Blackstone 5012 Side Shelf, Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000CEPAWM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glc_fabc_bM-2FbM0XDGV1?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
It’s a garbage bag, paper towel holder and cutting board built into one shelf. It’s great - I have it on the 36”.
I live in a very wet part of the US. I bought a canopy that I install during the wet part of the year so the unit itself is not completely exposed to rain (in fact, it mostly stays dry now). I have the hard cover (metal top that barely protects anything) that came with the pro series and I have a waterproof cover from amazon (that I put a bucket under so it's tented). I specifically bought this cover (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01M21R8YK) because I use it on my weber and it's great. The weber brand and blackstone covers that I saw were not waterproof and if exposed to heavy saturation, they would leak inside, which defeats the purpose. There was no rust after this last winter, pretty happy with the results. The added benefit of the canopy is that I can use it every once in a while even when it's raining and not get soaked (though my griddle usage plumetted during the winter this year because it's not fun to be outside in the dark cold rain).
I am almost certain if the elements were directly hitting the griddle (even with the hard cover and soft cover on it) then a lot more rust would have accrued. These grills are open on the bottom even if covered, heavy rain will cause the floor beneath to be wet, some of that moisture will evaporate and it will get up under the covers.
The way that I have been doing it is by using a wet kitchen towel to clean the surface before applying the maintenance coat of oil after a cook.
While the surface is still hot I use water and my scraper to remove the bulk of the leftover solid scraps of food. Once I’ve finished getting the majority of that off of the surface I use a pair of tongs to clean the surface with a wet kitchen towel. Then I add a coating of oil after so it’s protected until my next cook. Basically I re-season it after every cook by burning off most of the oil I add at the end.
I saw a lot of videos recommending the use of paper towels to clean the surface, but it always left a residue on the surface that I found to be nasty so I switched to a wet towel. I do use one folded paper towel to apply the oil at the end, but that’s it.
These are the towels I use:
My wife liked the quality of them so much that she confiscated a pack of them for use around the house so I had to buy another pack.
TL;DR
After cooking, heat up the surface, scrape it off using water, wipe it down with a wet kitchen towel, reapply a coat of oil while it’s still hot.
Be sure not to wash the kitchen towel with clothes since it will have a bunch of food smelling grease in it that will transfer to your clothes. I always soak it in a sink with hot water and Dawn before moving it to the washing machine.
The notorious crummy regulator issue. There are tricks you can do to make it work a little better temporarily, but its well worth a few bucks to just replace it with an adjustable one.
Here's the trick to getting the crummy one reset until you can replace it:
I picked up this one on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07GRFTR4S/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apap_6jXR5bWtX9I2l
It lets you adjust the pressure as well. I was surprised how little pressure it needed to get the flames really cranking. Somewhere around 3 - 4 psi seems to be plenty. Too high and it starts to blow out the flame toward the back of each burner.
Sounds like they use scrapers similar to this though dollar store versions, and put the rounded side hooked over the sides of the griddle so they hang off it, and line them up end to end to cover the whole edge.
Edit: hyperlink didn’t want to work. Here’s the link:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06XHLVHSN/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_9VcgFbVR7V80N
Just search full hotel pans on Amazon. Saw a 6 pack for 65 the other day. You can get all the common sizes too, halves thirds sixths.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07PCJ1MF7/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_fab_t1AzFbNG7Q2RZ
No I don’t think so. 297 for a 36 with a hard cover is awesome. We never close the lid when cooking. We got a couple of those steam domes off Amazon for less than $15 which we use for melting cheese on burgers or whatnot.
Cheese Melting Dome Set of 2, Leonyo 12" Metal Steam Basting Cover for Griddle Grill, Stainless Steel Griddle Accessories for BBQ Flat Top Kitchen Cooking Hamburger, Dishwasher Safe, Heat Proof Handle https://www.amazon.com/dp/B088W7DDFV/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_84F3QR28NT36QVFTS8WA?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Wasn’t cheap but this is what I got, works well for my needs.
RESILIA Large Under Grill Mat – Black, 72 x 48 inches, 12-inch Splatter Protection Lip, for Outdoor Use https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07T17CLVZ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_HQD9J2F0T2FB8HQRPS91?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I can't find the exact one but pretty much these.
Just make sure it's very centered and go slow so you don't mess with the threads that are in there. Its not too hard since is brass and a lot easier to drill, but that's also why they're so hard to remove easily haha.
But don't give up! After that's its smooth sailing. Just don't over tighten the new ones, just tighten till snug. Mine is hooked up to natural gas. Trust me, all the trouble is absolutely worth not having to worry about a propane tank running empty!
I used cheap dough cutters like these https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08RY21L5Z/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_glt_fabc_5MAD28NYE8K4JXEWPC69?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
3 on each side clipped to the griddle edge. It blocks the wind and keeps the side shelves from getting hot.
Used scraping tools from this set:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08GC5QXVX?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Just have to gradually chop the meat as the cooking progresses. Good workout for the forearm/wrist 💪🔪
Yes I chopped it up with a couple scraping tools that came in this set from Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08GC5QXVX?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
It's easier to manage the shredding as the meat gradually cooks, based on my experience. Just gottta keeping working at it 💪🔪
GEETEST 800ml Stainless Steel Pancake Batter Dispenser - Great for Baking,Cupcakes,Muffins-Cooking Crepes,Waffles- Easyflow Spout -Measuring
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08F79KW88/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_SNC19CQJAPPHFK1A1WEA
iCOVER 36 inch Griddle Cover for... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0752GJTF1?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Fits it perfectly. Even comes with a piece that keeps the cover from sagging into the grill top and collecting water.
Spray bottle and a scraper. While the water is bubbling, scrape it into a line in the middle of the gridle, then scrape it down into the hole. I'll take a paper towel and clean the gunk from the hole after that, then oil it down.
BTW- I can't recommend this enough to keep pollen/dust from getting on the cooktop when done: https://www.amazon.com/Blackstone-Griddle-Members-Nexgrill-4-Burner/dp/B08BCVCGX7/ref=sr_1_3
After I clean my top and oil it, I put that cover on (while it's still hot), then when it's cooled down you can cover it with the tarp cover.
Heavy duty, zero bend/flex when smashing, sharp edge for scraping all the goodness off the griddle.
Amazon has the grates for the 36 here
I’m not a huge fan personally, since I feel like using the grates might clog up the burners cooking directly over them.
I usually let the griddle cool while I eat and then turn it back on to about medium and let it heat a bit while I scrape the surface with my griddle scraper (I use this one). Once it’s mostly clean I squirt a little water on there. If is sizzles the moment it hits the grill, it’s too hot. It should take a second to start sizzling. I then scrub the surface with the scrubber side of a non-scratch blue scotch brite sponge (like this). I use the scraper to push any excess water into the rear drain. I wipe the griddle down with a paper towel to dry any last bits of water and then drizzle just a little oil on the griddle and spread evenly with a paper towel. Done!
Pretty simple but works nicely!
I just got this today, fits well under the 36”, gives coverage in front and behind for spills. Haven’t grilled yet but it seems like it will work well.
I'm going to assume these are the correct ones.
Here are the lights: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06XQ39PMF?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details
I they are pretty bright but I'd say my phone camera night mode kicked in and really brightened up the picture, that being said, they were plenty bright enough to be able to see all the food on the grill and I could tell when everything was done cooking.
I googled 36" Blackstone hard cover. There are other ones similar to it, doesn't have to be a Blackstone brand.
what seems to be the problem? does this not have the proper btu
I just use the normal regulator and a hose I got off Amazon. Works fine.
Here is the hose I use:
Originally bought it for a buddy heater but it works for my Blackstone too
I've been using this one for over a decade.
Buy this:
Or this: https://blackstoneproducts.com/products/grease-key
These will solve your problem.
I bought the amazon choice for $22.
Infrared Thermometer Temperature... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B7NQDL3D?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Cover
NUPICK Grill Cover for Blackstone... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08V1K2G25?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Overall it’s pretty good. There this one area behind blade that requires a little work to clean but for the price I’m not complaining.
A big heavy spatula. I can't find my exact spatula, but it's like 2 mm thick stainless steel. Maybe this or this
Nice, but I wouldn't say it's necessary. My soft cover came with a platform support pole thingy. I do have a hard cover but I put a soft cover over it and never have water seepage. The pole will tent the soft cover so water flows off. If you're using a waterproof cover, any small amount of water that may pool on it shouldn't seep through to your griddletop.
https://www.amazon.com/Blackstone-Propane-Adapter-Regulator-Griddle/dp/B0919CHCGD/ref=mp_s_a_1_14?adgrpid=55097103494&gclid=CjwKCAjwp9qZBhBkEiwAsYFsb6xoeAEclMwIpM5OfskCa_MuEi6HxRYI3QN3hnOQ15Ge8qRXJTxPlBoCHyQQAvD_BwE&hvadid=617130997886&... Make sure you buy one with a built in regulator like this. The stock regulators for the 1lb bottles are cheap and often fail when used with 20+lb tanks
The legs on mine weren't even. One was an 1/8 shorter than the rest.
Here's the link to the stand I bought. Royal Gourmet Double-Shelf... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0798NMS1G?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
You can buy the premade inserts for like .50 off amazon. I'll scoop them out of they aren't too gross and reuse, but the liners (at least the oem blackstone ones) are actually pretty heavy duty. Here's the last ones I bought; they were less than $4 for the pack so loaded up.
I bought that griddle at my Sams club for $49, 3 weeks ago. I bought a 20lb hose on Amazon https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07T3PKZJ7 and it functions well. I have never owned a Blackstone, so I cannot compare the burner capabilities. I do check the heat with a Infrared thermometer and it does seem to heat evenly.
The only thing I don't like is the grease hole is in the front left corner and is very small. I will be carrying it in my RV, along with my Weber Q1300 Gas Grill.
Now that I am hooked, I will probably buy a bigger Blackstone with a stand in 2023 for home use.
I just replaced my original with this:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08DRKBTNM?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details
So far so good (it's only been a few days TBH). It's a little short (maybe 2-3 inches shorter than the original one), but it's not an issue. Seems high quality.
Hey I had some problems with my seasoning and I think a lot of people have given you great advice about not scrubbing too hard, making sure it's not windy and messing with your burners working evenly, and also going light on the oil to coat it. If you want an even seasoning all around I uses these griddle cleaning blocks to strip my griddle when it got left out in the rain and rusted. They worked great with elbow grease and a fuck ton of canola oil. Then I cleaned it with soap and water to remove all the oil so I could start fresh. My best advice was to put the oil all over then take a rag(I use ripped up old t-shirts and sweats) and run the oil in till it almost looks like it's not on there. Then start your heating process to get it to stick. I did this oiling/wipe down process a few times over the period of a couple hours. Everytime I use it and clean it I wipe it down the same way as much as possible and give it heat to keep adding to/maintaining it.
There actually are stainless replacement options out there but they are pretty expensive. I've been eyeing them for a while but hard to justify the cost
It looks like a type of stone ground mustard.
Something like this
I bought these: Zeppoli Classic Kitchen Towels... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01IG8X9E6?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
And I have been very happy with them. They are very absorbent and easy enough to clean. They make for good kitchen towels as well.
Another option is to get a hose like this and still use the factory regulator.
Fox Run Large Oversized Stainless... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000H265A0?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Love it for sammiches, quesadillas, pancakes, hash browns. It’s flexible, so not ideal for smashing. But fantastic for turning.
Did you get anywhere with this? I'm struggling at the moment because the US seems to have multiple connection types and the internet is not very forthcoming with the information.
I bought this adapter on Amazon DE that allowed me to use a US wok burner with an EU bottle https://www.amazon.de/-/en/Adaptor-Propane-Standard-American-Barbecue/dp/B005P6W88Q
​
But the Blackstone seems to have another type of fitting so either I have to find another adapter or convert the blackstone using an adapter that fits this adapter (oh man) or get a replacement hose, which opens up the other can of worms which is the type of fitting on the hose that goes into the blackstone itself.
This is worth every dime and has a light mount on it.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07C3WK867/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
​
Additionally you can set your tools down and not melt them.
Something like this can be purchased then modified for propane.
Then you need a propane hose and regulator.
Yeah after my first use there were spots all over my concrete patio. I had to use the baking soda and scrubbing method to get them (somewhat) out. This was my next purchase for the setup:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09FS2D5C2?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details
This is what I ended up getting and it works great
These are them:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09CDD81NV?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Pros: dishwasher safe, silicone handle, perfect fit for a regular egg
Cons: eggs stuck if you don't use enough oil on the sides.
For your wallets sake, and to cut down on your daily waste, order a pack of these for cleaning your griddle: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01IG8X9E6?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&ref_=cm_sw_r_ud_dp_KYNQ1NKN01E1QHDQGCRG
They are AWESOME for clean up and for seasoning your griddle. They wash easily in the laundry, and your SO won’t yell at you for ruining her nice kitchen towels. Actually, since I ordered these for my griddle my girlfriend yells at me for using all of them because she likes them so much haha.
Thanks! High heat, dry ass pan or griddle(no oil) and I use this bad boy.
On the bottles don’t go too big, found the below to be perfect in 6 oz for oil. I do use one of the blackstone ones for water on occasion but even it is too big for that purpose, would rather have just used a 2nd 6 oz bottle.
THIS THIS THIS!!! I have the square version and it's the best! Usually with 80/20 I can smash without even needing parchment paper. Just twist it a bit to release it off the meat. But I often still use the paper just to reduce mess a bit. Smooth stainless is by far the best for smashing burger patties, and the handle on top gets you a much better smash than using spatulas, or even a spatula plus the butt end of another spatula.
Square version: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08SHRRLHW/ref=dp\_iou\_view\_item?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Your question got me looking. This is smaller but would still work.
I use this one and like it so far. HULISEN Stainless Steel Burger... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B095LBPPND?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share no lip. I had bought a cast iron one that had a lip and didn’t like it at all because of that.
My griddle's on a deck that frequently gets side wind and it's a huge pain. Was buying some parts for my can-am and noticed the company (UTV giant) oddly made some wind guards for the blackstone... Picked up a set and wow it made a huge difference, so guessing OP will have good luck with this.
I got a griddle thermometer and it really helped. I was usually too hot but it will also tell you if it's not hot enough.
https://www.amazon.com/Cooper-Atkins-3210-08-1-Thermometer-Griddle-Surface/dp/B004W7Q4WA/
Maybe some chafing pans. They come in different sizes, like 1/2 pan, 1/3 pan, etc. They're also used by delis for their refrigerated cases. Just remember to use pot holders if they've been on top of the blackstone.
Something like this?
Thanks!
It's this: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08SHWWRR4?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
There are tons of them on Amazon. I'll probably somehow build up a "box" for it since I don't have any way to recess it. The only thing I don't like is they provided an elbow that works with a hose clamp for propane, but I don't really like that with the quick disconnect hose, so I need to find an elbow to send the gas line out the back.
But it's exactly what I needed for a few sides/sauces or in today's case, scrambled eggs
is the hood cover attached to the griddle or to the bottom part where the knobs are? just trying to see if these would work (picture 5)
I’m a newbie with a Blackstone. What do you need paper towels so handy for?
Amazon choice for $9.99
Magnetic Paper Towel Holder,Towel Bar for Refrigerator Grills Griddles RVs Tailgates, Carbon Steel with Rust-Resistant Finish,12”(L) x 3”(H),Fit Most US Paper Roll https://www.amazon.com/dp/B098PM3YTG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_2G6DQYK57YDJFXPQ141E I did not buy or have.
The air fryer still requires plugging in , I would much rather have a griddle without the air fryer built in and an electric air fryer on a nice camp kitchen. Same price as getting the built in fryer and you get added counter space. The side shelves on the blackstone are pretty useless because they get so hot I’ve already melted 2 oil bottles leaving them sitting on the shelves. I have owned this camp kitchen for 3 years and it is still awesome.
GCI Outdoor Master Cook Station Portable Camp Kitchen Outdoor Folding Table https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07C3WK867/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_TC3NES5PA2BS0A5WWZA7?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
The way the 1lb cylinders have gone up in price lately, if you really want to use them for space reasons just get a refill adapter for like $7 and refill them to your heart's content
The inserts on the bottom of the Blackstone is 8mm. I purchased a set long legs for mine so it would be adjustable.
CNBTR Adjustable Furniture Glides 50mm Dia Table Desk Leveling Foot Leg M8 Pack of 4 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01D4UP3JA/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_7RRE922JXHVNSGGQ731Y?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I got these ones
Wish I got these ones
I have this prepcart and its a great addition for that space challenge.
What do you mean tight to remove? At which end? At the tank or at the grill?
Try using something like this. You can get it at home Depot or harbor freight easily.
https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B082MJR664/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_BKJ1PGTC24C4TYBB83VZ
Whichever way you lean. Take it from personal experience. Get one with fabric liner on the inside. It helps with moisture problems like rust from condensation after an extended period of no use. Or if you live in a climate with high humidity/inconsistent weather. This is the one I have. Go Neers! NCAA Appalachian State Mountaineers 68-Inch Grill Cover https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002VA6T84/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_54NJ0JSS4QKASXKX6RN8
Also you can also get the 60 and still fit it with shelves down. It has tie strings (also for wind)
I use this and it's awesome. Sometimes I can do it with the press by itself, but it's safer to use a piece of parchment paper just to be sure the meat doesn't stick. Cast iron burger presses are junk. Leave those for bacon duties.
Best tool for smash'n burgs. 33-Stainless-Grip-EZ-Pounder/dp/B00004UE7C/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?crid=3LZ24UPPCFULK&keywords=norpro+meat+pounder&qid=1649349678&sprefix=Norpro+meat%2Caps%2C179&sr=8-1
Agree with the posters who say you don't need all that stuff. The best tool I ever purchased for my Blackstone is: https://www.amazon.com/Cuisinart-CCB-500-Griddle-Scraper-Gray/dp/B0776YPYG6/ref=sr_1_3?crid=1952KR6BSQH0V&keywords=grill+scraper&qid=1649338980&sprefix=grill+s%2Caps%2C139&sr=8-3
Three years of 2-3 times/week use. Never had rust. Never had to re-season. Enjoy your griddle!
Thanks for the answers! I lucked out and found this on the Amazon website today
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08V57J9BB/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I've ordered it and will find out tomorrow if it works!
I bought one of those 15 piece kits from Amazon. The quality isn't great and I only ever use the dome. I bought these scrapers originally, and pretty much used them every time. 2 weeks ago I finally broke down and bought the branded scrapers. Wish I would have done that to begin with. They were only $7 more.
I've been thinking about this especiallu for Oklahoma onion burgers:
Dexter Outdoors 4" x 5" Hamburger Trowel https://www.amazon.com/dp/B006WQKQP0/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_P6QZ2K9QQQD8E39YE67D?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Downside is I think it's carbon steel so you'd have to watch out for rust.
I bought this set and love them. Similar to the second link you have here. The edges are super sharp so they get all the good crusty edges off and waste nothing! Extra Large Metal Burger Spatula Set of 2, Leonyo Heavy Duty Stainless Steel Griddle Slotted Hamburger Turner, as Barbecue Cast Iron Grilling Flat Top Griddle Accessories, Wooden Handle, Smash Burger https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08SPZZJ1B/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_ASHMSNTACRDV41EF0YYP?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I think that's for a regular 20-pound tank, but he needs a quick connect hose. Maybe something like this? https://www.amazon.com//dp/B081SFNHDQ/ I guess it depends on whether the RV output needs a male or female quick connect.
Ii use Crisbee Cream on all my cast iron, carbon steel, and black stone. That stuff works amazing.
Crisbee Cream Iron ® Cast Iron and Carbon Steel Seasoning - Family Made in USA - The Cast Iron Seasoning Oil & Conditioner Preferred by Experts - Maintain a Cleaner Non-Stick Skillet https://www.amazon.com/dp/B082727TXY/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_S40ZSD141CTW12QS36E5?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I just got some of these and it’s makes scrubbing it easy, I also use a small towel on the top so I can scrub it while it’s hot [40 Pack] Grill Cleaning Screens... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07PJ5G1WL?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Buy something like this:
Utopia Towels Kitchen Bar Mops Towels, Pack of 12 Towels - 16 x 19 Inches, 100% Cotton Super Absorbent White Bar Towels, Multi-Purpose Cleaning Towels for Home and Kitchen Bars https://www.amazon.com/dp/B007JCHAGE/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_S8CNFA8DSZCC140JAB49?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Wet it down and then ring it out and use a pair of tongs to wipe the surface after you’ve scraped it off.
Afterwards apply a light coat of oil and call it a day. The surface will not have a residue on it after.
Is this what you have? Blackstone Griddle Accessories - 12 Inch Round Basting Cover - Stainless Steel - Cheese Melting Dome and Steaming Cover - Best for Use in Flat Top Griddle Grill Cooking Indoor or Outdoor https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06Y6H4ZL6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_NQ40B549JF5J8H14CA88
Adding a hinged hood on is quite expensive unfortunately.
Here's an aftermarket one: Backyard Life Gear Hinged Lid for 36 inch Blackstone Griddle with Rear Grease Collection - Black https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B08QW5P4CC/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_RZG9YD4A57E0NZK7S1AS
I bought the cover linked below and have never had an issue with water getting in. I was shocked how reasonably priced it is and how durable. Also if your are really worried about moisture on the surface put a layer of parchment paper down after each cook/clean.
Blackstone 36 inch Griddle Cover Waterproof 600D Polyester Heavy Duty Flat top 36" Gas Grill Cover Exclusively for Blackstone 36" Griddle Cooking Station https://www.amazon.com/dp/B008RHG45S/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_V5FRCX43MR73WJW0YH3Y?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I’ve had my griddle 2 winters now - first I only had that soft cover and I had no rust issues. I ended up getting a hard top I will link below - simply because I use mine a lot (like 3-5 times a week) and was tired of the on/off of the soft cover in the warmer months. I’m in northern Minnesota and had no rust issues (maybe a tiny spot in one of the far corners - like a dime size) but I make sure that I get a good clean season on it before winter. I still use the soft cover when I close it up for longer term non-use periods and for all of winter. The hard cover alone is not sufficient for sealing up for winter.
This is what I ended up getting: UTVGIANT 36 Inch Black Stone Griddle Cover Lid, Powder Coated Black Aluminum Lid Storage Cover for 36 inch Black Stone Griddles - Made in USA https://www.amazon.com/dp/B087BV4JZP/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_0NN178NYE7F94VGQ4TBH?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
This is the one I got for my 36 inch: Limited-time deal: iCOVER 36 inch Griddle Cover for Blackstone, 600D Heavy Duty Waterproof Canvas Flat Top Gas Grill Cover for Blackstone 36" Griddle Cooking Station for Camp Chef 600 Barbecue Cover with Support Pole https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0752GJTF1/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_dl_YPNJJ2YVY13CAXMZV4T2?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
You can see the plastic thing on the top right of the first photo that you put in to hold it up.
Just researching this now. I have the same model you have. So this is the one you got? https://www.amazon.com/Blackstone-5249-Natural-Gas-Conversion/dp/B087V4XG44
And you're sure it works for the 30 inch 3 burner Culinary model?
This to hold the greasy spatulas while cooking:
Blackstone Products 8060200 Stainless Steel Tool Combination Holder, Orange - 4 Piece https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09D2DLBW5/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_ZR7SAHR8TVBZPD0GNGS3
And these gravity salt and pepper are a must:
Gravity Electric Salt and Pepper Grinder Set, Automatic Pepper and Salt Mill Grinder Battery-Operated with Adjustable Coarseness, LED Light, One Hand Operated By Rongyuxuan https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07X7MMH8Q/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_PTXTJABCYDJQZR6327WS?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Just a nice heavy spatula will do. I use this one weekly no paper and it's only 7$ on amazon
Stainless steel chopper/scrappers can be slid onto the sides on the griddle and will cover the gap between the flattop and the frame. It helps with wind and cuts down the heat transfer to the side shelves. (Mine still get warm, but not melt your bottle hot)
I use three on each side of my 36", not sure what you need for that size.
For speed I found one on Amazon so you understand what I am referring to. If you have access to a Dollar Tree they have them for around a buck apiece.
I bought one on Amazon, arrives today.
Backyard Life Gear Hinged Lid for 36 inch
Blackstone Griddle with Rear Grease Collection - Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08QW5P4CC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_MF8VVJ49DZ0YWECSFQ1R
completely smooth bottom stainless steel burger press like this one. I don't even have to use parchment paper. Highly recommended. And also the big XL Blackstone spatula for flipping said burgers.
I couldn’t find the one I was talking about. Bit I did find this one that is similar to what someone else was saying they have and like. I’d have to take some measurements to make sure it will fit though.
I'm in the market for one as as well since I just got my Blackstone for camping. I'm getting close to pulling the trigger on this
CampLand Aluminum Table Height Adjustable Folding Table Camping Outdoor Lightweight for Camping, Beach, Backyards, BBQ, Party (Silver, Rectangle-Med) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071KZPXG7/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_i_AK2F3H6D03CEA8YNB8S5?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Model 1932 has a hinged lid, Model 1866 has removable lid and magnetic accessory rail. I just went through a similar dilemma and it’s really all about what you value most! I ultimately selected a version off Amazon that has a removable lid, built in cutting board, and trash bag hooks.
I have read that both the models shown here have issues with the side tables getting hot due to their proximity to the cooking surface. Anyone actually encounter this?Blackstone 1825 on Amazon