How to Bring Your Rusty Blackstone Griddle Back to Life

Recognizing the Signs of Rust on Your Blackstone Griddle

Blackstone griddles are highly preferred for outdoor cooking, particularly among grilling enthusiasts. They are renowned for their large cooking surface and the ability to cook multiple meals at once. However, like any other cooking equipment, they require proper maintenance to ensure longevity, efficient performance, and hygiene. One of the threats that griddles face frequently is rust. Rust is a form of corrosion that develops when the metal surface of the blackstone griddle is exposed to moisture and oxygen. It can cause permanent damage to the griddle’s surface, render it unsafe, and unhygienic.

It’s important to recognize the signs of rust on your blackstone griddle to prevent further damage. Here are some signs of rust that you should watch out for:

Discolored spots on the surface

If you notice some discoloration of the griddle’s surface with orange or reddish-brown patches, it could indicate rust formation. Rust starts as small patches and, if left unattended, will continue to spread all over the griddle. It’s essential to identify these spots early and take prompt measures to stop the spread of rust.

Surface Pitting

Rust can eat away metal, leading to pitting or small holes on the blackstone griddle’s surface. This type of rust damage occurs in advanced stages when the rust is left untreated for an extended period. Surface pitting can make the griddle surface uneven which can affect its performance while cooking.

Chipping and Flaking of the Surface

If the rust has eaten away a significant portion of the blackstone griddle’s metal surface, it might cause chipping or flaking. This usually occurs in areas where rust has been left untreated for a long time. Cooking on such a surface can be risky, unhygienic, and lead to contamination of the food.

Unpleasant Smell and Taste of Food

Rust on the blackstone griddle can release harmful particles in the form of flakes or dust, which can stick on the food and contribute to an unpleasant smell and taste. If you notice a metallic or unusual smell or taste on the cooked food, you might want to inspect your griddle for rust.

Conclusively, rust can damage your blackstone griddle and render it unhygienic, making your outdoor cooking experience dangerous and unenjoyable. Once you spot the signs of rust on your blackstone griddle, you should take prompt measures to get rid of it.

Removing Rust Using Household Items

Do you have a rusty Blackstone griddle that needs fixing? Fret not; you don’t have to purchase expensive rust removers to solve the problem. There are several household items that you can use to remove the rust and restore your griddle to its initial state. Here are some of the viable household items that you can use to remove rust from your Blackstone griddle.

Vinegar

Vinegar is an excellent rust remover. You only need to mix about one cup of vinegar with some water and soak the rusted parts of your Blackstone griddle in the solution for about 30 minutes. After that, grab a scrubber and scrub the rust off. For stubborn rust, mix salt and vinegar to make a paste. Apply the paste on the rusted parts of the griddle and let it sit for half an hour. Scrub off the paste with a brush or toothbrush, and your griddle will look as good as new.

Lemon Juice and Baking Soda

You can also use a mixture of baking soda and lemon juice. Squeeze some lemon juice in a bowl and add baking soda to form a paste. Apply this paste on the rusted parts of your Blackstone griddle and let it sit for about 30 minutes. Scrub the rust off with a brush or toothbrush and rinse off the paste with water. By the time you are done, your rust issue will be solved.

Potatoes

You can use potatoes to remove rust from your Blackstone griddle. Potatoes and other vegetables contain oxalic acid, which is a suitable rust remover. Cut your potato in half and apply some baking soda on the cut flesh. Rub the potato on the rusted parts of the griddle until the rust comes off. Rinse the griddle with water and dry it with a clean towel. If you have a large area to clean, you may need to use multiple potatoes.

Baking Soda and Water

You can use a mixture of baking soda and water to remove rust from your Blackstone griddle. Mix about 2-3 tablespoons of baking soda and some water to make a paste. Apply the paste on the rusted parts of your griddle and let it sit for about 30 minutes. Scrub the rust off with a brush or toothbrush and rinse the griddle with water. Dry the griddle with a clean towel afterward.

In conclusion, you don’t have to purchase any expensive rust removers to restore your Blackstone griddle to its initial state. You can easily remove rust from your griddle using household items like vinegar, lemon juice, potatoes, baking soda, and water. Once you detect rust on your griddle, don’t let it sit for long before cleaning it since it can easily corrode and cause more damage. With the tips provided, you can easily and effectively remove rust from your Blackstone griddle and enjoy using it once more.

Applying a Rust Converter to Your Blackstone Griddle

Blackstone griddles are an excellent addition to any outdoor cooking setup. They are large, sturdy, and can cook a variety of foods with ease. However, like any outdoor cooking appliance, exposure to the elements can cause rust to develop on the griddle’s surface. Rust not only looks unsightly, but it can be a health hazard if it gets into food. Luckily, there are ways to fix a rusty Blackstone griddle, and one of the most effective methods is by applying a rust converter.

A rust converter is a product that chemically converts rust into a stable black compound that can be painted over. Applying a rust converter to your rusty Blackstone griddle is relatively easy, and you do not need any special skills to do so. Here are the steps:

Step 1: Clean the Griddle

The first step to applying a rust converter is to clean the griddle thoroughly. Use water and a stiff brush to remove any dirt, debris, or loose rust. You may also use a degreaser or a mild detergent to clean the surface thoroughly. Once you have cleaned the griddle, rinse it carefully and allow it to dry completely.

Step 2: Apply the Rust Converter

Read the instructions on the rust converter you procured and follow them. Using a brush or a roller, apply the rust converter evenly over the rusty areas of the griddle. Make sure that you cover the rust completely and apply a thin layer of the rust converter consistently. Follow the instructions that come with the product you use, often you will need to let it sit for a particular amount of time.

Step 3: Let the Rust Converter Settle In

After applying the rust converter, allow it to settle in for the time specified on the product you use. Once the rust converter sets, it will create a protective coating that prevents rust from carrying on developing. You do not need to rinse the rust converter off your griddle, leave it in as it is where it is.

Step 4: Re-season the Griddle

Once the rust converter has dried entirely, you need to re-season the griddle’s surface. Seasoning ensures that your griddle is non-stick and creates a layer of flavor that enhances your cooking. To prepare the griddle, coat it with a thin layer of oil and heat it until the oil begins to smoke. This process will take less time if you skip this step right after you’ve cleaned your griddle. It is crucial to evenly coat the entire griddle surface to enhance food cooking and droppings flavors after wards.

Applying a rust converter to your rusty Blackstone griddle is an excellent way to restore it to its former glory. The process is simple, and it’s something anyone can do. It’s worth investing in some rust converter to keep your Blackstone griddle looking great and functioning correctly. Besides applying rust converter, it’s essential to clean and store it correctly, so you don’t have to worry about rust again in the future. With the right care routine, your Blackstone griddle can last a lifetime.

Preventing Rust on Your Blackstone Griddle Moving Forward

If you’ve recently invested in a Blackstone griddle, you’ll want to take care of it to ensure it lasts for years. One of the biggest enemies of griddles is rust, and it can be challenging to remove if it’s allowed to build up. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to prevent rust from forming on your Blackstone griddle so you can continue to use it for many cookouts to come.

1. Season Your Griddle

One of the most important things you can do to prevent rust is to season your griddle. Seasoning involves applying oil to the surface of your griddle and heating it to a high temperature. This process creates a non-stick surface that helps prevent food from sticking and protects the griddle from rust.

2. Keep Your Griddle Clean

Cleanliness is key when it comes to preventing rust. After each use, make sure to clean your griddle with a scraper and hot water. Remove any bits of food that may be stuck to the surface, and don’t forget to clean the sides and bottom of the griddle as well. Once the griddle is clean, dry it thoroughly to prevent any moisture from lingering and causing rust.

3. Store Your Griddle Properly

When not in use, it’s important to store your griddle in a dry place where it won’t be exposed to moisture. If you’re storing it outdoors, invest in a cover to keep it protected from the elements.

4. Use the Right Tools

Using the wrong tools on your griddle can cause damage to the surface and lead to rust. Avoid using metal utensils that could scratch the surface and always use a soft sponge or cloth when cleaning to avoid scratching the surface.

5. Check for Rust Regularly

Even with the best prevention methods, rust can still occur. That’s why it’s important to check your griddle regularly for any signs of rust. If you do find rust, don’t panic. There are ways to remove it. You can try scrubbing the rust away with a mixture of baking soda and water or using a rust remover that’s safe for use on griddles. Whatever you do, make sure to address the rust as soon as possible to prevent it from spreading and causing further damage.

By following these tips, you can keep your Blackstone griddle in top condition and enjoy delicious meals for years to come.