Oven mitts are a kitchen essential. They are the best way to protect your hands from potential burns. For example, when handling hot items in and around your oven.
Of course, like all things, there is a right and wrong way to use oven mitts. The most common mistake is wearing wet oven mitts and then getting burned.
However, people make other common mistakes when it comes to oven mitts.
To avoid common mistakes while using oven mitts, let’s look at the do’s and don’t’s of these handy kitchen tools!
Do Wash Your Oven Mitts Regularly
Washing your oven mitt regularly will keep them looking clean and reduce the risk of spreading germs.
Most oven mitts are made from cotton or fabrics that can be easily machine-washed on a gentle cycle with cold water.
It is important to read the care instructions on your oven mitt before washing them, as some materials may require special treatments or hand washing.
Don’t Put Wet Oven Mitts Near Fire
This should go without saying, but never put wet oven mitts near fire or heat sources, as this could cause them to ignite!
Heat-resistant oven mitts are designed to protect from heat. But they are not flame-retardant and are no match for a direct flame.
For example, leaving your oven mitts on the top stove or oven while in use is pretty dangerous.
Do Store Your Oven Mitts Properly
It’s important to store your oven mitts properly, as this can help extend their lifespan.
Hanging mitts can be draped over a hook near the range to keep them accessible and out of the way. If you prefer to keep your mitts in a drawer, fold them neatly before putting them away.
Don’t stuff them in or pack too many into one drawer either — give them some space!
Taking good care of your oven mitts is easy but makes all the difference in keeping your hands safe from heat-related burns and extending their life span for years ahead.
Do Change Your Oven Mitts When There’s a Breakage
If your oven mitt becomes damaged, it’s time for a new one. In general, worn-out oven mitts won’t provide adequate insulation.
And they may even have holes that cause hot liquids and other foods to bypass the glove, setting you up for a nasty burn.
Additionally, depending on how much they’ve been used, they may no longer be able to handle high temperatures without burning through or melting.
So why risk it? Switch out your damaged oven mitt before it becomes a hazard and get an upgraded model for improved comfort and protection when handling hot dishes.
Do Read the Care Instructions
Sometimes, your oven mitts may come with special care instructions. Hence you should read and follow them to ensure they last as long as they should.
Depending on what type of material, they can have special care instructions for washing, drying, and cleaning.
For example, some fabrics may require specific cleaning methods or be washed in cold water only.
Read those instructions first, and you can be assured you will be able to put your hands through even the toughest baking jobs for a long time!
Don’t Forget to Dry Your Oven Mitt Properly After Use
Having fresh, clean oven mitts is important for any chef or home cook. What’s as essential is that they should be dried properly after each use.
This will extend their product life and preserve their functionality. After taking off an oven mitt, shake off any excess moisture, turn it inside-out, and then hang it up to air dry.
Both kitchen hooks and dish racks are acceptable. That way, the heat-resistant material won’t be damaged by moisture.
Hence you can keep using your oven mitts repeatedly without worry. Taking care of your mitts like this ensures you can always prepare meals confidently and safely.
Final Words
Taking care of your oven mitts is essential to ensure peak performance and maximum protection.
Whether you’re a home cook or a professional chef, always keep the tips we shared in mind when handling hot dishes!
Take good care of your oven mitts, and they will certainly take good care of you.
