Seasoned tips for cleaning waffle irons

Most waffle irons these days have a non-stick surface, but some people still prefer uncoated surfaces because of their better heating qualities. Either way, your waffle iron will last longer and do a better job if they are kept clean.

• Wipe it with a damp cloth while the iron is still warm (but not while it's hot).
• Use a clean, dry brush, such as a pastry brush, to remove bits of food and crumbs from all the nooks and crannies

• A waffle iron without a non-stick surface needs to be seasoned before it can be used the first time and will need reseasoning whenever sticking becomes a problem or it doesn't release waffles easily. To season a waffle iron, follow these steps:
• Brush a generous amount of fat, such as unsalted butter or peanut oil, on the grids.
• Heat the iron until the grids start to smoke.
• To absorb the fat, cook a waffle and throw it away.

• Wipe with a damp cloth. If that doesn't do the trick, try one of these solutions:
• If the iron has removable plates, take them out and wash them in a solution of dishwashing liquid and hot water. Scrub with a nylon scouring pad if necessary.
• If the plates are not removable, use an old, clean toothbrush dipped in the dishwashing liquid solution to clean the grids, then rinse thoroughly with a damp cloth.
• Repeat the seasoning process whenever you scrub the grids.

• Wipe it with a damp cloth.
• If you need extra cleaning power, add a few drops of dishwashing liquid to the cloth, but don't use an abrasive cleaner or scrubber.
• Never immerse the iron in water, unless the instructions for your machine specify that immersion is OK.