"pot sitters" - it is clever - but one caution...when using high heat, the heat comes up around the pot sides and crisps the wood if left there for long(er) periods (especially on gas tops.) for the 'hold this spoon while I add . . ' situation it is a splendid advantage. works great for slow simmers/stews and the like - you know, where you cover the pot . . . (g)
yeah. a dishwasher is not the best thing in their life..... these are black walnut - it really takes the abuse. in ten+ years I've not had one split/break/etc. oh, except one I gave to my son - his Husky ate it....the handle "end" is now a key chain fob.
and since they do go thru the dishwasher I do need to oil/wax them more frequently than spoons living a more sheltered life.
the conditioner is just premixed mineral oil plus beeswax. pretty standard concoction for kitchen wood stuff. the curved paddle (2nd from left) and the toast tongs (top of heap, which I use as a tong for everything, but seldom toast....) are more the "original" color. the wood darkens with age and dishwasher and oiling . . . .