Next Practical Gift -- Silicone Oven Mitts

A few years ago, I wrote about patching and relining my cheap and worn oven mitts. Those repairs kept my oven mitts in service for a good 2 additional years with no issues, then hobbled along for a 3rd year with the occasional burn. Oven mitts simply wear out.

When my son and daughter-in-law asked what I'd like for Christmas, I said a new pair of oven mitts. Here they are. They chose silicone oven mitts, which I'd never used before. I've now used them on both pyrex baking dishes and metal baking pans, and in the oven up to 400 degrees F. (I haven't needed to bake anything at a higher temp, yet, but have read silicone is safe up to near 500 degrees F.)

Although I simply asked for oven mitts, not necessarily silicone ones, I read a little on the benefits of silicone. If the mitts are lined with fabric (in addition to a silicone exterior), they're not only insulating but easy to slide off and on. Some folks say the silicone-only mitts are a bit difficult to get on and off (skin sticking to silicone as you pull them on/off). The ones my son and daughter-in-law gave me are lined. Silicone blocks moisture from reaching your hand and causing a steam burn. That will be a good thing, as I've burned my hand with a damp mitt on numerous occasions. Not only is silicone water-proof, but the surface is bacteria-resistant. If I spill something yucky on the surface, I can simply wipe them off. And they offer a better grip on pots and pans. Whether or not they will outlast a cloth pair is yet to be seen. I'll update you later on that. The downsides to silicone oven mitts -- no cute or fun patterns/designs, and they can be pricey. 

Just sharing. Have you had any experience with silicone pot holders or oven mitts? Please share. Anything I should be aware of as I use my new mitts?

Another Practical Christmas Gift for Me

you can't see in the photo, but the pattern also makes shorts and pants

I tend to ask for and welcome very practical gifts. In addition to asking for shearling fleece inserts for my slipper-shoes for Christmas, I also asked for some flannel fabric to make myself some new winter pajama pants. My last pair has become so holey that I think they may verge on obscene. (thankful for bathrobes) 

Here's the fabric my daughter gave to me. Nice isn't it? A gray background with an all-over, white leafy-tendril pattern, She also bought the elastic that I'll need for the waistband. I have plenty of thread that will work as well as the pattern (one that I've now used 5 times). I look forward to my new sewing project for next week.