How To Get Rust Off From Black Stone Griddle?

Last Updated on October 12, 2023

We all use griddles in our daily life. Rust on the black stone griddle is normal and it usually turns reddish brown due to corrosion. It can happen when air (which contains iron) and moisture come in contact with its surface.

When the surface of the black stone griddle becomes corroded, it increases the risk of mixing dirty particles of corrosion with food.

Rust on the black stone griddle is one of the significant concerns and keeping it clean is necessary. It destroys the beauty of the black stone griddle. This rusting can grow fast if we make it stay outdoors where it regularly comes in contact with corrosive particles. But it can be protected by cleaning it regularly or according to the season. 

However, we can eliminate the dark side and protect our meal from combining with toxic particles of corrosion.

Looking to tackle rust on various surfaces? Check out our guide on ‘How To Get Rust Off From Rims‘ for expert tips on preserving the beauty of your metal possessions.

How To Get Rust Off From Black Stone Griddle? – Step-By-Step Guide

To get the rust off the black stone griddle without any hassle, follow the below-mentioned steps:

Step 1: Tools And Material

The first step is to get what things are needed to remove the rust from the black stone griddle. Use such tools that are comfy and easy to use. You need the following materials:

• Gloves
• Rags
• A steel scraper
• Sandpaper
• Oil
• Grill stone
• Citric acid

The oil you use for this cleaning should be cooking oil because the griddle you are cleaning is used for cooking. So, if other oil contains unnecessary particles, they can mix into the food and cause health issues.

You can use any cooking oil, such as palm, sesame, olive, or other. Use lemon juice for the citric acid. Vinegar can also be used instead of lemon juice. For wiping the griddle, you may need a paper towel or any other cloth for cleaning. Gloves protect the hands from heat and other dirty, corrosive particles.

Step 2: Preparations

Now, you must turn on the black stone griddle to warm it. Wait for half an hour to make it fully warm. The heat will assist in loosening up all the rust that had been on the griddle for a long time and hardening it.

After the grill is fully warm, turn it off and let it quiet down for some time. The Rust on the griddle will not be hardened instantly. This will make removing the rust from the black stone griddle easy.

Step 3: Removing The Rust

The next step is removing the rust from the black stone griddle. As the rust will loosen up by heating it, take the steel scraper and start removing the rust by sliding it onto the griddle’s surface.

The Rust will start coming off easily from the griddle. A broad scraper will make removing rust from the desired area easy and quick through the rust coming into the trash bag. Continue until all the rust doesn’t come off and you don’t feel easy to scrub it.

Step 4: Scrubbing The Black Stone Griddle

Pour some cooking oil on the griddle after removing the rust with the steel scraper. The quantity of the oil depends upon the area of the griddle floor. The oil should be on the surface in a skinny layer. Adding some lemon juice or vinegar to it will be more beneficial.

After pouring cooking oil and lemon juice (vinegar) on it, start scrubbing the griddle with the help of grill stone or sandpaper. While scrubbing, you must have to be mild, and the scrubbing motion should be round so you will not miss any area. Keep scrubbing until the surface doesn’t look shiny.

Wipe off the black liquid from the oil and rust with the help of a paper towel or rag. After wiping off, pour more oil and scrub until the oils look clear. After that, wipe off the griddle with the mixture of lemon juice (vinegar) and warm water to remove all the grease from its surface.

Step 5: Seasoning The Griddle

After making the black stone griddle rust-free, seasoning is the end step. Seasoning means applying the oils on the griddle as a protective layer to avoid corrosion. Cleaning your griddle is one thing you should repeat once corrosion is noticed. However, applying a layer of oil slows the process of rusting.

Cooking oils such as olive oil and flax oil are preferred. The oils bind with the steel (griddle’s surface) more quickly. You can also apply the second layer of oil after the primary layer dries up. The thicker the oil layer, the more it will be protected from the corrosive material.

Caring for metal surfaces? learn how to remove rust from a bike chain in our guide, or check out our article on how to get rust off from black stone griddle for more rust-removal tips.

How To Get Deeper Rust Removal? – Step-By-Step Guide

While surface rust can often be removed with basic cleaning and scrubbing techniques, deeper rust that has penetrated the surface of your black stone griddle requires more intensive measures. 

1. Identify Deeper Rust Spots

• Before you begin, carefully inspect the griddle surface to pinpoint areas where rust has penetrated deeper. These spots may appear as pitted or discolored areas.

2. Gather Your Materials

• For deeper rust removal, you’ll need a few additional tools and materials, including:
  • A wire brush with stiff bristles or an abrasive pad.
  • Rust converter or rust remover solution (available at hardware stores).
  • Safety gear, including gloves and eye protection.

3. Safety Precautions

• Prioritize safety by wearing the necessary protective gear, as deeper rust removal may involve chemicals and abrasive tools. Ensure you’re working in a well-ventilated area.

4. Apply Rust Converter or Remover

• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the rust converter or remover you’re using.
• Typically, you’ll apply the product to the rusted areas and let it sit for a specified time. This product will chemically react with the rust, transforming it into a stable compound that can be easily removed.

5. Scrub and Agitate

• After the specified wait time, use a wire brush or abrasive pad to scrub the treated areas gently. This will help dislodge the converted rust.
• Be patient and thorough, focusing on each rusted spot until the surface appears clean.

6. Rinse and Inspect

• Rinse the griddle thoroughly with clean water to remove any remaining rust converter or remover residue.
• Inspect the griddle to ensure the deeper rust spots are effectively removed. Repeat the process if necessary.

7. Dry and Protect

• Once you’re satisfied with the rust removal, dry the griddle completely to prevent any new rust from forming.
• Consider applying a layer of cooking oil to the surface and seasoning it as part of your regular griddle maintenance routine to protect against future rust.

Deeper rust removal may require more time and effort, but it’s essential for preserving the longevity and functionality of your black stone griddle. Following these steps and using the appropriate products can eliminate deeper rust and allow you to enjoy many more delicious meals on your griddle.

Caring for metal surfaces? learn how to remove rust from a bike chain in our guide, or check out our article on how to get rust off from black stone griddle for more rust-removal tips.

How to Get Natural Rust Removers? – Step-By-Step Guide

This section will explore alternative methods for rust removal from your black stone griddle using natural, eco-friendly ingredients like vinegar and lemon juice. These methods are safe, cost-effective, and can be as effective as commercial rust removers for tackling those stubborn rust spots.

Vinegar Rust Removal

• Materials Needed: White vinegar, a scrubbing pad or brush, water, and a container.
• Procedure
  • Pour white vinegar into a container.
  • Submerge a scrubbing pad or brush in the vinegar, allowing it to soak.
  • Place the soaked scrubbing pad or brush onto the rusted areas of the griddle.
  • Let it sit for 1-2 hours, ensuring the vinegar remains in contact with the rust.
  • Scrub the rusted spots with the pad or brush.
  • Rinse the griddle with water and inspect for any remaining rust.
  • Repeat the process if necessary.

Lemon Juice Rust Removal

• Materials Needed: Fresh lemon juice, salt, a scrubbing pad or brush, and water.
• Procedure
  • Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the rusted areas of the griddle.
  • Sprinkle a generous amount of salt onto the lemon juice.
  • Let the mixture sit for 1-2 hours, allowing the acid from the lemon and the abrasiveness of the salt to work on the rust.
  • Scrub the rusted spots with a pad or brush.
  • Rinse the griddle with water and check for any remaining rust.
  • Repeat the process if needed.

Final Steps

• After using either vinegar or lemon juice to remove rust, thoroughly rinse the griddle with water to remove any residual acid.
• Dry the griddle completely to prevent future rust formation.
• Add a thin layer of cooking oil and season the griddle to provide a protective barrier against rust.

Natural rust removers like vinegar and lemon juice are eco-friendly options that can effectively dissolve rust without harsh chemicals. These methods are particularly useful for smaller rust spots and can be part of your regular griddle maintenance routine to prevent rust from reoccurring.

How To Prevent Rust On Blackstone Griddle?

Preventing future rust on your black stone griddle ensures its longevity and maintains a rust-free cooking surface. In this section, we’ll discuss practical steps and strategies to safeguard your griddle from rust formation:

1. Season Your Griddle

• Seasoning involves applying a layer of oil (such as vegetable oil or flaxseed oil) to the griddle’s surface and heating it to create a protective coating. This seasoned layer acts as a barrier against moisture and helps prevent rust.
• To season your griddle, follow these steps:
  • Clean the griddle thoroughly.
  • Apply a thin layer of oil to the entire cooking surface.
  • Heat the griddle until the oil begins to smoke.
  • Allow it to cool, and wipe away any excess oil. Repeat this process regularly, especially after rust removal.

2. Keep It Dry

• Moisture is a primary catalyst for rust formation. After each use, thoroughly dry your griddle with a clean cloth or paper towel.
• If you store your griddle outdoors or in a humid environment, consider investing in a griddle cover to shield it from rain, snow, and moisture.

3. Store Properly

• Store your griddle in a dry, sheltered area when not in use. If storing it indoors, ensure the storage area is well-ventilated to prevent trapped moisture.
• Elevating the griddle slightly off the ground can help prevent it from sitting in puddles of water if stored outdoors.

4. Clean Regularly

• Perform regular cleaning after each use to remove food residue, oils, and debris. Neglected food particles can trap moisture and lead to rust.
• Use a griddle scraper or spatula to remove stuck-on residues before they become problematic.

5. Monitor for Damage

• Periodically inspect your griddle for any wear, damage, or rust spots. Catching rust early can prevent it from spreading and becoming a more significant issue.

6. Reapply Seasoning as Needed

• Over time, the seasoned layer on your griddle may wear off. When you notice diminished non-stick properties or the onset of rust, it’s time to reapply seasoning.

7. Avoid Harsh Cleaning Products

• Refrain from using abrasive cleaners or steel wool, as these can scratch the griddle’s surface and make it more prone to rust.
• Stick to mild dish soap and water for routine cleaning.

Following these preventive measures can significantly reduce the likelihood of rust forming on your black stone griddle. Regular maintenance and proper storage are key to enjoying rust-free cooking and delicious meals for years.

FAQs

Is vinegar Effective For Removing Rust from black stone?

Vinegar is considered an excellent rust-removing agent. Vinegar contains acids that fight against corrosion. The mixture of vinegar with baking soda and salt makes it even more effective against rust. After applying this mixture to the rusted surface, scrape it with a scorching pad and it will easily come off.

How Often Should We Clean And Season The Black Stone Griddle?

Cleaning and seasoning of the black stone griddle are mandatory to protect it from rust. As the black stone is made up of cat-iron, it is more likely to get corrosion. We should have to clean it after every time we use it. If the griddle is not in use, clean and season it once a month.

Can Coke Be Used To Remove Rust From Cast Iron?

Yes, coke is effective to remove rust from cast iron. To remove the rust from the desired surface, soak it into the coke overnight, scrub it and wipe it off with a paper towel or dry cloth. Apply the oil to protect against further corrosion.

Explore our guide on How to Clean Rust Off Guns for expert tips on firearm maintenance and rust removal.

Conclusion

Rusting on the black stone griddle is an unwanted factor; fortunately, getting it off is not difficult. Follow the above-mentioned steps to get the rust off effectively. Moreover, season the griddle to protect the rust from developing again.