quality cooking tools
Blackstone has its own line of cooking tools that won’t scratch the nonstick surface of the griddle. While you don’t have to purchase those specifically, look for good-quality tools that won’t scratch or melt when used with high heat. Be sure to clean your tools promptly after each use and refer to the specific brands’ cleaning instructions. Additionally, look for griddle-specific tools so you can handle the large cooking area with ease.
7. Clean rust right away
If you do get rust spots on your griddle, tackle them right away to keep it from getting worse. Even if you have cleaned and oiled your griddle surface properly, high humidity can still cause rust. To clean the rust, begin by heating the Blackstone to high heat. A hot griddle is easier to scrape and the rust will come off more easily.
Heat-safe gloves are essential for protection. Working carefully, use a scraper to remove the rust, and use a non-abrasive scrubbing pad as needed. Rinse the rust off of the griddle and wipe clean with paper towels, repeating as needed until all of the rust is gone. Then, you’ll need to re-season your griddle and you’ll be ready to dive back into cooking.
8. Don’t stack things on top of it
Flat surfaces generally seem to accumulate objects, but storing anything on top of your Blackstone can affect the integrity of the griddle. Avoid piling anything on top of your griddle when it’s not in use, even your accessories. If you need a place to store your accessories, a small utility cart can be a great solution. Small outdoor food prep carts and Blackstone caddies can help you stay organized.
Caring for your Blackstone doesn’t have to be complicated. Setting yourself up for success by choosing a place to store your griddle, the accessories, and the cleaning products will make the process go smoothly. Getting into the habit of cleaning your griddle right away will keep its quality and increase the longevity of your Blackstone so you can enjoy it for many future meals.
