Lead-Free French Press: 5 Top Picks

DoGoodHQ.co Editorial Team
DoGoodHQ.co Editorial TeamLast Updated: January 31, 2025

Lead-Free French Press: 5 Top Picks

Stainless steel lead-free French press on a table with coffee cups and a croissant

If you’re looking to nix lead from your life, you might want to turn your attention to the kitchen. Toxins can hide in some pretty sneaky places, especially when it comes to colorful cookware. And your favorite cup of coffee is no exception. A lead-free French press is a sustainable, healthy, and easy-to-use option for those looking to level up their morning routine. We’ve put together a list of high-quality French presses that will not only make a delightful drink but also help you keep that nasty lead far away from your food.


Jump To Our Picks


What is a Lead-Free French Press, Exactly?

French presses are a favorite of coffee lovers everywhere for their simplicity and ability to make a quality cup of coffee (or four). Unfortunately, they are not immune from the dangers of lead when it comes to household goods. In the kitchen, exposure often results from the chipping or scratching of lead-based paint on cookware products. 

If lead is present in French presses, it’s most often found in painted-on logos or brand names. Lead is linked to various negative health effects, including brain damage in children and nerve disorders in adults.

A lead-free French press is made without lead-containing materials or paints, making your morning coffee cleaner and your kitchen that much safer.

Top 5 Lead-Free French Presses: How We Chose

To bring you only the best in lead-free French presses, we looked for products that were not only lead-free but also checked the following boxes:

  • Quality Craftsmanship: The following French presses are made with high-quality materials like lab glass, stoneware, and stainless steel. They are made to last and strong enough to bring you your daily cup of coffee (or tea) for years to come.
  • Size Variety: We included a range of size options so you can find the press that suits your style. Whether you need a mug for one or enough for a whole household, you’ll find the perfect lead-free press.
  • Form and Function: We looked for lead-free French presses with thoughtful features like multi-layer filtration, dishwasher-friendly parts, and non-slip grips. And, of course, if it’s going to be sitting on your countertop, it should at least look good! 

Our Picks


All featured products are chosen at the discretion of the author and DGHQ editors. However, Do Good HQ may make a small affiliate commission if you click through and make a purchase.



1. Public Goods French Press

Public Goods French press: lead-free, borosilicate glass, and dishwasher safe.
CertificationsNot listed
MaterialBorosilicate glass, stainless steel, plastic
Capacity1L
Price at Publishing$29.95 ($16.95 for members)

This often recommended French press is the stylish solution for coffee drinkers looking for a better, lead-free life. It’s made of high-heat glass with an elegant handle and a sleek stainless steel plunger. The product contains minimal plastic, which serves as a seal between the lid and glass to prevent chipping and ensure a tight fit.

Highlights

All pieces of this French press are dishwasher safe.

Things to Consider

While it’s made to withstand a good bit of heat, this press is not microwave-safe.


2. Quince Stainless Steel French Press

Quince stainless steel French press: lead-free, vacuum-insulated, and durable.
CertificationsMade in a BSCI-certified factory
MaterialStainless steel
Capacity1L
Price at Publishing$29.90

For a piping-hot cup all morning long, this vacuum-insulated stainless steel French press is your new go-to. Its double-walled construction keeps it cool to the touch, while your drink stays toasty for hours after you make it. It’s tough enough to handle daily kitchen duties and durable enough to take on any outdoor excursions where you need a pick-me-up.

Highlights

The 4-layer filtration system ensures a ground-free sipping experience, and all of the pieces are dishwasher safe. 100% stainless steel construction means no lead, BPA, or cadmium in your cup.

Things to Consider

This coffee maker only comes in a single standard size, serving 2-4 people.


3. Le Creuset French Press

Le Creuset French press: lead-free stoneware, durable, and chip-resistant.
CertificationsNot listed
MaterialStoneware
Capacity34oz
Price at Publishing$85.00

Bring some color into your kitchen with this vibrant stoneware French press from the brand that does it right. Its sturdy ceramic body can be safely used in the oven, microwave, broiler, or freezer. The non-porous, nonstick glaze is easy to clean and comes in a variety of colors.   

Highlights

This press is durable enough for daily use with a chip-resistant coating and dishwasher-safe materials. It also comes with a 10-year warranty for some added peace of mind.

Things to Consider

Some customers say the stoneware doesn’t preserve heat as well as its metal alternatives do.


4. OXO Brew Stainless Steel French Press Coffee Maker

OXO Brew French press: lead-free, borosilicate glass, non-slip grip.
CertificationsNot listed
MaterialBorosilicate glass and stainless steel
Capacity32oz
Price at Publishing$33.99

OXO’s stainless steel coffee maker combines form and function with high-heat glass and comfortable, non-slip grips. The fine mesh filter delivers a sediment-free sipping experience, while the stainless steel exterior helps keep your coffee hot and ready.  

Highlights

We love this press for its ingenious grounds lifter, which is made to remove soggy coffee grounds once you’re finished. OXO is also a partner of 1% for the Planet, so you can feel good knowing your money is supporting eco-friendly initiatives. 

Things to Consider

This product is hand-wash only.


5. Budget Find: Bodum Chambord French Press Coffee Maker

Bodum Chambord French press: lead-free, classic design, various sizes available.
CertificationsNot listed
MaterialBorosilicate glass, stainless steel, plastic
Capacity12oz, 17oz, 34oz, 51oz
Price at Publishing$30.44

This classic French press has a stainless steel frame and plunger, as well as a BPA-free, non-slip handle. The glass carafe nests in a sturdy frame and can be quickly removed for easy cleaning. 

Highlights

This coffee maker comes in various sizes and colors, so you can pick your perfect French press experience. 

Things to Consider

For some color options, only the glass, plunger, and filter are dishwasher-safe. Because the glass carafe is not secured in the frame, take care when removing the plunger or turning it upside-down.


How to Choose the Best Lead-Free French Press

Here are some things to consider when picking the perfect French press for your morning brew:

  • How many cups of coffee do you need? French presses come in many sizes, from single-serve to family-sized. Consider how many servings you’ll want to make and choose a press that’s up to the task. 
  • Does “dishwasher safe” matter? French presses can be fairly easy to wash by hand, but some may prefer the simplicity of a dishwasher-safe coffee maker.
  • How long do you want it to stay hot? Stainless steel presses tend to hold onto heat better than their glass counterparts, but this isn’t always the case. If you tend to consume your coffee quickly or plan to use the press for iced coffee, heat retention may not matter. But if you prefer your coffee piping hot, an insulated press is the way to go.

With so many lead-free French presses to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect coffee companion for a healthier, safer, happier home. 

Featured image via Quince

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