Cooking bacon, searing a steak, or frying up a batch of crispy chicken can quickly turn your stovetop and surrounding counters into a war zone of hot grease. This messy aftermath is not only a chore to clean but can also pose a burn risk. A quality splatter screen is an essential, yet often overlooked, kitchen tool that effectively contains the mess while allowing steam to escape for perfectly cooked food.
With various designs available, from classic flat screens to innovative wrap-around guards, choosing the right one depends on your cooking habits and pan size. This roundup highlights the best splatter screens on the market, evaluating them based on material, design, ease of use, and overall effectiveness to help you find the ideal solution for a cleaner and safer cooking experience.
Our Top Picks for Splatter Screens
- OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel Splatter Screen
- Frywall 10 (Medium) Splatter Guard
- RSVP International Fine Mesh Splatter Screen
- Classic Cuisine 3-Piece Splatter Screen Set
- Lodge L10SC3 Cast Iron Lid
- Fox Run Three-Sided Stovetop Splatter Guard
- HOME-X Splatter Screen Set of 2
- 2-Pack Stainless Steel Splatter Screens
- Splatter Screen with Fold Flat Knob
- T-fal Professional Nonstick Splatter Screen
OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel Splatter Screen
The OXO Good Grips splatter screen stands out for its thoughtful design and ease of cleaning. Made from perforated stainless steel, it avoids the common problem of mesh screens clogging with grease over time. This material is also more straightforward to wipe clean and is highly durable.
It is designed to fit frying pans up to 13 inches wide, and its concentric rings help center and secure the screen firmly on the pan, preventing it from sliding off during cooking. The folding handle is a key feature, making storage in a crowded utensil drawer simple and convenient.
Frywall 10 (Medium) Splatter Guard
The Frywall offers a unique, innovative approach to splatter protection. As seen on Shark Tank, this wrap-around guard creates a contained cooking environment without covering the top of the pan. This design provides uninterrupted protection while giving you complete access to flip or stir your food.
It is exceptionally effective at blocking fine oil mist that traditional screens can let through, yet it allows steam to escape freely. This means your food sears perfectly, sauces reduce quickly, and condensation splatter is eliminated. It is important to verify your pan size before ordering, as it fits pans with a specific lip-to-lip diameter.
RSVP International Fine Mesh Splatter Screen
For those who prefer a traditional mesh screen, the RSVP International model is a top-tier choice. It is constructed from a thick, double fine-mesh stainless steel with a mirror finish that is built to last and maintain its shape over years of use. This superior construction offers reliable performance.
The fine mesh effectively contains hot oil splatters, keeping your cooktop clean and protecting you from grease burns. It allows steam to escape for crispier fried foods, and the mesh is fine enough to see through, so you can monitor your cooking progress without removing the screen. Its versatility also allows it to function as a steamer or strainer.
Classic Cuisine 3-Piece Splatter Screen Set
This three-piece set from Classic Cuisine is the perfect solution for kitchens with a variety of pot and pan sizes. The set includes small, medium, and large splatter screens, ensuring you always have the right size guard for any cooking task, from a small saucepan to a large skillet.
Constructed from rust-resistant stainless steel, these screens are durable and easy to care for. A particularly convenient feature is the long looped handles, which are designed for easy hanging storage. This keeps your counters and drawers organized and the screens readily accessible when you need them.
Lodge L10SC3 Cast Iron Lid
While not a traditional splatter screen, the Lodge Cast Iron Lid serves a similar purpose with added functionality. This seasoned cast iron lid is a heavy-duty option that provides superior containment for high-heat frying and simmering. It is pre-seasoned for a natural, easy-release finish that improves with each use.
The handle and lid are cast as one piece, ensuring decades of durable cooking. It features basting tips that help evenly distribute moisture back over your food, making it ideal for dishes that benefit from a covered, moist cooking environment while still containing most splatters effectively.
Fox Run Three-Sided Stovetop Splatter Guard
The Fox Run Stovetop Splatter Guard takes a different approach by protecting a larger area of your cooking space. This three-panel guard is designed to shield much of your stove and countertop from oil and grease, making it excellent for particularly vigorous frying sessions.
Made from non-stick carbon steel, the three panels are adjustable to angle to your specific needs. When not in use, the entire unit folds flat for compact and easy storage, minimizing cabinet clutter. It is a comprehensive solution for shielding against splatter from bacon, eggs, meats, and other greasy foods.
HOME-X Splatter Screen Set of 2
This two-pack from HOME-X offers great value and practicality for everyday cooking. The set includes two stainless-steel mesh screens in different sizes (11 ¼” and 9 ¾”), providing coverage for a good range of your most commonly used pans.
The screens are designed to protect you from burns and your countertops from grease spatter. They feature heavy-duty handles that remain cool to the touch during use, adding a layer of safety. Cleaning is simple with just soap and warm water, helping you maintain a clean kitchen with less effort.
2-Pack Stainless Steel Splatter Screens
This two-pack includes 10” and 13” splatter guards, a combination designed to fit the vast majority of non-stick frying pans, skillets, and sauté pans. The high-grade stainless steel construction is rustproof and features an extra-fine mesh that effectively stops spitting oil.
Beyond their primary function, these screens are multi-functional. They can double as pot strainers, fat drainers, or even cooling racks for baked goods. Each guard has a heat-resistant, foldable knob handle that makes it easy to lift and store, saving valuable kitchen space.
Splatter Screen with Fold Flat Knob
This splatter screen is available in three different sizes (10, 11.5, and 13 inches) to ensure a precise fit for any skillet or pot. Its design focuses on secure placement, as it joins to the handles of your cookware, providing stable protection and keeping your hands safe from burns.
Made from heavy-duty stainless steel with an extra-fine mesh, it is sturdy enough to withstand direct exposure to flames without warping. The screen is highly effective, allowing steam to release while stopping the vast majority of oil splatter. The fold-flat knob is ideal for compact storage.
T-fal Professional Nonstick Splatter Screen
The T-fal Professional Total Nonstick Splatter Screen is designed for effortless cleaning and performance. The nonstick coating ensures that grease and residue wipe away easily, making maintenance quick and simple after cooking. This is a significant advantage for preventing buildup over time.
As part of a professional line, it is built to withstand regular use in a busy kitchen. It provides reliable coverage for your pans, containing splatters while the mesh allows for proper ventilation. This screen is a solid choice for cooks who prioritize easy cleanup without sacrificing functionality.
Buying Guide: How to Pick the Right Splatter Screen for Your Stove
I’ve been through my fair share of splatter screens, and let me tell you, not all are created equal. After one too many greasy stove tops and a few disappointing purchases, I figured out what really matters when you’re looking for a good one. The goal is simple: keep the mess contained without making cooking a hassle. Here’s what I look for now.
First up is material and construction. This is a big one. Most screens have a metal frame, but the mesh part can vary. I prefer stainless steel mesh because it’s durable, doesn’t rust easily, and is simple to clean. The frame should feel sturdy, not flimsy. A screen that warps the first time it gets hot is a total waste of money. I also check the handle. A long, heat-resistant handle is non-negotiable for me. The last thing I want is to burn my fingers when I need to check on my food.
Next, consider the size and shape. This seems obvious, but it’s easy to get wrong. Measure your most-used pans before you buy. A screen that’s too small is practically useless, and one that’s too large can be unstable and awkward. I like to have a couple of different sizes: a large one for my big skillet when I’m searing, and a smaller one for a saucepan. Shape matters too. While round is standard, some rectangular options work better for griddle pans or large roasting pans.
Finally, think about features for convenience. How easy is it to store? Some screens have a little hook or a folding handle, which is a lifesaver if you have limited drawer space. Others are completely flat, which can be easier to stack. I also look at how easy it is to clean. While most are dishwasher safe, I often find a quick rinse in the sink does the trick. A good splatter screen should make your life easier, not add another complicated item to your cleaning routine. By focusing on these key areas—material, size, and convenience—you can find a screen that actually works and lasts. Finding the right one among the 10 best splatter screens for stovetops is all about matching these features to your specific cooking style and kitchen setup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are splatter screens actually effective?
Yes, absolutely. I was a bit skeptical at first, but a good quality screen makes a huge difference. It doesn’t stop 100% of the microscopic aerosolized grease, but it catches the vast majority of the larger, messy spatters. My stovetop, backsplash, and surrounding counters are dramatically cleaner since I started using one regularly. It’s one of those simple tools that genuinely works.
Can I leave a splatter screen on the pan while cooking?
You can, but I don’t always recommend it for long periods. It’s perfect for when you’re frying bacon or searing a steak and want to contain the initial violent splattering. However, if a recipe requires a lot of reduction or evaporation, leaving the screen on will trap too much steam and moisture, which can make your food soggy instead of crispy. I use it for the messy parts and often remove it towards the end.
How do I clean a splatter screen?
It’s usually very straightforward. For most models, I just give it a quick rinse under hot water right after cooking, while the grease is still liquid. A little dish soap and a soft brush or sponge take care of the rest. Almost all are dishwasher safe, but I find hand washing helps preserve the finish and prevents the mesh from getting bent by other items in the dishwasher. Just avoid abrasive scrubbers that can damage the mesh.
What size splatter screen do I need?
The best advice I can give is to match the screen to your pan, not the other way around. A screen should be slightly larger than the diameter of your pan’s cooking surface to effectively catch splatters. If you primarily use a 10-inch skillet, get a 12-inch screen. If you have a variety of pans, consider getting a set. This was a game-changer for me, as my large screen was always too big for my smaller saucepans.
Do splatter screens affect cooking temperature?
Not in a significant way that alters your cooking. The mesh is designed to be very open, allowing steam and heat to escape while blocking solid or liquid spatters. You don’t need to adjust your stove’s temperature when using one. It acts more like a shield than a lid. When you’re evaluating the 10 best splatter screens for stovetops, you’ll see they are all engineered to protect your kitchen without interfering with the cooking process itself.
Are there any safety concerns with using them?
The main thing is to remember that the screen itself, especially the metal frame, gets very hot. Always use the handle. Also, ensure the screen sits securely on the pan and isn’t warped, as a wobbly screen can be a tipping hazard. Keep the handle pointed inward on the stove to avoid accidentally knocking it off. Other than that, they are a very safe and simple tool to use.