It is essential that you use the right amount of layers of batting when making potholders. You are probably wondering how many layers you need. We have researched all about this and have answers to your questions.
Typically, two layers of batting are all you need for potholders. If you use cotton batting, you will need an extra layer. When you use Insul-Bright, two layers of batting are enough.
Continue reading to learn more about what kind of batting to use for potholders, thermal batting, whether or not you can wash potholders, etc.
All About Potholders
A potholder is quite literally as it sounds. They are meant for holding pots and pans to protect your hands from getting burned. If a potholder is insulated correctly, you should not get burnt. This is why it is so important to use at least two layers of batting when making them.
Potholders are handy to have for several reasons. They make excellent gifts too. They are a good craft project for when you have extra pieces of fabric and want to get creative. You can switch up the patterns or choose complementary colors; it is totally up to you.
How thick a potholder needs to depend on how the potholder is made. One option is to use one layer of Insul-Bright with one layer of cotton batting. If you prefer your potholder to be a little thicker, two layers of Insul-Bright and one layer of cotton batting will work. The thicker the batting, the less likely you are to burn yourself accidentally.
Potholders are also used on countertops and tables to prevent damage to the surface. When you place a hot pan directly onto certain materials, it can ruin the surface, the pan, or both. You also have to remember that the hot pan will radiate heat through the potholder, so it is essential to make sure it is thick enough.
Are oven mitts and potholders the same thing?
There is a common misconception that potholders and oven mitts are the same thing. They are often used interchangeably. Potholders and oven mitts can be used for the same purpose but are not the same thing. Oven mitts are usually shaped like a mitten so that you can put your hand into them. An oven mitt has a space inside for you to grab hold of the hot pan between your thumb and fingers.
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Instead of being shaped like mittens the way an oven mitt is, pot holders tend to be square, round, or rectangular.
Hot pads are another option and are meant to be used under hot dishes. Potholders will work in place of them, but they are different if you want to have both options handy in your kitchen space. Another difference is that hot pads do not have a slit or pocket for you to slide your hand into.
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What kind of batting do you use for a potholder?
There are several options when choosing batting for your potholders. Whatever material you choose for the outer layers should not be a lightweight fabric. The most common materials used for the batting are cotton and polyester.
Some people even repurpose ironing board covers or old blankets to use as insulation for their potholders. Polyester is an excellent option because it does not shrink when washed and dried.
The most popular choice that has been proven to be the best choice is Insul-Bright. We say this mainly because Insul-Bright is heat resistant making it perfect for this job. It is made of polyester fibers which are punched through a layer made of a metalized polyester.
According to the manufacturer, the layers of Insul-Bright can be placed in either direction. You need two layers to make the potholders more resistant to heat. You should also add one layer of cotton batting to make your potholders thicker.
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Can you use quilt batting for potholders?
Yes, you can use quilt batting for potholders. Quilt batting is most commonly made up of polyester, cotton, or a poly-cotton blend. Polyester is not the best choice for insulating potholders because it does not block heat well. Cotton batting is the better option.
Can you use cotton batting for potholders?
Yes, you can use cotton batting for potholders. You need more cotton batting than you do Insul-Bright. When using cotton batting for potholders, you should use three layers of the batting to ensure your skin will not get burned.
The main thing to be aware of is that you never hold your potholders over a flame or leave them inside an oven. Most materials are flammable, so you must use potholders with care and caution. If the fabric or batting has been treated with a flame retardant chemical, you do not have to worry so much about that aspect.
One way to get batting into the corners of a potholder is by using a long skinny object to push the batting into the corners. A crochet hook, knitting needle, or the handle of a wooden spoon will do the job just fine.
You can use a rotary cutter to cut the batting to size. Any time you use a rotary cutter, you should have a durable mat underneath, such as one made of rubber or silicone.
What is thermal batting?
Thermal batting is used to make whatever your project is more insulated and heat resistant. Heat-resistant is not the same as heatproof. Do not hold a potholder against an extremely hot pan for too long because the heat usually goes through the material.
The most well-known thermal batting is Insul-Bright. That is why we suggest it as the number one option for batting when making potholders. Thermal batting means it is batting made for the purpose of insulation.
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How many potholders do you need?
The answer to this question depends on how often you cook and how much space you have in your kitchen. It is nice to have two potholders available so that you can have one for each hand when you go to pull something out of your oven. If you get your potholders dirty, you should have two extra on hand.
If you have hot pads or oven mitts, you probably will not need as many potholders. Four potholders should be enough to keep in your kitchen to have readily available. You can keep more than four if you want to, though. It is possible to add a little fabric for your potholder to hang up on a hook in your kitchen, or you can store them in a drawer.
Can you put potholders in the washing machine?
Yes, you can wash potholders. They will last longer if you allow them to air dry rather than putting them at a high temperature in the dryer. Insul-Bright can be washed and dried.
Another question people ask is whether or not you can put potholders in a microwave. You shouldn't put potholders inside of a microwave as this is unsafe. It isn't worth catching the material on fire or worse happening subsequently. It is okay to put potholders in a dryer, though. The heating process in a microwave is much different than in a dryer.
An Overview
The number of layers of batting that you use for potholders depends on the type of batting you are using. When using Insul-Bright batting, two layers will suffice. If you use cotton batting, you should add an extra layer for protection.
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