This Popular Kitchen Tool Can Be Dangerous—Here's How to Stay Safe

Cucumber salads are taking over the internet right now. This trend, sparked by influencer Logan Moffitt, involves preparing an entire cucumber as a refreshing snack. It’s all over social media, and honestly, we're not complaining.

But for every cucumber salad video, there seems to be another showing someone getting injured while slicing cucumbers. What’s behind these accidents? A deceptively sharp vegetable slicer—the mandoline.

How to Use a Mandoline Safely

The mandoline is undeniably convenient, but it can be dangerous. With the rise of Logan’s viral cucumber videos, more people are grabbing this tool to slice cucumbers in no time. But it’s crucial to use it correctly. I won’t go into detail about the injuries—let's just say they’re not pretty.

I get it—using a mandoline makes slicing cucumbers quick and easy, and it ensures perfectly uniform slices. Plus, it avoids any embarrassing repeat of that viral Kendall Jenner cucumber-cutting incident. But before you toss your mandoline to keep all your fingers intact, take a moment to learn how to use it safely. With these simple safety tips, you can ditch the fear and enjoy your mandoline with confidence.

Don’t Let Your Guard Down

A major mistake people make with a mandoline is getting too comfortable. The first rule of safe use is recognizing that a tool designed for slicing vegetables can easily slice you, too. Sure, you see chefs on TV using mandolines without gloves or guards, but that doesn’t mean you should follow suit. Trust me, a trip to the ER will humble you far more than taking the time to use the right protective gear.

Choose the Right Mandoline

Not all mandolines are built the same. While we’re all for a good bargain, don’t compromise on safety. The Dash mandoline is a top choice for safety—it keeps your hands well clear of the blade by using a slot to guide your veggies through. It doesn’t get much safer than that.

Wear Gloves

If you're unsure, slip on a pair of cut-resistant gloves for that extra layer of protection. It may seem a little over the top, but they let you slice safely without worry. Plus, they come in handy when you're using your regular kitchen knives. If you’re not ready to invest in cut-resistant gloves, an oven mitt can also serve as a protective alternative.

Don’t Rely Solely on the Mandoline Guard

Many mandolines include a safety guard, which can be a helpful way to protect your hand from the blade. However, don’t let that guard fool you into thinking you're fully protected. These guards can sometimes be awkward or slippery, increasing the risk of accidents even with the most cautious handling. While it’s a useful feature, always combine it with other safety practices.

Use a Fork

One of the trickiest parts of using a mandoline is the end, when you’re left with a small piece of vegetable to slice. The mandoline guard can often feel slippery or unstable, making this step risky. Instead of relying on the guard, try using a fork. This method will give you a more stable grip, prevent slippage, and make slicing much easier.

Take Your Time

Remember, it’s not a race. After watching countless mandoline injury videos on TikTok, you’ll never rush through slicing again. Eliminate distractions, breathe deeply, and take it slow. It’s worth the extra time.

When in Doubt, Skip the Mandoline

There’s no shame in using a knife instead of a mandoline. I’ve done it myself—just the other day, I didn’t feel like pulling out the mandoline for one cucumber and used a knife instead. If I can do it, so can you! But before you start, make sure to brush up on knife safety tips. The best tool is the one you’re most comfortable with, and the final result is what matters. With our cucumber salad recipe lineup, you’ll have a delicious dish, no matter how you slice it.