Picking out an oven mitt or a potholder might seem like a mindless task, but you may change your mind after you've had your hand scorched through a flimsy potholder from picking up a piping hot dish. The tools, equipment and ingredients in a kitchen can be very hot, so it's important to protect yourself from potential burns.

The perfect oven mitt is usually a pretty simple combination: washable, durable and wearable. (Although finding one in a cute pattern doesn't hurt either!) Pick a thick oven mitt that's heat resistant and covers your whole hand, wrist and even lower arm for maximum protection. Lining that won't char is a plus, as is one that's machine washable as even the cleanest kitchen can start to look sloppy with a dirty potholder lying around. While you want the lining to be thick, you also want to move your hand around comfortably, so you can pick up hot and heavy items with ease.

Because pot holders are designed more for protection from hot handles, they don’t usually need to cover your wrist and lower arm. That can be a benefit though when working with large pots filled with hot ingredients, and when you are moving from stove to oven. The square pot holder is a classic shape, easy to wrap around handles and serve as a handy insulator between pot and countertop.

As with all your kitchen accessories, looks are important, too. Oven mitts and pot holders are often on display, so use them as a chance to add color and style to your space. When placed on your kitchen counter, a cute and cheery pot holder can brighten up your kitchen. Pick out something fun! Or go for a classic and simple style that will complement your cabinetry and countertops. There are many choices for every design style today, ranging from the more modern, utilitarian designs to the ever popular (and oh-so-cheesy) lobster claw.

Ready to find the perfect potholder? Find different styles, shapes and sizes here, along with information on where to buy them.