Everyone knows the worst thing about cooking is the cleanup. Gas range protectors are inexpensive add-ons that can make tidying the kitchen much easier.
A simple insert can protect your range from all kinds of splatters, and our guide has all the information you need to get started. Our top pick, the XZSUN Stove Burner Gas Range Protector, just needs a wipe down or replacement to restore order to your kitchen.
What to know before you buy a gas range protector
Reusable vs. disposable
Gas range protectors are designed either for one use or multiple uses. Protectors made of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) or fiberglass are thicker and can be easily wiped down to clean. Alternatively, aluminum foil protectors are paper thin and can be thrown away after each use. Disposable protectors will come in larger packs for easy replacement.
Size and shape
Gas ranges come in many sizes, so gas range protectors come in many sizes. The majority of protectors come in square shapes, but more protectors are being made in circular shape to fit stovetops with round burner wells.
Trimming
Most gas range protectors can be trimmed for a good fit around most types of burners. Disposable protectors are easier to trim due to their thickness.
Cleaning
While thinner protectors are designed to be disposable, thicker protectors are made of a nonstick material that can be easily cleaned and reused. Some can be cleaned with soap and water; others can even be washed in the dishwasher. Always check cleaning instructions before putting your protectors in the dishwasher.
Gas range protector features
Materials
The most popular gas range protectors are made from PTFE, glass fiber cloth and aluminum.
PTFE: A fire-resistant material with a high melting point of 600 degrees that is most often found in reusable gas range protectors.
Glass Fiber Cloth: Like PTFE, glass fiber cloth is a fiberglass material coated with Teflon. It has a higher temperature resistance than PTFE and is typically reusable.
Aluminum: These cheap disposable covers are usually made from recycled materials. These covers are the most resistant to heat, with a melting point of 1,221 degrees.
Color
To best match most gas ranges, protectors most often come in black or silver. You can also find protectors in white. If you are looking to match your stove or kitchen decor, you may be able to find both of these offerings.
Extras
Gas range protectors are great because of their simplicity and rarely come with surprising features. Some sellers will offer silicone brushes, spatulas or kitchen tools to distinguish themselves from the rest.
Gas range protector cost
Gas range protectors don’t have a wide price range, with most protectors costing between $5-$20. Disposable protectors are available in bulk packs for under $10, while the durable PTFE protector packs can be $20 or more.
Gas range protector FAQ
How should I use a gas range protector safely?
A. Position your gas range protector away from the flame of the burner. Some materials can burn if it comes into contact with the burner flame. Make sure the cover isn’t covering any part of the burner. Before placing, trim your protector so that it stays at least a half-inch away from the burner.
You can also improve overall safety by only purchasing FDA-approved, BPA-free, and PFOA-free gas range protectors.
Will any gas range protector fit my gas range?
A. Not all gas range protectors can fit all ranges. Measure your range before ordering your protectors. Protectors are typically available in 8.5- and 10.6-square-inch sheets. Some packs will include different sizes in the same order.
Even if the ones you order don’t fit perfectly, most protectors can be trimmed with scissors to improve fit.
Do these protectors work on electric ranges?
A. Don’t use gas range protectors on electric ranges unless the product information explicitly says that they can be used on electric ranges.
Which gas range protector should I get?
Best of the best gas range protector
XZSUN Gas Stove Burner Covers: available at Amazon
Our take: The best protectors for ease of use. Just place and replace as needed.
What we like: These reusable range protectors are both replaceable and durable, with thickness that separates itself from the competition. Covers are easy to resize depending on your range.
What we dislike: May not be durable at super high temperatures.
Best bang for your buck gas range protector
FMP Aluminum Foil Square Stove Burner Cover Range Protector: available at Amazon
Our take: As simple as gas range protectors get but won’t take up much time or money.
What we like: These gas range protectors come in a bulk pack of 75 aluminum foil sheets. They are easy to place and come in the universal 8.5-inch size for standard burners.
What we dislike: Aluminum foil is fairly flimsy and prone to tearing but can last for a while if handled carefully.
Honorable mention gas range protector
STOCKYFY Stove Burner Covers: available at Amazon
Our take: Easy-to-clean gas range protectors that can be used over and over.
What we like: These covers are washable with a pre-cut shape that can be adjusted for a perfect fit. A 1-pack of protectors are available in two colors: silver and black.
What we dislike: The material of the covers is relatively thin, so the covers may not be as durable as other models.
Daisy Kelly is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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