After washing, pots, pans, and utensils should be:

Air-drying pots, pans, and utensils is considered the safest method for ensuring they are properly dried without risking contamination. When items are air-dried, they are left to dry at room temperature, allowing any remaining moisture to evaporate. This is important in the kitchen environment, as moisture can encourage the growth of bacteria if not adequately removed.

Air-drying also minimizes the risk of recontamination that can occur with towel-drying, especially if towels are not properly sanitized or regularly washed. Additionally, air-drying ensures that the utensils remain clean, as they are not coming into contact with surfaces that might harbor bacteria or food particles.

Choosing this method helps maintain hygiene in food preparation areas, which is essential in preventing foodborne illnesses and ensuring compliance with safety standards in food handling.