From Grime to Shine: How to Make Your Steelmade Flat Top Look Brand New Again!

If you’ve got a Steelmade USA flat top grill, you know it’s a gem for all your grilling adventures. But like any prized possession, it needs some TLC to keep it in tip-top shape. Whether you’re a seasoned griddle guru or just starting your flat top journey, keeping your grill clean is essential for those perfect sears and delicious flavors.

Let’s dive into a comprehensive, step-by-step guide on how to clean and maintain your Steelmade USA flat top grill, ensuring it stays as good as new for years to come.

Step 1: Cool Down, Buddy!

First things first, make sure your Steelmade flat top grill is completely cool before you start cleaning. Hot surfaces and cleaning solutions don’t mix well. Trust me, I learned this the hard way—ouch! Not only is it safer to handle a cool grill, but cleaning a hot one can also cause damage or even warp the metal surface. So, patience is key here. After your grilling session, allow the grill to sit for about 30 minutes to an hour until it’s safe to touch.

Step 2: Scrape Off the Gunk

Once your Steelmade USA flat top grill has cooled down, it’s time to get rid of the gunk. This is where a good-quality griddle scraper comes into play. Steelmade offers a fantastic scraper specifically designed for their grills. It’s robust, with a sharp edge perfect for tackling stuck-on food and charred bits without scratching the surface.

Start by scraping off any food residue. Begin at the back of the grill and work your way to the front, sweeping all debris into the grease trap. Don’t forget to empty the grease trap regularly to prevent overflow and make the cleanup process more manageable. Using the right technique with the scraper will save you a lot of elbow grease later on, so take your time to do a thorough job.

Step 3: Apply Some Cleaning Solution

Next up, it’s time for a little elbow grease. Steelmade recommends using their Steelmade USA Flat Top Grill Cleaner. It’s specially formulated to tackle tough grease and grime without damaging the steel surface. This cleaner is designed to break down even the most stubborn residues, making the next steps much easier.

Spray the cleaner generously over the grill surface. Don’t be shy—cover every inch. Allow it to sit for a couple of minutes to break down the grease. This wait time is crucial as it lets the cleaner penetrate and loosen the grime, making it easier to scrub away.

Step 4: Scrub-a-Dub-Dub

With the cleaner doing its magic, grab a non-abrasive scrub pad. Steelmade’s own scrub pads are fantastic because they’re tough on grime but gentle on your grill. Abrasive pads might scratch the surface, reducing the efficiency of your grill and potentially causing rust spots in the future.

Using circular motions, scrub the entire surface of the grill. Be sure to get into all those nooks and crannies. The edges and corners can be particularly tricky, so pay extra attention to these areas. For any stubborn spots, you might need a little more cleaner and some extra scrubbing power. Don’t rush this step—give it the time it needs to ensure all grime is thoroughly removed.

Step 5: Rinse and Wipe

Once you’ve scrubbed away all the grease and grime, it’s time to rinse. Use a clean, damp cloth to wipe down the grill, ensuring you remove all traces of the cleaning solution. It’s important to get all the cleaner off, as any residue left behind can affect the taste of your food or cause sticking.

Dry the surface thoroughly with paper towels or a clean cloth to prevent any rust from forming. Moisture is the enemy of steel, and even a small amount left on the surface can start to cause rust. Make sure to dry every part of the grill, including the edges and any seams where water might collect.

Step 6: Season the Grill

Now, this step is crucial for maintaining the longevity of your flat top grill. Just like a cast iron skillet, your Steelmade flat top grill needs to be seasoned to prevent rust and create a non-stick surface. Seasoning involves coating the grill with a layer of oil and heating it until it bonds to the metal, forming a protective layer.

Pour a small amount of high smoke point oil (like canola or flaxseed oil) onto the grill. These oils are ideal because they can withstand the high temperatures needed to properly season the grill. Use a paper towel to spread the oil evenly across the entire surface, ensuring every inch is covered.

Turn on the grill and let it heat up for about 10-15 minutes, or until the oil starts to smoke. This helps the oil polymerize and bond to the steel. You’ll notice the surface darkening, which is a good sign—it means the seasoning process is working. Allow the grill to cool down completely before using it again.

Step 7: Regular Maintenance Tips

To keep your Steelmade flat top grill in peak condition, follow these regular maintenance tips. Regular upkeep not only keeps your grill looking shiny and new but also ensures optimal cooking performance.

Clean After Each Use: A quick scrape and wipe down after each cooking session will make deep cleaning easier. Immediately after cooking, while the grill is still warm (but not too hot), use your scraper to remove any food residue. Follow up with a damp cloth to wipe away grease and food particles.
Re-season Frequently: Depending on how often you use your grill, re-season it every few weeks. If you notice food starting to stick or the surface looking dull, it’s time for a quick seasoning session. This will keep your grill in top condition and prevent rust.
Cover It Up: If your grill lives outdoors, use a grill cover to protect it from the elements. Exposure to rain, snow, and even dust can cause your grill to deteriorate over time. A high-quality cover will shield it from moisture and dirt, prolonging its life and maintaining its appearance.
Inspect for Damage: Regularly check your grill for any signs of damage, such as rust spots or loose parts. Addressing these issues early can prevent them from becoming bigger problems. If you spot any rust, remove it immediately with a bit of steel wool and re-season the area.

Final Thoughts

Cleaning your Steelmade USA flat top grill might seem like a chore, but trust me, it’s worth the effort. Regular maintenance not only keeps your grill looking shiny and new but also ensures you get those perfect sears and delicious flavors every time you cook. A well-maintained grill is a happy grill, and it will serve you faithfully for years to come.

Think of your grill as an investment. The time you spend on proper care and maintenance will pay off in the long run with better cooking performance and a longer lifespan. Plus, there’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of grilling on a pristine surface, knowing you’ve put in the effort to keep it that way.

And there you have it—an easy, step-by-step guide to keeping your Steelmade flat top grill in pristine condition. Got any cleaning tips of your own? Drop them in the comments below. Sharing your experiences and tips helps the entire grilling community, and who knows, you might learn a new trick or two! Happy grilling, friends!