Non-Toxic Kitchen Utensils: 5 Materials to Try for Safer Meals
Spatulas, spoons, and skimmers—they all have a place in the kitchen. You know what doesn’t? Dangerous toxins, nasty chemicals, and harmful microplastics. If you’re looking to keep risky materials far from your favorite food, non-toxic kitchen utensils are the key. These food-safe alternatives are precisely what you need to whip up safer, healthier meals at home.
What are “Non-Toxic” Kitchen Utensils, Exactly?
Non-toxic kitchen utensils are made without harmful materials or ingredients. They’re often made with natural, sustainable, or food-safe materials that nix toxic treatments, glues, and finishes.
Many common kitchen utensils are made with non-stick coatings and flame retardants that contain toxic compounds. Over time, especially when exposed to heat, these can leach into your food and contribute to some serious health problems.
Luckily, there are plenty of safe, healthy alternatives. We’ll cover our top five favorites:
- Silicone
- Wood
- Bamboo
- Composite
- Stainless steel
1. Silicone Cooking Utensils
Silicone is a synthetic polymer, but it’s a much safer option than plastic. It’s heat-resistant, flexible, and won’t break down into dangerous microscopic particles. This makes it an ideal choice for cooking, especially since it’s easy to clean and stain-resistant.
Are silicone utensils safe?
Food-grade silicone is one of the safest options for food preparation. Unfortunately, not all silicone is created equal. A 2023 study found endocrine-disrupting chemicals in 84% of the 31 kitchenware products tested. While silicone is generally safer than plastic, it still pays to be picky when shopping for new kitchen products.
Best Silicone Cooking Utensils: Our Picks
The best silicone kitchen utensils are, obviously, toxin-free, but they also need to be versatile and durable to make them worthwhile. We selected kitchen tools that are not only safe but also designed for daily use. It doesn’t hurt that they look great, too!
- Our favorite silicone kitchen utensil is the GIR 5-Piece Ultimate Tool Set. GIR (Get It Right) offers a range of safe, high-quality kitchen utensils that are free from BPA, BPS, heavy metals, and other harmful toxins. The 5-piece sets come in a variety of colors and styles, with prices ranging from $49.99 to $69.95. Buy it on Amazon
- For the perfect blend of form and function, we love the GreenPan Platinum Silicone Tools 7-Piece Utensil Set. This all-inclusive set has everything you’ll need to cook up a storm. The utensils feature a sturdy steel core with a flexible tip, are dishwasher-safe, and are free from lead, cadmium, BPA, PFOA, and PFAS. Prices range from $99.99 to $142.99. Buy it on Amazon
Silicone Utensil Care Tips
If you want your silicone kitchen tools to really last, here’s how:
- Store utensils upright in a container or crock to avoid warping.
- Avoid using abrasive scouring pads or chemicals for cleaning.
- Pay attention to the manufacturer’s temperature recommendations.
2. Wooden Cooking Utensils
It’s a classic for a reason. When made right, wooden utensils are one of the best choices for a safe, toxin-free mealtime. The trouble arises from the adhesives, finishes, and treatments used in the manufacturing process, so it’s essential to be cautious; not just any wood will do.
Best Wooden Cooking Utensils: Our Picks
To bring you the best wooden cooking utensils, we searched for safe, natural, solid products that aren’t treated with any harmful chemicals. These kitchen tools are sustainable, durable, and designed with food safety in mind.
- You can’t go wrong with the Vernier Shop Premium Natural Teak Wood Kitchen Utensils. These handcrafted kitchen tools are made with biodegradable, sustainable, exceptionally durable teak and are priced at $120. Buy it at Vernier Shop
- Another great toxin-free option is the Ziruma Non-Toxic Cooking Utensils 7-Piece Set. Each tool is glue-free and made from a single piece of solid acacia wood. They also boast a plant-based finish, so they’re free from BPA and other nasty chemicals. The complete set is priced between $32.95 and $34.85. Buy it on Amazon
Wooden Utensil Care Tips
Here are some quick tips to keep your wooden utensils working well and looking great:
- Oil them when they start to look dry.
- Always wash them by hand.
- Never leave them to soak in water.
3. Bamboo Cooking Utensils
Bamboo is one of the most sustainable materials out there. This fast-growing grass is strong, lightweight, and less porous than hardwoods, making it a great option for kitchen tools.
Are bamboo utensils safe?
When not treated with any extra chemicals, bamboo is non-toxic and perfectly safe. In fact, bamboo has natural antimicrobial properties that can help protect against mildew and bacteria. Of course, bamboo products still require some TLC, but with a little love, they can withstand years of daily use.
Best Bamboo Cooking Utensils: Our Picks
We found the best bamboo cooking utensils by looking for products that lean into the natural goodness. We picked utensils that nix the need for harsh chemical treatments and preserve the safe, healthy properties of bamboo.
- We’re big fans of the Bambu Kitchen Basics Set of 3 Bamboo Cooking Utensils because they’re not only made without any glues or lacquers, but they’re also USDA Certified Biobased—meaning they are made from sustainable, renewable materials. Prices range from $17.99 to $22.95. Buy it on Grove
- Kozy Sweet Home Bamboo Utensils. These handmade utensils are all-natural and chemical-free, with holes on the ends for easy hanging and storage. Prices range from $17.95 to $29.99. Buy it on Amazon
Bamboo Utensil Care Tips
Much like other plant-based utensils, to care for bamboo ones, you should:
- Clean them with a soft-bristled brush or sponge.
- Avoid putting them through the dishwasher.
- Never leave them to sit in water.
4. Composite Cooking Utensils
Composite utensils are typically made from a combination of wood and resin, resulting in a particularly sturdy surface. They are essentially maintenance-free, as they don’t require oiling and special care the way other wood products do.
Best Composite Cooking Utensils: Our Picks
The best composite products are food-safe, functional, and easy to care for. That’s why we have only one favorite when it comes to this culinary category.
- For the best in convenience, durability, and versatility, you can’t go wrong with the Epicurean Chef Series 3-Piece Kitchen Utensil Set. These utensils have the look and feel of wood, but are exceptionally strong. They’re exceptionally lightweight, yet still non-porous, and priced at $56.85. Buy it on Crate & Barrel
Composite Utensil Care Tips
To take the best care of your composite utensils, keep these tips in mind:
- No oiling is required, but you can still do it to refresh their look and color!
- Avoid cleaning with harsh chemicals.
- Wash by hand or in the dishwasher.
5. Stainless Steel Cooking Utensils
Stainless steel has long been a trusted choice for toxin-conscious cooks. It’s durable, safe, rust-resistant, and always ready to handle the heat.
Best Stainless Steel Cooking Utensils: Our Picks
While most stainless steel products are generally considered food-safe, some are specifically designed for longer, stronger, and better use. Here are our top picks for stainless steel sets.
- We love the Viking 8-Piece Stainless Steel Utensil Set. It comes with a range of tools, each with ergonomic handles and made to last. Prices range from $99.99 to $119.99. Buy it on Amazon
- For those looking for a few sturdy essentials, we recommend the OXO 6-Piece Prep & Serve Kitchen Tool Set. It’s built to last and features comfortable grips, along with a handy utensil holder. Buy it on Amazon
- If you’re looking to stock up on the basics, you need the IKEA GRUNKA 4-Piece Kitchen Utensil Set. With slots for hanging and a simple, sleek design, it’s a steal at just $9.99. Buy it at IKEA
Stainless Steel Utensil Care Tips
Stainless steel may be strong, but it’s not indestructible. Here’s how to keep your utensils looking and performing their best:
- Wipe dry before storing to prevent water spots.
- Avoid abrasive materials when cleaning to prevent scuffs.
- Wash by hand or in the dishwasher.
Final Thoughts
When you’re working hard to whip up a healthy meal, here come hidden toxins to ruin the fun. By stocking your kitchen with safe kitchen tools, you can keep harmful chemicals, heavy metals, and microplastics far from your favorite foods. These food-safe products won’t just help you enjoy your next home-cooked meal—they’ll let you enjoy some extra peace of mind, to boot!
Featured image via Bambu
