Kitchen Utensil and Lid Rest

This enhanced kitchen utensil and lid rest is a complete redesign of an existing concept, optimizing functionality and printability. Designed to keep your countertops clean and organized, it features a smaller side with a raised border for pot lids and a larger side for resting cooking utensils. The four central grooves securely hold up to four utensils, preventing them from sliding.

Use Cases and Tools

• Lid Rest: The smaller side, with a raised border, is perfect for resting pot lids of various sizes. It prevents condensation from dripping onto your countertop.
• Utensil Rest: The larger side provides ample space to hold spoons, spatulas, whisks, tongs, and other cooking utensils, keeping them within easy reach while you cook.
• Central Grooves: The four central grooves are ideal for holding smaller utensils like stirring spoons, chopsticks, or thermometers. They keep them organized and prevent them from rolling off the counter.

Important Considerations: Food and Filament Contact

When using 3D-printed objects for food contact, it's crucial to consider material safety and cleanability. Standard PLA, while easy to print, may not be ideal for prolonged food contact due to its porous nature and lower temperature resistance, making thorough cleaning difficult.

Recommendations:

• High-Temperature Filaments: To enhance cleanability and durability, consider using filaments with higher temperature tolerances, such as PETG or ASA. These materials can endure elevated temperatures, allowing for more efficient cleaning and minimising the risk of bacterial growth.
• Food-Safe Coatings: If you choose PLA, consider applying a food-safe epoxy resin or coating to create a non-porous, easily cleanable surface.
• Regular Cleaning: Regardless of the filament used, ensure thorough and regular cleaning of the utensil rest to maintain hygiene.
• Avoid Dishwashers: Avoid placing 3D printed parts in dishwashers due to high temperatures that may cause deformation.

• Removed Bottom Hole: Eliminates the need for print supports and improves printability.
• Added Lid Holder: Allows for holding pot lids.
• Equalized Hole Spacing: Ensures consistent utensil placement.
• Filament Savings: Reduces filament usage by approximately 5%.
• Faster Print Time: Decreases print time by approximately 20%.
• No Print Supports Required: Simplified design for easier printing.