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.

Before you begin cleaning your griddle, be sure to have the right materials. 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

• 2 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.

Fuel your Creativity with KitchenAid 

Accomplish any task with KitchenAid^® gas and electric cooktops and ranges that can offer you the versatility to create with ease. Whether you're stir-frying veggies and scrambling eggs on the griddle for a delicious pad thai, or melting chocolate for a ganache, KitchenAid offers the versatility you need to satisfy any culinary whim.