These Are Seriously the Best Oven Mitts I’ve Ever Had
Working in test kitchens has taught me a lot over the years. For example, I’ve learned that you should always call out “behind” whenever you’re passing, well, behind someone. I’ve learned that deli containers are key for storing prepped food and leftovers. And I’ve learned that most test cooks do not use oven mitts, but side towels, to maneuver a hot skillet on the stovetop or grab a baking sheet from the oven.
The last lesson gives me pause, though. I don’t love using side towels this way. Inevitably, I grab one that’s ever-so-slightly damp, which means the heat cuts right through it. And I also find myself going through multiple towels on a daily basis, which is alright when you have someone else doing your laundry at work, but not so great when you’re at home and have to wash everything yourself. This is why, reader, I’m still firmly Team Oven Mitt. And I’m here to tell you which one to get.
I do feel like it’s important to point out that not all oven mitts are great at their jobs. Some let way too much heat through them. Some aren’t quite long enough. Some aren’t bendy enough. You get the point.
Please allow me to introduce you to the OXO Good Grips Silicone Oven Mitt, which I learned about while I was working at Cook’s Illustrated. It’s a favorite there — and it’s my favorite, too.
It’s absolutely the best oven mitt I’ve ever tried, with a silicone top portion that has a diamond texture, making it super grippy so you can easily grab onto slick pie plates and baking dishes. It has a comfy, inner cotton layer that’s thick enough to protect your hands, yet thin enough to still be dexterous. It’s also long enough that it’ll protect your forearms (it goes about halfway up mine) from oven racks or a wayward baking sheet.
This mitt also fits a variety of hand sizes. My husband, who is 6’8’’ and has proportionally sized giant hands, can fit in them just fine. They’re also machine-washable, which is a huge plus. (Just don’t put them in the dryer; let them air-dry instead!) Just one note: These are sold as a single mitt, so you’ll have to purchase two if you want to build a pair.
Do you have this oven mitt? Something different? Tell us in the comments below.