Kitchen appliances should never be placed right next to the stove, according to experts cited by Southern Living, because high heat, grease and steam can damage them or create a dangerous situation. The outlet identified five devices that are better kept farther away from the cooktop.
Experts recommend leaving enough free space around the stove so cooks can move easily, and can set nearby ingredients and cookware within reach while preparing food. They advise against cluttering the work surface with small appliances, particularly the area right beside the stove, where splashes of grease and steam are most likely to land. Keeping that space clear also makes cooking more convenient and safer, so some appliances are better placed elsewhere on the counter.
Toaster
Heat from the stove can damage a toaster's sensitive components and plastic parts. Worse, grease can get inside the appliance. The next time it is used, the combination of hot grease and leftover crumbs could cause a fire.
Coffee maker and electric kettle
A coffee maker or electric kettle should not be placed too close to the stove. Even a few drops of water landing in hot grease can cause it to splatter and cause burns. Cooking breakfast while brewing coffee at the same time is fine, but the coffee maker should be positioned a safe distance from the burners.
Microwave
Microwaves are often installed above the stove, but that does not mean they should sit directly next to it. Many models have plastic components that can melt or become damaged from intense heat, which could mean having to buy a replacement. For safety, there should also be clear space near the microwave where hot dishes can be set down after heating.
Air fryer
An air fryer needs roughly 13 to 15 centimeters of free space around it so heat and steam can escape properly. Its ventilation openings should not become clogged with grease from the stove, since blocked vents can cause the appliance to overheat.
Blender
Like other small kitchen appliances, a blender can be damaged by high heat, particularly its plastic housing and buttons. Using a blender while cooking on the stove is also risky: if the lid is not sealed tightly enough, liquid can spill onto the hot surface. Experts suggest moving the blender to another part of the counter instead.
