Introduction
Not sure how to clean a stovetop griddle without damaging it or spending hours scrubbing? You’re not alone. In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to clean a stovetop griddle efficiently and safely, whether it’s cast iron, stainless steel, or nonstick. With the right techniques and a few simple tools, you’ll keep your griddle spotless and cooking-ready after every use.
Why Cleaning a Stovetop Griddle Matters
A dirty griddle doesn’t just look bad — it can affect the flavor of your food and shorten the lifespan of the cooking surface. Grease buildup, burnt-on food, and leftover residue can:
- Cause uneven cooking and hot spots
- Attract bacteria and pests
- Make your kitchen smell unpleasant
- Reduce the nonstick properties of your surface
- Lead to rust and corrosion over time (especially in cast iron)
Cleaning your stovetop griddle the right way helps maintain kitchen hygiene, preserve your cookware, and improve the taste and quality of your meals.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning a Stovetop Griddle
Step 1: Let the Griddle Cool Down
Before cleaning, allow your stovetop griddle to cool down to a safe temperature — warm is okay, but not hot.
Safety Reminder: Cleaning a hot griddle can lead to burns or warping, especially if you use cold water on a hot surface.
Step 2: Scrape Off Food Residue
Use a griddle scraper, plastic spatula, or nylon scrubber to remove loose food debris and grease from the surface.
Pro Tip: Scrape in one direction and push food scraps toward the edge or into the grease trap (if your griddle has one).
Note: For cast iron or carbon steel griddles, avoid metal utensils that could scratch the seasoning layer.
Step 3: Add Hot Water (No Soap for Cast Iron)
Pour a small amount of hot water onto the griddle surface. This helps loosen stuck-on food and grease.
- For nonstick or stainless steel, you can add a drop of dish soap.
- For cast iron, do not use soap — it can strip away the seasoning.
Let it sit for a minute or two.
Kitchen Tip: Use a sponge or soft brush for nonstick surfaces and a chainmail scrubber or stiff brush for cast iron.
Step 4: Scrub Gently but Thoroughly
Scrub the entire surface of the griddle, focusing on corners, edges, and any areas with visible residue.
Material-specific advice:
- Cast Iron: Use coarse salt as a natural abrasive if needed. Scrub gently and rinse with hot water.
- Nonstick: Use a soft sponge to avoid damaging the nonstick coating.
- Stainless Steel: Use a non-abrasive pad and mild dish soap.
Avoid: Steel wool or harsh scouring powders on any surface — they can scratch and reduce the lifespan of your griddle.
Step 5: Rinse and Dry Completely
Wipe away soap and debris with a clean, damp cloth or sponge. Rinse thoroughly with warm water.
Then, dry the surface completely using a soft towel or paper towels.
Moisture Warning: Leaving moisture on your griddle — especially cast iron — can lead to rusting or dullness.
Step 6: Re-season If Needed (For Cast Iron)
If your griddle is made of cast iron, apply a thin layer of cooking oil (like vegetable, avocado, or flaxseed oil) to the surface after cleaning.
Steps:
- Pour a small amount of oil onto the griddle.
- Rub it in with a paper towel until the surface has a light sheen.
- Heat the griddle on the stove for a few minutes to set the oil.
Why It Matters: Seasoning prevents rust and keeps your cast iron naturally nonstick.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Mistake: Using soap on cast iron.
Solution: Clean cast iron with hot water and a scrubber. Use salt as an abrasive if needed. Avoid soap unless absolutely necessary. - Mistake: Soaking the griddle in water.
Solution: Prolonged soaking can cause rust, especially in cast iron. Clean promptly and dry immediately after rinsing. - Mistake: Using abrasive pads on nonstick surfaces.
Solution: Stick to soft sponges or cloths to avoid damaging the coating. - Mistake: Storing it wet.
Solution: Always dry thoroughly and apply oil to cast iron before storing. - Mistake: Not cleaning immediately after use.
Solution: Clean while the griddle is still warm for easier removal of stuck-on food.
Extra Tips & Kitchen Hacks
- Use a Grill Brick: For heavy-duty stainless steel griddles, a grill cleaning brick can help lift burnt residue without damaging the surface.
- Deglaze While Cooking: Add a splash of water, vinegar, or broth to the hot griddle after cooking to loosen food — it makes cleanup easier.
- Keep a Scraper Nearby: A dedicated griddle scraper is a small investment that makes post-meal cleanup much faster.
Product Suggestion: A reusable chainmail scrubber is ideal for cast iron griddles and lasts for years without wearing out.
Related Task: After cleaning the griddle, wipe down nearby stovetop surfaces or burners to keep the entire cooking zone grease-free.
Conclusion
Cleaning a stovetop griddle doesn’t have to be a chore — with the right method, it’s quick, easy, and protects your cookware for years to come. Whether you’re working with cast iron, stainless steel, or nonstick, the key is to clean regularly, avoid common mistakes, and take the time to dry and store properly. A clean griddle means better meals, less mess, and a smoother kitchen experience.
Final Tip: Make griddle cleaning a habit after every use — it takes just a few minutes and saves you from deep-cleaning headaches later.
Bookmark this guide so you always know exactly how to clean your stovetop griddle the safe and efficient way!