Goodbye Rust, Hello Seasoning! The Complete Guide to Derusting Your Blackstone Griddle

Are you tired of your once-pristine Blackstone griddle becoming a rusty mess? Don’t despair! With the right tools and techniques, you can restore your griddle to its former glory. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the step-by-step process of derusting your Blackstone griddle, ensuring it’s ready for your next culinary adventure.

Understanding the Causes of Rust

Before we tackle the derusting process, it’s essential to understand why your griddle may have become rusty in the first place. Rust is caused by the oxidation of iron when exposed to moisture and oxygen. Several factors can contribute to rust formation on your griddle, including:

• Exposure to rain or other moisture sources
• Leaving the griddle uncovered when not in use
• Cooking acidic foods that can damage the griddle’s surface
• Improper cleaning and maintenance

Materials You’ll Need

To successfully derust your Blackstone griddle, you’ll need the following materials:

• Wire brush or steel wool
• Baking soda or vinegar
• Dish soap
• Water
• Rags or paper towels
• Gloves

Step-by-Step Derusting Guide

1. Safety First: Always wear gloves when working with rusty surfaces to protect your hands.

2. Remove Loose Rust: Start by using a wire brush or steel wool to remove any loose rust particles from the griddle’s surface. Avoid applying excessive force, as this can damage the griddle.

3. Create a Baking Soda Paste: In a bowl, mix baking soda with water to create a thick paste. Apply the paste to the rusty areas and allow it to sit for 30 minutes. The baking soda will help neutralize the rust.

4. Scrub the Griddle: Use a rag or paper towel to gently scrub the baking soda paste into the rusty areas. Work in circular motions to remove the rust effectively.

5. Rinse and Repeat: Rinse the griddle thoroughly with water to remove the baking soda residue. If necessary, repeat steps 3 and 4 until all the rust is removed.

6. Use Vinegar for Stubborn Rust: For stubborn rust stains, apply white vinegar directly to the affected areas. Allow it to sit for 15 minutes, then scrub with a rag or paper towel. Rinse thoroughly with water.

7. Clean and Season the Griddle: Once the rust is removed, clean the griddle with dish soap and water. Dry it thoroughly with a rag or paper towel. Apply a thin layer of oil to the griddle’s surface and heat it over medium heat for 10 minutes to season it.

Tips for Preventing Future Rust

To keep your Blackstone griddle rust-free, follow these tips:

• Cover the griddle when not in use to protect it from moisture.
• Clean the griddle regularly with dish soap and water.
• Dry the griddle thoroughly after cleaning to prevent moisture buildup.
• Avoid cooking acidic foods or using harsh cleaners on the griddle.
• Season the griddle periodically to create a protective barrier against rust.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Rust reappears after a short time: This could indicate that the rust was not completely removed during the initial derusting process. Repeat the derusting steps to ensure all rust is eliminated.
• Griddle surface is damaged after derusting: Avoid using excessive force when scrubbing the griddle with a wire brush or steel wool. Use gentle circular motions instead.
• Griddle is not heating evenly: After derusting, the griddle’s surface may not heat evenly due to uneven seasoning. Re-season the griddle by applying a thin layer of oil and heating it over medium heat for 10 minutes.

Basics You Wanted To Know

Q: Can I use a power washer to derust my Blackstone griddle?
A: No, using a power washer is not recommended as the high-pressure water can damage the griddle’s surface.

Q: How often should I season my griddle?
A: Season your griddle every 3-4 uses or as needed to maintain a protective barrier against rust.

Q: Can I use WD-40 to derust my griddle?
A: WD-40 can be used as a temporary solution to prevent further rust, but it should not be used as a permanent derusting method.