How to Clean a Commercial Griddle Properly

A commercial griddle is one of the hardest working pieces of equipment in many kitchens. Whether used for breakfasts, burgers, steaks, or fast paced takeaway service, keeping the plate clean is essential for food quality, hygiene, and the lifespan of the equipment.

Unfortunately, griddles are also one of the most commonly damaged appliances through incorrect cleaning methods. Using the wrong tools or cleaning at the wrong temperature can damage the cooking surface and affect performance over time.

Here is how to clean a commercial griddle properly and safely.

Why Regular Griddle Cleaning Matters

A dirty griddle can cause:

• uneven cooking
• poor food flavour
• excessive smoke
• carbon build up
• sticking food
• slower heat transfer

Grease and burnt residue also force the equipment to work harder and can eventually damage heating elements or burners.

Regular cleaning helps maintain consistent cooking performance and keeps the plate in better condition for longer.

Clean the Griddle While It Is Still Warm

One of the biggest mistakes is allowing the griddle to cool completely before cleaning.

Griddles are usually easiest to clean while still warm, as grease and food residue remain softer and easier to remove.

However, the plate should not be extremely hot during cleaning, as this can:

• cause cleaning chemicals to burn instantly
• create excessive steam
• damage certain plate surfaces
• increase risk of injury

Allow the plate to cool slightly before starting.

Use the Correct Cleaning Tools

Using incorrect tools can permanently damage the plate surface.

Recommended tools include:

• griddle scrapers
• griddle cleaning pads
• grill stones
• heat resistant cloths
• food safe degreasers

Avoid:

• excessive use of wire brushes
• sharp metal objects
• abrasive discs
• harsh chemicals not designed for catering equipment

Chrome griddle plates in particular require extra care, as aggressive cleaning can damage the chrome coating.

Remove Loose Debris First

Start by scraping excess grease and burnt food into the waste channel or grease tray.

This helps prevent residue spreading across the plate during deeper cleaning.

Empty grease trays regularly to avoid overflow and fire risks.

Use Water Carefully

Many operators use small amounts of water to help loosen carbon build up.

When done correctly, this can be effective. However, pouring excessive cold water onto a very hot plate can cause warping or cracking over time.

Always:

• use small amounts
• avoid ice cold water
• never shock cool the plate

Steam created during cleaning can also become extremely hot, so extra care is needed.

Deep Cleaning Carbon Build Up

Over time, burnt grease forms a black carbon layer across the plate.

This build up can:

• affect heat distribution
• create unpleasant flavours
• increase smoking
• make food stick

Griddle stones or specialist griddle cleaning products are often used to remove heavy carbon deposits safely.

Do not over scrape the plate aggressively, especially on chrome surfaces.

Seasoning the Plate Afterwards

After cleaning, many steel griddle plates benefit from light re seasoning.

This usually involves applying a thin layer of cooking oil and heating the surface gently.

Seasoning helps:

• reduce sticking
• protect the surface
• improve cooking performance

Chrome plates may require different maintenance procedures depending on manufacturer guidance.

Do Not Forget Surrounding Areas

Grease often builds up around:

• splash guards
• grease channels
• control knobs
• undershelves
• surrounding stainless steel

Cleaning the full unit regularly helps maintain hygiene and reduces fire risks in busy kitchens.

Common Griddle Cleaning Mistakes

Some of the most common mistakes include:

• cleaning when the plate is too hot
• using excessive water
• using unsuitable chemicals
• damaging chrome surfaces
• failing to empty grease trays
• allowing heavy carbon build up for long periods

Small daily cleaning routines are far easier than dealing with severe build up later.

When a Griddle Plate May Need Replacing

If the plate becomes:

• deeply pitted
• cracked
• unevenly heated
• heavily warped

cleaning alone may no longer solve performance issues.

In some cases, replacing parts or upgrading the unit may be more cost effective long term.

Need Help With Commercial Griddles?

At Kings Catering Equipment, we supply a range of commercial griddles, cleaning products, and catering equipment suitable for cafés, takeaways, restaurants, food vans, and commercial kitchens.

If you need advice on maintaining or replacing your griddle equipment, contact our team for recommendations and support.