Best Batting for Pot Holders, Oven Mitts & Microwave Bowl Cozies

Don't Let the Wrong Batting Ruin Your Project

Not all quilt batting is designed for high heat. Choosing the wrong batting for pot holders, oven mitts, or microwave bowl cozies can reduce performance—and in some cases, create safety concerns.

This guide explains which battings are designed for heat-related projects, which ones to avoid, and how to choose the safest option for every project.

Why Your Batting Choice Matters

Decorative quilts are designed for comfort and appearance.

Kitchen projects are different.

Batting used around heat should:

Handle repeated high temperatures
Maintain its shape after washing
Provide insulation from heat
Match the intended use of the project

Using the correct batting helps your finished project perform the way it was designed.

Best Batting for Common Kitchen Projects

Project	Recommended Batting
Pot Holders	Insulating Batting (such as Insul-Bright)
Oven Mitts	Insulating Batting
Microwave Bowl Cozies	100% Cotton Batting
Tortilla Warmers	100% Cotton Batting
Casserole Carriers	Insulating Batting
Mug Rugs	Cotton or Cotton/Poly Blend
Hot Pads	Insulating Batting

Why Cotton Batting Is Recommended for Microwave Projects

Projects that go inside a microwave should generally use 100% cotton fabric, cotton thread, and 100% cotton batting.

Cotton contains no synthetic fibers that may react poorly to microwave heat, making it the preferred choice for bowl cozies and similar projects.

Always follow the batting manufacturer's instructions and pattern recommendations before using any project in a microwave.

What Is Insulating Batting?

Insulating batting is specially designed to help reflect radiant heat and improve thermal protection.

It's commonly used in:

Pot holders
Oven mitts
Ironing board covers
Casserole carriers
Hot pads
Grill accessories

Unlike standard quilt batting, insulating batting is intended to help slow heat transfer.

Batting Types to Avoid for Heat Projects

Some battings work beautifully in quilts but aren't the best choice around high heat.

Exercise caution with:

Standard polyester batting
High-loft polyester batting
Fusible batting (unless specifically intended for the project)
Specialty battings not rated for heat-related applications

When in doubt, check the manufacturer's instructions before beginning your project.

Laura's Studio Tip

Kitchen projects are one place where following the batting manufacturer's recommendations really matters.

A beautiful pot holder isn't much use if it doesn't protect your hands. Choosing the right batting from the start makes your project safer, more durable, and much more enjoyable to use.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can polyester batting be used in microwave bowl cozies?

Most microwave bowl cozy patterns recommend 100% cotton fabric, cotton thread, and cotton batting. Always follow the pattern and batting manufacturer's instructions.

What batting is best for oven mitts?

Insulating batting is specifically designed to improve heat resistance and is the preferred choice for oven mitts and pot holders.

Do I need special batting for pot holders?

Yes. Insulating batting provides much better thermal protection than standard quilt batting.

Can I wash insulating batting?

Most insulating battings are machine washable after quilting, but always check the manufacturer's care instructions for the specific product you purchase.