master-cooks | The Dangers Of Using Oven Mitts With Wet Hands

Using oven mitts with wet hands can pose significant dangers, primarily due to the properties of water and the materials typically used in oven mitts. When your hands are wet, the water can quickly permeate through the fabric of the mitts, especially if they are made of cotton or other absorbent materials. This moisture creates a conductive path for heat, allowing it to transfer more rapidly through the mitt and potentially leading to burns. Furthermore, the presence of water can reduce your grip on hot items, increasing the risk of dropping them and causing spills or splashes of hot liquids or food, which can lead to burns or other injuries. Wet mitts can also cause steam burns, as the heat from an oven or hot dish can convert the water into steam, which can be more damaging to the skin than dry heat. It is crucial to ensure that your hands and mitts are completely dry before handling hot items to maintain a good grip and protect your skin from burns. Using silicone oven mitts or those with a waterproof lining can also help mitigate these risks, as they provide better resistance to moisture penetration.

Water transfers heat painfully well

While some may believe that cooking burns primarily result from intense flames on the stovetop, the truth is far less sensational. The American Burn Association reports that between 2013 and 2017, the leading cause of cooking-related burns requiring emergency medical attention was contact with hot ranges, ovens, or cookware. This highlights the importance of using proper hand protection in the kitchen.

Oven mitts are designed to minimize heat transfer and are typically constructed from thick, heat-resistant materials or padding that act as insulating barriers between your skin and hot surfaces. However, their effectiveness can be compromised by their condition and usage. A wet oven mitt, whether due to steam escaping from an open oven or moisture from your hands after washing, can pose a significant risk. Water conducts heat, which undermines the mitt's ability to protect against burns.

Consequently, using a wet oven mitt or pot holder to handle hot cookware can result in severe burns. Dr. Adriana Petrova, who conducted research on oven mitt safety at Oklahoma State University (OSU), stated to OSU News and Media, "If the oven mitt or your hand is wet and the mitt is exposed to oven temperatures of 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 400 degrees Fahrenheit, a third-degree burn could occur in as little as one second, depending on the material."

To safeguard yourself, always ensure your hands are dry before donning oven mitts. Additionally, it's wise to avoid placing or storing your pot holders near the sink or on any damp surfaces. By exercising care and caution, you can prevent this common kitchen hazard and better protect yourself from cooking burns.

The Dangers Of Using Oven Mitts With Wet Hands

Water transfers heat painfully well

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