Buying guide
Basters and Basting Brushes for Roasts
A bulb baster, a basting spoon or a silicone brush: the tools for spooning hot juices over a roast. Which is easiest to clean, and when basting is worth it.
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Basting means spooning the hot fat and juices from the tin back over a roast. It helps the skin colour evenly and keeps the outside from drying. A baster makes it quicker and safer than tilting a heavy, hot tin.
Our shortlist
Shortlist in progress
We only list products once their specifications have been checked against the manufacturer or retailer. Until then, use the criteria in this guide to compare what's available.
Where to buy
Browse current options and prices at the retailer. These are affiliate links: we may earn a commission, at no cost to you (disclosure).
Types
| Tool | Good for | Watch out for |
|---|---|---|
| Bulb baster | Sucking up juices from a deep tin and squirting them over a large bird | Hard to clean inside without a brush |
| Basting spoon | Large joints and smaller tins; also for skimming fat | Slower over a big turkey |
| Silicone basting brush | Brushing glazes and melted butter evenly | Holds less liquid |
What to check
- Heat resistance: the tube should be heat-resistant plastic, glass or stainless steel.
- A cleaning brush: many bulb basters come with a thin brush for the tube.
- Dishwasher safe: check the bulb and tube separately.
- A marked tube doubles as a measure for gravy.
Tips
- Open the oven briefly and baste quickly: every time the door is open, the oven loses heat.
- Use only the hot juices from the cooking tin, and wash the baster thoroughly afterwards.
- For crisp skin, stop basting for the last 30–45 minutes.
Pair with a roasting tin, a roasting rack and a meat thermometer for roast turkey.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to baste a turkey?
It is not essential, but basting a few times helps the skin colour evenly. Covering the breast with butter, bacon or foil also keeps it moist.
How do I clean a bulb baster?
Take the bulb off, wash both parts in hot soapy water, and use a thin bottle brush inside the tube. Let both dry fully before putting it back together.
Can I use a baster for gravy?
Yes. You can draw the juices from under the fat layer and squirt them into the gravy pan, leaving most of the fat behind.
How we choose
BeneRecipes compares tools using manufacturer specifications and retailer listings. We have not tested these products ourselves and don't publish star ratings. We explain which type suits which cook and why.
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Recipes to go with it
Recipe · 1 hr 55 min
Roast Chicken with Bread Sauce
A simple lemon-and-thyme roast chicken with the very British side of creamy, clove-scented bread sauce.
Recipe · 3 hr 35 min
Roast Turkey for Christmas Dinner
A juicy, golden Christmas turkey without the guesswork: butter under the foil, a meat thermometer to tell you when it is done, and a proper rest before carving.