Hello Chefs,

Today’s kitchen tip is all about one of the most important foundations of good cooking: safety.

One of the first things we learned in culinary school—before picking up a knife, lighting a burner, or touching a whisk—was how to stay safe in the kitchen. And honestly? This one simple tip has not only made my cooking safer, but also so much smoother and less stressful.

The Tip? Wet Rags

That’s right. Wet rags. Not glamorous, not high-tech—but incredibly effective.

In class, we use damp kitchen towels all the time, but especially when we’re working with cutting boards or mixing bowls. Here’s how:

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1. Under Cutting Boards

Place a damp rag or paper towel under your cutting board, and it will grip the counter and stay in place. No more slipping and sliding across the countertop while you’re chopping onions or mincing garlic. It keeps your hands safer and makes your prep work more efficient and focused.

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2. Ring Around the Bowl

Working with a mixing bowl that keeps spinning or tipping? Wrap a wet rag into a tight little ring and nestle your bowl on top. This is especially helpful when:

You’re tempering something and need one hand on the bowl and one hand on the ladle.

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You’ve got full hands and can’t hold the bowl steady.

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You’re working with heat and don’t want anything sliding dangerously around.

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That wet rag creates just enough friction to hold your bowl still so you can whisk, pour, or stir with confidence.

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Why It Works

Wet cloth grips better than dry, and it’s a quick, no-cost fix for something that could otherwise cause spills, messes, or even injuries. It’s one of those little tricks you’d probably never think to use until someone shows you—and then you’ll use it forever.

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So whether you’re dicing veggies, whipping egg whites, or tempering a custard, remember: a little water + a towel = a safer, more stable workstation. Sometimes, the best tools in the kitchen aren’t fancy—they’re just smart.

Until next time, stay grounded and cook on!

— Brennah