Kitchens are dangerous places, but they don’t have to be. You can save yourself from burns, cuts, bruises, and more with the right protective gear. Naturally, none of these products will be good enough on their own. To stay safe, you need to practice good habits. Don’t rush, make sure nothing is likely to fall, and pay attention to anything on the stove – do this, and these products will help catch you when you fall.
Oven Mitts
One of the most essential protective gear in the kitchen is oven mitts. They protect your hands from the high temperatures of your oven, stove, and other hot surfaces. It would be best to choose oven mitts made from high-quality materials like silicone, as they are heat-resistant and easy to clean. Also, ensure they fit your hands comfortably and have a good grip to prevent slipping.
Cutting Gloves
A cutting glove is a protective gear that protects your fingers from cuts and scrapes when using knives, graters, or mandolins. They are made of durable materials like Kevlar, a high-strength material used in bulletproof vests, making them long-lasting and reliable. Some even look like chainmail. Find the comfortable size for you, and ensure it’s your right size. If the glove is too large, you won’t be able to feel well with your fingers and might over or underestimate where the knife is as a result. Of course, you should also brush up on how to safely use a knife as well to bring down the risk of cuts.
Aprons
Aprons are not just fashionable but also functional protective gear. They protect your clothes from spills, stains, and other potential kitchen messes. If you’re frying food, aprons can help protect you from burns. Depending on your preference, you can choose from materials like cotton, denim, or polyester. Professional chef men & women’s aprons come in many sizes, from full-length chef aprons to bistro or bib aprons. If you only have one in the kitchen, opt for the full-length option, which provides more coverage. If it comes with pockets, you can even keep devices you need on hand, so everything’s in easy reach.
Safety Goggles
Safety goggles are essential in protecting your eyes from any potential harm in the kitchen. They protect your eyes from splatters, fumes, and smoke, which can cause eye irritation, damage, or blindness. They’re essential when using a blow torch, as a wayward spark can cause serious damage. They’re also useful just for convenience. Cry often when cutting onions? Put those goggles on, and you can say hello to dry-eyed onion cutting.
When it comes to goggles, you can use anything. They need to be comfortable to wear, not obstruct your vision, and be clear. They should also be anti-fog since you’ll work in hot, humid spaces.
Knife Sharpener
Though not PPE, a knife sharpener can be considered a safety tool. Dull knives, after all, cause accidents. Sharp knives work the way you expect them to, whereas dull knives require more brunt force. Investing in a knife sharpener and using that protective glove can keep your blades sharp and precise to avoid injuries.