Is your beloved Blackstone griddle showing signs of rust? Don't despair! Rust is a common issue, especially with cast iron, but it's entirely manageable. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of derusting your Blackstone griddle, restoring it to its former glory, and helping you prevent future rust formation.
Understanding Blackstone Griddle Rust
Before we dive into the cleaning process, it's important to understand why your Blackstone griddle might be rusting. Exposure to moisture is the primary culprit. This could be from rain, spilled liquids, improper cleaning, or even simply high humidity. The longer the moisture remains on the surface, the greater the chance of rust developing.
Identifying Rust on Your Blackstone
Rust manifests in various ways:
- Surface Rust: This is the most common type, appearing as reddish-brown spots or a film on the griddle surface. It's usually easily removed.
- Pitting Rust: This is more serious, involving deeper corrosion that eats into the metal. It requires more aggressive cleaning methods.
How to Derust Your Blackstone Griddle: A Step-by-Step Guide
There are several methods for derusting a Blackstone griddle, ranging from simple cleaning to more intensive approaches. Choose the method best suited to the severity of the rust.
Method 1: For Light Surface Rust
This method works well for minor rust spots and is the easiest and safest option.
- Preheat the griddle: Heat your Blackstone to medium-high heat. This helps to expand the metal and loosen the rust.
- Apply a degreaser: While still hot, apply a degreaser specifically designed for cast iron or stainless steel surfaces (Blackstone griddles often have stainless steel components). Let it sit for a few minutes.
- Scrub with a steel brush: Use a stiff steel brush to scrub away the loosened rust. A wire brush attachment for a drill can speed up this process for larger areas. Remember to wear gloves to protect your hands.
- Wipe clean: Once the rust is removed, wipe down the griddle with a clean cloth or paper towels.
- Season your griddle: Finish by seasoning your Blackstone griddle to protect it from future rust. This involves applying a thin layer of oil (high-smoke-point oil like canola or grapeseed is recommended) and heating it to create a protective coating.
Method 2: For Moderate to Heavy Rust
For more stubborn rust, you'll need a more powerful approach.
- Prepare a cleaning solution: Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Alternatively, you can use a commercial rust remover, following the manufacturer's instructions carefully.
- Apply the solution: Liberally spray the rusty areas with your chosen solution. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight for heavy rust.
- Scrub with a steel brush: Use a steel brush to scrub away the softened rust. Again, a drill with a wire brush attachment can be very helpful.
- Rinse thoroughly: Rinse the griddle completely with water to remove all traces of the cleaning solution.
- Season the griddle: As in Method 1, thoroughly season your griddle after cleaning.
Method 3: Dealing with Pitting Rust
Severe pitting rust might require professional attention or replacement of the affected parts. However, you can attempt to minimize its appearance by following the above methods, but expect to see some discoloration remaining.
Preventing Future Rust on Your Blackstone
Prevention is always better than cure. Here’s how to keep your Blackstone rust-free:
- Clean regularly: After each use, clean your Blackstone while it's still warm. Scrape off food residue with a metal spatula, then scrub with a wire brush and degreaser.
- Dry thoroughly: Ensure your Blackstone is completely dry before storing it. Use paper towels to wipe away all moisture.
- Store properly: Store your Blackstone in a cool, dry place. A cover can provide additional protection from moisture.
- Season regularly: Regularly seasoning your Blackstone adds a protective layer that inhibits rust formation.
By following these steps, you can effectively derust your Blackstone griddle and keep it in pristine condition for years to come. Remember, regular maintenance is key to preventing future rust and ensuring your griddle continues to provide years of delicious outdoor cooking.
