What To Know
- If there’s any stubborn food stuck to the surface, sprinkle a bit of baking soda or salt on it and let it sit for a few minutes.
- Use a damp cloth with a mild detergent to wipe down the exterior of the griddle, including the handles and knobs.
- Once the rust is removed, scrub the cooking plate with a damp sponge or brush and rinse it well with hot water.
Whether you’re a seasoned griddle enthusiast or just starting your grilling journey, keeping your electric griddle clean is paramount for maintaining its performance and longevity. This comprehensive guide will empower you with all the knowledge and techniques you need to restore your griddle to its pristine condition. From quick daily maintenance to deep cleaning, we’ve got you covered.
Daily Maintenance: Keeping Your Griddle Fresh
- Wipe it down: After each use, while the griddle is still warm, use a damp cloth to wipe away any food residue or oil. This prevents buildup and makes future cleaning easier.
- Remove stuck-on food: If there’s any stubborn food stuck to the surface, sprinkle a bit of baking soda or salt on it and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, use a plastic spatula or grill brush to gently scrape it off.
Weekly Deep Cleaning: Restoring Pristine Shine
- Unplug the griddle: Always unplug the griddle before cleaning to ensure safety.
- Remove the cooking plate: Most electric griddles have removable cooking plates. Take it out and soak it in a solution of hot, soapy water for 30 minutes.
- Clean the exterior: Use a damp cloth with a mild detergent to wipe down the exterior of the griddle, including the handles and knobs.
- Clean the drip tray: Remove the drip tray and empty it. Wash it with soapy water and dry it thoroughly.
Monthly Deep Cleaning: Banishing Grease and Grime
- Prepare the cleaning solution: Mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
- Spray and let it sit: Spray the vinegar solution onto the cooking plate and let it sit for 15-20 minutes. This will help dissolve grease and grime.
- Scrub away the dirt: Use a non-abrasive sponge or grill brush to gently scrub the cooking plate, removing any loosened grease and food particles.
- Rinse and dry: Rinse the cooking plate thoroughly with hot water and dry it completely with a clean towel.
Quarterly Deep Cleaning: For the Most Stubborn Residues
- Use a degreaser: If there’s still some stubborn grease buildup, apply a commercial degreaser to the cooking plate and let it sit for the recommended time.
- Scrub and rinse: Scrub the cooking plate thoroughly with a sponge or brush, then rinse it well with hot water.
- Season the griddle: To protect the cooking plate from future buildup, apply a thin layer of cooking oil and heat it on medium for 5-10 minutes.
How to Clean a Burnt Electric Griddle
- Unplug and cool: Unplug the griddle and let it cool down completely.
- Remove burnt food: Use a plastic spatula or grill brush to carefully remove any burnt food particles.
- Apply baking soda paste: Make a paste of baking soda and water and apply it to the burnt areas.
- Let it sit: Allow the paste to sit for 30 minutes to loosen the burnt residue.
- Scrub and rinse: Scrub the burnt areas with a damp sponge or brush, then rinse the cooking plate thoroughly with hot water.
How to Clean a Rusty Electric Griddle
- Remove rust: Use a rust remover specifically designed for stainless steel and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Scrub and rinse: Once the rust is removed, scrub the cooking plate with a damp sponge or brush and rinse it well with hot water.
- Apply a protective coating: To prevent future rust, apply a thin layer of cooking oil and heat it on medium for 5-10 minutes.
How to Clean an Electric Griddle with a Removable Plate
- Remove the plate: Take out the removable cooking plate.
- Soak it: Soak the plate in a solution of hot, soapy water for 30 minutes.
- Clean the griddle base: While the plate is soaking, wipe down the base of the griddle with a damp cloth.
- Scrub and rinse: Scrub the soaked plate with a non-abrasive sponge or grill brush, then rinse it well with hot water.
How to Clean an Electric Griddle without Removing the Plate
- Apply a cleaning solution: Spray a mixture of vinegar and water onto the cooking plate and let it sit for 15-20 minutes.
- Scrub and rinse: Scrub the cooking plate thoroughly with a non-abrasive sponge or grill brush, then rinse it well with hot water.
- Dry and season: Dry the cooking plate completely with a clean towel and apply a thin layer of cooking oil to protect it.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: How often should I clean my electric griddle?
A: Daily wiping down, weekly deep cleaning, and monthly deep cleaning are recommended.
Q: What type of cleaner should I use on my electric griddle?
A: Mild dish soap, vinegar, and commercial degreasers are effective options.
Q: Can I use a metal brush to clean my electric griddle?
A: No, metal brushes can damage the cooking plate. Use non-abrasive sponges or grill brushes instead.
Q: How do I prevent my electric griddle from rusting?
A: Apply a thin layer of cooking oil and heat it on medium for 5-10 minutes after cleaning.
Q: What do I do if my electric griddle is smoking?
A: Unplug the griddle immediately and let it cool down. Remove any excess grease or food residue, then clean the cooking plate thoroughly.
