Just One Simple Tool Will Prevent Pots From Boiling Over

We’ve all encountered the annoying scenario of a pot boiling over on the hob while preparing vegetables or pasta. Fortunately, a "genius" kitchen hack shared on TikTok by @gurusidneyraz offers a simple solution: use a wooden spoon. Here's how it works and why. This is prepared by SSP.

Place a wooden spoon over the top of the pot to keep boiling water from spilling over. In a clip, Sidney Raz demonstrates: "You can stop a pot from boiling over by putting a wooden spoon on it." By laying the spoon across the top, bubbles hitting the spoon disperse back into the liquid. The cooler surface of the wooden spoon causes bubbles to collapse, and it acts as a barrier that prevents bubbles from spilling over the edge.

Moreover, wood’s absorbent properties help to break apart the bubbles. However, this isn’t a foolproof solution. High heat may eventually cause the spoon to heat up, making the bubbles boil over again. The key is to monitor and adjust the heat based on the pot size, water amount, and heat level.

This simple trick might not be effective over extended periods of intense boiling, but it offers a quick fix to prevent water from splattering everywhere. If you lack a wooden spoon, other measures include using a larger pot, adding less water, or reducing the heat.

By incorporating this hack, you can improve your kitchen efficiency without the constant cleanup. Want more tips for a hassle-free kitchen? Check out how to load your dishwasher correctly, clean a cast iron skillet, or find out which appliances can help save money.