A wooden spoon to stop a pot boiling over
A spoon across the pot can burst some bubbles; overfilling still wins.
Evidence: Science explainer: can delay, not preventProfessional review not claimed
What the sources say
The Conversation explains why starchy or milky liquids foam and how a spoon across the top can break bubbles. It notes overfilling still causes boil-overs; turning down the heat is the reliable step.
Evidence assessment: Science explainer: can delay, not prevent. This describes the scope of the guidance we checked, not proof that the remedy works for you.
Cautions
- Keep handles away from the flame and use oven gloves near boiling pans.
No method is given for this entry. The guidance we checked discourages this use or shows it does not do what tradition claims.
Ingredients & category
Sources
- The Conversation: Can a wooden spoon really stop a pot boiling over? — link and wording checked 30 September 2026
Source-checking is not clinical or veterinary review. Specific historical origin not established from the source reviewed.