Maintaining your Blackstone griddle properly ensures years of reliable performance and perfect cooking results. While regular cleaning is essential, many owners wonder when it’s appropriate to use a Scouring Pad — especially since harsh scrubbing can damage the seasoned surface.
This guide explains when and how to use a scouring pad on a Blackstone grill, the types of pads that are safe, and professional maintenance advice inspired by high-quality cleaning solutions from PINCO Cleanwell — a leading OEM manufacturer of scouring pads and kitchen cleaning tools.
Blackstone griddles are made of cold-rolled steel, a material that relies on a seasoned coating (oil baked into the surface) to create a non-stick layer and prevent rust.
Light cleaning after each use keeps the surface smooth.
Heavy cleaning is occasionally needed to remove carbon buildup or burnt residue.
Because the seasoning layer is delicate, you must be careful with abrasives like scouring pads or metal scrubbers.
The key is to use a scouring pad only when necessary and with the right technique.
A scouring pad should not be used every time you cook. Instead, it’s meant for deep cleaning sessions when the griddle surface has accumulated stubborn residue or uneven patches.
If the surface looks dark, sticky, or uneven after many cooking sessions, carbonized oil layers have formed. A scouring pad helps remove them efficiently.
If eggs, pancakes, or meats begin sticking even after oiling, it’s a sign the seasoning is uneven or contaminated. A light scouring can restore the surface before reseasoning.
If your Blackstone has been exposed to moisture and rust develops, use a non-metal scouring pad to remove corrosion before reseasoning.
Before applying new layers of oil for reseasoning, you can use a pad to smooth out the steel surface and remove flaky buildup.
For light daily cleaning, use a scraper and paper towels instead — scouring pads are for restoration, not routine care.
The type of pad you use makes all the difference.
| Type | Material | Safe for Blackstone? | Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nylon Scouring Pad | Soft synthetic fiber | ✅ Yes | Removes grease and carbon without scratching |
| Non-Scratch Sponge Pad | Polyurethane foam with abrasive layer | ✅ Yes | Ideal for mild cleaning |
| Stainless Steel Wool Pad | Metal wire | ⚠️ Use sparingly | Removes rust or baked-on residue |
| Steel Wire Brush | Rigid steel | ❌ No | Too abrasive, removes seasoning |
| Heavy-Duty Floor Pad (Fine Grade) | Compressed fibers | ✅ Conditional | For large commercial griddles |
PINCO Cleanwell produces nylon and sponge-based scouring pads that effectively clean carbon buildup without stripping protective layers — perfect for both commercial and home griddle use.
Turn the griddle on for 2–3 minutes to soften residue.
Then turn it off and let it cool slightly — it should be warm, not hot.
Use warm water or a mild degreaser (avoid strong chemicals).
Spread it evenly across the griddle.
Move the scouring pad in circular or back-and-forth motions.
Focus on the areas with carbon spots or food buildup.
Avoid applying excessive pressure — the goal is to clean, not strip.
Wipe away loosened debris with paper towels or a cloth.
Rinse with clean water and dry thoroughly.
After deep cleaning, apply a thin coat of cooking oil (flaxseed or canola).
Heat the griddle for 10–15 minutes until smoke appears, sealing a new layer of seasoning.
Every deep cleaning with a scouring pad should be followed by reseasoning to maintain protection and non-stick performance.
| Mistake | Consequence |
|---|---|
| Using coarse steel wool too often | Strips seasoning and scratches surface |
| Cleaning when hot | Warps pad, causes uneven finish |
| Skipping reseasoning | Leads to rust and food sticking |
| Using strong detergents | Damages steel and removes oil layer |
A good-quality nylon scouring pad from professional manufacturers like PINCO Cleanwell offers the right balance between strength and gentleness.
| Usage Type | Cleaning Frequency | Scouring Pad Use |
|---|---|---|
| Home Cook (2–3 times/week) | Light scrape after each use, deep clean every 2–4 weeks | Occasionally |
| Restaurant / Commercial Griddle | Wipe daily, deep clean weekly | Weekly |
| Outdoor Griddle (exposed to weather) | Rinse and oil after each use | As needed for rust removal |
| When to Use | Recommended Pad | Follow-Up Step |
|---|---|---|
| Carbon buildup or sticky surface | Nylon or non-scratch pad | Reseason after cleaning |
| Rust patches | Fine-grade metal pad | Oil immediately |
| Before reseasoning | Medium nylon pad | Heat and oil afterward |
| Daily cleaning | Avoid pads; use scraper | — |
Using a scouring pad on your Blackstone grill is safe and effective only when deep cleaning is necessary. The best approach is to combine gentle scrubbing, thorough drying, and reseasoning to keep your griddle looking and performing like new.
For superior cleaning performance, PINCO Cleanwell offers durable, non-scratch scouring pads suitable for steel cookware, commercial kitchens, and barbecue equipment — combining strong cleaning power with surface protection.
The right pad, used at the right time, extends your Blackstone’s life and preserves the perfect non-stick cooking surface every grill master needs.
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