How to Clean Your Camping Griddle: Easy and Effective Tips

Camping griddles are a great way to cook delicious meals while enjoying the great outdoors. However, cleaning and maintaining them can be a bit tricky. If not done properly, leftover food and grease can build up and ruin the non-stick surface of the griddle. In this article, we will provide tips and tricks on how to clean and maintain your camping griddle to ensure it lasts for years to come.

Step 1. Remove Excess Food

After cooking on a camping griddle, it is important to remove any excess food particles to prevent them from sticking to the surface of the griddle. Here are some effective ways to remove excess food from your camping griddle:

Use a scraper: A griddle scraper is an effective tool for removing excess food from a camping griddle. It is recommended to consider one of the many griddle cleaning kits available.
Use hot water: After scraping off any excess food particles, use hot water to rinse the surface of the griddle. This will help to remove any remaining food particles and grease.

Step 2. Apply a Cleaning Solution

To remove any stubborn grease or food residue from the griddle, it’s important to use a cleaning solution. There are many commercial cleaning solutions available on the market, but a simple mixture of water and vinegar can also be effective. It’s important to note that some griddle surfaces may be sensitive to certain cleaning solutions. Always check the manufacturer’s instructions before using any cleaning solution on your griddle.

Note: It is important that only soap should be used on brand-new griddles, and it should be rinsed thoroughly afterward. If the griddle has been used, soap should not be used at all.

Water & Vinegar Cleaning Solution

To make the cleaning solution, mix equal parts of water and vinegar in a spray bottle. Shake the bottle well to ensure the solution is well mixed. Spray the solution over the entire surface of the griddle, making sure to cover any areas with stubborn grease or food residue.

Step 3. Scrubbing and Rinsing

To remove any food residue or buildup on a camping griddle, scrubbing is necessary. After scrubbing the camping griddle, it is important to rinse it thoroughly to remove any remaining cleaning solution. To rinse the griddle, use hot water and ensure that all residue is removed. Once the griddle is completely clean and rinsed, it should be dried thoroughly before storing to prevent rust.

Step 4. Drying and Storing

After cleaning the camping griddle, it is important to dry it thoroughly to prevent rusting. The best way to do this is to use a clean, dry towel or paper towels to wipe down the surface. Make sure to remove all moisture from the griddle, including any water that may have collected in the corners or edges.

Once the griddle is completely dry, it is ready to be stored. Before storing the griddle, it is important to make sure that it is completely cool. Storing a hot griddle can cause damage to the surface and can also be a safety hazard.

It is also important to make sure that the griddle is stored in a position that will not cause it to warp or become damaged. For example, if the griddle is stored on its side, it may become warped over time.

Step 5. Seasoning the Griddle

Seasoning your camping griddle is essential to maintain its non-stick surface and to prevent rust. Here are the steps to follow:

Step 1: Heat the griddle on high heat until it starts smoking.
Step 2: Turn off the heat and let the griddle cool down slightly.
Step 3: Apply a thin layer of oil to the griddle and spread it evenly with a paper towel or cloth towel.
Step 4: Heat the griddle on low heat for about 10 minutes.
Step 5: Turn off the heat and let the griddle cool down completely.
Step 6: Wipe off any excess oil with a paper towel.

By following these steps, you can maintain your camping griddle and keep it in good condition for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should you season a griddle?

It is recommended to season your griddle periodically to maintain its non-stick surface. However, if you use your griddle frequently, you may need to season it more often. It’s important to note that seasoning a griddle is not a one-time process, but an ongoing maintenance task.

Can you clean a griddle with vinegar?

Yes, you can clean a griddle with vinegar. Mix equal parts of water and vinegar and apply the solution to the griddle. Let it sit for a few minutes and then use a scrub brush or pad to scrub away any food particles or grease. Rinse the griddle with water and dry it completely.

How to clean a griddle with rust?

If your camping griddle has developed rust, you can clean it by using a mixture of baking soda and water. Mix the baking soda and water to form a paste and apply it to the rusty areas of the griddle. Let it sit for a few minutes and then use a scrub brush or pad to scrub the rust away. Rinse the griddle with water and dry it completely.

Last Updated on October 15, 2023 by Camping Gear Depot