Last Updated on July 29, 2023
You can keep your Blackstone griddle outside, but you should keep it covered when not in use so it is protected from the elements and any potential rusting or corrosion will be minimized.
So you just got yourself a new Blackstone and you can’t wait to cook up some homemade smash burgers or pancakes on your new griddle.
But in the distance you can see some dark storm clouds headed your way. You immediately think to yourself, “Can you store a Blackstone griddle outside?”
The fact is Blackstone griddles are made to be used and stored outside. It’s perfectly fine to store them outside as long as you take some precautions to protect them from the elements. Keeping your Blackstone covered will protect it from moisture and help prevent rusting and corrosion.
How Can You Store A Blackstone Griddle Outside?
The best place to store a Blackstone griddle when not in use is inside a closed shelter such as a garage or shed, or at least under an awning or gazebo. The more protected it is from the elements the better.
If your Blackstone model has wheels it might be easy enough to roll it inside when you’ve finished cooking, but that’s not realistic for everyone. In this case I recommend purchasing a cover. There are a few types of covers to choose from.
Believe it or not I actually have 2 covers. I have a hard metal cover that I use for everyday use because it literally takes a second to put it on or take it off. But I also have a soft waterproof cover that I put on in nasty weather or if I know I won’t be griddling for a bit.
Here are the Blackstone covers I use myself, plus a third option that looks pretty good too.
Soft Waterproof Griddle Cover
For ultimate protection, get yourself a waterproof cover that will keep water from getting anywhere near your Blackstone’s cooking surface. I really like the cover below because it protects more than just the flat top itself. It also covers the grease trap, knobs, ignitor system, legs, and even the propane tank.
Because it’s manufactured by Blackstone you know it will fit. There are many aftermarket brands you can try but beware if it doesn’t fit properly it could snag and rip which would defeat the whole purpose of using it.
Plus it has straps that run underneath the griddle and secure with plastic clips. No matter how windy it gets outside, you can trust this cover isn’t going anywhere.
- Sun, snow, hail, dust, dirt, or grime, dont let anything ruin your expensive investment. Blackstone barbecue Griddle cover effectively covers your Griddle and protects it against Mother Natures harsh stressors.
- Made with heavy-duty canvas, Griddle cover can take up the beating without wearing out. The all-weather resistant material resists fading or cold cracking while the double-layered construction and reinforced stitching prevent tearing.
- Durable poly-resin buckles of our heavy duty Griddle cover clips underneath the griddle base and keeps the cover secure when things get too windy. The buckle closure also makes it easy to put on and remove the cover.
- Griddle Griddle cover comes in a neutral black color that wont clash with your backyard or patio décor.
- Keep your grill protected from the elements with this Blackstone 36 Griddle Grill Cover. Its made of high-quality, weather-resistant 600D polyest
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Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Hard Griddle Cover
Another option to use when storing your Blackstone outside is a hard cover like the one below. This cover is custom made to specifically fit the Blackstone and since it is metal you don’t even need to wait for the griddle to cool off before covering it. So if you just finished cooking and it’s starting to rain, just cover it up and head inside.
Plus you gotta admit it looks pretty cool.
- SUPERIOR PROTECTION – Built in the USA with diamond plate aluminum that will never rust. Unlike other griddle lids, our unique hanger bracket foot system eliminates screw holes in the top surface so water can’t sneak in and ruin your griddle.
- GET A GRIP – We machined our handle from solid steel so it’s built to last and it made common sense to build a handle that could easily be worked with one or two hands. To secure the handle and further protect your investment we used 304 stainless hex screws and lock nuts. Finally, to lock out the weather we powder coated it fire engine red.
- ROCK SOLID – Our custom classic cover is durable and easy to clean with a our integrated TIG welded hanger bracket stable top foot design. With our cover in place it remains level with no rocking. This simple design gives you another outdoor surface area for things like food platters or a bucket of ice cold beer for friends when your not cooking.
- SIMPLE PRIDE – We worked hard to create a cover that will deliver long lasting protection from weather and corrosion while at the same time building a lid that you will be proud to own that will surely enhance the look of your griddle.
- DIMENSIONS – 36.75 inches by 22.75 inches FITS Blackstone 36 with back or side grease traps. Total Weight 8 lbs. 10oz. Purchase Includes 1 Griddle Cover, Handle, Stain Less Hardwa
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Grydlmat Silicone Griddle Mat
A newer type of cover that has become quite popular, this silicone griddle mat is inexpensive and easy to use. After cooking, just wait for the griddle to cool off and then place the mat right on the surface. It promises to protect your griddle from moisture and oxygen which will lead to rusting.
I should say I haven’t tried this type of cover yet myself, so I can’t really give an informed opinion about it. But I do see a lot of people talking about how much they like it so I’ll probably give it a shot at some point. When I do I’ll come back and update this article, but in the meantime here is a Reddit thread where people share their opinions.
- Fits ANY Blackstone 36 Model Griddle with rear-grease management.
- Year-Round protection - Grydlmat is the original, premium silicone mat will protect your griddle investment every season, all through the year.
- Heavy Duty Food-Grade Silicone - Grydlmat is super thick and tough while remaining ultra flexible. Grydlmat is the safest protection for your griddle top being made of 100% food-grade silicone.
- Polished Bottom Surface Sealing - Grydlmat is designed with a polished under-side that when used on a clean, cool, lightly oiled surface, will protect your griddle from bugs, dirt and rust.
- Protect Your Griddle Investment - This griddle cover will protect your BBQ griddle from mother nature and keep it working in perfect condition. No more cleaning your griddle before every use. Remove Grydlmat and cook on a clean surface!
- High-Wall Design - Grydlmat Pro is built with protection in mind. Offering the best fit and tall walls to contain the moisture and debris making removal and cleaning super ea
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Can Happen If You Store Your Blackstone Outside Unprotected?
Blackstone griddles are made of rolled steel and the cooking surface will rust if exposed to moisture like rain or humidity. Rust is the Blackstone’s enemy so you want to be sure you’re keeping it out of the elements. If you have rust on your griddle you’ll need to scrap it off and re-season it.
Can a Blackstone be left in the rain?
You can leave your Blackstone griddle outside in the rain or snow, but you should keep it covered when not in use to prevent rust and corrosion.
Can you use a Blackstone outside in the winter?
As long as your body can stand the cold temperature, you can use a Blackstone griddle outside in the winter. I wouldn’t do it in a blizzard, but I’ve used my Blackstone while it was lightly snowing outside and it’s actually kind of fun.
Can you use a Blackstone in a garage?
Blackstone griddles are meant to be used outside, and they should never be used in a garage due because of the threat of fire or carbon monoxide poisoning. Some people disregard the danger and cook on a Blackstone in their garage with the door open, but for safety reasons we do NOT recommend it.