Outdoor Kitchen

[PaintyLiz]

Hi all!

I have a toaster oven, Crockpot, and hotplate that I use outside on a plastic table while camping. I bring them in every night, but would like to leave them out. How much protection do they need of it doesn't rain? Do I need to build a wooden cupboard or would waterproof fabric covers work? I had an old waffle iron I left outside that shorted out from dew, so I'm leery. Funny though I have a toaster oven that I use on the back porch at home and it's been there for a couple years with no problems.

So what do you think? What has been your experience?

Liz

[profdant139]

I would think that a well-anchored tarp would work -- I have run a generator in a rainstorm that way. It was under a picnic table, and there were rocks on the corners of the tarp.

I would try this at home, on your patio table, not under a porch roof. Unless you live in West Texas, there is usually plenty of moisture in the air.

[guybmoto]

I 'spose it'd also come down to what critters are in the area.

Bears? I'm not sure I'd want to leave things out that would attract animals.

[APD]

We used to leave griddles, electric pans, etc outside after cleaning them.
But bears, possums, raccoons and other little furry friends can smell food even if the equipment is clean. Especially in campgrounds and areas were they have learned there is food.
The most common after hours visitor we've had is the feral campground cat.
If you happen to hear a noise outside, carefully scare it away as gently as possible........just in case it's a skunk. (don't ask)

[Eagle]

I would be hesitant to leave electrical cooking equipment outside ever. Water and electricity/electrical equipment do not mix well.

The only items I've ever left outside overnight are the outdoor grill that hooks to the side of the camper and my Honda generators/inverters 2000i series. BTW, the gennys are secured with alarm cables to prevent theft.

here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004T2LQ3U/

I'd rather use this than the 'toy lock' that came frame mounted on my XT276 which does not emit a sound if the cable is cut.

[PaintyLiz]

Originally Posted by APD

We used to leave griddles, electric pans, etc outside after cleaning them.
But bears, possums, raccoons and other little furry friends can smell food even if the equipment is clean. Especially in campgrounds and areas were they have learned there is food.
The most common after hours visitor we've had is the feral campground cat.
If you happen to hear a noise outside, carefully scare it away as gently as possible........just in case it's a skunk. (don't ask)

Ewwww, good point, although my dogs make it difficult to be stealthy. I guess we'll just keep carrying them in every night.

Liz

2008​ FunFinder X​ 189FBR & 2014 FORD F150 153 Nights Camping this year
Tons of Creative, Unique and Inexpensive ModsWackyPup.Blogspot.com

[PaintyLiz]

Originally Posted by Eagle

I would be hesitant to leave electrical cooking equipment outside ever. Water and electricity/electrical equipment do not mix well.

Yes, that's what I thought. I have not been comfortable with the dew on everything.

Liz

2008​ FunFinder X​ 189FBR & 2014 FORD F150 153 Nights Camping this year
Tons of Creative, Unique and Inexpensive Mods WackyPup.Blogspot.com

[PaintyLiz]

Originally Posted by guybmoto

I 'spose it'd also come down to what critters are in the area.

Bears? I'm not sure I'd want to leave things out that would attract animals.

Yes, there seem to be more and more areas that have bears. That's a good thought.

Liz

2008​ FunFinder X​ 189FBR & 2014 FORD F150 153 Nights Camping this year
Tons of Creative, Unique and Inexpensive Mods WackyPup.Blogspot.com