Best Cooker Accessories for Easier Everyday Cooking

Key takeaways

• Cooker accessories are about more than convenience; good oven trays, liners, door seals and splashbacks can improve safety, efficiency and cooking results.
• Focus on accessories that match your cooker type, internal dimensions and cooking style, such as deep trays for batch cooking or grill pans for fast midweek meals.
• Protective items like splashbacks and hob scrapers, such as a dedicated glass scraper tool, make cleaning easier and help your cooker last longer.
• Universal accessories can be excellent value, but always double-check measurements and clearances to avoid poor fitting or heat loss.
• Regular cleaning and checking of seals, liners and trays will keep your cooker efficient and prevent stubborn burnt-on residue from building up.

Why this category matters

Cookers are often the hardest-working appliance in any kitchen, but many of the frustrations we put up with are easily solved by the right accessories. Spills that bake onto the oven floor, fat that splashes up the wall behind the hob, handles that run too hot to touch and doors that leak heat are all issues that can be reduced with relatively inexpensive add-ons.

Well-chosen cooker accessories can also improve your results. A properly sized grill pan helps food brown evenly; a solid oven tray resists warping and distributes heat more consistently; a clean, intact door seal keeps the temperature stable so cakes rise properly and roasts cook right to the centre. Temperature probes take the guesswork out of meat and bakes, while liners and mats allow for healthier cooking with less oil and easier cleanup.

From a cost perspective, these accessories can extend the life of your appliance and reduce the amount of effort needed to keep it looking presentable. Replacing a worn door seal can be far cheaper than running an inefficient cooker for years. Similarly, a robust splashback can protect your wall from staining and damage, saving you from repainting or retiling. When you add up the time saved and the reduced wear and tear, the value becomes clear.

Safety is another important reason this category matters. Accessories such as pan guards, handle covers, and reliable seals help reduce the risk of burns and gas or heat leaks. Even something as simple as a good scraping tool for your hob can prevent the temptation to use sharp improvised tools that might crack glass or cause injuries. Taken together, the right kit turns your cooker into a more efficient, safer and more enjoyable place to cook.

How to choose

Start with your cooker type and size. Gas, electric and induction hobs all have slightly different needs: induction hobs, for example, benefit from accessories that protect the glass surface from scratches and that are safe for induction-compatible pans. Ovens also vary in width, depth and height, so measuring internal dimensions before buying new trays, shelves or liners is essential. A universal accessory is rarely truly universal; most come with a size range or trimming guides that you must check against your appliance.

Next, consider your cooking style. If you roast and bake frequently, high-quality roasting tins, enamel or stainless steel grill pans and heavy-duty oven trays are worth prioritising. Batch cookers might prefer deeper roasting trays and stackable cooling racks or extra oven shelves to make the most of vertical space. For quick midweek meals, non-stick oven mats, chip trays and grill pans that drain fat away are particularly helpful. Think about which dishes you cook most often, then choose accessories that directly support those meals.

Material is also important. Enamelled steel gives a durable, easy-to-clean surface that handles high heat well and is ideal for grill pans and roasting tins. Stainless steel is tough, resists rust and looks smart, though cheaper versions may discolour slightly with heavy use. Silicone oven accessories, such as mats and handle covers, provide excellent non-stick performance and heat protection but must be kept away from direct flame or grill elements. For protective items like splashbacks and scrapers, look for toughened glass and blades designed specifically for glass and ceramic hobs.

Finally, check compatibility and replacement availability. Some accessories, such as door seals, are critical to your cooker’s performance and must fit correctly. In those cases, it is worth looking at whether a universal option is suitable or if a model-specific part is recommended. Our dedicated guide on genuine vs compatible cooker parts can help you weigh up the differences. Always read measurements carefully, and where glue or fixings are involved, check that everything needed is included.

Common mistakes

A frequent mistake is buying accessories labelled as ‘universal’ without checking dimensions or clearances. A door seal that is slightly too long or too short, or a liner that touches heating elements, can cause issues ranging from heat loss to an unpleasant burning smell. Always measure your oven cavity and door properly, and compare those figures with the accessory specifications before you commit.

Another pitfall is mixing the wrong materials with the wrong heat sources. Not all non-stick or silicone liners are safe directly under a grill, and some accessories designed for conventional ovens are not suitable for fan ovens or self-cleaning cycles. Induction hobs, in particular, can be sensitive to the shape and material of pans and accessories resting on the surface. If you use an induction cooker, it is worth reading up on induction cooker accessories and protection before adding anything new.

Cleaning is another area where mistakes crop up. Using harsh metal tools on glass hobs, scrubbing enamel with highly abrasive cleaners or putting non-stick accessories in overly hot cycles can all shorten the life of your kit. A purpose-made scraper for glass and ceramic hobs is much safer than makeshift blades or scouring pads. Likewise, many non-stick liners only need a gentle wipe or soak instead of vigorous scrubbing.

Finally, some people overlook safety-related accessories until there is a problem. A worn door seal, for example, is often ignored until food starts taking longer to cook or heat escapes around the door. Learning how to spot and fix leaks, as covered in our guide on cooker door seals and gaskets, can save you money and trouble. Similarly, missing splashbacks and pan guards can make your cooking area messier and potentially less safe than it needs to be.

Top cooker accessory options

The best cooker accessories fall into a few broad groups: protection and cleanliness, efficiency and performance, and safety and maintenance. Below are some standout options in each category, including specific examples that illustrate what to look for when you shop. Each product is chosen to highlight useful features rather than brand alone, so you can apply the same criteria to other options in the market.

As you read through, keep your own cooker type and kitchen layout in mind. Wall space behind your hob, the depth of your oven cavity, and whether you use gas, electric or induction all influence which accessories will work best for you. Where relevant, we include a couple of purchase links so you can see current specifications and user feedback in more detail.

SIA Black Glass Splashback (60 x 75 cm)

A heat-resistant splashback is one of the simplest ways to protect the wall behind your cooker from grease, steam and staining. A toughened glass option in a neutral colour, such as the SIA SP60BL toughened glass splashback, offers both durability and an easy-to-wipe surface. The 60 cm width suits standard hobs, while the 75 cm height gives generous coverage to catch splashes from tall pans and frying.

The main advantage of a glass splashback is how quickly it cleans up: a quick spray and wipe usually removes even dried-on splatter. It also handles the heat rising from hobs and cookers better than painted plaster. On the downside, you will need to measure your available wall space carefully to ensure a neat fit, especially if you have cupboards close to the hob. Installation typically involves fixing to the wall with adhesive, so consider your wall condition before fitting. You can view specifications and typical installation notes for this style via the same splashback listing.

Linda’s Essentials Glass Scraper Tool

Keeping ceramic and glass hobs clear of burnt-on residue is far easier with a dedicated scraper. The Linda’s Essentials glass scraper tool is a compact, purpose-designed option that comes with replaceable blades. Its main benefit is that it removes tough, stuck-on spills without scratching when used correctly, eliminating the need to resort to improvised tools that could damage your hob.

Because the scraper is intended for glass and ceramic surfaces, it balances a sharp enough edge to lift residue with a handle and design that keeps your fingers safely away from the blade. This particular version includes extra blades, so you can replace them when they dull and maintain effective cleaning. The key is to follow the instructions carefully, using the scraper at a low angle and only on cooled surfaces. For full details of what is included and to compare reviews with similar scrapers, you can refer to the product listing.

Spares2go Universal Silicone Oven Door Seal Kit

A good door seal is vital for keeping heat where it belongs: inside your oven. If your seal is cracked, flattened or split, hot air can escape, making cooking uneven and wasting energy. A universal kit like the Spares2go universal silicone oven door seal can be a cost-effective way to restore performance on many makes and models. The inclusion of sealant helps secure the new seal firmly once trimmed to size.

The main advantage of a universal kit is flexibility: you can cut it to fit the exact perimeter of your oven opening, whether three-sided or four-sided. However, this does mean careful measuring and following the included instructions to avoid gaps or overlaps. While silicone seals are resistant to high temperatures and offer a snug fit, you must allow any sealant to cure fully before using the oven again. For more complex or unusual door designs, it may be worth comparing this with a model-specific seal; our article on different types of cooker seals and elements goes into this in more detail. If you would like to see fitting tips, dimensions and user experiences for this particular kit, check the product page.

Reusable Non-Stick Oven Liners

Reusable oven liners sit on the base of your oven or on a lower shelf to catch drips, crumbs and spills. They are usually made from heat-resistant, non-stick material that wipes clean or can be removed for soaking. A typical liner can be trimmed to size with scissors, making it easy to fit most single or double ovens. When choosing one, look for a version rated for high temperatures and confirmed as safe for your oven type.

These liners are especially helpful if you regularly cook dishes that bubble over or roast meats that drip fat. Instead of scrubbing baked-on residue from your oven floor, you simply remove the liner and clean it at the sink. Do check that the liner does not block any vents and that it is placed according to the manufacturer’s instructions, as incorrect positioning can affect airflow. Many non-stick liners are available through well-known retailers, often sold in multipacks to cover more than one oven or shelf.

Baking Trays, Grill Pans and Oven Mats

Everyday cooking is easier with a small set of reliable trays and pans. For most households, this means at least one solid roasting tin, a couple of flat baking trays that resist warping, and a grill pan with a rack. Enamelled steel or heavy-gauge stainless steel are both excellent choices for durability and even heat distribution. If you bake frequently, consider lighter-coloured trays for more even browning and silicone baking mats that sit on top of your trays for a non-stick surface.

Perforated oven chips trays and crisper baskets are also popular, as they allow hot air to circulate around the food for a crisper finish without needing to deep fry. When shopping online, look at user photos and measurements to ensure the tray fits your oven rails and leaves enough space for airflow. Many brands offer multi-piece sets that can be more economical than buying items individually, as long as the dimensions suit your cooker.

Oven-Safe Temperature Probes

Temperature probes take the guesswork out of cooking meat, bread and other dishes where internal temperature is key. An oven-safe probe typically consists of a thin metal sensor attached to a cable and a small display unit that stays outside the oven. You insert the probe into the thickest part of the food and monitor the temperature without opening the door, which helps maintain a stable cooking environment.

When choosing a probe, look for a clear, easy-to-read display, a cable rated for high oven temperatures and presets or alarms for popular target temperatures. Some probes offer wireless connectivity, though simple wired versions are usually more affordable and entirely sufficient for most home kitchens. Using one regularly can help prevent undercooked poultry and overdone roasts, and is particularly reassuring if you cook for young children or older relatives.

Handle Covers and Safety Accessories

Safety accessories often go overlooked, but they can make everyday cooking more comfortable and secure. Silicone handle covers for cast iron or metal pans keep handles cool enough to grip, while pan guards and hob protectors can help prevent pans being knocked or pulled forward. Child-proof knob covers or guards are also available for certain cooker styles and are worth considering if you have young children at home.

These accessories are generally simple to fit and remove, but you should always check that they do not interfere with normal cooker operation or ventilation. For example, avoid covering ventilation slots with protectors or liners, and ensure any handle covers are rated for the maximum temperature you use. Many of these items come in sets, which can be economical if you have multiple pans or cookers to protect.

Tip: Before buying any universal or clip-on accessory, take a moment to picture how you move around your cooker. You want accessories that simplify your actions, not items that make doors harder to close, trays harder to slide in, or knobs more awkward to reach.

Maintenance Kits and Spare Parts

Beyond day-to-day accessories, it is worth thinking about the parts that keep your cooker running efficiently. Replacement knobs and dials, new heating elements and fresh door seals can all make a tired appliance feel more responsive. You will find both genuine and compatible options for many popular models; our guide on choosing the right cooker knobs and control dials is a useful starting point if your controls have become worn or unreadable.

When tackling more involved replacements, such as a new oven element, always prioritise safety. If you are confident with basic DIY and follow instructions carefully, many people successfully replace elements and seals at home; our article on replacing cooker heating elements safely explains what to expect. For more complex repairs or gas-related work, however, it may be safer and more economical in the long run to call in a professional or consider whether it is time to replace the cooker entirely; see our guide on when to repair your cooker and when to buy a new one for a balanced view.

Conclusion

A handful of well-chosen cooker accessories can make a noticeable difference to how smoothly everyday cooking goes. Protective items like a toughened glass splashback help keep your kitchen clean, while practical tools such as a dedicated glass hob scraper make maintenance straightforward and safe.

When combined with essentials like quality trays, liners and a reliable oven door seal, these accessories support more consistent results and a more pleasant cooking environment. By taking a little time to match accessories to your cooker type and cooking habits, you can build a small collection of tools that you reach for every day, without cluttering your kitchen with gadgets you rarely use.