The Best Oven Mitt

Buying Guide

The oven mitt is such a simple piece of fabric, but it’s likely one of the most essential items you own. In most kitchens, it can seem like this pair of heat-resistant gloves just sprouts out of the drawer when you move in, ready to protect your hands from blisters — though they’re more likely passed down from a relative or roommate. But just try and cook without them and you’ll never take them for granted again.

If you’re looking for a new oven mitt after decades of using Grandma’s old ones, you’ll be happy to find there have been some tweaks to the design over the years. Most notably, you’ll find that many modern mitts are made from silicone, at least on the exterior. This is an upgrade from the traditional cotton or polyester oven mitt in a few different ways.

First of all, silicone can be far more resistant to heat than cloth and doesn’t need to be nearly as thick to convey that protection. It’s also water-repellent, which can be a huge boon not only in safety but durability. When grease or hot water splashes up and over the pot you’re carrying, it will slide right off your mitts instead of staining them — and potentially scalding your hands.

Well-designed silicone mitts can also be a lot better at gripping heavy pots and pans. That’s why you might find oven mitts with a “tread” pattern on the palm, which makes it easier to hold onto that pot roast.

Of course, that extra protection and grip typically comes with a little extra on the price tag. If you’re a traditionalist, there’s nothing wrong with the old-school “quilted” style oven mitts, which are typically made with cotton or a polyester blend. Newer mitts in this style are usually treated with some kind of flame-retardant coating for extra protection. They’re also more flexible than fully silicone mitts, which can make all the difference if you’re used to the feel.

Of course, some modern mitts go for a mix of the two. There are some great mitts made of cotton with a silicone pad near the contact points, or small silicone strips laced onto the surface. Whatever kind you choose, make sure they fit without slipping too much. If you use your kitchen at all, you’ll be using them plenty.

• Length is an often-overlooked factor when buying oven mitts. If you plan on cooking foods with splashing grease or meals in especially large pots, you might consider an extra-large set of mitts. These will protect your forearms from spills or steam.
• Every now and then, you’re going to need to wash those mitts. Silicone mitts make that easy since most food spills will rinse right off. Some models are even dishwasher-safe. Cloth mitts might take a bit of extra care. It’s best to nip hot grease stains in the bud since those can not only mar the fabric but eat away at the protective layers.