Get the Upper Hand on Kitchen Oil Splatter with a Counter Tray
Dealing with grease splatters and oil drips while cooking is a messy annoyance we've all experienced. No matter how careful you try to be, it's seemingly inevitable that your stovetop and surrounding counters will end up speckled with greasy residues anytime you cook foods like bacon, fried eggs, or breaded cuts of meat.
But there's a simple solution to this vexing kitchen problem - the humble oil tray. Placed strategically on the counter near your stovetop, an oil tray gives you an easy way to control the splatter and keep your kitchen clean.
What Is a Kitchen Counter Oil Tray?
An oil tray is a device designed to sit on your kitchen counter near the stove to catch, contain, and collect any grease splatter, oil drips, or other messy spills that happen during cooking. Usually made of heat-resistant silicone, stainless steel, or glass, these trays give you a dedicated spot to corral hot oil and rendered cooking fat, preventing it from getting all over your counters and range.
Oil splatter on kitchen surfaces is unsightly, sticky, and can attract dirt and grime over time. An oil tray solves this problem by localizing the mess in one easy-to-clean receptacle. Simply place it near pans and cooking areas prone to spitting grease, and let the tray do the work of keeping the rest of your counter pristine.
Why You Need an Oil Tray in Your Kitchen
There are many benefits to using an oil tray in your cooking area:
- Catches oil drips and splatters at the source
- Prevents stains and buildup on counters
- Makes cleaning much quicker and simpler
- Improves overall kitchen hygiene
- Saves you from scrubbing oil off cabinets or the stove
- Traps food particles and debris from frying
An oil tray essentially solves the problem of oil mess before it even starts. By dedicating a spot near your cooktop to collect drips and grease, the tray prevents kitchen surfaces from getting dirty in the first place. Cleanup becomes much easier when oil and grease are neatly contained.
Choosing an Oil Tray - Popular Materials
Today's oil trays come in a range of materials to match any kitchen's style and needs:
Silicone
Silicone oil trays provide an affordable and functional option. The flexible silicone construction withstands temperatures up to 500°F. The material is heat-resistant, durable, and soft enough to make a tight seal with the counter. Many silicone trays are foldable for compact storage. They're also dishwasher safe for easy maintenance.
Stainless Steel
For a sleek, modern look, stainless steel oil trays are a great choice. The commercial-grade stainless steel material is rust-resistant for longevity and offers excellent heat conductivity. Stainless steel matches well with other kitchen appliances and is very durable and dent-resistant.
Glass
Glass oil trays allow you to see the oil accumulate and monitor the fill level. The clear glass material won't absorb stains or odors either. However, glass is breakable so it requires careful handling. Not ideal for busy kitchens.
When selecting an oil tray, consider placement. Will it fit in corners or flat against walls? Is there room on the counter near the stove? Measure the space beforehand.
Using an Oil Tray
To get the most out of your oil tray, follow these tips:
- Place near frying pan, close to the stovetop edge receiving splatter.
- Position within reach for easy access when draining pans of oil.
- Empty the tray after each use to prevent oil buildup.
- Wash frequently using warm soapy water.
- Optional: Line tray with paper towels or foil for easier cleanup.
Be diligent about emptying and cleaning the tray. Letting oil accumulate can lead to rancid odors and sticky residue that requires heavy scrubbing to remove.
FAQs
Here are answers to common questions about using an oil tray in the kitchen:
What are the benefits of an oil tray?
Oil trays prevent spatters and drips from staining counters. They contain the mess in one easy-to-clean spot for quicker cleanup. Overall, they keep the kitchen cleaner and more hygienic.
Which material is best: silicone, stainless steel or glass?
Silicone is affordable and flexible but can stain over time. Stainless steel is durable and looks sleek. Glass lets you view oil levels but breaks easier. Choose the material that best fits your needs.
How do I clean an oil tray?
Wash frequently with warm soapy water. Silicone and stainless steel designs are dishwasher safe. Empty after each use and don't allow oil to accumulate.
Where should I place an oil tray on the counter?
Position your oil tray near the stove on the counter where oil splatter is most likely. Near frying pans is ideal. Make sure to leave enough workspace around it.
How can an oil tray help keep my kitchen clean?
Oil trays catch drips and splatters before they stain your counters and stove. Localizing the oil in one spot prevents the rest of the kitchen from getting dirty and oily. They make cleanup much easier.
With a simple oil tray in your cooking area, you can control unwanted splatters and drips from frying. The tray helps keep messy grease contained so your counters, backsplash, and stovetop stay clean and spotless. Next time you fry up bacon or drain fried foods, let an oil tray be your new secret weapon against kitchen messes.