In June of 2021, we used up a bunch of Menards rebate money to get ourselves a Char -Griller Flat Iron Gas Griddle.

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For whatever reason we didn't use it once during the 2022 grilling season.  We have a smoker and a charcoal grill and used those, but I think we were just gone so much and didn't host BBQs, and it just sat.

While I did have it covered, of course moisture made its way to the griddle top, and rusted it pretty badly.  When I pulled the cover off a few weeks ago, I was pretty disappointed in what I saw but also not totally surprised.

I've re-seasoned and cleaned up cast iron pans before, so I am pretty versed at getting rust off of metal and bringing cooking surfaces back to usable.  I decided to try a Blackstone Griddle Top Restoration Kit, and then to use the Blackstone Griddle Seasoning and Cast Iron Conditioner.

Following their directions, I cleaned the griddle top removing loose rust with a scraper and then washed the surface with soap and water, then rinsed and dried.  Next, I applied the griddle top restorer which looks like clear jelly and covered the rusted surface (the whole griddle top) with it.

Rusted Griddle Restoration- Photo Credit: Joe Danger
Rusted Griddle Restoration- Photo Credit: Joe Danger
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After letting it sit for a few minutes, I began to agitate the restorer with the provided applicator pads.  I repeated the process three times for a few bad areas.  I then degreased the griddle top with Dawn Dish Soap, then dried and proceeded to season it.

Restored Griddle Top- Photo Credit: Joe Danger
Restored Griddle Top- Photo Credit: Joe Danger
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To season with the Blackstone seasoning, you preheat the surface, apply the seasoning, and let it burn off.  I repeated this process three times and it came out decent enough.

I might purchase the restorer if my griddle gets that bad again, but I'll probably skip on their seasoning and just used a product like avocado oil or some other high heat oil like I do for cast iron pans.  I just don't think it was better than oils I normally use.  All in all, I am happyish with the results and hopefully use it enough this year to not have to do it again.

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