How to Clean a Griddle: Electric, Cast Iron, and Non-Stick Methods

Griddles are fantastic for pancakes, bacon, eggs, and smash burgers — but they accumulate grease and food residue quickly. The right cleaning method depends on your griddle type: electric, cast iron, or non-stick. Using the wrong approach can damage the surface or strip the seasoning. Here's how to clean each type correctly.

General Rules for All Griddle Types

• Clean while still warm (not hot) — food releases much more easily from a warm surface.
• Never use metal scrapers or steel wool on non-stick surfaces.
• Never submerge electric griddles in water.
• Always dry thoroughly after cleaning to prevent rust.

How to Clean an Electric Griddle

What You'll Need

• Microfiber cloths
• Non-scratch sponge
• Plastic or silicone scraper
• Dish soap
• Baking soda

Steps

1. Unplug and let cool to warm (not hot).
2. Use a plastic or silicone scraper to push grease and food debris toward the drip tray. Empty the drip tray.
3. Pour a small amount of warm water onto the warm griddle surface — it will steam and loosen residue. Wipe with a microfiber cloth or paper towels.
4. For stubborn residue, apply a little dish soap with a non-scratch sponge and scrub gently.
5. Wipe clean with a damp cloth, then dry thoroughly with a clean cloth.
6. Wipe the exterior with a damp microfiber cloth.

If the griddle plate is removable, wash in the sink with warm soapy water or in the dishwasher (check manual).

How to Clean a Cast Iron Griddle

Cast iron requires special care — soap and soaking strip the seasoning that makes it non-stick.

Steps

1. While still warm, use a stiff brush or chain mail scrubber to scrub off food residue under hot running water. Avoid soap if possible.
2. For stubborn stuck-on food, add coarse salt to the warm griddle and scrub with a paper towel — the salt acts as an abrasive without damaging the seasoning.
3. Rinse with hot water and dry immediately and thoroughly — cast iron rusts quickly if left wet.
4. Place on the stove over low heat for 2-3 minutes to ensure it's completely dry.
5. Re-season after every wash: While still warm, rub a thin layer of vegetable oil or flaxseed oil over the entire surface with a paper towel. This maintains the non-stick seasoning.

How to Clean a Non-Stick Griddle

Steps

1. Let cool to warm.
2. Wipe with a damp microfiber cloth — most food releases easily from non-stick surfaces when warm.
3. For stubborn residue, wash with warm soapy water and a non-scratch sponge. Never use abrasive scrubbers.
4. For baked-on grease, apply a baking soda paste, let sit 10 minutes, then scrub gently and rinse.
5. Rinse and dry thoroughly.

Cleaning the Drip Tray

1. Remove the drip tray and empty grease into the trash (never down the drain).
2. Wash with warm soapy water and a non-scratch sponge.
3. For baked-on grease, soak in warm soapy water for 10 minutes before scrubbing.
4. Dry completely before replacing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use soap on a cast iron griddle?

A small amount of mild dish soap occasionally is fine for modern cast iron. Avoid soaking or using harsh detergents, which strip the seasoning. Always re-season with oil after washing.

How do I remove burnt grease from a griddle?

For non-stick: apply baking soda paste and let sit 15 minutes before scrubbing. For cast iron: use coarse salt as an abrasive scrub. For electric: pour a little warm water on the warm surface and let steam loosen the residue.

How do I prevent food from sticking to my griddle?

Preheat properly before adding food. For cast iron, maintain good seasoning by oiling after every wash. For non-stick, use a little butter or oil and avoid overheating (high heat damages non-stick coatings).

Can I put my electric griddle in the dishwasher?

Never put the electric griddle unit in the dishwasher. If the cooking plate is removable and your manual confirms it's dishwasher-safe, you can wash it separately on the top rack.