How to Clean a Cleveland Tilt Skillet
A tilt skillet is one of the most versatile pieces of equipment in a commercial kitchen. Cleveland makes some of the best in business, allowing chefs to easily braise meat or whip up brown and fluffy hotcakes. Like any commercial equipment, routine cleaning is essential to ensuring peak performance. Below are easy instructions for how to clean a Cleveland tilt skillet and braising pan properly.
What You'll Need:
- Warm water
- Mild detergent
- Bucket
- Nylon brush
- Sponge
- Towels
Cleveland SGL & SEL Tilt Skillet Cleaning Instructions
Follow these steps daily to clean a Cleveland SGL and SEL tilt skillet:
Step 1. Prepare the Unit
Start by switching off the tilt skillet and unplugging it from the wall outlet. Then, close the gas valve if you have a gas unit.
Step 2. Remove All Accessories
Remove all extra accessories from the tilt skillet and wash it thoroughly in a sink or dishwasher. If you choose to clean it by hand in a sink, use mild detergent and scrub with a brush or sponge.
Step 3. Clean the Skillet Interior
Combine warm water and mild detergent into a bucket. Once mixed, use a sponge or nylon brush with the soapy mixture to wash the interior of the skillet.
Step 4. Rinse the Interior
Using a clean, damp cloth, rinse the interior and allow it to air dry.
Step 5. Disassemble the Tangent Draw-Off Valve
Remove the tangent draw-off valve by turning its knob counterclockwise. Then, turn the large hex nut counterclockwise to remove the valve stem free from the valve body.
Step 6. Clean the Tangent Draw-Off Valve O-Ring
Wash the valve o-ring a sink using warm water and detergent, or in a dishwasher.
- NOTE—Inspect the o-ring for any signs of excessive wear or damage. If these are noticed, replace the o-ring.
Step 7. Reinstall Tangent Draw-Off Valve
Reinstall the valve by tightening the nut and knob clockwise.
Step 8. Clean the Exterior
Use the mixture of warm water and mild detergent to wash the exterior of the unit. Scrub using a soft, non-abrasive sponge.
Step 9. Rinse the Exterior
Once the exterior surface is clean, rinse using fresh water and a clean, damp towel. Allow the unit to air dry overnight.
What to Avoid
When cleaning a Cleveland tilt skillet, make sure to avoid the following:
- Do not use chloride-based cleaners – These contain elements that are harmful to stainless steel.
- Do not use a scraper or metal brush – Both a scraper and metal-bristle brush can damage the interior and exterior surfaces of the unit.
- Do not use steel wool – Steel wool and other abrasive scrub pads also can damage the interior and exterior surfaces of the unit.
- Do not use a high-pressure hose – A high-pressure spray hose should not be used when cleaning or rinsing the tilt skillet.
Looking for more cleaning or maintenance tips? Our collection of Cleveland manuals have more information to help you out.