Blackstone griddles have become one of the most popular cooking appliances in recent years. It is known for its even heat distribution and searing capabilities. However, like any other cooking appliance, it is not immune to rust. If you don’t take care of your griddle, rust can build up and cause serious damage. If your
Blackstone griddle has developed some rust, don’t worry, it’s not the end of the world. The good news is that rust can be removed relatively easily with the right tools and techniques. In this article, we will show you how to remove rust from your Blackstone griddle. We will also provide some tips on how to prevent rust in the future.
Table of Contents
How to Remove Rust from Blackstone Griddle
There are several ways that you can remove rust from your Blackstone griddle. The method that you use will depend on the severity of the rust and the materials that you have on hand.
Heat up the Blackstone Griddle
First thing, heat up the blackstone griddle and let it heat for 20-30 minutes or so, and then let it cool down. This will make it a lot easier to get the rust off.
Method for Removing the Rust
After the griddle has been heated and then cooled down, you’re ready to clean the rust off. There are a few good ways of doing so.
Scratch with a Sandpaper
If the rust on your griddle is not too bad, you may be able to remove it with a sandpaper. Start by using a coarse-grit sandpaper to remove the majority of the rust. Then, switch to a finer-grit sandpaper to smooth out the surface. Be sure to sand in the same direction as the grain of the metal to avoid damaging the griddle. You should also avoid using too much pressure as this can also damage the griddle. After using the sandpaper, wipe down the griddle with a damp cloth to remove any residual rust or sanding debris. The griddle should now be ready for use.
Apply Vinegar
If the rust on your griddle is more stubborn, you may need to use a more powerful cleaner. Vinegar is a natural acid that can eat through rust. To use vinegar, simply soak a rag in white vinegar and rub it over the rusty areas of the griddle. Let the vinegar sit on the rust for a few minutes before scrubbing with a scrub brush. Once the rust has been removed, use soap water to clean the griddle and remove any vinegar residue. You should avoid using too much vinegar as it can damage the griddle.
Apply Lemon Juice
Lemon juice is another natural acid that can be used to remove rust. Lemon juice is less acidic than vinegar, so it is less likely to damage the griddle. It is known for its pleasant smell, so it is also a good choice if you are looking for a cleaner that smells good. To use lemon juice, simply squize the lemon onto the rust and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, use a scrub brush to remove the rust. Finally, rinse the griddle with soap water.
Apply Baking Soda
Baking soda is a mild abrasive that can be used to remove rust. The best way to use baking soda is to make a paste with water. To do this, simply mix equal parts baking soda and water in a bowl. Then, apply the paste to the rust and let it sit for a few minutes. After a few minutes, use a scrub brush to remove the rust. Finally, rinse the griddle with soap water. With this method, you may need to apply the paste a few times to remove all the rust.
Use Hydrogen Peroxide
Rust is made up of iron oxide, and hydrogen peroxide is great for removing oxidized materials. The two will react because of the presence of rust, and will create a new substance known as ferrous hydroxide. This can be easily removed with water. To remove rust from your griddle, mix one part hydrogen peroxide with two parts water in a spray bottle. Spray the mixture onto the rusted areas and let it sit for about 30 minutes. The rust will start to bubble and will eventually come off. Wash the griddle with soap and water to remove the hydrogen peroxide mixture. Dry the griddle with a clean towel. You should be careful when using hydrogen peroxide because it is a powerful oxidizer. Make sure to wear gloves and work in a well-ventilated area.
Use a Store-Bought Rust Remover
If you don’t have any of the above materials on hand, you can always use a store-bought rust remover. There are many different brands and formulas to choose from, so be sure to read the labels to find one that is safe for use on griddles. Most rust removers will need to be applied with a brush, so be sure to follow the instructions on the label. After applying the rust remover, wash the griddle with soap and water.
How to Prevent Rust on Blackstone Griddle
The best way to remove rust is to prevent it from happening in the first place. Here are a few tips to help you keep your griddle free from rust:
Season the Griddle Regularly
One of the best ways to prevent rust is to season the griddle regularly. Seasoning the griddle creates a barrier between the metal and the food, which prevents moisture from getting to the metal. Seasoning also helps to create a non-stick surface, which makes it easier to clean. To season the griddle, simply rub it down with cooking oil after each use. You can use any type of cooking oil, but vegetable oil or canola oil work well.
Store the Griddle in a Dry Place
Another way to prevent rust is to store the griddle in a dry place. If you live in a humid climate, it is especially important to take this step. When the griddle is not in use, be sure to cover it with a towel or plastic wrap. This will help to keep moisture from getting to the metal.
Clean the Griddle After Each Use
It is important to clean the griddle after each use to prevent rust. Be sure to scrub the griddle with a stiff brush to remove any food particles. Then, wash the griddle with soap and water. Finally, dry the griddle with a clean towel. If you do not have time to clean the griddle after each use, you can season it and then store it in a dry place until you have time to clean it.
Final Thoughts
Rust can be a pain to remove, but with these tips, you can get your griddle looking like new again. Be sure to season the griddle regularly and store it in a dry place to prevent rust from forming in the first place. If rust does form, simply use one of the above methods to remove it.
