What To Know
- In a small bowl, combine baking soda with a little water to form a thick paste.
- Using a sponge or cloth, apply the baking soda paste to the burnt areas of the griddle.
- If the burnt food is still stuck to the griddle after following the steps above, you can try using a commercial oven cleaner.
Electric griddles are a convenient and versatile kitchen appliance, but they can also be a pain to clean, especially when they get burnt. If you’re wondering how to clean burnt electric griddle, you’re not alone. Many people struggle with this task. But don’t worry, with the right techniques and a little elbow grease, you can get your electric griddle looking like new again.
Tools and Materials You’ll Need
Before you start cleaning, gather the following tools and materials:
- Baking soda
- White vinegar
- Dish soap
- Sponge or cloth
- Non-abrasive scouring pad
- Warm water
- Paper towels
Step-by-Step Cleaning Instructions
1. Unplug and Cool the Griddle
Before you do anything, unplug the electric griddle and let it cool completely. This will prevent any accidents or burns.
2. Remove Loose Food Particles
Use a paper towel or damp cloth to wipe away any loose food particles from the griddle surface. This will make the cleaning process easier.
3. Create a Baking Soda Paste
In a small bowl, combine baking soda with a little water to form a thick paste. This paste will act as a gentle abrasive to remove burnt food.
4. Apply the Paste to the Griddle
Using a sponge or cloth, apply the baking soda paste to the burnt areas of the griddle. Let it sit for 30 minutes to allow the paste to penetrate the burnt food.
5. Scrub the Griddle
After 30 minutes, use a non-abrasive scouring pad to scrub the burnt areas. Be gentle and avoid using too much force, as this can damage the griddle surface.
6. Rinse the Griddle
Rinse the griddle thoroughly with warm water to remove the baking soda paste and any remaining food particles.
7. Create a Vinegar Solution
In a bowl, combine equal parts white vinegar and warm water. This solution will help to neutralize any remaining baking soda and remove any lingering odors.
8. Wipe the Griddle with the Vinegar Solution
Dip a sponge or cloth into the vinegar solution and wipe down the entire griddle surface. This will help to disinfect the griddle and remove any remaining residue.
9. Rinse the Griddle Again
Rinse the griddle thoroughly with warm water to remove the vinegar solution.
10. Dry the Griddle
Use a clean cloth or paper towels to dry the griddle completely. This will prevent any rust from forming.
Additional Tips for Preventing Burns
- Clean your griddle regularly. The more often you clean your griddle, the less likely it is to get burnt.
- Use non-stick spray. Non-stick spray can help to prevent food from sticking to the griddle and burning.
- Don’t overheat the griddle. Overheating the griddle can cause food to burn and stick.
- Use the correct cooking utensils. Using metal utensils on a non-stick griddle can scratch the surface and make it more likely to burn.
Troubleshooting Common Cleaning Problems
- What if the burnt food is still stuck to the griddle?
If the burnt food is still stuck to the griddle after following the steps above, you can try using a commercial oven cleaner. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
- What if the vinegar solution doesn’t remove the odor?
If the vinegar solution doesn’t remove the odor, you can try using a baking soda solution. Create a paste of baking soda and water and apply it to the griddle surface. Let it sit for a few hours and then rinse it off.
- What if the griddle is rusty?
If the griddle is rusty, you can try using a rust remover. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
The Ultimate Solution: Seasoning Your Griddle
Once you’ve cleaned your griddle, it’s important to season it to prevent future burns. Seasoning creates a protective layer on the griddle surface that helps to prevent food from sticking and burning.
To season your griddle, follow these steps:
1. Apply a thin layer of vegetable oil to the griddle surface using a paper towel or cloth.
2. Heat the griddle over medium heat for 5 minutes.
3. Let the griddle cool completely.
4. Repeat steps 1-3 two more times.
Enjoy Your Clean Griddle!
With a little care and maintenance, your electric griddle will last for many years to come. So next time you’re cooking up a delicious meal, don’t be afraid to use your griddle. Just remember to clean it properly afterwards to keep it in tip-top shape.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I clean my electric griddle?
A: You should clean your electric griddle after each use.
Q: What is the best way to prevent burns on my electric griddle?
A: The best way to prevent burns on your electric griddle is to clean it regularly and use non-stick spray.
Q: What should I do if I accidentally burn food on my electric griddle?
A: If you accidentally burn food on your electric griddle, follow the steps outlined in this article to clean the griddle and remove the burnt food.
