I bought a slow cooker. Is it really safe to leave it on cooking all day while I am at work?

Answer 1

The manufacturers say that it is, but I am super cautious about leaving any appliance on when I'm not home. If you're going to be gone all day, move the cooker out far enough on the counter when the air can circulate and the heat won't build up. Keep it away from paper towels, cookbooks, and anything else that may be affected by the heat.

I try to set my slow cooker on a metal trivet, tray, or on the stove top, too, to keep the heat from building up underneath. You also need to make sure that the pot doesn't accidentally go dry if the liquid cooks away, so add plenty of whatever the recipe calls for.

I've never had any problems, but then again, I try to check on the cooker at least once during the cooking process if I can or have someone else do it.

Answer 2

Perfectly safe, if it's on low. But some slow cooker recipes only need 8 upto 8 hours on low, and upto 6 hours on high. Want to share recipes, some time? I haven't many for a slow cooker, but the ones I do have, lack some I'd like to have- such as scalloped corn.

Answer 3

If it is new, yes. Remember you don't put as much water, way less in fact, as regular cooking. Read the instructions for the slower cooker before you use it. I would recommend the first time you try the cooker, you are home. Then once you are comfortable it is great to come home to a cooked roast, or stew, chili, etc.

Answer 4

They have been around for some thiry years! I got mine when I got married! They are designed for all day cooking, just use some common sense when leaving an appliance plugged into the wall for 4-10 hours.

I actually usually sit my slow cooker in my kitchen sink, because I have wood cabinets all around. Don't have paper towels near, newspapers, mail, etc., and make sure your outlets are good ones.

You should be fine. You will really enjoy your cooker, once you get 'into it'. Happy cooking!

Answer 5

Yes, they're safe. I'm not sure if it's somethng hot adn electric being plugged in that has you worried, or food safety that has you worried.

As far as food safety goes, slow cookers of today are much better than in the 70's when they would barely get over 120º and get you sick. They are nice and hot now, while still slow-cooking.

As far as the elec. goes, I've never seen one burst into flames! :-) You may want to be sure there is plenty of space around it for air circulation, and no rags or paper towels nearby which coudld get hot and catch fire.

Answer 6

Absolutely if you cook a recipe recommended for a slow cooker.

Answer 7

Sure, but I always do a couple of things - I plug into a surge protector & place in a safe part of the counter away from cabinets. I also make sure there is plenty extra liquid & always cook on low......Great way to make BBQ on a workday or Beef Stew on a cold Saturday.....Enjoy & try lots of recepies, you'll wonder how you ever did without one!!

Answer 8

I haven't heard of any fires starting from slow cookers. Just make sure you use a recipe, then you will be sure to have enough liquid to keep it from drying out and burning.

Answer 9

I have used one for over 15 yrs and it has always been safe - but to be even safer :) I put it on a cookie sheet on top of my stove before I leave for the day. And be sure there's enough liquid in the pot, too.

Answer 10

Just be safe. Make sure there is nothing close to it that might catch fire. Make sure the cord is secure. Make sure there is enough liquid in it so it won't boil dry.

I leave mine on all day all the time and I have never had a problem.