Preventing Hand Injuries in the Kitchen: Tips for Safe Cooking and Cleaning

The kitchen is often the heart of home gatherings, a place where families and friends convene to cook and share meals. However, this lively environment can also pose risks, especially to our hands. Accidents during cooking and cleaning are common, and often involve injuries such as cuts, impalements, or burns. Sanj Kakar, M.D., an orthopedic surgeon at Mayo Clinic, emphasizes the importance of safety and awareness to prevent these mishaps.

Dr. Kakar explains that many hand injuries happen during holidays and special occasions when people tend to be more relaxed or distracted. For example, mishaps involving dishwashers are common—patients have slipped and fallen hands-first onto metal racks, resulting in impaled hands that require surgical removal. Similarly, blenders, frequently used in kitchens, present hidden dangers; many injuries occur when individuals mistakenly assume appliances are off and insert their hands into the blender, leading to severe cuts, sometimes cutting off the fingertip.

Handling glassware like wine glasses also requires caution, as glass cuts can be particularly challenging to treat and heal. Overall, Dr. Kakar advises kitchen users to exercise patience, remain alert, and prioritize safety to enjoy cooking and cleaning without injuries.

To reduce risks, keep appliances properly maintained, avoid rushing during meal prep, and always use appropriate tools and protective gear when handling sharp or heavy items. Taking these precautions can help keep your hands safe and ensure that the kitchen remains a place of joy and connection instead of danger.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-05-kitchen-cooking-conversation-injuries.html