HOW TO CLEAN A GRIDDLE IN 9 STEPS
Griddles are great for everything from pancakes to burgers. If your stove top or cooktop features a built-in griddle, you may use it frequently—even daily! To enjoy the best performance possible, it’s important to clean your griddle on a regular basis. This griddle cleaning guide can help you take care of this kitchen appliance so you can keep cooking your favorites.
While KitchenAid offers chrome-infused and non-stick griddles, this video will walk you through how to clean a KitchenAid® commercial-style, chrome infused griddle, while the guide will provide details on how to clean a non-stick griddle, as well.
What is the Best Way to Clean a Griddle?
The best way to clean your griddle depends on the type and the surface material. Different materials require different cleaning methods so be sure to check your owner’s manual before proceeding. Cleaning a chrome-infused griddle or a non-stick variety only takes a few tools and a little elbow grease. There’s no need to use any harsh chemicals or scouring pads, since the heat and water will do most of the heavy lifting. If you do have a non-stick griddle, a little soap or detergent can be used in addition to the steps below. If you have a chrome-infused griddle, skip the soap and stick to these step-by-step cleaning instructions for a shiny griddle.
HOW TO CLEAN A GRIDDLE STEP-BY-STEP
Before you begin cleaning a griddle, be sure to have the right materials. Gather essential supplies like a non-scratch pad or sponge and clean towels. Start by turning off all the cooktop burners and removing any pots or pans. While the griddle is still warm (but not hot), gently scrub the soiled areas with a cup of water to create a clean canvas for your next stack of fluffy pancakes or crispy-skin salmon.
Use the following supplies to sanitize your griddle and remove dirt and grime.
SUPPLIES
1 cup of water
1 non-scratch pad/sponge
1 multi-purpose pad holder designed for griddle cleaning or a long wooden spatula to protect your hands
3 clean kitchen towels
1 microfiber cloth
IMPORTANT: Do not use soap, abrasive materials or cleaning chemicals, including stainless steel cleaner, to clean a chrome griddle, as these may damage the griddle surface. Check your Use and Care guide for more specific details about your griddle. If you have a glass stove, check out our instructions for how to clean a glass top stove.
1. TURN OFF ALL COOKTOP BURNERS
While you will use heat to help the cleaning process of your griddle, ensure that all cooktop burners are off and oven controls are locked prior to starting. If you’ll also be cleaning your entire cooktop, this guide on how to clean your gas stove burners, grates and caps can help.
2. CLEAN GRIDDLE SHORTLY AFTER REMOVING FOOD
For best results, cleaning your griddle right after cooking is recommended. Doing so will make the cleaning process easier, and you’ll also help prevent food particles or grease from baking into, or hardening on, the surface of the griddle.
3. SET THE TEMPERATURE TO 300°F FOR 10-15 MINUTES
If the griddle has already cooled down when it’s time to clean it, set the temperature to 300ºF and wait 10-15 minutes. The temperature for cleaning may vary by model, so check your owner’s manual for specific information. If your griddle does not have temperature control, turn it on low heat for 10-15 minutes prior to cleaning.
4. POUR ONE CUP OF TAP WATER ON SOILED AREAS
Using a measuring cup, pour up to 1 cup tap water over the soiled area starting at the back, allowing the water to run toward the drip tray in the front. Allow the water to bubble on the griddle for 3–4 seconds to help loosen up grease and any stuck food particles.
5. USE A PAD HOLDER WITH A NON-SCRATCH PAD TO CLEAN THE GRIDDLE
Use a pad holder or wooden spatula with the non-scratch pad or sponge to clean the soiled area, moving the residue and water to the drip tray at the front. It will be necessary to apply pressure on heavily soiled areas. For stubborn soils, it may be necessary to repeat this process until all residue is removed.
6. REMOVE REMAINING RESIDUE WITH A DAMP TOWEL
Wet one of the terry cloth towels and fold in half before placing on the griddle. Using the pad holder or wooden spatula, scrub back and forth with the folded up towel until the dirty water and debris is removed.
7. LET THE GRIDDLE COOL FOR 10-15 MINUTES
Once you’ve wiped down the surface, turn off your griddle or remove it from heat and wait approximately 10 to 15 minutes to ensure that the griddle has completely cooled down.
8. WIPE THE GRIDDLE WITH A CLEAN CLOTH AND POLISH
Once cool, wipe the griddle with a clean, damp towel followed immediately by buffing it with a microfiber cloth. If streaking, rainbowing or ghosting occur, heat the griddle back to 300ºF or heat it on low for 10-15 minutes. Then,use a mixture of 1 part white vinegar to 2 parts water on a towel to wipe the griddle. Make sure to use the wooden spatula or pad holder again when wiping the hot griddle.
9. REMOVE THE DRIP TRAY TO EMPTY
If your model has a drip tray, clean it in the sink with warm soapy water and wipe the area under the drip tray clean. Once dry, put the drip tray back in position.
HOW DO YOU CLEAN A BURNT NON-STICK GRIDDLE?
Mix warm water with a drop of dish or griddle soap and pour onto the surface of the griddle. Let the soapy water sit on the surface for 5 to 10 minutes before using a griddle scraper or silicone scrubber to remove the burnt grease. Note that you should only use soap for a non-stick griddle—if you have a chrome-infused griddle, do not use any soap.
HOW OFTEN DO YOU NEED TO CLEAN YOUR GRIDDLE?
While the frequency of your griddle cleaning will depend on how often you use it, cleaning a griddle regularly can help reduce potential buildup to keep it looking and performing great. While a light cleanse after each cooking session is best, follow up with a deep cleanse once per week or as necessary.
DO I NEED TO SEASON MY GRIDDLE AFTER EVERY USE?
It is not necessary to season your griddle after each use. However, periodically seasoning throughout the life of your griddle can help protect and maintain its non-stick coating.
A simple seasoning technique involves heating up the griddle and brushing a light layer of oil onto the cooking surface before wiping off any excess. Doing so can also help keep your griddle well-seasoned and can help prevent food from sticking in between uses.
CAN YOU RUIN A GRIDDLE?
Improper care can ruin a griddle. It is important not to use abrasive cleaners, steel wool or dish soap when cleaning a griddle as they may damage the surface. Instead, opt for gentle alternatives like warm water and a non-scratch pad or sponge.
For more stubborn streaks, a mixture of white vinegar and water is a helpful way to keep your griddle ready for your next creation.
WHAT TO MAKE ON A GRIDDLE?
A griddle is a great tool for cooking a wide range of foods. Whip up breakfast staples like stuffed french toast, bacon and eggs. Or try delicious dinner dishes like perfectly tender steak with a side of parmesan crusted potatoes. Plus, vegetables like corn and cauliflower can be cooked up in minutes.
Your griddle is an incredibly versatile tool that you can use to master your culinary technique in no time. Whether you're creating delicious snacks like delicate crostinis and avocado grilled cheese sandwiches or creating beautifully seared pork chops, your griddle plays an essential role in your kitchen.
Fuel your Creativity with KitchenAid BRAND
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