Putting your griddle away for the winter? Before you cover it up, take a few minutes to clean the cooking surface, apply a thin layer of seasoning oil, and prepare it for storage. These simple steps can help prevent rust and keep your griddle in good shape for next season.
Here’s what you need to know:
- How to clean and protect your griddle before storing it.
- Why applying seasoning oil matters before winter.
- How to store your griddle to protect it from the elements.
- What to check in spring before your first cookout.
As temperatures drop, it's time to prepare your griddle for winter storage. Whether you use a Blackstone griddle or another flat-top grill, taking a few simple steps before putting it away can help prevent rust, protect the cooking surface, and make getting back to outdoor cooking easier in the spring.
Why Should You Prepare Your Griddle for Winter?
A griddle that's left dirty, damp, or unprotected during winter storage can develop rust and stubborn residue. Temperature changes and moisture trapped under a cover can also affect the condition of a steel cooking surface. Proper winter maintenance helps protect the metal, preserve the seasoned cooking surface, and reduces the work needed before your first cookout in spring.
Step 1: Clean Your Griddle Thoroughly
Start by briefly heating your griddle to help loosen grease and stuck-on food. Turn it off and let it cool until warm, but safe to handle. Use a griddle scraper to remove loose food debris, then wash the cooking surface with Caron & Doucet Griddle Soap to remove grease, food residue, and leftover cooking oils.
For stubborn, stuck-on food, use Caron & Doucet Griddle Scrub to help loosen buildup. Don't forget to clean the edges and grease tray, where residue can accumulate.
Step 2: Dry the Cooking Surface Completely
Moisture is one of the main causes of rust on steel griddles. After cleaning, wipe the cooking surface thoroughly with a clean cloth or paper towel.
Pay attention to the edges and areas where water can collect. Briefly heating the surface can help evaporate any remaining moisture. Turn off the griddle and allow it to fully cool before applying seasoning. Even a small amount of trapped moisture can contribute to rust during long-term storage.
Step 3: Apply Griddle Seasoning for Winter Protection
Once your griddle is clean and completely dry, apply Caron & Doucet Griddle Oil to help restore the protective layer and guard against moisture during winter storage.
- Make sure the cooking surface is clean and completely dry.
- Apply 2–3 tablespoons of griddle oil.
- Spread into a thin, even layer using a clean cloth or paper towel.
- Heat the griddle on high to help the oil bond to the cooking surface.
- Repeat as needed.
Avoid applying too much oil, as excess product can leave a sticky buildup.
If rust is present, use a griddle seasoning product to help restore the cooking surface’s protective layer. Caron & Doucet Griddle Seasoning helps prevent rust and corrosion by creating a protective layer, extending the lifespan of the surface. If your griddle is in good condition with no signs of rust, a thin layer of griddle oil is generally sufficient for winter storage.
Step 4: Cover and Store Your Griddle Properly
Once your griddle is clean, dry, and seasoned, cover it with a weather-resistant cover designed for your model.
Whenever possible, store it in a sheltered, dry location. If it must remain outdoors, make sure the cover is secure and follow the manufacturer's recommendations for ventilation. Moisture can become trapped under a cover, so check your griddle periodically when practical.
For gas griddles, follow the manufacturer's instructions for safely disconnecting and storing the fuel supply. Never store propane cylinders inside your home, garage, or shed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should you season a griddle before storing it for winter?
Yes. For most uncoated steel griddle surfaces, applying a suitable seasoning product before winter storage helps maintain the protective layer and reduce the risk of rust. Make sure the surface is clean and completely dry first and follow the product and griddle manufacturer's instructions.
Can you leave a Blackstone griddle outside during winter?
Many outdoor griddles, including Blackstone models, can remain outside when properly prepared, but always check the manufacturer's storage instructions. Clean and dry the cooking surface, apply a suitable layer of griddle oil, and use a weather-resistant cover. Check periodically for trapped moisture or signs of rust.
Do you need to re-season a griddle after winter?
Not always. If the cooking surface remains rust-free and the seasoning is intact, a light maintenance coat of griddle oil may be enough before cooking. The griddle oil helps reinforce the griddle seasoning while protecting the surface from moisture that leads to rust. If you notice bare patches, flaking seasoning, or rust, clean and restore the affected areas before use with a griddle seasoning.
What should you use to clean a griddle before winter storage?
Use a griddle soap that removes grease and food residue without damaging the cooking surface. To tackle stubborn stuck-on residue, use a griddle scrub. A thorough cleaning makes it easier to inspect the surface and prepare it for winter storage.
What is the difference between griddle oil and griddle seasoning?
Griddle oil is ideal for routine maintenance between cooking sessions and before winter storage, helping protect the surface from moisture. Griddle seasoning is generally only needed if the cooking surface is damaged, such as when rust has developed, and needs to be restored. If your griddle is in good condition, a thin layer of griddle oil is usually enough to protect it during the winter. Before storing it, clean and dry the griddle thoroughly, then apply oil or seasoning as needed according to the product’s directions.
Whether you're preparing a Blackstone or another flat-top grill for the colder months, a little maintenance before winter can help prevent rust, protect the cooking surface, and reduce the work needed when spring arrives.
With Caron & Doucet Griddle Soap for cleaning, Griddle Scrub for stubborn residue, and Griddle Seasoning to help protect the cooking surface, you can give your griddle the care it needs before putting it away for the season.
