About Pot Holders

Pot holders add color and style to your kitchen and are an essential need near every stove and oven. It is easier than you might think to make your own pot holders by knitting, crocheting or sewing. You can also buy a wide variety of pot holders, including easy to clean silicone and fabrics of all sorts. Be sure to replace pot holders regularly to prevent the possibility of burns on your counters or fingers, and always have a few spares on hand.

Function

Pot holders are an item that many of us take for granted in the kitchen, at least until we cannot find one. They are essential when removing hot items from the stove or oven and can be used to protect counters and table surfaces from hot cookware. While some pot holders are largely decorative, most are made of dense fabrics or have a heat protective layer. Felted wool or other natural materials can work very well to protect hands or tables as well.

History

Some of the most unusual and charming pot holders date from the 1950s. Many of these were crocheted in a variety of novel shapes, including fruit, flowers and more. Other pot holders were sewn or knitted. A collection of these can be an ideal accent for a retro-style kitchen; however, do keep in mind that some may be too delicate for regular use or not provide adequate protection for your hands when used.

Types

The majority of pot holders are textiles. Today, most sewn pot holders include a synthetic heat protective layer. In the past, this layer would typically have been wool or cotton quilt batting. Some knitted and crocheted pot holders also work quite well, while others are much more decorative. Densely knit or crocheted pot holders, particularly in wool, do provide significant heat protection.

Considerations

Function is more important than form when it comes to pot holders. Every kitchen should have at least a few thick, sturdy pot holders that provide adequate protection against a hot pan or oven. You may find that many inexpensive commercially available pot holders fail to provide enough insulation. Look for thick pot holders and be aware that the best insulating material should make a crinkling sound for good heat protection.

Potential

Many stores are now offering a new alternative to traditional pot holders. Silicone is being used for all sorts of kitchen items, including pot holders. A silicone pot holder provides excellent protection for your counter or hand, can be stored in a small amount of space and cleaned in the dishwasher.