Follow these tips to keep your flat top griddle clean and functional forever!
General Cleaning:
- Clean the griddle after every use to prevent food residue and grease buildup.
- Wait for the griddle to cool slightly before cleaning to make cleaning easier and reduce the risk of burns.
- Scrape off food particles with a metal spatula or a dedicated griddle scraper to remove any leftover food particles from the griddle surface.
- Pour water on the hot griddle to help loosen stuck-on food and grease. You can also use a squirt bottle to spray water.
- Scrub the griddle with a brush or scouring pad. If your griddle is made of cast iron or stainless steel, you can use a stiff brush or scouring pad to scrub the surface. For griddles with a nonstick coating, use a soft brush or a sponge to avoid scratching the surface.
- Rinse the griddle with clean water and a damp cloth to remove any soap or cleaning residue.
- Dry the griddle completely with a paper towel or a clean cloth. This will help prevent rust on griddles made from cast iron or steel.
Deep Cleaning:
- For stubborn grease and grime you may need to do a deeper clean periodically.
- Create a paste using baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the greasy areas of the griddle and let it sit for 15-20 minutes.
- Scrub the griddle with a brush or scouring pad, then rinse thoroughly with clean water.
- If your griddle has a stubborn buildup of grease, you can use a commercial griddle degreaser. Follow the instructions on the product label carefully.
Seasoning a Cast Iron Griddle:
- New cast iron griddles need to be seasoned before using them for the first time. This creates a protective coating that helps prevent rust and sticking.
- Heat the griddle over medium heat. Apply a thin layer of cooking oil to the griddle surface.
- Let the oil heat up for a few minutes, then wipe off any excess oil.
- Repeat the oiling process a few more times to build up the seasoning.
Caring for Your Griddle:
- Store the griddle in a cool, dry place as a humid environment will create rust.
- Don't use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, they can damage the griddle surface.
- Apply a light coat of oil to the griddle after cleaning to help protect the surface and prevent rust.