Protect Kitchen Walls With Splatter Shields
Cooking can get messy. Hot oil and juices often splash out of pans, leaving greasy splatters on counters and walls. Over time, these splatters accumulate into unsightly stains that are difficult to remove. No one wants to spend time scrubbing oil splatter or repainting walls. Luckily, splatter shields provide an easy solution for protecting kitchen walls.
Splatter shields are affordable and reusable tools that prevent cooking messes. They sit above pans and absorb splashes before they hit surrounding surfaces. With a splatter shield in place, you can fry bacon, saute vegetables, or cook other messy dishes without worrying about the walls. Let's explore the benefits of using splatter shields and find the best options for your kitchen.
How Do Splatter Shields Keep Walls Clean?
Splatter shields work by creating a physical barrier between the cooktop and walls. They catch oil droplets and food particles before they can fly out of the pan. The shields have strategically placed holes or vents to allow just enough air circulation while containing most splashes.
Benefits of Using a Splatter Shield
- Prevent grease buildup on walls and backsplashes
- Eliminate the need for frequent wall scrubbing or repainting
- Make cooking safer by reducing hot oil splatter burns
- Keep counters and stovetops cleaner for easier wipeups
- Protect utensils, appliances, and decor from stains
Splatter shields are a budget-friendly way to save time spent cleaning up cooking messes. They cost a fraction of what it would take to professionally clean or repaint kitchen walls.
Types of Splatter Shields
Splatter shields come in a few different material types, shapes, and installation methods to suit any kitchen's needs.
- Clear acrylic or tempered glass - Allow you to see food cooking while protecting walls
- Stainless steel mesh - Offer ventilation and are easy to clean
- Silicone - Flexible to fit various pans and affordably priced
Common installation styles include:
- Adhesive - Stick directly to the wall behind the cooktop
- Magnetic - Removable magnetic strips hold the shield in place
- Expandable frames - Adjustable shields that expand to fit different spaces
Consider the size, appearance, and installation method that suits your cooking style when selecting a splatter shield.
Choosing the Right Splatter Shield
With an array of splatter shield types available, deciding on the right solution for your kitchen can get overwhelming. Follow these tips to find a high-quality splatter guard that protects walls without getting in your way.
Match Shield Size to Cooktop
First, measure the width of your stove or cooktop area. Choose a shield that is at least as wide to fully protect adjacent walls. Common sizes range from 12-inch shields for small electric stoves up to 36-inch shields for large rangetops.
Make sure to check the product specifications for the exact dimensions. Accounts for a few extra inches past the burners on each side for optimal splash protection.
Consider Material and Appearance
Clear splatter shields allow you to monitor food as it cooks but can get coated in oil over time. Stainless steel or mesh shields stay cleaner and offer ventilation. Or opt for an attractive patterned silicone shield that adds a pop of color behind your stovetop.
Maintain your kitchen's aesthetic by selecting a subtle style or one that coordinates with your decor. For a seamless look, choose a translucent acrylic shield in a neutral tone.
Determine the Best Mounting Method
Do you want a permanent adhesive shield or something removable? Self-adhesive shields stick directly to backsplashes for full coverage without gaps. Look for ones with residue-free adhesives that won't peel paint when removed.
For a temporary solution, magnetic splatter shields attach securely to refrigerators or metal vent hoods above stoves. If your wall lacks a metal surface, opt for an expanding shield held in place by tension rods.
Select Quality Durable Materials
Avoid flimsy plastic shields prone to warping from heat. High-quality splatter guards made from tempered glass, stainless steel, or silicone withstand high temperatures and frequent use without damage.
Check product details to confirm heat resistance to at least 450degF. Durable materials will lay flat against the wall, stay securely in place, and handle hot grease splatter.
Installing Your Splatter Shield
Installing a splatter shield properly ensures it catches messes rather than redirecting splatters to surrounding areas. Use these tips to correctly position your splatter guard for maximum effectiveness.
Allow Proper Ventilation
Hang the shield so there is open space between the shield top and bottom of vent hoods or cabinets. This ventilation gap prevents steam and smoke buildup.
Check the product's vent holes are unobstructed so air can flow freely. Avoid tightly sealing the shield to the wall on all sides.
Position Above Cooktop Burners Strategically
Determine typical problem splatter areas based on the dishes you cook most. Then place the shield to block those spots while still leaving burners accessible.
For electric stoves with coils, cover the entire cooktop area. With a gas range, align the shield just behind and several inches above the grates to catch side splashes.
Mount Adhesive Shields Properly
Adhesive splatter shields must be installed correctly to get a tight seal against the wall. Thoroughly clean and dry the area first to maximize adhesion. Apply firm, even pressure for 30 seconds across the entire shield surface.
Run a utensil around the edges to push out any air pockets or gaps. Wait at least 12 hours before use to allow the adhesive bond to fully set.
Use Magnetic Shields Effectively
Magnetic splatter shields require a metal surface like a range hood, vent, or refrigerator behind the stove. Thoroughly clean the contact area and make sure it is flat.
Position the magnets directly on the metal surface. Start in the center and work outward while smoothing down the shield.
Caring for Your Splatter Shield
With regular cleaning and proper storage, a quality splatter shield will last for years. Here are some tips for maintaining your shield to prevent damage:
Use Caution When Cleaning
Check the product instructions to see if the shield is dishwasher safe. Handwashing often works best, using mild soap and water or an all-purpose cleaner safe for the material.
Avoid abrasive scrubbers and chemical cleaners which can scratch or degrade surfaces. Rinse thoroughly and pat dry with a soft cloth.
Prevent Heat Damage During Use
Never leave empty pots or pans sitting atop a splatter shield, as excessive direct heat can cause warping or cracks. Keep shields a safe distance from heating elements when in use.
Rotate magnetic shields to equalize wear and tear over time. Replace any shields that show signs of damage or impaired effectiveness.
Store Properly When Not in Use
Detach magnetic shields and wipe any oil buildup after each use. Roll flexible silicone shields inward and store in a drawer to keep the surface clean.
For permanent adhesive shields, use release liners on the wall side when not cooking to prevent dust and grease accumulation.
Ready to outfit your kitchen with a splatter shield? Here are some of the highest rated options to keep walls spotless.