Tips for Using Your Mandoline Slicer in a Safe Way

Slicing organic gold potatoes on a V-blade mandoline to prepare scalloped potatoes.
Image via urban_light/Depositphotos

A mandoline slicer is one of those kitchen tools that you don’t even know you need until you actually try it out. It will make your life in the kitchen a lot easier, bringing down the prep time while also giving you uniformly sliced veggies and fruit for all your recipes.

The downside of a mandoline slicer is that it can be dangerous for your fingers if you don’t use it correctly or disregard safety measures. To make sure you avoid any dangers that surround it, follow these tips.

Buy a Quality One

This is the best kind of precaution. Getting a quality and sturdy mandoline slicer lowers the chances of it breaking down while you are actually using it. Also, make sure it has all the added safety features that will go a long way in protecting your fingers.

Do Your Slicing on Flat, Hard, and Slip-Resistant Surface

Where you place your mandoline slicer plays an important safety role. You want a flat, hard, and slip-resistant surface so the slicer doesn’t move while you use it. Otherwise, it might slip under your hands and cause an injury. 

Make Sure to Use the Guard at All Times

The mandoline slicer guard doesn’t only prevent your fingers from coming close to the blades. It also helps secure the veggies and fruit from slipping.

Don’t Touch the Blades with Bare Hands When Cleaning the Mandoline Slicer

Avoid touching the blades of the mandoline slicer even when cleaning it. Instead, use a brush to get rid of food scraps and then run it under cold water. If it’s greasy for some reason, soak the sponge with dish detergent, gently scrub the blades with it, and then run under water.