What Causes Rust on a Blackstone Griddle?
If you own a Blackstone Griddle, you know how great the experience of cooking on one can be. A versatile cooking tool that has become an essential item in many outdoor kitchens, the Blackstone Griddle is the perfect surface for cooking your favorite dishes, from pancakes to burgers and much more. However, as with any cooking tool, it needs proper care. One of the most common problems people face with their Blackstone Griddle is rust. Not only does rust make your griddle look unappealing, but it can also affect the quality of your food and be a health hazard. To avoid this, you need to understand what causes rust on a Blackstone Griddle and how to fix it.
Rust is a chemical reaction that occurs when metal comes into contact with air and moisture. The process of rusting starts when the metal surface develops a small crack or flaw that allows moisture and air to penetrate it. The presence of oxygen and water then initiates an electrochemical reaction, which creates rust.
One of the main causes of rust on a Blackstone Griddle is exposure to moisture. If you leave your griddle outside, overnight dew or morning moisture could react with the iron and encourage rust to grow. A few drops of water left on the griddle surface can also start a rusting process. The cooking surface of the Blackstone Griddle is made of cold-rolled steel, which is prone to rusting if left unprotected. Other factors that can contribute to rust formation include humidity, salty air, and contact with acidic food items like tomatoes and vinegar.
Another factor that contributes to rust on a Blackstone Griddle is lack of maintenance. If you do not clean your griddle properly after each use, food residues and grease can accumulate on the griddle’s surface, attracting moisture and increasing the likelihood of rust. Also, if you store away your Blackstone Griddle without covering it properly, it could again be exposed to moisture, which may begin the rusting process.
Finally, rust can also occur due to wear and tear. Consistent use of the griddle over time, especially without proper cleaning and maintenance, can lead to rust formation and corrosion. You may notice rust in areas where the seasoning has worn off due to usage and improper cleaning. These areas are susceptible to moisture, making them more prone to rust.
Now that you know what causes rust on a Blackstone Griddle, the next step is to learn how to fix it. We will cover the different methods to remove rust from your griddle in the next section.
Materials Needed for Rust Repair on a Blackstone Griddle
If you own a Blackstone Griddle, you already know how amazing it is to cook on it. However, over time, rust can start to form on the surface of the griddle. This is frustrating, but it doesn’t necessarily mean the end of your griddle’s lifespan. In fact, you can repair your rusted Blackstone Griddle with the right materials and tools.
Before you begin, it’s important to gather all the materials you’ll need to make the repair process easier. Here are the materials you’ll need to fix your rusted Blackstone Griddle:
Contents
1. Gloves and Eye Protection
Safety is important whenever you’re handling chemicals and cleaning agents. Gloves will protect your hands from chemical burns, while eye protection will prevent any substances from splashing into your eyes.
2. Rust Remover
Rust remover is a chemical solution that you can apply directly onto the affected area of your Blackstone Griddle. It works by dissolving the rust and making it easier to scrape off. There are different types of rust removers available, so make sure to choose one that is safe for use on metal surfaces.
When using rust remover, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Most rust removers require some time to soak into the rust to remove it fully. Leave the solution on for the recommended time before rinsing it off with water. A brush or cloth can be a useful tool for applying and removing the solution.
3. Steel Wool
After using the rust remover, you can use steel wool to remove any remaining rust or debris from the surface of your Blackstone Griddle. Be sure to wear gloves when working with steel wool to prevent any cuts or abrasions on your hands.
When using steel wool, start with a coarser grade to remove the more stubborn rust patches. Then, work your way up to a finer grade to achieve a smoother surface.
4. Sandpaper
Sandpaper is another tool you can use to restore the condition of your Blackstone Griddle. Choose a medium-to-fine grit sandpaper to remove any remaining rust or to smooth out any rough patches on the griddle’s surface. Be sure to sand in one direction to avoid creating additional scratches on the surface.
5. Cooking Oil
Once you’ve removed all the rust and smoothed out any rough patches on your Blackstone Griddle, it’s essential to season the surface to prevent it from rusting again in the future. Cooking oil is the best option for seasoning your griddle as it will provide a protective coating that will help prevent rust from forming.
To season the griddle, apply a thin layer of oil using a cloth or brush. Make sure to cover the entire surface of the griddle with a light coating. Then, heat the griddle to high heat for 10-15 minutes to let the oil set in. After this step, let the griddle cool and apply another layer of oil. Repeat this process several times until the griddle is seasoned.
By following these steps, you can restore your rusted Blackstone Griddle to its former glory and enjoy cooking on it for years to come!
Step-by-Step Guide on How To Remove Rust from a Blackstone Griddle
One of the biggest nightmares that grillers and chefs face is the rusted griddle plates, particularly with Blackstone griddles. Rust on the griddle can result in poor cooking, making everything from meat to eggs stick and difficult to flip. To get back the griddle in its original state, here is a step-by-step guide on how to remove rust from a Blackstone griddle and keep it rust-free for a long time to come:
Step 1: Cleaning the Griddle Plate
Before starting the rust removal process, ensure that the griddle surface is clean and free of rust. You may utilize a griddle stone or scraper to clean the griddle’s surface. Begin by heating the griddle for a few minutes, scrape off any debris with the scraper, and remove any oils or food residues with a griddle stone. Make sure to let it cool down to avoid damage or burns.
Step 2: Applying the Rust Remover
As soon as the griddle plate is clean, apply rust remover to the rusted areas. There are several rust removal solutions accessible on the market, so choose the one that suits your needs. Follow the manufacturer’s directions to apply the rust remover. Generally, spray the solution on the rusted surface, wait for several minutes, and use a scrub pad or wire brush to remove the rust carefully. Rinse the griddle plate with water and then clean it with a soft cloth to guarantee that no rust removal solution remains on the surface.
Step 3: Oiling the Griddle Plate
After cleansing and removing rust from the griddle plate, the next thing to do is to preserve the metal with oil. Using oil to protect the griddle plate is important since it assists in reducing rust formation in the future. Rub a thin layer of oil on the griddle plate while it’s still warm and distribute it evenly. To prevent any excess oil from forming, wipe off any excess with a clean cloth. This oil layer forms a barrier that protects the griddle plate from moisture, which is one of the primary causes of rust. For optimal outcomes, season the griddle regularly to keep it protected and avoid rust formation.
Step 4: Maintaining Your Blackstone Griddle
Maintaining your Blackstone griddle is essential to keep it rust-free and cooking up delicious meals. Avoid putting salt on your griddle, as this can cause rust and encourage moisture accumulation. Similarly, acidic foods like tomatoes and citrus fruits can result in rust buildup. After serving food, clean the griddle surface properly and apply oil to safeguard it from rusting. Also, keep it covered when not in use to avoid moisture accumulation.
With these easy-to-follow tips, you’ll be able to restore your Blackstone griddle to its original condition and keep it rust-free for years to come. Happy cooking!
How To Prevent Rust from Forming on your Blackstone Griddle
Your Blackstone griddle is an investment, and like with any investment, it needs proper care to last longer. There are a few simple steps you can take to prevent rust from forming on your Blackstone griddle. Follow these tips to keep your griddle in good condition:
Clean Your Griddle Regularly
One of the most important things you need to do to prevent rust from forming on your Blackstone griddle is to clean it regularly. Make sure you remove all the grease and food particles that may have accumulated on the griddle. After cooking, wait for the griddle to cool down, then use a scraper to remove any food residue. Next, use a paper towel or a clean cloth to wipe the griddle surface. After cleaning, you can lightly oil the surface with vegetable oil to help prevent rust formation.
Store Your Blackstone Griddle Properly
Do not leave your Blackstone griddle outside or in a damp place, especially during the rainy or winter seasons. When storing the griddle, make sure it is in a dry place and covered to prevent dust and moisture build-up. Use a properly fitting cover like Tiedown’s Blackstone Griddle Cover and make sure the griddle is completely dry before storing it.
Avoid Using High Acidic Foods on Your Griddle
High acidic foods like tomatoes, vinegar, citrus fruits, and many others can quickly cause rust formation on your Blackstone griddle. Try to avoid cooking such foods on the griddle and use a separate container instead. If you must cook high acidic foods on your griddle, make sure to clean the surface as soon as possible after cooking to prevent rust formation.
Coat Your Griddle
You can also take an additional protective measure of coating your Blackstone griddle with an oil product like Flaxseed Oil, Canola Oil, or Peanut Oil. These oils provide an extra layer of protection on the griddle’s surface, preventing rust formation. Ensure that the oils you use are food-grade and are designed specifically for seasoning griddles. Also, ensure that the griddle surface is clean and dry before applying the oil. Coat the surface evenly with the oil, then heat the griddle for some time to allow the oil to bond with the metal. Apply the oil coating periodically to keep your griddle rust-free.
By following these tips, you can prevent rust formation and keep your Blackstone griddle in excellent condition. Regular cleaning, proper storage, avoiding high acidic foods, and coating your griddle are all simple yet effective ways to protect your investment. So, go ahead and enjoy your delicious meals on your Blackstone griddle, but remember to give it the proper care and attention that it deserves.
Additional Tips for Maintaining a Rust-Free Blackstone Griddle
Once you have followed the steps to fix your rusted Blackstone griddle, it is important to take steps to prevent rust from returning. Here are some additional tips for maintaining a rust-free Blackstone griddle:
1. Season your griddle regularly
Seasoning is the process of treating a griddle to create a non-stick surface and protect it from rust. To season your Blackstone griddle, apply a layer of oil to the griddle surface and heat the griddle until the oil begins to smoke. Let the griddle cool, wipe it down with a paper towel, and repeat the process several times. Seasoning your Blackstone griddle regularly will help protect it from rust and keep its non-stick surface in top condition.
2. Store your griddle indoors or in a covered area
Storing your Blackstone griddle outdoors or in an area exposed to the elements can increase the risk of rust developing on the griddle surface. When you are not using your Blackstone griddle, store it indoors or in a covered area. If you do need to store your griddle outdoors, use a cover to protect it from the elements.
3. Clean your griddle after every use
Cleaning your Blackstone griddle after every use will help prevent rust from developing on the surface. Use a scraper or spatula to remove any food debris or residue from the griddle surface, and wipe the surface down with a paper towel or cloth. If your griddle has stubborn residue, you can use a mixture of water and vinegar to help break it down. Always make sure to dry the griddle surface thoroughly after cleaning to prevent moisture from lingering and causing rust.
4. Use a rust-inhibiting spray
If you live in an area with high humidity or near the coast where saltwater exposure is possible, using a rust-inhibiting spray on your Blackstone griddle can help protect it from rust. Simply spray the rust inhibitor on the griddle surface and wipe it down with a paper towel or cloth.
5. Use a protective coating
A protective coating can help prevent rust from developing on your Blackstone griddle surface. There are several types of coatings available, such as a non-stick griddle protector or a rust-preventative coating. Apply the protective coating according to the manufacturer’s instructions, and make sure to let it dry completely before cooking on the griddle surface.
By following these additional tips, you can maintain a rust-free Blackstone griddle and ensure it lasts for many years to come.