The Best Way To Clean Your Griddle Pan

Cleaning a griddle pan is a tricky task, but with the right tools and techniques, it can be done effectively and efficiently. The cleaning process varies depending on the type of griddle pan, but there are some general guidelines to follow. Firstly, it is crucial to let the pan cool down completely before cleaning, as plunging a hot pan into water can cause damage. For non-stick griddle pans, it is recommended to use a soft sponge or silicone scrubbing brush to remove grease and burnt-on food. Baking soda, vinegar, and dish soap can be used to tackle stubborn areas. For cast-iron griddle pans, a non-abrasive sponge, hot water, and a mild dish detergent are ideal for cleaning. It is also important to season cast-iron griddle pans regularly to maintain their non-stick properties.

How do I clean my griddle pan?

How to clean a non-stick griddle pan

Step 1: Allow the Griddle Pan to Cool

It is important to let the griddle pan cool down completely before you start cleaning it. This is because a drastic temperature change can damage the non-stick layer.

Step 2: Remove Excess Grease

If there is excess grease in the pan, pour it into a container and throw it in the trash. Do not pour grease down the drain as it can cause clogs.

Step 3: Remove Stubborn Grease and Burnt-On Food

Take a silicone scrubbing brush or sponge and scrub off the stubborn grease. You may need to put some elbow grease if the pan is severely burnt. For tricky areas, you can use baking soda or vinegar to weaken them.

Step 4: Wash with Dish Soap

After removing the excess bits of burnt food, wash the griddle with dish soap and lukewarm water to remove all traces of oil and grease.

Step 5: Rinse and Dry the Griddle

Rinse the griddle thoroughly under running water to get rid of all soapy residue. Make sure there are no traces of detergent left on the griddle as it can damage the surface. Dry the griddle with a cotton kitchen towel before storing it.

Step 6: Hang the Griddle

Try to hang your griddle on hooks instead of storing them in a closed cupboard. Open storage will help to keep the griddle moisture-free.

Additional Tips:

• Always hand wash your griddle. The water pressure in the dishwasher can damage the non-stick layer.
• Make sure the griddle is completely dry before storing it. Moisture can damage the pan.
• Apply a thin layer of oil after washing and drying the griddle. This will help to keep the non-stick surface protected.

How to clean a cast-iron griddle pan

Step 1: Allow the griddle to cool down

Always let your cast-iron griddle cool down completely before cleaning it. Placing a hot griddle under running water or in a sink full of water can cause it to develop small cracks and weaken the iron.

Step 2: Wipe away food particles

Use a paper towel to remove food particles, grease, or drippings from the surface. Do this while the griddle is still warm. If there is stuck-on food, use a plastic scraper to loosen it before wiping it away. Avoid using a metal scraper or steel wool, as these can damage the surface.

Step 3: Clean with soap and water

Dampen a non-abrasive sponge with hot water and add a couple of drops of dishwashing liquid. Wipe the entire surface of the griddle with the sponge. Never leave the griddle to soak in a sink of water!

Rinse the griddle well with hot water and dry it immediately with an absorbent dishcloth or paper towels. Make sure to remove all the water to prevent rusting.

Step 4: Season the griddle (if needed)

If you notice food sticking to the griddle during cooking, season the cast iron after washing but before storing. Add half a teaspoon to one teaspoon of vegetable oil (corn, canola, or olive oil) to the griddle's cooking surfaces. Use paper towels to distribute the oil evenly, rubbing it into the surface until the cast iron is shiny. Wipe away any excess oil.

Heat the oiled cast iron on a cooktop element set to medium-low or in a warm oven set at 250 to 300 degrees Fahrenheit for five to ten minutes. Allow the griddle to cool before storing.

Step 5: Store the griddle correctly

Never store a cast-iron griddle that is still damp. Ensure it is completely dry before storing. Place it over a medium-low-temperature cooktop heating element or in a warm oven set at 250 to 300 degrees Fahrenheit for five to ten minutes. Turn off the heat and let the griddle cool down completely before putting it away.

How to clean a stainless-steel griddle pan

To clean a stainless-steel griddle pan, it is important to act fast as this will make the cleaning process easier. You should also avoid using harsh chemicals or scouring pads, as the heat and water will do most of the heavy lifting.

Firstly, make sure to turn off all cooktop burners and remove any pots or pans. Then, while the griddle is still warm, scrub the soiled areas with a cup of water. You can also use a flat-edged metal spatula to scrape off excess debris, making sure the flat edge of the spatula is flat against the surface to avoid scratching it.

Next, pour some tap water over the soiled area, allowing it to run towards the drip tray. You can also add a few spoonfuls of baking soda to your pan, along with enough water to cover the burnt areas. Bring this to a boil and simmer until most of the water has evaporated.

Once the griddle is cool enough to handle, scrub away any remaining residue with a non-abrasive sponge and wash in hot, soapy water. You can also use a paper towel to remove food particles, grease, or drippings from the surface. Repeat this process if necessary.

Finally, once your griddle is clean, be sure to dry it with a towel before putting it away.

How to remove burnt grease from a griddle pan

Burnt grease on a griddle pan can be a pain to remove, but with the right techniques and a bit of elbow grease, it can be done! Here is a step-by-step guide on how to remove burnt grease from your griddle pan:

• Allow the griddle pan to cool down completely before cleaning. This is important, as plunging a hot griddle into water can cause cracks and damage the pan.
• Once the pan is cool, use a paper towel or a soft cloth to wipe away any excess grease and food particles. If there is stuck-on food, use a plastic scraper to loosen it before wiping it away. Do not use metal utensils or steel wool, as these can damage the surface of the pan.
• If there is still burnt grease on the pan, it's time to bring out the big guns: baking soda, vinegar, or kosher salt. These natural abrasives are great for removing tough grease and stickiness. Sprinkle the affected area with baking soda or salt, or apply vinegar with a cloth. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes.
• For more severe burns, create a paste with baking soda and a little water, and apply it to the burnt area. Cover the pan with foil and let it sit for 20 minutes. Be careful not to leave the pan for longer than 30 minutes, as the baking soda can be harsh on the non-stick coating.
• After the waiting period, use a nylon scrubber or a non-scratch scouring pad to scrub the affected area. You may need to put some muscle into it, but the burnt grease should start to come off. Rinse the pan with lukewarm water as you scrub to help remove the grease.
• If the burnt grease is still not coming off, you can try using a mild dish soap. Add a few drops of dish soap to the pan and scrub with a nylon brush or sponge. Rinse the pan thoroughly with warm water to remove all soap residue, as this can damage the pan's surface.
• Dry the griddle pan completely with a cotton kitchen towel or paper towels before storing it. You can also hang the griddle on hooks to keep it moisture-free.

With these steps, your griddle pan should be free of burnt grease and ready for your next cooking adventure!

How to prolong the life of a griddle pan

Griddle pans are durable and can last for generations if cared for properly. Here are some tips to prolong the life of your griddle pan:

Cleaning and Maintenance

• Clean your griddle pan after each use to remove any stuck-on foods, grease, or oil drippings.
• Avoid using the dishwasher or soaking your griddle pan, as prolonged exposure to water can cause rusting and damage the finish. Instead, hand wash with hot water and a mild detergent, then dry thoroughly.
• Avoid using metal utensils, scouring pads, or steel wool when cleaning, as these can damage the surface of the pan. Opt for nylon scrubbers, soft sponges, or cotton fabrics instead.
• To remove burnt-on food or grease, create a paste with baking soda and vinegar, and apply it to the affected area. Let it sit for 20 minutes, then scrub and rinse with cold water.
• If your griddle pan has a non-stick coating, avoid using abrasive cleaning products and metal utensils, as these can damage the coating.
• Apply a thin layer of vegetable oil to the surface of the pan after washing and drying to protect the surface and prevent sticking.

Storage

• Ensure your griddle pan is completely dry before storing to prevent rust.
• Avoid stacking your griddle pan with other pans to prevent scratching. Instead, hang it on a hook or use paper towels between each pan when stacking.
• If your griddle pan has a lid, do not store it with the lid on, as this can trap moisture and cause rusting.

By following these tips, you can prolong the life of your griddle pan and enjoy its benefits for many years to come.

Frequently asked questions