There have been numerous reports and warnings from fire departments across the U.S. and U.K. about kitchen fires caused by towels, potholders, or oven mitts left too close to heat sources .
In one widely shared incident in the UK, a woman returned home to find her kitchen engulfed in flames — all because she had left a dishcloth hanging on the oven door while running errands. By the time she got back, the cloth had caught fire, igniting nearby cabinets and causing thousands in damages.
These incidents often happen when people forget the towel is there or underestimate how long the oven remains warm after being turned off.
Why It’s Especially Risky for Modern Ovens
Modern ovens and range hoods are designed with better insulation and cooling systems, but that doesn’t make fabric safer near them. In fact:
- Self-cleaning ovens can reach up to 900°F (482°C) — easily turning fabric into flames in seconds.
- Glass oven doors retain heat longer and can transfer it to anything resting against them.
- Convection ovens circulate hot air, increasing the chance that a nearby towel will dry out and ignite.
Even if your oven feels cool to the touch, the area around the door can still be dangerously hot — especially during and after use.
What Experts Say About Kitchen Fire Safety
According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) , cooking equipment is the leading cause of home fires and fire injuries in the U.S. Nearly half of these fires start with unattended cooking — and many involve combustible materials like cloths or paper towels left too close to heat sources.
Firefighters frequently warn against leaving anything flammable near the oven, including:
- Dishcloths
- Paper towels
- Oven mitts
- Plastic containers
- Wooden utensils
Their message is clear: Keep the oven area clean and free of anything that can burn.
Safe Alternatives to Hanging Towels on the Oven
You don’t have to give up convenience to stay safe. Here are some smart alternatives:
🧺 Use a Dedicated Towel Rack
Install a wall-mounted or over-the-door rack specifically for holding towels — away from the oven and stove.
🪝 Attach a Magnetic Holder
A magnetic strip mounted on the side of your fridge or cabinet lets you keep oven mitts and towels within reach — safely away from heat.
🥣 Keep a Potholder in a Bowl
Place a heat-resistant potholder or silicone glove in a ceramic bowl on your counter — easy to grab and less likely to catch fire.
🔁 Make It a Habit to Clear the Area
Before turning on your oven, make it a routine to remove any cloths, papers, or flammable items from the surrounding area.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is it ever safe to put a tea towel on the oven door?
A: No. Even when the oven is off, the residual heat can be enough to ignite fabric over time. It’s best to avoid the practice altogether.
Q: Can flame-retardant fabrics be used safely?
A: Some materials are treated to resist flames, but they’re not completely fireproof. It’s still risky to leave anything on a hot surface.
Q: What should I do if my towel catches fire?
A: Do NOT try to smother the flames with water — this can spread the fire. Turn off the oven, carefully remove the burning item (if safe), and use a fire extinguisher or baking soda to put out small flames.
Q: Are oven gloves or mitts also unsafe on the door?
A: Yes. While they’re designed to protect your hands, they are still made of fabric and can catch fire if left too close to heat sources for too long.
Final Thoughts
That little tea towel on your oven door may seem convenient — but the risks far outweigh the benefits. With just a bit of awareness and a few small changes, you can keep your kitchen safe, functional, and fire-free.
Make it a rule: nothing flammable near the oven . Your future self — and your home insurance provider — will thank you.