Covering a pot or a pan with a lid while cooking is not practical for preventing grease and splashes. It will indeed protect you but won't allow steam to pass through. Especially when frying stuff, you require a lid that allows steam to pass and stops the splashes. This is where a splatter guard comes in; an effective yet simple solution for these problems. As you will be using this product extensively, it's best to buy a durable splatter guard according to your needs, and considering some added features never hurts.
Keep These Features in Mind While Shopping for Splatter Guards
Material
There are many options available to consider while looking for a splatter guard. Let's review each one by one. First, we have the stainless steel ones, with big holes. They are pretty durable and surprisingly work well to stop all those splashes. Next, we have the silicone ones. They are the same as the prior, except they are made from silicone covering rather than steel. These are exceptionally good-looking and light in weight. Lastly, we have the traditional steel ones with the mesh. They are the most popular ones and have many uses.
Size
Splatter guards usually come in a universal size that fits most standard pans and pots. These sizes are generally between 9 to 15 inches in diameter. A 13-inch pan is one of the most common sizes, so that's the most popular size for splatter guards. You can buy a bundle of all the sizes or buy a bigger one that fits most pans and pots. Needless to say, measure the diameter of the most used kitchenware before buying a splatter guard.
Functioning
All splatter guards don't work the same as there are different types, meaning different functions. Some splatter screens filter better while others do the air crossing better. However, with modern technology, the mesh is woven tightly with many folds that make the splatter prevent most splashes while also providing excellent steam for frying food.
Handle
The handle is another essential aspect of the splatter guard. It generally comes with stainless steel, rubber, or a plastic grip. Buy whichever suits you the best; however, do look whether what you are buying doesn't get heated up quickly or burns. There are also foldable handles for easy management.
Durability
After a few weeks, it will be pretty irritating to buy a new splatter guard. But most people do; they buy a cheap splatter guard from the dollar store and then replace it because it either bends, burns, or completely breaks. It’s best to buy a splatter guard made from the best material, like top-notch steel. To check the durability before buying, it would be helpful to check the weight of the splatter guard. The lighter it is, the better.
Maintenance of splatter guard
Most of the splatter screens are made from mesh. When the small perforations stop the oil splashes and other greasy stuff, all that stuff might get stuck inside, which can be a little tough to clean. A dishwasher might get the job done for you, but some people might not have a dishwasher, or the splatter guard is not dishwasher safe. At this point, you will need to clean thoroughly with your hands. You can easily do so by rubbing the mesh with a brush and dishwashing soap under hot water. But if you don't regularly clean the guard, this technique won't work after extensive use as the grease will be stuck between those tiny holes. But don't worry, a magical combination of baking soda and dishwashing soap will get the job done. Apply baking soda to the mesh, then add the soap. Scrub it with a hard sponge with water, and voila! Grease will be off in no time. However, this technique has a downside as it will weaken your material. Last but not least, always dry your splatter guard after every wash or use. As most splatter guards are made from stainless steel, it's best to keep the moisture away so there’s no chance of rusting or causing other damage.
Uses of splatter guards
Splatter guards at first seem to be an unnecessary addition to your kitchenware; however, it's not. Many uses of splatter guards will surely make your life more comfortable. First of all, it protects you from those dangerous hot oil, water, and sauce splashes and helps you to keep yourself and your environment clean. Secondly, it can also be used as a handy strainer, and lastly, it can also be used as a cooling surface for your favorite items like pizza and cakes.
