How to Get Rust off of Your Blackstone Griddle: Easy & Effective Tips

Rust on your Blackstone griddle can quickly turn your cooking experience from fun to frustrating. You might be wondering how to get rid of that stubborn rust without damaging your griddle or spending hours scrubbing.

The good news is, removing rust is simpler than you think—and with the right steps, you can restore your griddle to its shiny, ready-to-cook condition. In this guide, you’ll discover easy, effective methods to clear rust off your Blackstone griddle and keep it protected for many delicious meals to come.

Keep reading to learn exactly what to do so your griddle stays rust-free and cooking-ready.

Identify Rust On Your Griddle

Before removing rust from your Blackstone griddle, it is important to find where rust appears. Rust shows that the metal surface has started to corrode. Early detection helps to prevent further damage and keeps your griddle working well.

Rust often looks like reddish or brown spots on the griddle surface. These spots feel rough or flaky to the touch. Sometimes, rust may cover a large area or appear as small patches. Identifying these signs quickly helps you take action before rust spreads.

Look For Discoloration

Check the griddle surface for any color changes. Rust usually appears as orange, red, or brown spots. These colors stand out against the dark metal of your Blackstone griddle. Bright or dull patches that do not match the griddle’s normal color are clear signs of rust.

Feel The Texture

Run your fingers gently over the surface. Rust areas often feel rough or bumpy. The metal may flake or peel in those spots. A smooth surface without bumps usually means no rust is present. Texture helps confirm what your eyes see.

Check For Flaking Or Peeling

Look closely for any small flakes or peeling metal. Rust eats away at the metal, causing it to break off easily. If you notice tiny flakes falling off or lifting from the surface, rust has started to damage your griddle. This needs immediate attention.

Inspect After Cooking Sessions

Rust can form after cooking, especially if the griddle is not cleaned or dried well. After each use, inspect the surface for new spots or changes. Moisture and food residues increase the chance of rust. Timely checks stop rust from growing.

Gather Cleaning Supplies

Gathering the right cleaning supplies is the first step to remove rust from your Blackstone griddle. Having proper tools and products makes the task easier and more effective. Prepare everything before you start to ensure a smooth cleaning process.

Abrasive Tools

Abrasive tools help scrub away rust and grime from the griddle surface. Use steel wool pads or grill bricks for tough rust spots. A metal scraper or spatula removes loose rust and debris. Choose tools that won’t damage the metal underneath.

Rust-removing Agents

Rust-removing agents dissolve rust and make scrubbing easier. White vinegar is a natural and effective option. A Blackstone Restoration Kit offers specialized products made for griddles. Baking soda mixed with water can also help lift rust gently.

Protective Gear

Wear gloves to protect your hands from harsh chemicals and rough surfaces. Safety goggles keep rust particles and cleaning agents out of your eyes. Use a mask if you work with strong rust removers or in a dusty area. Safety comes first during cleaning.

Remove Loose Debris

Removing loose debris is the first step to get rust off your Blackstone griddle. Dirt, old food bits, and flakes of rust can stop cleaning agents from working well.

Start by scraping the surface to clear off all loose material. This makes the rust removal process faster and more effective.

Use A Scraper To Clear Loose Rust

Take a metal scraper or spatula. Push it firmly across the griddle’s surface. Remove all flakes and loose rust pieces. Do this gently to avoid scratching the metal.

Wash The Surface With Soap And Water

Fill a bucket with warm water and mild soap. Use a sponge or cloth to wash the griddle top. This removes grease and dirt that block rust removers.

Dry The Griddle Completely

Use paper towels or a clean cloth. Wipe the surface until no water remains. A dry surface helps prevent new rust from forming quickly.

Apply Rust Remover

Applying rust remover is the key step to restore your Blackstone griddle. It breaks down rust and makes scrubbing easier. Choose the right remover based on what you have at home or what suits your needs. Always follow safety instructions and test on a small area first. This step prepares the surface for seasoning and protects it from future rust.

Using Vinegar Or Lemon Juice

Both vinegar and lemon juice contain mild acids that dissolve rust effectively. Pour some vinegar or lemon juice over the rusty spots. Let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes. Use a scrub pad or steel wool to gently rub the rust away. Rinse with warm water and dry the griddle thoroughly. Repeat if needed until rust disappears.

Using Blackstone Restoration Kit

Blackstone Restoration Kits are made for griddle surfaces. They include a rust remover and scrubbing tools. Apply the rust remover as per the instructions on the package. Use the included pad or steel wool to scrub the rusted parts. Wipe clean with a damp cloth. Dry the surface fully before applying oil to prevent rust return.

Homemade Cleaning Paste

Create a paste with baking soda and water. This paste works as a gentle abrasive and rust remover. Spread it over the rusty area. Let it sit for 15 minutes to break down rust. Scrub the paste with a soft brush or sponge. Rinse well and dry the griddle. This natural method is safe and budget-friendly for light rust.

Scrub Rust Away

Removing rust from your Blackstone griddle requires some elbow grease. Scrubbing rust away is a simple, effective step. It helps restore the griddle’s smooth surface. Choose the right tool to avoid damage. Use gentle but firm scrubbing motions. This section covers three popular scrubbing options to remove rust safely and thoroughly.

Steel Wool

Steel wool is a classic rust remover. It has fine, abrasive fibers perfect for scrubbing. Use a medium or fine grade for Blackstone griddles. Wet the steel wool slightly for easier scrubbing. Rub the rusty spots in small circles. Avoid pressing too hard to protect the surface. After scrubbing, wipe away rust residue with a clean cloth.

Grill Brick

A grill brick is designed for griddle cleaning. It scrapes rust and grime gently. Move the grill brick across the rusted areas back and forth. Apply firm pressure but do not gouge the metal. It removes rust without scratching the griddle’s finish. Rinse the surface after scrubbing to clear rust particles. Dry the griddle thoroughly before the next step.

Brillo Pad

Brillo pads combine steel wool and soap. They help scrub rust and clean simultaneously. Wet the Brillo pad and scrub in circular motions. This method loosens rust and removes dirt. Use light pressure to avoid damaging the griddle. Wipe the surface clean after scrubbing. Make sure no rust or soap remains on the griddle.

Credit: www.youtube.com

Rinse And Dry Thoroughly

Rinsing and drying your Blackstone griddle thoroughly is a crucial step in rust removal. Water and moisture left on the surface can cause rust to return quickly. This step ensures the griddle is completely clean and dry before applying any protective coating.

Proper rinsing removes all cleaning residues and rust particles. Drying prevents water from sitting on the metal surface. These actions protect your griddle and keep it rust-free longer.

Rinse With Warm Water

After scrubbing the rust, rinse the griddle with warm water. Warm water helps wash away loosened rust and cleaning agents effectively. Make sure to cover the entire surface evenly.

Use A Soft Cloth Or Sponge

Use a soft cloth or sponge to help remove any remaining debris. Avoid abrasive materials to prevent scratching the griddle. Gently wipe the surface to ensure it is clean.

Dry Completely With Towels

Use clean, dry towels or paper towels to dry the griddle. Pat the surface gently to soak up all moisture. Focus on corners and edges where water may collect.

Air Dry For Extra Protection

Allow the griddle to air dry for 10 to 15 minutes after towel drying. This step makes sure no moisture remains hidden. A fully dry surface reduces the chance of rust returning.

Heat The Griddle

Start by heating the griddle on medium heat until it feels warm. This helps loosen rust and makes cleaning easier. Heat also prepares the surface for effective scrubbing and oiling afterward.

Heating the Blackstone griddle is a key step to remove rust effectively. The heat helps loosen rust particles from the metal surface. It also makes cleaning easier and faster.

Start by turning on the griddle to medium-high heat. Let it warm up for about 10 to 15 minutes. The surface should be hot but not smoking.

Heating the griddle prepares it for the next cleaning steps. It also kills bacteria and dries out moisture. Moisture can cause rust to form again quickly.

Check The Temperature

Use a grill thermometer if you have one. Aim for around 300 to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature is hot enough to break down rust but safe to handle.

If you do not have a thermometer, carefully feel the heat with your hand at a safe distance. The griddle should feel very warm but not burning your skin.

Prepare For Scrubbing

Once heated, turn off the griddle. Use a metal scraper or spatula to gently scrape loose rust and debris. The heat softens the rust, making scraping easier.

Do not scrape too hard to avoid scratching the surface. Work in small sections, wiping away rust particles as you go. This keeps the griddle clean during the process.

Season Your Griddle

Seasoning your Blackstone griddle is a key step after removing rust. It protects the surface and stops rust from returning. A well-seasoned griddle creates a natural non-stick layer. This layer also improves cooking flavor and makes cleaning easier.

The seasoning process uses oil and heat. It bonds the oil to the metal. This creates a strong, smooth coating. The process needs to be done carefully and repeated for best results.

Applying Cooking Oil

Start by selecting a cooking oil with a high smoke point. Vegetable oil, flaxseed oil, or canola oil works well. Pour a small amount on the griddle’s surface. Use a paper towel to spread oil evenly. Cover every inch with a thin oil layer. Avoid thick patches to prevent sticky spots.

Burning Off Oil

Turn on the griddle to medium-high heat. Let the oil heat until it starts to smoke lightly. This smoke means the oil is bonding to the metal. Keep heating for 10 to 15 minutes. Turn off the griddle and let it cool completely. This step hardens the oil and forms the protective layer.

Repeating The Process

Repeat the oil application and burning process at least two more times. Each layer adds strength to the seasoning. The more layers, the better the protection. With several coats, your griddle will resist rust and stick less. Regular seasoning keeps your griddle ready for cooking every time.

Prevent Future Rust

Preventing rust on your Blackstone griddle is key to keeping it in top shape. Rust can damage the cooking surface and affect food taste. Simple habits can stop rust from forming again. Focus on cleaning, storage, and seasoning to protect your griddle.

Regular Cleaning

Clean the griddle after every use. Scrape off food and grease while the surface is still warm. Use a damp cloth or paper towel to wipe it down. Avoid leaving water on the griddle as it causes rust. Dry the surface completely before storing.

Proper Storage

Store the griddle in a dry place. Cover it with a fitted cover to keep moisture out. Avoid storing it outside in rain or snow. If you must keep it outdoors, use a waterproof cover. Proper storage stops moisture and dust from causing rust.

Routine Seasoning

Season the griddle regularly to build a protective layer. Heat the griddle and apply a thin coat of cooking oil. Spread the oil evenly using a cloth or paper towel. This layer blocks moisture from reaching the metal. Seasoning also improves the cooking surface over time.

Credit: blackstoneproducts.com

Credit: blackstoneproducts.com

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is The Best Way To Get Rust Off A Blackstone Griddle?

Scrape loose rust with a spatula. Scrub with steel wool and vinegar or a Blackstone Restoration Kit. Rinse, dry thoroughly, then apply a thin oil layer to prevent rust.

What Is The Best Homemade Rust Remover?

The best homemade rust remover combines white vinegar with steel wool or a grill brick. Scrub rusted areas, rinse, dry, then oil the surface to prevent rust return. This method is effective, affordable, and safe for metal tools and griddles.

Can I Use Vinegar On My Blackstone To Remove Rust?

Yes, you can use vinegar to remove rust from your Blackstone griddle. Scrub with steel wool, rinse, dry, then re-season.

Why Does My Blackstone Griddle Look Like It Has Rust On It?

Your Blackstone griddle shows rust because moisture or improper seasoning exposed the iron surface. Regular cleaning and oiling prevent rust.

Conclusion

Removing rust from your Blackstone griddle keeps it cooking well. Regular cleaning stops rust from coming back. Always dry the surface fully before adding oil. Using simple tools like steel wool makes rust removal easy. Keep your griddle ready for many delicious meals ahead.

Taking care of it saves money and time. Rust does not have to ruin your cooking fun. Stay consistent with these steps for best results. Your Blackstone griddle will look and work great again.