Oven mitts are an essential kitchen tool that can help protect your hands from hot surfaces and steam. While oven mitts provide a useful barrier between your hands and the heat, they can also be a source of danger if not used properly. To ensure safe use of oven mitts, it is important to understand the best practices for using them.
First and foremost, always check the label on your oven mitts before using them. Many oven mitts are designed to withstand temperatures up to only 500°F (260°C), so it is important to make sure that your oven mitts are rated for the temperature you will be working with. If you plan on using an oven at a higher temperature than your oven mitts are rated for, consider investing in a pair of high-temperature resistant oven mitts.
When using oven mitts, make sure that you are wearing them correctly. Oven mitts should fit snugly over the entire hand and wrist to ensure maximum protection from heat and steam. Additionally, it is important to keep the cuff of the oven mitt away from any open flame or intense heat as this can cause the fabric of the glove to melt or catch fire.
It is also important to keep in mind that while most oven mitts will protect against heat, they may not be able to protect against steam or liquids that have been heated in an oven or on a stovetop. For these tasks, it is best to use pot holders instead of oven mitts as they can better protect against steam and liquids.
Finally, always inspect your oven mitts before each use for any signs of wear and tear such as fraying fabric or loose stitching. If your oven mitt shows any signs of damage or wear, replace it immediately as this could compromise its ability to protect you from heat and steam.
By following these best practices for using oven mitts, you can ensure that you stay safe while cooking with hot surfaces and elements in the kitchen!
Some examples of the best oven mitts you can buy are:
- OXO Good Grips Silicone Oven Mitts
- Utopia Kitchen Heat Resistant Oven Mitts
- Homwe Silicone and Cotton Oven Mitts
- HOMWE Extra Long Professional Silicone Oven Mitts
- Cuisinart Silicone and Cotton Oven Mitts