How to Season, Clean, & Maintain a Blackstone Griddle

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Find out how to season your Blackstone like a pro
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If you've got a new Blackstone griddle then you're probably ready to fire it up, but it’s important to season it first. Seasoning your griddle helps create a non-stick coat and prevent rust, and it’s easy to do if you have the right supplies. We interviewed the Marrow Private Chefs and cleaning expert Chris Willatt II for all the best advice on how to season, clean, and maintain a Blackstone griddle. Plus, find out how long seasoning takes, the best oils to use, when to re-season your griddle, and answers to more common questions.

Quick Steps to Season a Blackstone Griddle

  1. Wash the griddle with dish soap and water if it’s new.
  2. Preheat the griddle on high until its surface starts to brown.
  3. Spread a bit of high-heat oil across the entire surface.
  4. Let the oil burn off, then repeat up to 5 times.
  5. Let the griddle cool, then wipe it with one more layer of cooking oil.
Section 1 of 8:

How to Season a Blackstone Griddle

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  1. Fill a bowl or bucket with warm water and add a bit of mild dish soap. Dip a clean cloth or paper towel into the mixture and scrub the griddle’s surface to get rid of any factory residue and oil used to prevent rust during shipping. Rinse it with another cloth dipped in fresh, clean water, then dry it thoroughly with a clean, dry cloth or paper towel. [1]
    • If you’re seasoning an old griddle, skip this step—applying soap to a used griddle can actually damage the plate coating.
    • Make sure the griddle is completely dry before you begin seasoning it.
  2. Turn your burners to maximum heat and allow the griddle to start heating up. After 10-15 minutes, the surface should start to brown, which is the first step to making it stick-resistant. Once the color changes, turn the burners off. [2]
    • If necessary, first turn on your propane tank by rotating the valve counterclockwise.
    • Put on heat-resistant gloves for safety.
    • For Blackstone griddles with specific temperature settings, turn the knob to 350 °F (177 °C).
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  3. Adding oil creates a natural non-stick surface and adds some flavor to your food. Choose an oil that’s rich in fatty acids (like vegetable shortenings, vegetable oil, flaxseed oil, etc.) and apply a thin layer to the griddle. Spread it evenly across the surface using a paper towel. Use a pair of tongs or heat-resistant gloves so you don’t burn yourself, and be careful not to leave any dry spots or thick oil puddles. [3]
    • Crouch down and examine the layer of oil from the side to see if it’s even.
    • Blackstone recommends using their Blackstone Griddle Seasoning & Cast Iron Conditioner to season your griddle.
    • Marrow Private Chefs recommend “avocado or flaxseed” oil.
    • Be sure to apply oil to the edges, sides, and corners of your griddle, as well, including the sides facing outward from the griddle, if possible.
    • The exact amount of oil you need will depend on the size of your Blackstone griddle.
  4. Turn your Blackstone back to its maximum temperature and allow the oil to cook. The top plate will slowly turn black and the oil will start smoking. It typically takes 15-30 minutes to reach the smoke point. Once it does, wait until all of the smoke disappears before continuing to the next step. [4]
    • The smoke point is the temperature at which an oil will start to burn.
  5. One layer of oil likely won’t be enough to properly season your Blackstone griddle. Once all the oil burns off and the smoke dissipates, add another layer the same way you did the first time. Let it burn off, then apply another layer and do the same thing. It typically takes 3-5 applications of oil to properly season a Blackstone. The griddle will be done when the entire surface is dark brown. [5]
    • Some Blackstone owners recommend turning your griddle off and letting it cool for 10 minutes between each application. Blackstone, however, suggests leaving your griddle on throughout the whole process.
    • Mix up your oils to create different flavor combinations. For example, use vegetable oil for the first two rounds and top it off with coconut oil for the third round.
  6. The final touch is a quick wipe down with your oil of choice to prevent oxidation, also known as rust. Before placing it into storage, pour some oil onto 2 to 3 paper towels and lightly wet the top of the grill. [6]
    • Be sure to wait until the grill has cooled before wetting it lightly.
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Section 2 of 8:

Best Oils for Seasoning a Blackstone Griddle

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  1. Marrow Private Chefs recommend “high smoke point oils,” as they won’t burn and create a strong seasoning layer. Oils that are high in fatty acids also bond well with the griddle plate. Here are some oils that are often recommended for seasoning Blackstone griddles: [7]
    • Vegetable shortening
    • Vegetable oil
    • Flaxseed oil
    • Canola oil
    • Avocado oil
    • Grapeseed oil
    • Lard
    • Blackstone also recommends using coconut oil , as it can withstand high temperatures. [8] Some people, however, believe it gives their food a strong flavor. Keep this in mind if you decide to use it to season your griddle.
  2. While olive oil can technically work to season a Blackstone griddle, many users have reported problems with their griddles becoming sticky after using it. It also has a low smoke point and requires more layers for proper seasoning. [9] Butter also isn’t a good idea, as it has a low smoke point and will likely burn at high temperatures. [10] Here are some other oils it’s best to avoid:
    • Sesame oil
    • Non-stick aerosol sprays
    • Flavored oils
    • Bacon grease
    • Avoid products with trans fatty acids, which have been connected to health problems like coronary artery disease, weight gain, and liver dysfunction.
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Section 3 of 8:

Why Seasoning is Important

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  1. Even when new, the surface of a griddle contains tiny cracks, crevices, and bumps that food can get stuck in. Seasoning your Blackstone griddle allows the oil to seep into and fill those crevices. This way, when you cook, the food will sit on top of the surface but will not be able to penetrate the layers of oil. [11]
  2. When a griddle is seasoned properly, its surface will repel water, which in turn can help protect the surface from rust and oxidation. The layers of oil keep the water from penetrating the griddle’s metal surface, so the more it’s seasoned, the more protected it will be. [12]
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Section 4 of 8:

How long does seasoning take?

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  1. It typically takes a Blackstone griddle 10-15 minutes to heat up initially, and it often takes the oil 15-30 minutes to reach its smoke point, depending on the type you use. Since you’ll likely have to apply the oil 3-5 times, expect to spend about an hour seasoning your griddle. [13]
Section 5 of 8:

When to Re-Season Your Blackstone

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  1. According to Blackstone, just cooking on your griddle will add to the seasoning, so it shouldn’t need to be officially re-seasoned often. However, if your food starts to stick or the surface appears discolored or rusty, it may be time to season it again. [14]
    • If you’re not sure if it’s time to re-season your Blackstone, sprinkle a few drops of water onto its heated surface. If the water beads up, the seasoning is intact. If it sizzles and evaporates, it’s time to re-season.
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Section 6 of 8:

How to Clean & Maintain a Blackstone Griddle

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  1. Once you start using your griddle, each use will add to your layer of seasoning, so never clean it with soap. Instead, use a spatula to gently scrape any food from the top. Afterward, clean the surface with a dry paper towel. For tougher spots of food residue, fill up a 2 litre (0.53 US gal) bucket with boiling water. Pour it over the tough spot and leave the water to eat away at the residue for about 5 minutes. Wipe the spot with paper towel afterward. [15]
    • Pour ¼ cup (32 grams) of salt over tough areas to help the cleaning process.
    • Marrow Private Chefs suggest using a “chemical grill cleaner or charcoal brick if [the griddle] is really dirty. Rinse with hot water, polish with a little lemon juice, and then season with oil again.”
  2. A thin coat helps maintain the seasoning bond and also prevents rust build-up. Any kind of cooking oil will work, including non-stick cooking spray. Always coat your griddle after removing food buildup and rust. [16]
    • Over time, your griddle top should become blacker and more resistant to sticking. If it doesn’t, you're not maintaining it properly.
  3. Place a heavy-duty cover over your griddle to further prevent rusting and weather damage. Avoid storing it in humid, hot areas—this can alter your seasoning. If you're willing to make the investment, store your griddle in a carry bag , especially if you're leaving it outdoors. [17]
    • Leave the zipper of your carry bag open 2 to 4 inches (5.1 to 10.2 cm) to prevent rusting.
  4. When you spot rust, remove it right away before it gets worse. Using either steel wool or low-grit sandpaper , scrub the rusted spot thoroughly until the corrosion spots smooth over. Be sure to apply a firm amount of pressure toward the rust spots as you scrub them. [18]
    • Purchase steel wool and sandpaper from home hardware stores and kitchen supply stores, respectively.
    • Another option is to mix salt, soap powder, and water to scrub off the rust or use a Blackstone griddle cleaning kit .
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Section 7 of 8:

What is seasoning?

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  1. Seasoning is the process of applying a thin layer of oil to a cooking surface, like a griddle or pan, and heating it. The oil will coat the surface to create a non-stick coating and protect it from rust. [19]
Section 8 of 8:

Seasoning a Blackstone Griddle FAQs

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  1. No, Blackstone griddles do not come pre-seasoned. In some cases, griddles may be coated with oil to protect them from rust during shipping, but this oil needs to be washed away before you use the griddle, as it’s factory-finished and not food-safe. [20]
  2. While you can cook whatever you want after seasoning your griddle, it’s often recommended to cook bacon or onions first. Onions contain sulfur, which helps the oil stick to the griddle, resulting in a smoother, non-stick surface. [21] The fat in bacon also helps season the griddle, though it also contains salt and sugars that may stick to the surface if it isn’t seasoned properly.
  3. If the edges and sides of your Blackstone are still lighter in color after seasoning, you didn’t do anything wrong. The surface should still be well-seasoned, and the color will continue to darken as you cook. It isn’t necessary for the entire surface to be black after seasoning; as long as it’s non-stick, you’re good to go. [22]
  4. Put on some heat-resistant gloves and turn your griddle on high heat for 20 minutes to loosen the rust. Turn the griddle off and let it cool down, then scrape the rust off with a metal scraper until all visible corrosion is gone. Add 3-4 tbsp (44-59 ml) of oil and scrub the whole surface with a grill stone or steel wool. Wipe the griddle clean, then add more oil, and repeat until all signs of rust are gone. Season the griddle again to restore its protective coating. [23]
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Expert Q&A

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  • Question
    Do you season a Blackstone griddle after every use?
    Marrow Private Chefs
    Culinary Experts
    Marrow Private Chefs are based in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida. It is a chefs’ collective comprised of an ever-growing number of chefs and culinary professionals. Though regionally influenced primarily by coastal, traditional southern, cajun, and creole styles and flavors, the chefs at Marrow have a solid background in all types of cuisine with over 75 years of combined cooking experience.
    Marrow Private Chefs
    Culinary Experts
    Expert Answer
    There's no need for that, but it's good to season it from time to time. To clean after use, use soap and water for a light clean, or, if need be, you can use a chemical grill cleaner or charcoal brick if it’s really dirty. Rinse with hot water and polish with a little lemon juice, and then season with oil again when the time comes.
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    Not Helpful 36 Helpful 2
  • Question
    What is the best oil to season a Blackstone griddle?
    Drew Hawkins1
    Community Answer
    You want to choose an oil that's rich in fatty acids so it bonds with the surface of the griddle. Go with vegetable shortening, flax oil, extra virgin olive oil, or coconut oil. You could even use lard. Avoid products with trans fatty acids, which have been connected to health problems like coronary artery disease, weight gain, and liver dysfunction.
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  • Question
    How long does it take to season a Blackstone griddle?
    Drew Hawkins1
    Community Answer
    While it only takes about 15-30 minutes to apply a layer of oil to the Blackstone griddle, you'll want to coat it 2-3 times to get a good seasoning. Turn the burners to the maximum temperature and wait about 10 minutes so they get to full heat. Spread 2 to 3 tablespoons (30 to 44 mL) of oil over the griddle surface, and leave it to cook for about 15 minutes. Then, turn the griddle off and let it cool for 10 minutes. Add a few more coats of oil following the same process.
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      Things You'll Need

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      • Water and dish soap (for new griddles)
      • Cooking oil
      • Paper towel
      • Tongs
      • Griddle cover

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      References

      1. ↑ https://images.homedepot-static.com/catalog/pdfImages/89/895db59f-18f6-4321-8b8d-ed626ff60d17.pdf
      2. ↑ https://help.blackstoneproducts.com/en_us/how-do-i-season-my-griddle-B1D5n0oZa
      3. ↑ https://images.homedepot-static.com/catalog/pdfImages/89/895db59f-18f6-4321-8b8d-ed626ff60d17.pdf
      4. ↑ https://help.blackstoneproducts.com/en_us/how-do-i-season-my-griddle-B1D5n0oZa
      5. ↑ https://help.blackstoneproducts.com/en_us/how-do-i-season-my-griddle-B1D5n0oZa
      6. ↑ https://www.realsimple.com/how-to-clean-a-blackstone-griddle-7482902
      7. ↑ https://www.foodandwine.com/how-to-season-a-griddle-8575958
      8. ↑ https://images.homedepot-static.com/catalog/pdfImages/89/895db59f-18f6-4321-8b8d-ed626ff60d17.pdf
      9. ↑ https://www.smokedbbqsource.com/how-to-season-a-griddle/
      1. ↑ https://recipes.net/articles/how-to-season-a-blackstone-griddle-press/
      2. ↑ https://www.foodandwine.com/how-to-season-a-griddle-8575958
      3. ↑ https://www.foodandwine.com/how-to-season-a-griddle-8575958
      4. ↑ https://www.foodandwine.com/how-to-season-a-griddle-8575958#toc-faqs
      5. ↑ https://www.smokedbbqsource.com/how-to-season-a-griddle/
      6. ↑ https://images.homedepot-static.com/catalog/pdfImages/89/895db59f-18f6-4321-8b8d-ed626ff60d17.pdf
      7. ↑ https://www.foodrepublic.com/1575157/how-to-season-blackstone-grill/
      8. ↑ https://www.thekitchn.com/how-to-clean-blackstone-griddle-23665632
      9. ↑ https://images.homedepot-static.com/catalog/pdfImages/89/895db59f-18f6-4321-8b8d-ed626ff60d17.pdf
      10. ↑ https://www.foodandwine.com/how-to-season-a-griddle-8575958
      11. ↑ https://www.foodandwine.com/how-to-season-a-griddle-8575958
      12. ↑ https://thekitchenbucketlist.com/how-to-season-a-blackstone-griddle/#seasoning-final-step-grilling-onions
      13. ↑ https://help.blackstoneproducts.com/en_us/how-do-i-season-my-griddle-B1D5n0oZa
      14. ↑ https://blackstoneproducts.com/blogs/griddling-tips-tricks/how-to-remove-rust-griddle?srsltid=AfmBOoqPaAFd-_NFnDIhV9z15G670ViAgn5nrhua2XUzzF5jlxFEvs9i

      About This Article

      Article Summary X

      To season a brand new Blackstone Griddle, start by cleaning it with a paper towel and soapy warm water. Skip the cleaning if you've used your griddle before, since the soap can damage the surface! Next, turn the grill to the maximum temperature and let it heat up for 15-20 minutes. Once it's hot, choose an oil that's rich in fatty acids, like vegetable shortening, extra virgin olive oil, or lard, and pour 2-3 tablespoons of the oil onto the griddle's surface. Spread the oil evenly over the griddle and let it heat up for 15-30 minutes, or until it smokes. Then, let your griddle cool for 10 minutes. Repeat this process several more times until your griddle is dark brown, and finish by wiping it down with a little more oil to prevent rust. For tips on storing and maintaining your seasoned griddle, read on!

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