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Pot Holders and Oven Mitts

Pot holders and oven mitts help staff move hot pans, sheet trays, and cookware with greater control during prep, baking, holding, and service. This category includes compact pads for gripping handles and rims, along with full-hand mitts that provide coverage for the fingers, hand, and wrist.

Pot Holders & Oven Mitts: What You Need to Know

Pot holders and oven mitts are essential items for handling hot pans. While each serves a slightly different purpose, most kitchen staff rely on both throughout the day. Keeping both oven mitts and pot holders on hand supports safe movement and steady control during food preparation, baking, and cooking.

Pot Holders

Pot holders are typically flat, flexible pads used to grip hot pan edges, lids, and handles. They're a practical choice for line stations, bakeries, and prep areas where staff need quick heat protection without putting on a full mitt. While many are square, others are shaped to slide over pan or skillet handles. They store easily, work well for short-contact tasks, and can be kept near ovens, ranges, and holding equipment for fast access.

Oven Mitts

Oven mitts are worn over the hand, providing a more secure hold and broader protection. They cover the entire hand and often extend over part of the wrist or forearm. They're often preferred for loading and unloading ovens, as well as carrying hot cookware. Longer mitts are especially useful in bakeries, cafeterias, and production kitchens where deeper oven access is required.

When Each One Is Needed

When choosing between oven mitts and pot holders, the best choice depends the task. Before reaching for one or the other, consider coverage, grip, and flexibility needs.

Choose Pot Holders For:

Quick pan lifts and handle grabs
Use with skillet handles, lids, and small pots

Choose Oven Mitts For:

Removing pans from ovens
Carrying sheet trays

Common Questions About Pot Holders & Oven Mitts

What is the difference between a pot holder and an oven mitt?

A pot holder is a flat pad used to grip hot cookware or set a pan on, while an oven mitt is worn over the hand for full coverage. Pot holders suit quick handling, and oven mitts are often preferred for carrying larger pans.

How many pot holders or oven mitts should a kitchen keep on hand?

That depends on volume, station count, and the number of employees. Operations with frequent baking, roasting, or oven use often benefit from keeping multiple pot holders and mitts available so staff can rotate them as needed.

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