Not sure about how to clean your cast iron griddle each day the RIGHT way? Well, let’s solve that here and now.
Updated: 01/10/2023
As much as you probably love your griddle, there’s that awful topic of cleaning that I’ve got to go through with you to ensure perfection with every meal. It might sound like a daunting (or straight-up boring) task, but it needs to be done.
Imagine cooking a meal on a dirt-riddled griddle (hey, that rhymes) and ending up with a nasty flavor in your mouth from a meal you made three weeks ago. Not nice at all.
If you don’t have one already, you definitely want to grab yourself a good griddle cleaning kit, something like this one here works great. See it on Amazon here.
A griddle is a versatile cooking surface that is perfect for making pancakes, eggs, bacon, and more. However, keeping it clean can be a bit of a challenge, as food particles and grease can quickly build up on the surface.
In this ultimate guide, we’ll go over the best methods for cleaning your griddle, from everyday maintenance to deep cleaning, to keep your griddle in top condition and ensure that your food tastes great every time.
Types of Griddle Cleaning
- Daily cleaning: After each use, it’s important to wipe down the griddle with a clean cloth or paper towel to remove any food particles or excess grease. This will help prevent the buildup of grime and make it easier to clean the griddle when you have more time.
- Hot water and soap: For more thorough cleaning, you can use hot water and soap to wash the griddle. Make sure to use a mild soap, as harsher detergents can damage the griddle’s surface. Use a clean cloth or sponge to gently scrub the surface, taking care to get into all the nooks and crannies. Rinse the griddle with hot water and dry it with a clean towel.
- Baking soda and water: If you’re dealing with a particularly stubborn stain or a greasy buildup, baking soda and water can be a great solution. Mix a paste of baking soda and water and spread it over the griddle. Let it sit for a few minutes to allow it to work its magic. Then, use a clean cloth or sponge to scrub the griddle, rinsing it with hot water afterwards.
- Vinegar and water: Another natural cleaning solution that is great for cleaning a griddle is a mixture of vinegar and water. Mix equal parts vinegar and water and use a clean cloth or sponge to wipe down the griddle. The acidic properties of the vinegar will help break down and remove any grime or stains. Rinse the griddle with hot water and dry it with a clean towel.
- Griddle Scrapers: You can purchase griddle scrapers that is specially designed to remove stuck on food and grease from griddles. They have a flat edge for scraping and a beveled edge for cleaning corners and tight spaces. Use the flat side of the scraper to remove larger food particles, and the beveled side to get into tight spaces and corners. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the care and use of the griddle scraper.
- Deep cleaning: If your griddle hasn’t been cleaned in a while and there is a lot of buildup, it may be a good idea to do a deep cleaning. To do this, you’ll want to remove the griddle from the heat source and let it cool down. Then, clean the griddle with a solution of hot water and soap, using a griddle scraper or a stiff brush to remove any tough stains. Rinse the griddle with hot water and dry it with a clean towel.
- Seasoning: Once you’ve cleaned your griddle, it’s a good idea to season it. This helps to protect the surface of the griddle and makes it easier to clean in the future. To season your griddle, coat the surface with a thin layer of oil (such as vegetable or canola oil), and then use a clean cloth or paper towel to evenly distribute the oil. Place the griddle on the heat source and heat it up to its highest setting. Let it heat for 10-15 minutes or until the oil starts to smoke. Turn off the heat and let the griddle cool down. Once cool, wipe away any excess oil.
Additional tips:
- Always make sure to use a clean cloth or paper towel when cleaning your griddle, as old or dirty cloths can actually spread dirt and grime rather than remove it.
- Avoid using abrasive materials like steel wool or scouring pads on your griddle, as these can scratch the surface and leave it more susceptible to rust or other damage.
- If you’re dealing with a lot of grease buildup, consider using a degreaser specifically designed for griddles. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use the degreaser in a well-ventilated area.
- If your griddle has a non-stick surface, be extra careful when cleaning it to avoid damaging the non-stick coating. Use mild soaps and avoid abrasive materials.
- Always make sure your griddle is completely cool before cleaning it to avoid any accidents.
- When storing griddle away, make sure it’s clean, dry and oiled to prevent rusting.
- Always do a quick wipe down and scrap after each use.
- Regular cleaning and maintenance is key to keeping your griddle in good condition and ensuring that your food tastes great every time. By taking a few minutes each day to wipe down the surface and doing a more thorough cleaning periodically, you can keep your griddle in top condition and make sure it lasts for years to come.
By following these guidelines, you’ll be able to keep your griddle in top condition and ensure that your food always tastes great. While it may take a little bit of time and effort to keep your griddle clean, the end result is worth it for a long-lasting and functional cooking surface.