Updated: July 2025

There’s nothing more frustrating – or embarrassing – than firing up your outdoor griddle for a weekend barbecue only to discover rust covering your cooking surface. The good news? Rust is completely preventable with the right approach and maintenance routine.

To prevent your outdoor griddle from rusting, apply a thin layer of cooking oil to create a moisture barrier, cover it with a high-quality weatherproof cover, and store it in a dry location when possible. The specific maintenance approach depends on your griddle’s material – cast iron, stainless steel, or porcelain-coated steel.

Understanding your griddle’s material is crucial because different metals require different care approaches. Let’s explore the most effective rust prevention strategies for each type of outdoor griddle, plus actionable tips you can implement starting today.

Understanding Rust: Why It Happens and Why It Matters

While rust won’t harm your health and doesn’t cause tetanus as commonly believed, it creates an unpleasant metallic taste and can deteriorate your griddle’s performance over time. Rust forms when iron reacts with oxygen and moisture – a process called oxidation that’s accelerated by humidity, salt air, temperature fluctuations, and even acidic foods left on the surface.

The real problem isn’t just the taste – rust creates an uneven cooking surface, reduces heat conductivity, and can eventually cause structural damage that makes your griddle unsafe to use. Prevention is always easier and more cost-effective than restoration.

Do All Outdoor Griddles Rust?

Not all griddles are equally susceptible to rust. The three main materials used in outdoor griddles each have different rust resistance levels:

Cast iron is highly prone to rust but offers excellent heat retention and durability when properly maintained. Stainless steel is naturally rust-resistant due to its chromium content (typically 10-20%). Porcelain-coated steel provides good rust protection until the coating chips or cracks, exposing the vulnerable steel underneath.

Environmental factors also play a crucial role. Coastal areas with salt air, regions with high humidity, and areas with frequent temperature swings all accelerate rust formation regardless of material type.

Cast Iron Griddles: Maximum Protection for Maximum Performance

Cast iron griddles are prized for their superior heat retention and even cooking surface, but they require the most maintenance. The porous nature of cast iron makes it absorb moisture easily, leading to rust formation if not properly protected.

Seasoning is essential for cast iron griddles. This process creates a protective layer by heating oil into the metal’s pores, forming a natural non-stick surface that repels moisture. If your griddle isn’t pre-seasoned, you’ll need to season it before first use and maintain this coating regularly.

How to Clean and Maintain Cast Iron Griddles

For existing rust: Use a non-metal scrub brush or plastic scraper to remove surface rust. For stubborn rust, create a paste with baking soda and water. Clean with warm water and mild soap (contrary to old beliefs, soap won’t damage seasoned cast iron), but avoid soaking. Dry thoroughly using heat or a towel, then re-season immediately.

For long-term storage: Avoid vegetable oils as they can turn rancid and sticky when dried. Instead, use flaxseed oil or specialized cast iron conditioners. Apply a thin layer, heat the griddle until it stops smoking, then let it cool completely.

For regular use: Apply a thin layer of cooking oil after each use while the griddle is still warm (but not hot). The residual heat helps the oil penetrate and prevents sticky residue buildup. Wipe excess oil with a paper towel.

Pro tip: Wrap your cleaned and oiled griddle in newspaper or paper towels to absorb any residual moisture before covering or storing. This extra step can prevent up to 90% of rust formation during storage.

Porcelain-Coated Steel: Gentle Care for Lasting Protection

Porcelain-coated griddles offer good rust resistance and easy cleaning, but the coating is brittle and can chip or crack from thermal shock or impact. Once the coating is damaged, the exposed steel underneath becomes vulnerable to rust. Quality varies significantly between manufacturers – invest in higher-grade porcelain coatings (look for multiple layers) for better longevity.

The key with porcelain is prevention – avoid rapid temperature changes, don’t place cold items on hot surfaces, and handle with care during cleaning and storage.

How to Clean and Maintain Porcelain-Coated Steel

Gentle cleaning is key: Use soft sponges or cloths with warm soapy water. Never use metal scrapers, steel wool, or abrasive cleaners that can damage the coating. For stubborn food residue, let it soak briefly with warm water before gentle scrubbing.

Avoid soaking: Even small, invisible chips can allow water to penetrate and cause rust beneath the coating. Clean promptly and dry thoroughly with a soft towel.

Temperature awareness: Let the griddle cool gradually before cleaning – sudden temperature changes can crack the porcelain coating.

No oiling needed: The porcelain coating provides adequate protection without additional oil barriers, though a light coating won’t hurt.

Stainless Steel: Low-Maintenance, High Performance

Stainless steel griddles are the most rust-resistant option, making them ideal for coastal areas or high-humidity environments. The chromium content creates a natural oxide layer that prevents rust, while the smooth, non-porous surface resists food absorption and makes cleaning effortless.

However, not all stainless steel is created equal. Look for 304 or 316 grade stainless steel – these offer superior corrosion resistance. Lower grades may still rust under extreme conditions.

How to Clean and Maintain Stainless Steel

Simple cleaning: Wait for the griddle to cool, then wipe with warm soapy water. For stubborn residue, let it soak briefly before gentle scrubbing. White vinegar can help remove water spots and restore shine.

Avoid abrasives: Steel wool and metal brushes can scratch the surface and compromise its rust resistance. Use soft cloths, plastic scrapers, or non-abrasive cleaning pads instead.

Optional oiling: A light coat of cooking oil can provide extra protection and prevent food sticking, but avoid leaving oil on for extended periods as it may become sticky or rancid. For stainless steel griddles, this step is optional rather than essential.

5 Universal Rust Prevention Strategies

• Create a maintenance schedule: Clean your griddle after every 2-3 uses during active season. Regular maintenance prevents rust from starting and extends griddle life by up to 300%.
• Location matters: If you live within 10 miles of the ocean, clean weekly to remove salt residue. Inland locations can follow a more relaxed schedule, but increase frequency during humid months.
• Invest in quality covers: Use weatherproof covers made from breathable materials like polyester with ventilation panels. Avoid plastic covers that trap moisture and create condensation.

• Proper storage: Store in a garage, shed, or covered patio when possible. If outdoor storage is necessary, ensure good ventilation around the covered griddle and elevate it off the ground to prevent moisture accumulation.
• Climate considerations: In humid climates (above 60% humidity), increase cleaning frequency and consider using desiccant packs under covers. Always ensure complete drying before storage – use a heat gun or hair dryer if necessary.

Seasonal Maintenance Schedule

Active season (spring/summer): Clean after every 2-3 uses, inspect for damage monthly, and reapply protective coatings as needed. Pay special attention after rain or high humidity days.

Off-season (fall/winter): Deep clean before storage, apply appropriate protective barriers, and check monthly if stored outdoors. Consider bringing portable griddles indoors during harsh weather.

Spring preparation: Before first use each season, inspect for winter damage, clean thoroughly, and re-season cast iron griddles if needed.

Emergency Rust Removal Tips

If you discover rust despite your best efforts, don’t panic. Surface rust can often be removed with:

Mild rust: Baking soda paste, lemon juice, or white vinegar followed by thorough cleaning and re-seasoning.

Moderate rust: Fine steel wool (cast iron only) or naval jelly rust remover, followed by complete re-seasoning.

Severe rust: May require professional restoration or replacement if structural integrity is compromised.

Conclusion

Preventing rust on your outdoor griddle isn’t complicated, but it does require consistent care tailored to your specific material. Cast iron needs the most attention with regular seasoning and oil barriers, while stainless steel requires minimal maintenance. Porcelain-coated steel falls somewhere in between but demands gentle handling to preserve the protective coating.

Remember: the key to rust prevention is consistency. A few minutes of maintenance after each use will keep your griddle in perfect condition for years of delicious outdoor cooking. Whether you’re dealing with existing rust or preventing it from forming, these strategies will help you maintain a pristine cooking surface that’s always ready for your next barbecue.

Start implementing these rust prevention strategies today, and you’ll enjoy countless seasons of perfect griddle performance. Your future self – and your dinner guests – will thank you for the effort.