Is It Safe to Leave Your Slow Cooker On While You’re Out?

Slow cookers come in clutch when it comes to an easy weeknight dinner, but is it really safe to leave them unattended for long periods of time? Let's explore.

During the summer months, I don't use my slow cooker all that often, as I'm usually cooking outside. However, when it gets cold, that nifty contraption is in constant use. In fact, it typically sits on my countertop from December until March, instead of its usual place in the bottom cabinet. During the week, I'll prep dinner in the morning before work and enjoy it later in the evening. This is the norm for many families in the 21st century, but one has to wonder if leaving a hot device unattended like that poses a fire hazard.

Should You Leave Your Slow Cooker On While at Work?

According to Oven Clean, slow cookers are designed to be left on for long periods of time, so it’s entirely safe to leave your slow cooker on overnight or throughout the day while you're working. Of course, this is true only if you follow all the directions and the manufacturer’s instructions. The website has gathered some slow cooker tips to help give you peace of mind and ensure the safety of your home.

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Tips for Practicing Slow Cooker Safety

The first thing you should do when setting up your slow cooker for the day or night is ensure it is placed on a safe surface. A wooden surface isn’t completely heatproof, so if possible, place your slow cooker on granite or tiled surfaces. The surface should also be flat and hard to minimize the risk of the pot falling over or spilling. Secondly, slow cookers should be kept at least six inches away from nearby walls or other kitchen appliances, and the cord should be kept away from any liquids.

One last tip for slow cooker safety provided by Oven Cleaner involves choosing the right recipe. For best results, you should stick with a simple slow cooker recipe that needs to be cooked for a long period of time—especially if you're at work all day. Luckily, there are a ton of simple slow cooker recipes out there that I'm sure your family will love. You can learn more by clicking HERE.