Have you ever cooked bacon and felt like you were dodging tiny, hot bullets of grease? Splatter screens are supposed to help, but some just don’t do the job. Choosing the right one can feel impossible with so many options. You want something that truly protects you from splatters, is easy to clean, and will last.
Finding the perfect splatter screen doesn’t have to be a headache. Many splatter screens claim to be the best, but how do you know which one lives up to the hype? We’ve all been there, buying a kitchen gadget that ends up in the back of the cupboard. This guide will help you avoid that. We’ll look at what America’s Test Kitchen recommends and why.
By reading on, you’ll discover the top splatter screen picks from America’s Test Kitchen. You’ll learn what makes a good splatter screen and which features are most important. Get ready to say goodbye to grease burns and hello to cleaner cooking! Let’s dive into the world of splatter screens and find the perfect one for your kitchen.
Our Top 5 Splatter Screen America’S Test Kitchen Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Splatter Screen America’S Test Kitchen Detailed Reviews
1. BergKoch Splatter Screen for Frying Pan – 13 Inch Stainless Steel Grease Splatter Guard – Cover Oil Splash when Sizzling Bacon
Rating: 9.2/10
The BergKoch Splatter Screen is your new best friend in the kitchen! This 13-inch stainless steel guard keeps hot oil splatters contained when you are cooking bacon, fried chicken, or even popcorn. It’s designed to fit most of your pots and pans, making cooking safer and cleaning easier.
What We Like:
- It protects you from painful burns caused by hot, spitting oil. You can say goodbye to blisters and oven mitts!
- It keeps your stove, counters, and cabinets clean. No more scrubbing oil stains off every surface after cooking.
- It fits most of your cookware. This splatter screen works with pots, pans, and skillets.
- It’s made of heavy-duty stainless steel. The fine mesh allows steam to escape while blocking 99% of splatters. It’s much better than flimsy silicone options.
- It’s dishwasher safe, making cleanup a breeze. The stainless steel stays rust-free.
What Could Be Improved:
- The screen can get very hot. Remember to take the pan off the heat before removing the guard to stir or flip food.
If you are tired of oil splatters, this screen is a must-have. It will make cooking more enjoyable and cleaning less of a chore!
2. Chef Craft Select Splatter Screen 10 inches in diameter
Rating: 9.0/10
The Chef Craft Select Splatter Screen is a simple tool that can make a big difference in your kitchen. This 10-inch diameter screen is made of stainless steel. It helps keep your stove top clean by preventing messy splatters when you cook. It’s a useful and affordable addition to any kitchen.
What We Like:
- It effectively protects your cooking area from oil and food splatters.
- The 10-inch diameter is a good size for covering most common pots and pans.
- It works well on any type of stove, including gas, electric, and induction.
- The handle includes a hole, making it easy to hang and store.
- The stainless steel construction feels durable and long-lasting.
What Could Be Improved:
- It is handwash only, which may be inconvenient for some users. A dishwasher-safe version would be a great improvement.
- The mesh could potentially trap small food particles, requiring thorough cleaning.
In conclusion, the Chef Craft Select Splatter Screen is a practical and budget-friendly way to keep your kitchen cleaner while you cook. If you don’t mind handwashing, this is a great tool for splatter protection.
3. Splatter Screen for Frying Pan – 9.8″ 11.4″ 13″ Stainless Steel Fine Mesh Grease Splatter Guard with Silicone Handle
Rating: 9.4/10
The Splatter Screen for Frying Pan set offers a simple solution to messy stovetops and dangerous oil splatters. This set includes three stainless steel screens in different sizes. They have comfortable, heat-resistant handles. These screens help you cook safely and keep your kitchen clean.
What We Like:
- Get three different sizes (9.5″, 11.5″, and 13″) to fit various pans.
- The comfortable grip handle keeps your hands safe from burns.
- The fine mesh design stops splatters but lets steam escape.
- It’s easy to clean – just wipe it down or put it in the dishwasher.
- You can use it for more than just splatter protection – it can drain, steam, or cool food.
What Could Be Improved:
- While durable, the mesh could potentially bend if handled roughly.
- Some users might prefer a handle that folds for even easier storage.
This splatter screen set is a valuable addition to any kitchen, offering safety and versatility. It makes cooking more enjoyable and clean-up a breeze.
4. U.S. Kitchen Supply Stainless Steel Splatter Guard 13″ Fine Mesh Cover
Rating: 8.9/10
The U.S. Kitchen Supply 13″ Stainless Steel Splatter Screen is a must-have for any home cook. This splatter screen helps you cook safely and cleanly. It fits over most pots and pans to stop hot oil and food from splattering. It also has resting feet to keep your stovetop clean when it’s not in use. The comfort grip handle makes it easy to hold and maneuver.
What We Like:
- The professional-grade stainless steel is durable and rust-proof.
- The fine mesh screen effectively catches splatters and keeps your kitchen clean.
- The ergonomic comfort grip handle stays cool and is easy to hold.
- The resting feet keep the screen stable on the countertop and prevent messes.
- It is versatile and can be used for simmering, draining, steaming, and cooling.
What Could Be Improved:
- While 13″ is a good size, some may need larger or smaller sizes for specific cookware.
- The mesh, while fine, may require careful cleaning to remove stuck-on food particles.
Overall, the U.S. Kitchen Supply Splatter Screen is a great addition to any kitchen. It offers safety, cleanliness, and versatility at a reasonable price.
5. Dishwasher-Safe Splatter Screen Splash Guard for Kitchen Frying Pan Grease – Shields 99% of Stove Top from Bacon
Rating: 9.2/10
Tired of grease splatters turning your kitchen into a Jackson Pollock painting? The Dishwasher-Safe Splatter Screen Splash Guard is here to rescue your stovetop! This handy tool shields your cooking area from 99% of splattering grease, oil, and food particles. It’s designed for easy cleaning and storage, making it a must-have for any home cook who wants to spend less time scrubbing and more time enjoying delicious meals. Plus, the foldable, heat-resistant silicone handle adds convenience and safety.
What We Like:
- BETTER SPLATTER PROTECTION! It keeps grease where it belongs – in the pan, not on your counters.
- LESS MESS = LESS STRESS! The tight micro-mesh screen contains splatters better than other shields.
- FITS IN DISHWASHER! Cleaning is a breeze – just toss it in the dishwasher.
- FITS MOST PAN SIZES! The clever design works with 9-inch, 10-inch, and 11-inch pans.
- EASY TO STORE! The foldable silicone handle lets you tuck it away in a drawer.
- MONEY-BACK GUARANTEE! You can try it risk-free for a whole year.
What Could Be Improved:
- The silicone handle, while heat-resistant, could be a bit more rigid for easier handling when folding.
If you’re seeking a simple solution to a messy problem, this splatter screen is a great investment. It’s a practical and effective way to keep your kitchen clean and make cooking more enjoyable.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: America’s Test Kitchen Splatter Screen – Is It Worth It?
Are you tired of grease splatters coating your stovetop and your clothes? A good splatter screen can be a lifesaver in the kitchen. America’s Test Kitchen (ATK) puts kitchen tools through rigorous testing, so their recommended splatter screen carries some weight. This guide will help you decide if the America’s Test Kitchen splatter screen is right for you.
What to Look For: Key Features
When choosing a splatter screen, several key features matter:
- Mesh Fineness: A finer mesh catches more splatters. Look for a screen that effectively blocks grease without completely trapping steam.
- Handle: A comfortable, heat-resistant handle is essential. You don’t want to burn your hand while cooking!
- Resting Feet/Rim: Some screens have feet or a raised rim. This lets you rest the screen on the countertop without the mesh touching the surface. This is important for hygiene.
- Size: Make sure the screen is large enough to cover your most-used pans.
- Easy to Clean: A splatter screen that is easy to clean will be used more often. Dishwasher-safe is a plus.
Material Matters: Choosing the Right Stuff
The materials used in a splatter screen impact its durability and effectiveness.
- Mesh: Stainless steel mesh is the most common and durable choice. It resists rust and is easy to clean.
- Frame: Look for a frame made of stainless steel or heat-resistant silicone. Avoid plastic frames, as they can melt or warp.
- Handle: Handles can be made of stainless steel, silicone, or a heat-resistant plastic. Silicone is a comfortable and cool-to-the-touch option.
Quality Check: What Makes a Good Splatter Screen?
Several factors affect the quality of a splatter screen.
- Sturdy Construction: A well-made screen should feel solid and durable. The mesh should be securely attached to the frame.
- Heat Resistance: The handle should stay cool to the touch, even when used over high heat.
- Effective Splatter Protection: The screen should effectively block grease splatters without significantly reducing visibility or trapping too much steam. If steam is trapped your food might become soggy.
- Dishwasher Safe: Being dishwasher safe makes clean up much easier.
- Rust Resistance: Stainless steel is rust-resistant, but check the quality of the steel and the connections between the mesh and the frame.
User Experience: How You’ll Use It
Consider how you plan to use the splatter screen.
- Everyday Cooking: For everyday cooking, a standard-sized screen with a comfortable handle and easy cleaning is ideal.
- High-Heat Cooking: If you often cook at high heat (like searing), choose a screen with excellent heat resistance.
- Large Pans: If you frequently use large pans, make sure the screen is large enough to provide adequate coverage.
- Storage: Consider how much space you have for storage. Some screens are foldable for easier storage.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What size splatter screen should I buy?
A: Measure the diameter of your largest frying pan. Choose a splatter screen that is at least that size, or slightly larger, to ensure full coverage.
Q: Is stainless steel mesh better than other types?
A: Yes, stainless steel mesh is generally the best choice. It is durable, rust-resistant, and easy to clean. It also withstands high heat.
Q: How do I clean a splatter screen?
A: Most splatter screens are dishwasher safe. You can also wash it by hand with soap and water. Use a scrub brush to remove any stubborn grease.
Q: Why is heat resistance important in a splatter screen?
A: Heat resistance is important because the screen will be exposed to high heat from the stovetop. A heat-resistant handle prevents burns, and a heat-resistant frame prevents warping or melting.
Q: Will a splatter screen completely eliminate splatters?
A: No, a splatter screen won’t eliminate splatters completely, but it will significantly reduce them. A good screen will catch most of the grease, keeping your stovetop and clothes cleaner.
Q: Does a splatter screen affect cooking time?
A: A splatter screen can slightly increase cooking time because it can trap some heat. However, the difference is usually minimal.
Q: How do I store a splatter screen?
A: You can store a splatter screen in a drawer, on a pot rack, or hanging on a hook. Some screens are foldable for easier storage.
Q: Can I use a splatter screen in the oven?
A: No, splatter screens are generally not designed for oven use. The high heat in the oven could damage the screen.
Q: What if food gets stuck in the mesh?
A: Soak the screen in hot, soapy water. Use a scrub brush to remove any stuck-on food. You can also try using a toothpick or small brush to clean out the mesh.
Q: Are all splatter screens created equal?
A: No, splatter screens vary in quality. Look for screens made of durable materials with a sturdy construction and a comfortable handle. Read reviews to see what other users say about a particular screen’s performance.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Larry Fish, the mind behind MyGrinderGuide.com.. With a passion for all things kitchen appliances, I created this blog to share my hands-on experience and expert knowledge. Whether it’s helping you choose the right tools for your culinary adventures or offering tips to make your kitchen more efficient, I’m here to guide you. My goal is to make your time in the kitchen not only easier but also enjoyable! Welcome to my world of kitchen mastery!