How To Store Blackstone Griddle – Prevent Rust And Damage All Season
To store your Blackstone griddle effectively, you must thoroughly clean the surface, apply a fresh layer of seasoning oil, and protect it with a waterproof cover. For long-term storage, keep the unit in a dry, enclosed space like a garage or shed to prevent moisture from causing rust on the cold-rolled steel plate.
We all know the joy of a perfectly seasoned outdoor griddle, but the elements can be incredibly harsh on your investment. If you leave your cooking surface exposed to humidity or snow, you will likely return to a layer of orange rust instead of a slick, black patina.
Knowing how to store blackstone griddle equipment properly ensures that your next backyard feast starts with a clean surface rather than a scouring pad. I have seen many gardeners spend hours reviving a neglected griddle when ten minutes of storage prep could have saved the day.
In this guide, I will walk you through the exact steps to winterize your griddle, protect the electronic components, and ensure your propane safety is top-notch. Let’s dive into the professional way to preserve your outdoor kitchen.
The Foundation of Griddle Longevity
A Blackstone griddle is different from a standard stainless steel grill because its cooking surface is made of cold-rolled steel. This material is prone to oxidation if it is not handled with care during the off-season.
Just like your favorite garden spade or a high-quality lawn mower blade, the steel needs a barrier against oxygen and moisture. Without this barrier, the electrochemical reaction known as rusting begins almost immediately.
Proper storage is not just about keeping the rain off; it is about managing the micro-environment around the metal. Temperature swings and humidity levels play a massive role in how well your seasoning holds up over time.
Cleaning Before Storage
You should never put a dirty griddle away for the season, as food particles and moisture trapped under grease will invite mold and bacteria. Start by heating the griddle to a medium-high temperature to loosen any stuck-on debris.
Use a metal scraper to remove all carbonized food and excess oil from the surface. For stubborn spots, a small amount of water can help “steam” the residue off, but be careful of the rising heat.
Once the surface is scraped clean, wipe it down with a lint-free cloth or paper towels. You want the steel to look smooth and dark, with no visible crumbs or sticky patches remaining in the corners.
Applying a Protective Seasoning Layer
The most critical step in the storage process is the final oiling. Think of this as “waxing” your car or applying linseed oil to your wooden tool handles to keep them from cracking.
While the griddle is still warm but not scorching, apply a very thin layer of high-smoke-point oil. I recommend using grapeseed oil or the official Blackstone Seasoning and Cast Iron Conditioner for the best results.
Spread the oil across the entire surface, including the side walls and the outer edges of the plate. Use a clean paper towel to buff the oil until the surface looks matte rather than greasy.
The Importance of Polymerization
If you are storing the griddle for several months, you may want to heat the oil until it smokes slightly. This process, called polymerization, creates a hard, plastic-like bond with the metal.
This bonded layer is much more resistant to humidity than a simple coating of “wet” oil. Wet oil can eventually go rancid or drip off, whereas a polymerized finish stays put through the winter.
Repeat this oiling and heating process two or three times if you live in a particularly humid climate. This extra effort provides a heavy-duty shield against the damp air found in many coastal or woodland gardens.
how to store blackstone griddle
When you are ready to decide how to store blackstone griddle units for the long term, you must evaluate your available space. Ideally, the griddle should be moved to a climate-controlled environment, but a garage is the next best thing.
If you must keep the griddle on a patio or deck, you need to elevate it slightly to prevent moisture from wicking up through the legs. Placing the wheels on concrete pavers or a dedicated grill mat can help keep the base dry.
Always ensure the griddle is completely cool before applying any covers or moving it into a shed. Trapping heat inside a plastic cover creates condensation, which is the primary enemy of your seasoned steel plate.
Choosing the Right Cover
A simple soft cover is rarely enough for total protection against the elements. I always suggest using a hard-top lid in combination with a heavy-duty fabric cover for the best results.
The hard-top prevents water from pooling on the flat surface of the griddle plate, which can seep through even the best fabric. It also keeps the fabric cover from touching the oily surface, which prevents “wicking” of moisture.
Look for covers made of 600D polyester with a waterproof PVC lining. These materials are thick enough to resist tearing and can withstand the UV rays that often degrade cheaper plastics over time.
Propane Tank Safety and Storage
Safety is the most important part of the storage process, especially regarding your fuel source. You must never store propane tanks inside a house, garage, or shed, even if they are empty.
Propane is heavier than air and can settle in low spots if the valve has a minor leak. If a spark from a lawn mower or a water heater ignites that gas, the results can be catastrophic.
Disconnect the regulator from the tank and place a dust cap over the tank’s valve. Store the tank outdoors in an upright position, preferably on a flat surface away from direct sunlight and heavy foot traffic.
Protecting the Gas Lines
While the tank stays outside, the griddle’s internal gas lines need protection from unwanted guests. Spiders and small insects are often attracted to the smell of mercaptan, the additive in propane.
These pests often spin webs inside the venturi tubes or the burner orifices, which can cause dangerous blockages. Wrap the end of the regulator hose in a small plastic bag and secure it with a rubber band.
You can also place a few cedar blocks or peppermint oil-soaked cotton balls near the burner assembly. These natural deterrents help keep rodents and insects away from the sensitive internal components of your griddle.
Seasonal Maintenance and Environment
Your local climate dictates how much effort you need to put into storage. If you live in an arid region, a simple cover might suffice, but those in the Pacific Northwest or the Northeast need to be more vigilant.
Humidity is a “silent killer” for outdoor appliances. If your storage area is damp, consider using a dehumidifier or moisture-absorbing packets (like silica gel) underneath the griddle cover.
Check on your griddle once a month during the winter if possible. Lifting the cover to ensure no moisture has trapped itself against the steel can prevent a minor rust spot from becoming a major restoration project.
Dealing with Rodents
In many suburban gardens, mice and squirrels look for warm, greasy places to nest during the cold months. A Blackstone griddle is a five-star hotel for a field mouse if it isn’t secured.
Ensure the grease trap is completely empty and cleaned with soap and water before storage. Any lingering bacon grease or food smells will act as a beacon for local wildlife.
If you store the unit in a shed, consider placing ultrasonic pest repellers nearby. This added layer of protection keeps your cooking surface sanitary and free of nesting materials.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One of the biggest errors homeowners make is using dish soap right before storage. Unless you are stripping the griddle to bare metal for a full refurbish, avoid soap as it can leave a residue that attracts moisture.
Another mistake is using a cover that is too tight. Airflow is necessary to prevent the buildup of mold; look for covers with built-in mesh vents that allow the unit to “breathe” while staying dry.
Finally, never store your griddle while the surface is damp. Even a few drops of water trapped under a layer of oil can cause pitting in the steel, which ruins the smooth cooking experience.
The “Cardboard Trick”
Some veteran griddlers use a layer of clean, dry corrugated cardboard placed directly on the oiled griddle surface before putting on the hard cover. This acts as a moisture wick for any humidity that gets inside.
If you use this method, ensure the cardboard is fresh and free of any ink or adhesives. It should be replaced if you notice it feeling damp during your monthly checks.
This is an excellent “pro tip” for those living in high-humidity areas where condensation is an unavoidable fact of life. It provides one last line of defense for that precious black patina.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I leave my Blackstone outside in the winter?
Yes, you can leave it outside, but it must be protected. You need a waterproof cover and ideally a hard lid to prevent snow or rain from sitting directly on the metal surface. Moving it to a covered porch is highly recommended.
What is the best oil for long-term storage?
I recommend flaxseed oil or grapeseed oil. These oils dry into a very hard, protective layer. Avoid vegetable oils or olive oils for long-term storage as they can become sticky or go rancid over several months.
How do I remove rust if it appears after storage?
If you find rust, don’t panic. Use a grill stone or heavy-grit sandpaper to sand the rust down to the bare metal. Once the rust is gone, clean the surface and go through the seasoning process 3-4 times to rebuild the protection.
Should I remove the griddle plate for storage?
For most people, this isn’t necessary. However, if you have very limited space, you can remove the heavy steel plate and store it indoors under a bed or in a closet, while leaving the cart in the garage or shed.
Is it okay to store the griddle in a garage with a car?
Yes, a garage is an excellent place. Just be mindful of road salt dripping off your car, as salt air is highly corrosive. Keep the griddle covered even when it is stored inside the garage.
Conclusion
Learning how to store blackstone griddle units properly is a hallmark of a responsible outdoor cook. By taking the time to clean, season, and shield your equipment, you extend its life by decades and ensure your food always tastes its best.
Remember that the goal is to create a dry, stable environment for the steel. Whether you are using a dedicated shed or a corner of your patio, the combination of oil and a quality cover is your best defense against the elements.
Don’t wait for the first frost to start your winterization process. Grab your scraper and your favorite seasoning oil today, and give your griddle the protection it deserves so it’s ready for that first spring breakfast cookout!
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