The 10 Best Nonstick Pans Without Teflon
This wiki has been updated 27 times since it was first published in January of 2019. Nonstick cookware can be a godsend in the kitchen, but, unfortunately, a lot of models on the market are manufactured with heavy metals and can release dangerous toxins when subjected to high heat. You can avoid this issue with something from our list of pans without Teflon — all of which feature a safer alternative instead — and they come in a range of styles and sizes to suit every need. When users buy our independently chosen editorial choices, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.
1. Daterra Cucina Vesuvio
2. Tramontina Square Metallic
3. Calphalon Classic Oil-Infused
Editor's Notes
November 30, 2020:
With this update, we have made sure that all included pans are free of PFOA as well as PTFE, a synthetic polymer better known by the brand name Teflon. To this end, we opted to remove the Techef CeraTerra, as we are unable to verify that it truly does not contain PTFE due to conflicting information. Besides which, there are plenty of options that are just as budget-friendly, including the Cuisinart GreenGourmet 8-Inch and the GreenLife Soft Grip. We especially appreciate that these are each just one piece in a line of cookware, so you can grab the matching pots and pans you're missing in your kitchen, perhaps to supplement a cookware set.
As for higher-priced choices made for the long haul, we still think the Daterra Cucina Vesuvio represents the best value. Whereas some options come with simple lids or no lid at all, this one has a thoughtfully designed lid with a stylish handle. We added the Calphalon Classic Oil-Infused, as well, a 12-inch choice that has a 10-year warranty and is free of all heavy metals. It takes the place of the GreenPan Rio, which doesn't offer enough to make it stand out.
Finally, we kept the T-fal Jumbo Saute for those who need a pan with an ample capacity. We selected it rather than T-fal's Thermo-Spot nonstick jumbo pans, since this version is free of PTFE as well as compatible with your induction cooktop.
January 31, 2019:
Teflon is a brand name for a man-made chemical called polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), which has been found to use an environmentally unfriendly manufacturing process and is capable of releasing toxins that cause flu-like symptoms when combined with high heat. Our list prioritized pans that were free of PTFE, lead, cadmium, PFOA and other chemicals first and foremost. After that, we made sure to select a wide variety to suit many cooking needs, and favored high-quality cookware with positive feedback and ergonomic designs from reputable companies.
Special Honors
Caraway Fry Pan If you take environmental concerns seriously, you'll perhaps want to look at the Caraway Fry Pan. The production of its nonstick coating releases less CO2 than most traditional options, making this an earth-friendly choice. It's also quite handsome, with a sleek handle and a range of color choices that includes sage, gray, and navy. carawayhome.com
Always Pan by Our Place The Always Pan by Our Place is so named because it is versatile; in fact, it was designed to replace your steamer, skillet, saucepan, and more. You'll even receive a beechwood spatula along with it, which nests into an integrated spoon rest for mess-free use. fromourplace.com
4. WaxonWare Hive Skillets
5. T-fal Jumbo Saute
6. Cooker King Healthy
7. GreenLife Soft Grip
8. Michelangelo Granite
9. Cuisinart GreenGourmet 8-Inch
10. Amore Kitchenware Flamekiss
Melissa Harr is a language-obsessed writer from Chicagoland who holds both a bachelor of arts and master of arts in English. Although she began as a TEFL teacher, earning several teaching certificates and working in both Russia and Vietnam, she moved into freelance writing to satisfy her passion for the written word. She has published full-length courses and books in the realm of arts & crafts and DIY; in fact, most of her non-working time is spent knitting, cleaning, or committing acts of home improvement. Along with an extensive knowledge of tools, home goods, and crafts and organizational supplies, she has ample experience (okay, an obsession) with travel gear, luggage, and the electronics that make modern life more convenient.