Tiffany Haney
When removing hot pots and pans from the stove, it is important to place them on a surface that can withstand heat. Some countertops, such as laminate, are not suitable for direct contact with hot pans and can be damaged. To protect your countertops, you can use a variety of items such as trivets, hot pads, pot holders, oven mitts, or even a folded tea towel. Trivets are particularly useful for this purpose as they are designed to protect surfaces from heat and come in a variety of materials such as silicone, steel, and wood. They are often elevated to avoid direct contact with the surface, preventing heat transfer. It is also important to note that certain types of countertops, such as granite, quartz, and marble, may be able to withstand heat but can still be discoloured or damaged over time by hot pans.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Material | Silicone, steel, cork, wood, fabric |
| Type | Trivets, mats, pads, oven mitts, pot holders, chopping boards |
| Purpose | Protect surfaces from heat damage |
| Usage | Place underneath hot pans/pots before placing on a table or countertop |
| Countertop Compatibility | Yes: quartz, granite, marble. No: laminate |
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What You'll Learn
Trivets
Cork trivets, such as the Ferm Living Round Cork Trivet, are an excellent choice as cork is a poor conductor of heat, meaning it won't transfer heat from your hot pan to the surface below. It is also a highly sustainable and renewable material. However, it is important to keep cork trivets dry when not in use, as cork can biodegrade if exposed to prolonged moisture.
Silicone trivets, such as the Le Creuset Silicone Trivet, are durable, easy to use and store, and come in a variety of colours. They are also easy to clean and aesthetically appealing.
Felt trivets, such as the Graf Lantz stain-resistant mats, come in various sizes and shapes and provide a necessary layer between a hot pan and your table. They are also durable and stain-resistant. However, it is important to handle them carefully when cleaning as wool can stretch out or lose its shape when wet.
Other notable trivets include the Lodge Cast Iron Trivet, which is a great value option, and the EQ3 Pog Trivet, which features a minimalist design. For a unique and stylish option, the Alessi Extensible Trivet is a great choice, although it comes with a higher price tag.
In addition to trivets, there are other items that can be used to protect surfaces from hot pans, such as hot pads, oven mitts, pot holders, and tea towels. These items come in various materials, such as silicone, fabric, and wool, and can add a touch of colour and personality to your kitchen space.
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Hot pads
Trivets are also useful for protecting tabletops from hot dishes. In some households, the same trivets used for pans and trays are used under hot dishes, while others use separate placemats designed for this purpose. These placemats function similarly to coasters for cups, preventing heat transfer to the table surface.
When choosing a hot pad or trivet, it is important to select a material that does not conduct heat. For example, a metal trivet would transfer heat from the pot or pan to the counter or any surface beneath it. Therefore, materials like silicone, wood, or certain types of steel are more suitable for hot pads and trivets.
In addition to hot pads and trivets, other creative solutions can be employed to protect surfaces from hot pans. These include using a wooden chopping board, a folded tea towel, or the grill from an oven or microwave. These alternatives provide a barrier between the hot pan and the surface, preventing direct heat transfer and potential damage.
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Silicone mats
One advantage of silicone mats is their versatility. They can be rolled up or folded for compact storage when not in use, and they are also easy to clean. Most silicone mats are dishwasher-safe, making cleanup convenient and quick. This is especially useful for busy kitchens that require multiple trivets for frequent pan handling.
The flexibility of silicone mats also allows for easy gripping and handling of hot pans. Their non-slip properties provide a secure grip, reducing the risk of accidents or spills. This feature is particularly useful when removing pans from the oven or stovetop, as it allows for a steady and controlled transfer to the desired surface.
Overall, silicone mats are a safe, effective, and convenient option for placing hot pans on any surface. Their heat-resistant properties protect countertops and tables from heat damage, while their flexibility, durability, and non-slip surface provide added safety and ease of use. With silicone mats, you can confidently handle hot pans without worrying about surface damage or the challenges of managing a hot, heavy pan.
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Chopping boards
Some people have reported never scorching their wooden chopping boards, even when placing hot pans straight out of a 450°F oven onto the boards. However, others have reported scorch marks and discolouration on their wooden chopping boards from hot pans. It is possible that different wood species burn at different temperatures, so it is worth testing a small area of your chopping board with a hot pan before placing hot pans on it regularly.
If you are concerned about damaging your chopping board, you could use a trivet, a dish towel, or a heatproof surface such as granite as a barrier between the hot pan and the chopping board.
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Tea towels
Some people prefer to use oven mitts or pot holders instead of tea towels when handling hot pans, as towels can be less controllable and the edges can droop into the flame or food. However, others prefer tea towels for their versatility and ease of storage.
It is important to always use caution when handling hot pans, regardless of the method used, to prevent burns or injuries.
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Frequently asked questions
You can use trivets, which are small plates or stands placed under hot pots and pans to avoid damaging countertops.
Trivets can be made of colourful silicone, steel, or cork.
Some other options include a wooden chopping board, a folded tea towel, or a grill from the oven or microwave.
It is not recommended to place a hot pan directly on these surfaces as it may cause discolouration, cracking, or chipping. Use a trivet or a cutting board instead.
No, hot pans can leave permanent burn marks on laminate countertops.
