How To Clean an Impossibly Gross Waffle Maker

Waffle irons aren’t typically an everyday breakfast kitchen tool, so there’s a good chance yours may be stored in an out-of-the-way spot, fit for small appliances that get pulled out on weekends or special occasions. Here’s the thing, though, about waffle irons: Even if they’re not used as often as, say, the toaster, they still get grimy, sometimes exceptionally so, and you may find yourself shying away from using it at all because it’s so tough to clean.

Dirty waffle irons aren’t only unpleasant to look at; stuck-on food and a stubborn film of baked-on oil interfere with cooking and releasing your waffles, making what’s supposed to be a fun tradition disappointing and frustrating. 

But, there’s good news: Throughly cleaning the impossibly gross waffle iron you’ve stashed away for far too long is easier to do than you might think. Here’s how to do it.

Note: The following instructions are for nonstick waffle irons.

• Paper towels or a soft-bristled brush
• Rags or microfiber cloths
• Tongs with plastic or silicone tips (optional)
• Dish soap
• Baking soda
• Hydrogen peroxide
• Toothpicks 

If you’ve just cooked some waffles, let your iron cool down completely before you attempt to restore it to like-new glory. 

Use dry paper towels or a soft-bristled brush to remove any loose crumbs. Don’t use any abrasive tools, as they could damage the nonstick surface of your waffle iron plates. 

With dry paper towels, absorb any still-wet oil that has pooled in your waffle iron grates. Folding your paper towels and fitting the edges into the lines of the grid helps reach oil that’s collected there. 

Grab a rag that has a bit of texture (like terry cloth or microfiber). Wet it and apply a small amount of dish soap. 

Use your soapy rag to wipe down the inside of your waffle iron. If necessary, you can use tongs to help guide the rag into the nooks and crannies of the waffle iron.

If any burnt-on food or stubborn oil spots remain, make a paste of hydrogen peroxide and baking soda.

Spoon the paste onto the grates and let it sit for at least a couple hours. The secret ingredient here is time. 

After some time, the hydrogen peroxide and baking soda paste will turn brown as it absorbs the dirty oil that’s been stuck to your waffle iron. Wipe the paste off your waffle iron grates with a clean, wet rag. Swap out your rag and wipe again until any and all residue is removed.

Scrape a toothpick through any small cracks that have accumulated waffle batter or crumbs. Wipe the exterior of the waffle iron with a damp rag and a small amount of dish soap. Wipe again with a damp rag to pick up any soapy residue.

Use a cloth to dry the grates and the outside of the machine. Make sure it’s dry before you use it or put it away.

• If your waffle iron has removable plates, remove them and soak the plates in warm water and dish soap. Replace the plates in your waffle iron after drying them. 
• DO NOT use cooking spray on a nonstick waffle iron. Over time, these sprays cause a sticky buildup. 
• If you have a cast iron waffle maker, follow these instructions for cleaning cast iron.