How To Clean Blackstone Griddle With Pumice Stone

Al Mazer

4 min read

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27-11-2024

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How to Clean Your Blackstone Griddle with a Pumice Stone: A Deep Clean Guide

The Blackstone griddle is a culinary powerhouse, offering the versatility of a grill, the even heat of a flattop, and the space to cook up a feast. But its expansive cooking surface is prone to stubborn food residue, grease buildup, and even carbonized remnants from high-heat cooking. While regular cleaning with a scraper and brush is crucial, occasionally your Blackstone needs a more aggressive approach to achieve that pristine, like-new finish. That's where the pumice stone comes in. This guide will walk you through the process of cleaning your Blackstone griddle with a pumice stone, ensuring you get a deep clean without damaging your griddle's surface.

Understanding the Power of Pumice:

Pumice is a naturally occurring volcanic rock, incredibly porous and abrasive. Its unique texture makes it perfect for removing stubborn stains and baked-on grease from various surfaces, including your Blackstone griddle. However, it's crucial to understand that pumice is abrasive. Used improperly, it can scratch the seasoned surface of your griddle. Therefore, following the correct techniques and precautions is essential.

Before You Begin: Preparation is Key

Before you even touch your pumice stone to the griddle, proper preparation is critical for a successful and damage-free clean.

1. Cool Down Completely: Never attempt to clean your Blackstone griddle with a pumice stone while it's hot. Allow it to cool down completely before starting the cleaning process. This prevents the pumice from cracking or becoming ineffective due to the heat.

2. Remove Loose Debris: Use a stiff-bristled brush or scraper to remove any large food particles, grease clumps, or loose debris. This will make the pumice stone's job significantly easier and prevent unnecessary scrubbing.

3. Soak (Optional, but Recommended): For exceptionally stubborn residue, consider soaking the griddle's surface with warm, soapy water for 30-60 minutes. This will soften the baked-on food and grease, making them easier to remove with the pumice stone. For tougher grime, you can use a degreaser specifically designed for outdoor cooking equipment, following the manufacturer's instructions. Ensure you rinse thoroughly afterward.

4. Gather Your Supplies: You'll need the following:

   • Pumice Stone: Choose a pumice stone specifically designed for cleaning cookware. Avoid extremely coarse stones, opting for a medium-grit option.
   • Bucket of Warm Water: Keep a bucket of warm water handy for rinsing the pumice stone and cleaning the griddle.
   • Scrubbing Pad or Sponge: A soft scrubbing pad or a non-abrasive sponge can be useful for rinsing and light scrubbing after using the pumice stone.
   • Griddle Scraper (Metal or Plastic): Keep a scraper handy for any particularly stubborn bits that resist the pumice stone.
   • Towels or Paper Towels: Use these for drying the griddle after cleaning.
   • Optional: Griddle Cleaner: For extra cleaning power, you can use a griddle-specific cleaner. However, always follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully.

Cleaning with the Pumice Stone: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Dampen the Pumice Stone: Slightly dampen the pumice stone with warm water. Don't soak it; just make it slightly moist. This helps prevent the pumice from scratching the surface of your griddle.

2. Gentle Circular Motions: Using light to medium pressure, gently rub the pumice stone in small, circular motions across the griddle's surface. Focus on areas with stubborn grease or baked-on food. Avoid applying excessive pressure, which could scratch the seasoning.

3. Rinse and Repeat: Frequently rinse the pumice stone in the bucket of warm water to remove accumulated debris. This ensures the stone remains effective and prevents the spread of grime. Continue scrubbing in sections, rinsing as needed.

4. Address Stubborn Spots: For particularly stubborn stains, you may need to apply slightly more pressure or repeat the process multiple times. If necessary, use your griddle scraper to gently lift away the loosened residue before continuing with the pumice stone.

5. Thorough Rinsing: Once you've covered the entire griddle surface, thoroughly rinse the entire griddle with warm water to remove any remaining pumice dust or loosened residue.

6. Drying: Use clean towels or paper towels to dry the griddle completely. Ensure no standing water remains on the surface.

Post-Cleaning and Seasoning:

After cleaning with a pumice stone, it's often beneficial to re-season your griddle to restore its protective layer and prevent rust. The process involves applying a thin layer of oil (usually canola or vegetable oil) to the hot surface and then wiping it off. Consult your Blackstone griddle's manual for specific seasoning instructions. Proper seasoning helps to prevent sticking and contributes to better cooking performance.

Important Precautions and Considerations:

• Avoid Excessive Pressure: Applying too much pressure can scratch the griddle's surface, damaging the seasoning. Use gentle but firm pressure.
• Inspect Regularly: While using the pumice stone, periodically inspect the surface to ensure you're not causing damage.
• Test in an Inconspicuous Area: Before using the pumice stone on the entire griddle, test it on a small, less visible area to ensure it doesn't damage the seasoning.
• Not for Non-Stick Surfaces: Pumice stones are not suitable for cleaning non-stick surfaces. They are specifically designed for seasoned surfaces like cast iron and steel.
• Storage: Store your pumice stone in a dry place to prevent it from dissolving or becoming less effective.

Alternatives to Pumice Stone:

If you're hesitant about using a pumice stone, consider other less abrasive methods. These include:

• Griddle Scraper and Brush: Regular cleaning with a high-quality griddle scraper and stiff-bristled brush can prevent the buildup of stubborn residue.
• Commercial Griddle Cleaners: Numerous commercial griddle cleaners are available, offering various levels of cleaning power. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully.
• Baking Soda Paste: A paste of baking soda and water can help remove some stubborn stains.

Conclusion:

Cleaning your Blackstone griddle with a pumice stone is an effective method for achieving a deep clean, removing stubborn residue and restoring its shine. However, it requires careful attention and the right techniques. By following the steps outlined in this guide and exercising caution, you can use a pumice stone to keep your Blackstone griddle looking and performing its best for years to come. Remember to always prioritize safety and consult your Blackstone griddle's manual for specific cleaning recommendations.