How To Choose A Muddler

The magical muddler - do you choose the muddler, or does the muddler choose you!? It crushes our sugar cubes, releases medicinal oils, mashes up fruits, prepares our peppers, & so much more! But, with so many varieties available, how do you choose a muddler that's right for you? Let's look at the pros & cons of different materials and join us as we briefly touch upon some popular types:

PLASTIC

Well, probably don't use plastic. It's plastic! When we don't have to, we'd rather not. If you already have a plastic muddler - put it to use - or pass it along to your family member, friend, or co-worker that will appreciate the addition of a muddler to their growing cocktail tool collection. It's much more sustainable than throwing it away and is sure to be appreciated by the recipient. In general, for long-lasting, quality bar tools, we tend to stay away from plastic.

WOOD & NATURAL FIBERS

Wooden muddlers are the traditional choice; all muddlers once were formed out of wood. They are prevalent, but not all are created equal. There are a few factors to consider when opting for a wooden muddler.

Is it painted or lacquered? We recommend going with a non-lacquered model over a lacquered one because the paint or lacquer can chip off - leaving remnants behind in your cocktail! A good, solid, natural wood muddler is the best choice for this category. However, the upkeep can be a bit more laborious - these muddlers should be hand-washed (not tossed in the dishwasher) & oiled regularly with a plant-based oil, such as grapeseed oil.

Is it a solid piece of wood? It is best to opt for a muddler that is one continuous piece rather than wood pressed together. A quality one-piece wooden muddler should be pretty easy on your hands as well.

Bamboo is grass, not wood, but is a sustainable option in bar & kitchen products alike. It is a very durable yet light material. A downside to bamboo muddlers is they can easily splinter and crack over time. These muddlers require care as well; they must be hand-washed and dried immediately after.

STAINLESS STEEL:

If you're looking for a muddler that is low-maintenance and dishwasher-safe, stainless steel is the way to go. They are more sanitary and will not absorb stains, smells, or bacteria. Some will have nylon or silicone teeth at the bottom and grip on the handle. Make sure to clean in between where the nylon joins the steel regularly. Exercise caution when using your muddler in a glass vessel - don't tap it too hard, or you may end up with broken glass!

CONCLUSION:

When it comes down to it, the muddler you choose should fit your preferred style and comfort. How does it feel in your hand? Are you using it for an entire bartending shift or occasionally breaking out the bar tools to mix up a drink for yourself or your team? Do you have the time to maintain a solid wood muddler, or is it best if you can throw it in the dishwasher? Aesthetics are important, too. It is a bartender's responsibility to make cocktails, and their creation, look beautiful. Whatever you choose, happy muddling!