28" Griddle with Hood: Wind, Rain, and Off-Season Storage Tips
By blackstoneproducts | Published: 2026-11-04
Category: Tips & Care
Protect your 28-inch griddle from wind, rain, and rust with a step-by-step storage routine that works for patios, decks, and off-season downtime.
Quick answer
Keep your 28-inch griddle with hood under a fitted cover, positioned so wind cannot catch the hood, and stored with a seasoned cooking surface and dry burners. For off-season storage, clean thoroughly, apply a thin oil layer, and check monthly for moisture.
Why the hood changes your storage approach
A hood adds a large, flat surface that catches wind and rain, so a griddle with a hood needs more than a simple tarp. The hood also traps moisture underneath if you cover the unit while it is still warm or damp. Treat the hood as part of the cooking surface: dry it, cover it, and secure it so it does not act like a sail.
Wind protection is not just about keeping the cover on. Gusts can lift a loose cover and let water in, or tip a lightweight cart. Position the griddle against a wall or in a corner where possible, and use the hood’s latch or a strap to keep it closed.
When rain and humidity are the bigger threat
Rain is obvious, but humid air causes more rust than most people expect. If you live in a damp climate, a cover alone can trap condensation. Leave a small air gap by not cinching the cover too tight, or store the griddle in a garage or shed during the wettest months. Check the cooking surface monthly even when the griddle is not in use.
Do not store the griddle with the hood open. An open hood collects water and debris and exposes the cooking surface to the elements. Close and latch the hood before covering.
Step-by-step storage routine
- Cool and clean the cooking surface: Turn off the burners and let the griddle cool completely. Scrape off food residue and wipe the surface with a paper towel. Avoid pouring water on a hot griddle, which can warp the plate or cause steam burns. A warm griddle traps moisture under a cover; wait until it is cool to the touch.
- Dry the griddle and hood thoroughly: Wipe the cooking surface and the inside of the hood with a dry cloth. Pay attention to corners and edges where water pools. Leave the hood open for 15–20 minutes in dry weather to let residual moisture escape. Even a small amount of trapped water can start rust overnight.
- Apply a thin oil layer: Use a paper towel to spread a thin coat of cooking oil over the entire cooking surface. Don’t over-oil; a thick layer becomes sticky and can turn rancid. This is your main defense against rust during storage. Oil the surface after every use, not just before off-season storage.
- Close and latch the hood: Make sure the hood is fully closed and any latch or strap is secured. An unlatched hood can flap in the wind, scratch the finish, or let rain in. If your hood has no latch, use a bungee cord to hold it closed.
- Cover with a fitted cover: Use a cover designed for a 28-inch griddle with hood. A loose tarp or oversized cover catches wind and can rub against the hood, wearing the finish. Pull the cover down evenly and secure any drawstring or straps. A fitted cover sheds water better and lasts longer than a makeshift tarp.
- Position for wind protection: Place the griddle against a wall, fence, or in a corner where prevailing winds are blocked. If you use a cart, lock the wheels. In exposed areas, consider storing the griddle in a garage or shed during storm season. Wind can lift covers and tip carts; block it before it becomes a problem.
- Check monthly during off-season: Once a month, remove the cover, inspect the cooking surface for rust or moisture, and reapply a thin oil layer if needed. Look inside the hood and around the burners for signs of water or pests. Set a phone reminder; monthly checks catch rust before it pits the surface.
Product facts
- 28" Griddle with Hood: The Blackstone Iron Forged 28” Griddle Cooking Station with Hood features dual independently controlled burners and Omnivore Griddle Plate Technology. Two burners let you cook different foods at once, but they also mean two areas to dry and oil before storage.
28" Griddle with Hood
