It often begins as a matter of convenience. While cooking, it’s easy to drape a tea towel over the oven door handle so it’s within reach. Many people do it without a second thought. However, this small habit can create unintended risks. When the oven is on—whether baking or roasting—the door heats up, and fabric resting against a warm surface can gradually absorb that heat. What feels practical in the moment may not be the safest choice.
Even if a towel doesn’t show immediate signs of damage, prolonged exposure to heat can weaken fibers or cause scorching, especially if the towel is damp. Stepping away briefly can make the situation worse without you realizing it. In addition to safety concerns, a towel placed on the oven door can interfere with how the appliance functions. The fabric may prevent the door from sealing properly, allowing heat to escape and affecting cooking performance.
That small disruption can lead to uneven results, with food cooking faster on one side than the other. It’s an easy detail to overlook when a meal doesn’t turn out as expected. The risk increases in busy households as well. Children or pets may pull on a hanging towel, potentially opening a hot oven door or knocking items loose nearby. What starts as a simple kitchen shortcut can quickly become an avoidable hazard.
Fortunately, the solution is straightforward. Store towels on wall hooks, drawer handles, or a designated towel rack away from heat sources. If you prefer keeping one close while cooking, an apron with a built-in loop works well. Small adjustments like these help maintain a safer, more efficient kitchen—protecting both your meals and your home without sacrificing everyday convenience.