Eating healthy isn't always easy when you have a busy life, and if you're working from a recipe it becomes even more difficult. Having a proper cookbook stand can make that easier by ensuring that your recipes are always where you can easily read them, even when things aren't going entirely to plan.
There are of course a few things to keep in mind when you are on the hunt for the perfect stand.
- Size: Not all cookbook stands are built the same, and that is absolutely true when it comes to size. If you have a large kitchen with an island this might not be much of a concern, but for apartment dwellers, or folks with small kitchens, space may well be at a premium. The last thing that you want to do is end up sacrificing prep space for a cookbook stand. With that in mind, check and double check both the dimensions of the cookbook stand you have your eyes on and the space that you'll be working in when you're cooking.
- Materials: It might seem a bit counter intuitive to worry about the materials that your cookbook stand is made of, but anyone with kids will know why it matters. You'll want an option that is easy to wipe down and keep clean even if it gets covered in ingredients when cooking. If its something you plan on leaving out on the counter you'll also want to ensure that it looks nice even when it isn't being used.
Pipishell portable bamboo cookbook stand
Naturally antibacterial, and water-resistant
With its easy-to-clean surface and surprisingly high weight capacity of 22 pounds, you'll find reasons to use Pipishell's bamboo cookbook stand outside the kitchen.
Pros:
- Supports 16-inch laptops, tablets, and heavy textbooks
- Five-notched adjustment bracket for customized reading angles
- Two page-holder hinges
- Folds for storage
Cons:
- Plain design
- Wood stains easily and isn't dishwasher safe
- Hinges can rip pages if their screws are too tight
Pipishell's bamboo cookbook stand delivers a top-tier option that is suitable for every kitchen. The stand features bamboo construction so it's lightweight, and easy to clean by simply wiping it down once you're done with it. It features a metal bar with several notches to make it easy to adjust when cooking, and it's super affordable, even for families on a budget.
Norpro acrylic cookbook holder
Protects the whole book
Norpro's cookbook holder has an elementary design that's deceptively effective as a splashguard.
Pros:
- 2.5-millimeter clear acrylic protects pages without blurring your recipe
- Dishwasher safe, but you can use a damp cloth in a pinch
- Works well with tablets and phones
Cons:
- Utilitarian, no design aesthetic
- Top dishwasher rack ONLY
Norpro's a brand known for their affordable yet high-quality cookware, so it makes sense that they'd branch out and make useful kitchen tools as well. Their clear acrylic cookbook stand is the lightest-weight option on our list, weighing in at under 1 pound. Its lack of heft doesn't make it any less durable, but it's best to follow Norpro's guidance and use this stand with books under 2-inches thick. Sandwich your cookbook behind the tallest side of the stand to protect the pages from errant splashes and splatters.
JOGREFUL vintage cast iron cookbook holder
Impromptu bicep workout
Speaking of heft, JOGREFUL's vintage-inspired cookbook holder, despite being made of cast iron, actually isn't the heaviest pick on our list.
Pros:
- Non-slip bottom
- Glossy powder-coat exterior protects the cast iron core from rust
- Matching spoon rest and napkin holder are available
- Deep shelf space accommodates virtually any tome
Cons:
- Can stain natural stone countertops, i.e. marble
Not everyone wants a design aesthetic made up of neutral grays and blues. The JOGREFUL cast iron cookbook holder delivers a bright and bold option for anyone looking to make a statement in the kitchen. It's available in three different colors, and all of them feature the same cast iron construction and pattern. It also has a bar at the front of the stand to help keep your page open to where you need it, and isn't particularly expensive either.
RAXSUN adjustable cookbook easel stand with page weights
Fairytale cottage vibes
Calling all aesthetes who prefer a bit of a storybook feel in their kitchen—this is the cookbook stand for you.
Pros:
- Evokes the feel of wrought-iron fences
- Back legs fold flat for storage
- Weighted metal ball finials on chains keep pages flat, gently
Cons:
- Page holder chains aren't quite weighty enough for big cookbooks
- Max width capacity is just over 3 inches
Sometimes, you want to add something that's downright cute to your kitchen, and RAXSUN's dainty, wrought-iron-esque cookbook holder fits the bill perfectly. It looks like it would be right at home in a woodland cottage or fairytale witch's hut with its arcane-looking page-weights and swirled metal construction. It's lightweight and easily moved around your kitchen but would look equally good in a permanent spot of its own.
Clear Solutions under cabinet mounted cookbook holder
Puts cookbooks directly at eye level
You might find yourself wondering why under-cabinet cookbook holders aren't standard in every kitchen—we certainly did.
Pros:
- Folds flat and out of sight under your cabinet when not in use
- Clear acrylic splatter shield is hinged for easier page turning
- Reading at eye level is more ergonomic
Cons:
- Not all cabinets can accommodate this style of cookbook holder
- It's a bit of an investment, compared to other options
Clear Solutions is an especially apt brand name when considering their folding under-cabinet cookbook holder. It's entirely hands-free, sits at eye level for most adults, and has a hinged splatter shield for the ultimate in splash protection. This holder is a significant space-saver, too; it slides out of sight while not in use. I have to say, I'm deeply disappointed that my cabinets aren't compatible with this cookbook holder. Speaking from experience, it'd make an excellent gift for near-sighted cooks accustomed to squinting across their kitchen counter.
Bottom line
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A proper cookbook holder can make things much easier when you're in the middle of a recipe you aren't used to. From holding open your page, to ensuring that you can see the recipe you're working from, they can make spending time in the kitchen far less stressful.
While there are plenty of excellent options out there Pipishell's bamboo cookbook holder, our best overall works in any room and is a true multitasker. It's at home anywhere you need to prop up a book or tablet, no matter the dimensions.
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