Best Non Toxic Cookware – 8 Types Tested and Reviewed
A roundup of the best non toxic cookware brands that are free from PFAS and other toxic chemicals. We’ve tested and reviewed these pans to find the best high-quality and healthy cookware for your kitchen.
By now, you’ve probably heard about the dangers of PFAS and other chemicals in cookware. Yet, you want to make the majority of your meals at home, because you know it’s healthier for you and your family!
In this post we’re exploring the different types of cookware that are completely safe and non-toxic to use, including PFAS-free non-stick cookware, stainless steel, cast iron and more. And we’re spilling the beans on the best non toxic cookware brands that we’ve tested over many years of cooking! 🍳🍳🍳
Top Non-Toxic Cookware Picks
Best Stainless Steel Cookware: 360 Cookware
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Best Cast Iron Cookware: Lodge
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Best 100% Ceramic Cookware: Xtrema
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Best Ceramic Non-Stick Cookware Pan: Our Place Always Pan
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Best Ceramic Non-Stick Cookware Set: Caraway
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Best Multi-Purpose Pan: Titanium Always Pan Pro
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Best Enamel Cast Iron: Le Crueset
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Best Carbon Steel Cookware: Alva
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Best Copper Cookware: Sertodo
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At Mindful Momma we only endorse products we’ve personally researched, tested, and honestly love. We may receive commissions from affiliate links in this article including Amazon Affiliates. Full Disclosure
Non Toxic Cookware Types & Best Brands
My husband and I LOVE to cook and we’ve been lucky enough to test out many types and brands of cookware. Too many probably, but we have a hard time being minimalist in the kitchen. 😆
The good news is, we have done rigorous testing (including heavy duty cooking and washing of our pans) in order to help you find the best quality, safe cookware around! Be assured that the non toxic pans I mention below are free from PFAS and other harmful chemicals and are high-quality, durable pans that will last a long time.
This cookware review covers all the types of cookware that are considered safe and non-toxic including cast iron, stainless steel, 100% ceramic, ceramic non-stick cookware, carbon steel and copper cookware.
Extra credit: learn about the types of toxins in cookware that you want to AVOID.
1.) Stainless Steel Cookware
Stainless steel is the darling of the cooking world. It’s super durable, safe to use, easy to clean and beautiful to look at! You can also cook with stainless steel pans at high heat. The best stainless steel cookware is made from high quality 18/10 stainless and has an aluminum core (aluminum is a great heat conductor), but is completely encased in stainless steel.
Stainless steel cookware is easy to clean (you can use steel wool on it) and it maintains it’s good looks over time.
Avoid cheap stainless steel cookware that might not hold up over time. There is some concern about the nickel and chromium in stainless steel as a very small number of people are sensitive to it – but most of us can use stainless cookware without concern.
| PROS of Stainless Steel Cookware | CONS of Stainless Steel Cookware |
| Very durable | non very non-stick |
| Great for high heat | |
| Dishwasher safe & easy to clean |
Favorite Stainless Steel Cookware: 360 Cookware
Why I love 360 Stainless Steel Cookware:
- It’s made from stainless steel with an aluminum core
- 360 Cookware is designed for waterless cooking, a technique designed to cook using the natural moisture from the food, instead of added water. The process locks in the natural flavors and nutrients in foods and uses less energy than traditional cooking as well.
- Dishwasher safe – this is a huge benefit for busy cooks!
- If you are looking for cookware that will last a long time (aka forever!), then this is it!
- Bonus – this non-toxic cookware is made in the USA!
Read my full 360 cookware review (they have great bakeware too!)
Suggested products from 360 Cookware:
- Saute Pan
- Sauce Pan
- Slow Cooker Set
- 9-Piece Cookware Set (if you need a cookware set or want to register for one for your wedding, I recommend this one!)
Mindful Momma readers get 25% off 360 Cookware with code MindfulMomma25.
More High Quality Stainless Steel Cookware Brands
All Clad Cookware – All Clad Stainless Steel Cookware is U.S. made with a tri-ply or 5-ply bonded construction that combines the durability of stainless steel with an aluminum core for its excellence in heat conductivity. The 12 inch saute pan was the first nice piece of cookware that I purchased and it’s still one of the most used items in our kitchen! Some people ask – Is All Clad non toxic? – and the answer is YES – but be aware: All Clad non-stick pans contain PTFE, so you’ll want to avoid those!
Quince – This professional-grade Italian cookware is constructed with five layers of stainless steel and aluminum for even heat distribution and maximum durability. The price for a 10-piece cookware set is very affordable! I have one of their frying pans and I can attest to the quality!
Calphalon – Calphalon stainless steel is another affordable brand made with a 3-layer construction of stainless steel with an aluminum core. It’s easy to find at Target and other local stores.
2.) Titanium Cookware
Titanium is used in cookware because of its durability and heat resistance. It can withstand high temperatures without warping and is also a lightweight material. The titanium cookware I’ve seen is typically a hybrid made with stainless steel, aluminum and titanium in order to take advantage of the benefits of all three materials.
| PROS of Titanium Cookware | CONS of Titanium Cookware |
| Extremely durable | Can be expensive |
| Great for high heat | |
| Dishwasher safe |
Spotlight on the Titanium Always Pan Pro
The NEW Titanium Always Pan Pro is super unique pan that pairs a stainless steel exterior, a quick-heating aluminum core, and a durable titanium interior with a non-stick experience.
- has a NoCo nonstick technology that’s coating-free and made without PFAS
- the titanium surface is 300% harder than stainless steel, making it virtually indestructible
- safe up to 1000 degrees
- dishwasher safe
The Always Pan Pro has become a go-to pan in our kitchen! It’s great for searing meats at high temps and is the perfect size for sauteing just about anything. You can also make a mean omelet or fried eggs in this pan without sticking! You do need to add a bit of butter or oil, but once you do, the pan creates a nice non-stick surface.
3.) Cast Iron Cookware
Cast iron cookware is like your reliable friend – it’s always there for you when you need it. Cast iron is known for great heat retention – just be sure to heat it up slowly to avoid burning.
The best cast iron cookware in my opinion, is just plain cast iron, without other coatings. Avoid thin or cheap cast iron as it might burn foods quickly. Many cast iron pans come pre-seasoned, making it easy to get started without a hassle. I’ve busted some common myths about cast iron on the blog as well.
| PROS of Cast Iron Cookware | CONS of Cast Iron Cookware |
| Very durable & long lasting | It’s heavy |
| Great heat retention | Not dishwasher safe |
| A bit of work to maintain seasoning and avoid rust |
Favorite Cast Iron Cookware Brand: Lodge
Why I love Lodge Cast Iron Cookware:
- High quality, pre-seasoned cast iron without any coatings that is made to last forever.
- All of their seasoned cast iron is made in the USA.
- Whether you are looking for one cast iron pan or many, Lodge is a great brand!
Suggested products from Lodge Cookware:
- 5 quart covered deep skillet
- Reversible grill/griddle (I recommend everyone have one of these – we use ours all the time!)
- Essential pan set
- 14 inch wok
Other Popular Cast Iron Cookware Brands
- Stargazer – I haven’t personally tried Stargazer, but I have heard great things! Stargazer claims to be smoother, lighter and safer than other cast iron brands.
- Field Company – Another brand that I have yet to try but has a great reputation for lightweight and smoothly finished cast iron pans.
- See section on enameled cast iron below for more suggestions.
4.) 100% Ceramic Cookware
Take a trip to any store that sells cookware and you’ll probably see the term ceramic on some of the pots and pans. Stop right there, because most of that cookware is not 100% ceramic but rather has a ceramic coating applied to the cooking surface of the pan – whether the pan is aluminum, cast iron or stainless steel (see below for more info on ceramic coated pans).
What we’re talking about here is 100% pure ceramic cookware. This type of ceramic is not a coating, it is ceramic pottery through and through.
| PROS of 100% Ceramic Cookware | CONS of 100% Ceramic Cookware |
| No coatings | Could break or chip if you drop it |
| Very durable | Hand washing is recommended |
| Lighter than cast iron |
Favorite 100% Ceramic Cookware Brand: Xtrema
Why I love Xtrema Ceramic Cookware:
- Xtrema by Ceramcor is a 100% ceramic line of cookware. There is no coating or glaze so nothing will ever flake, peel or scratch off this cookware.
- In addition, there are no bonding materials, glues, polymers, or dyes used in Xtrema.
- Each batch of Xtrema is third-party tested for heavy metals like lead and cadmium, making it a truly safe and healthy choice if you are shopping for non-toxic cookware.
- Xtrema is extremely durable and is scratch-proof and chip resistant. It is much lighter than cast iron. The only downside is that if you drop it on the floor, it will probably break.
- The company sent me a sample of the Xtrema 10″ Versa Skillet and after giving it a test drive, I highly recommend it. I’ve cooked eggs – both fried and scrambled with great success, and even if something sticks it is super easy to clean off with a handy plastic pan scraper.
- The Versa skillet can transfer easily between the stovetop and the oven and comes with handy silicone handle protectors so you won’t get burned. Plus it’s a beautiful serving dish as well.
Read my full Xtrema cookware review for more info. Mindful Momma readers get 10% off anytime using code MindfulM10 at checkout!
Suggested products from Xtrema:
5.) Ceramic Non-Stick Cookware
Ceramic coated cookware has emerged as a popular replacement to traditional Teflon nonstick pans. Ceramic coatings are made from silicon (not to be confused with silicone), which is basically sand, and do not use any Teflon coatings – PFOA, PTFE or anything in the PFAS category. Ceramic coated pans are considered to be much safer than old school non-stick pans and use 60% less CO2 in manufacturing.
However, from what I’ve read and learned through experience, it is important to choose high quality ceramic coated cookware over cheaper versions. Not all ceramic coatings are created equal.
Because of these concerns, if you feel the need to have a non-stick pan in your kitchen, I recommend sticking with brands that have been certified by third party testing to meet food contact standards set by the U.S. and Europe and to be free from heavy metals and other contaminants.
A downside of ceramic non-stick pans is that they are not built to last a lifetime, like stainless steel or cast iron. Over time, the coating can get scratched and you will need to replace the pans. Personally, I use my ceramic-coated pans when I really need the non-stick feature (eggs for example), and I stick with stainless steel or cast iron for the majority of my cooking.
See below for more recommendations of the best non-stick cookware that is free from PFAS-type chemicals.
| PROS of Ceramic Non-Stick Cookware | CONS of Ceramic Non-Stick Cookware |
| Reliable non-stick quality | Over time the coating may scratch |
| Pans are light weight | Hand washing is recommended |
Favorite Ceramic Coated Cookware Pan: Always Pan
Why I love the Always Pan:
- The Always Pan from Our Place is a multi-use pan that is designed to replace a 16-piece cookware set.
- The pan has a safe ceramic coating that turns out a mean fried egg without sticking.
- It comes with a very useful steamer basket and a cute bamboo spatula that fits onto the skillet’s handle – I just love design details like that!
The Always Pan would also be a perfect gift for a young adult with a new apartment, or someone with very little storage space. If you are looking for an affordable non-toxic non-stick pan, I recommend this one!
- The Always Pan uses a sol-gel non-stick coating that is made primarily from silicon dioxide
- The ceramic coating is third party tested to ensure compliance with FDA and EU food contact regulations
- Tested to show that absolutely nothing can pass through the coating
- Free from PTFE, PFOA, PFOS, lead, cadmium and other toxic metals
- Made in a female-owned factory in China
- The Always Pan comes in your choice of fun colors
- A titanium always pan and a cast iron always pan are available too and they are both amazing pans.
- Our Place has beautiful dinnerware and kitchen tools as well.
Favorite Ceramic Cookware Set: Caraway
Why I love Caraway Cookware:
- Made with an aluminum core that allows the pans to heat evenly, a stainless steel base & handles, and a non-stick, mineral based coating
- Third-party tested for lead, cadmium, PTFE (Teflon®), PFOA and other harmful chemicals
- Oven safe up to 500 degrees
- Caraway cookware comes in gorgeous colors!
- Works on any type of cooktop including induction
- Set comes with handy pan and lid storage solution
- Comes in five beautiful colors (we were gifted a set of Sage by the company)
- Nonstick pots and pans can be purchased individually as well
- Manufactured in ethical factories in China
Other Popular Ceramic Non Stick Cookware Brands
- Greenpan – Another popular brand of non stick ceramic cookware that is Greenpan. It is easily found on Amazon and is sold in many stores.
- Cuisinart – Cuisinart Culinary Collection uses a PURELYCERAMIC nonstick coating
6.) Porcelain Enameled Cast Iron Cookware
Enameled cookware pans marry the heat retention and durability of cast iron with a hard porcelain enamel glaze that is baked onto the surface (both interior and exterior) of the pan.
Because of some concern that heavy metals like lead and cadmium could leach from enamel coated pans (especially from brightly colored pans), you should be careful to purchase only from reputable sources and discontinue use if the interior surface gets chipped.
| PROS of Porcelain Enamel Cookware | CONS of Porcelain Enamel Cookware |
| Very durable | Enamel may chip over time |
| Great heat retention | Hand washing is best (but can go in dishwasher) |
Favorite Enameled Cast Iron Brand: Le Creuset
Why I love Le Crueset Cookware:
- I inherited two Le Creuset pans from my mother – a large skillet and an oval baking dish. Both are amazing for cooking and the baking dish is lovely for serving as well.
- LeCreuset cast iron is still made in France.
- We love our LeCreuset dutch ovens!
- LeCreuset is not cheap, but well worth the investment in my opinion!
Suggested products from Le Creuset:
More Recommended Enameled Cast Iron Brands:
- Cast Iron Always Pan – If you are only going to buy one cast iron pan, you should seriously consider this one – it’s the perfect size for so many cooking jobs and comes in some pretty colors. We LOVE this pan for giving a nice sear to cooked meat.
- Made In Cookware
- Staub Cast Iron
7.) Carbon Steel Cookware
Carbon Steel cookware is very popular in commercial kitchens and is gaining popularity in home kitchens – for good reason! Here’s why you might want to give carbon steel cookware a try:
- Quick temperature response, great for searing steaks or quick cooking stir frys
- Very lightweight and easy to maneuver
- Extremely durable – can withstand high temperatures and can even be used on a campfire
| PROS of Carbon Steel Cookware | CONS of Carbon Steel Cookware |
| Very light weight | Can rust if not well maintained |
| Quick to heat up | Hand wash only and must dry to avoid rust |
| Can withstand high heat |
Favorite Carbon Steel Cookware Brand: Alva Cookware
Why I love Alva Carbon Steel Cookware:
- The Forest Wok from Alva Cookware comes pre-seasoned with mineral oil so it’s ready to use and has an Acacia wood handle that stays cool.
- It is completely PFAS-free!
- It works on all types of stoves
- The Forest Wok is perfect for stir fry night – a favorite with my family!
You can take 10% off your first order from Alva Cookware with code MINDFULMOMMA
Suggested products from Alva:
Learn about Alva ceramic cookware too!
8.) Copper Cookware
Copper is an excellent conductor of heat. It heats quickly and the heat spreads throughout the pan evenly, allowing food to cook uniformly without hot spots. Copper is an essential mineral for the human body, but because too much of it could cause health problems, copper pans are almost always lined with another material.
High quality copper cookware is typically lined with a thin layer of tin. The tin is non-reactive and does not interfere with the heat conduction of the copper. Tin is also naturally non-stick, an added bonus for this popular type of cookware.
| PROS of Copper Cookware | CONS of Copper Cookware |
| Heats up quickly | Not good with high heat |
| Food cooks uniformly | Hand wash with non-abrasive sponge to avoid scratching |
Favorite Copper Cookware brand: Sertodo
Why I love Sertodo Copper Cookware:
- This heavy-gauge, tin-lined copper cookware is not only gorgeous but it is a joy to cook with!
- The lightweight handles are heat resistant and easy to hold on to.
- Copper cookware is an investment, but it is meant to last a lifetime!
Suggested products from Sertodo:
Healthy Cookware FAQs
The short answer is YES, as long as you are buying from a reputable producer. When shopping for ceramic cookware, it’s important to look for brands that have been certified by third party testing to be free from heavy metals and other contaminants and to meet food contact standards set by the United States and Europe.
Yes, stainless steel is considered a very safe material for cookware. While stainless steel is generally considered hypoallergenic and safe for most people, it is possible for some individuals to have an allergic reaction to the nickel that makes up a small component of stainless steel alloys. If you have a known nickel allergy, you should discuss your cookware choice with your doctor.
All of the cookware types listed in this post are free from PFOA, PTFE and other PFAS chemicals. When shopping for non-stick cookware, always read labels carefully for these types of non-stick chemicals, and avoid them at all costs.
Do you have a favorite non-toxic cookware brand? I’d love to hear what it is!
This is great info! Thanks for posting! I’ve just purchased a set from Green Pan and am hoping I made a good choice!! 😳. Does this brand fall into your “use with caution” category?
UPDATE: At this point I feel more comfortable recommending high quality ceramic cookware like the Always Pan because it has been third-party tested for heavy metals and other toxic chemicals. I would use caution with brands of ceramic cookware that are not transparent about testing.
Trying to purchase the always pan and the perfect pot. Already in love with the fact that’s it’s made PFOA PTFE & PFAS free!!
Anyhow tried using your discount code MINDMOM and it didn’t work.
Do you an updated code?
Please advise. Thank you
Margie
Sorry about the code – the company told me they stopped using ongoing discount codes – but be sure to check their website for current specials!
Thanks for the thorough round-up! Our Lodge cast-iron pan is definitely our favorite!
We love ours too!
Thank you for all the information! Have you happened to come across bakeware or cookware that is non toxic AND made in the US or Europe?
Thanks
Maja and Robert
American Kitchen stainless steel cookware is made in the US. https://americankitchencookware.com/stainless-steel-cookware Hope that helps!
would you say all clad stainless steel is safe for an everyday use? I am completely new to non toxic cookware… if I dare share my current cooking pans … lol
Oh yes – stainless steel pans are very safe to use and All Clad is a very reputable brand. I own quite a few stainless pans from All Clad and they have stood the test of time!!
Do you recommend Caraway brand asa safe option? Any cons?
Caraway seems to be pretty similar to the Always Pan. I’m hoping to do a review of it soon!
Is Sertodo copper third-party tested? Their stuff is gorgeous, but it says they use recycled metals (according to their website). How can we make sure there are no alloys in this recycled metal? :/ I have very sensitive kids and can’t find any info on their copper..
I don’t know the answer to that – but here is their contact info: Sertodo Copper (512) 572-0167 email: hello@sertodo.com
Hi Nancy ! Did you get an answer from them ?
As far as ceramic coated pans go, is Always Pan less toxic than Green Pan? I see in another comment you said to use with caution on Green Pan. I’m curious if Always Pan could also be potentially harmful. Thx!!
Hi Tessa – Good question! Since I first wrote this post I’ve learned a bit more about ceramic cookware. At this point I feel more comfortable recommending high quality ceramic cookware like the Always Pan because it has been third-party tested for heavy metals and other toxic chemicals. I would use caution with brands of ceramic cookware that are not transparent about testing. Hope that helps!
Have you done any research on Scanpans? I was planning to purchase those until more recently I’ve been finding info on the Caraway and Always pans.
I haven’t used Scanpan but it is ceramic non stick and I believe they have a good reputation for quality.
hi MICAELA hope you are doing well
there is know doubt that did a detail research on the topic. But, i have a doubt on copper cookware; yes they are very well conductor of heat, at the same time they are highly reactive with citrus foods.
So, will you really consider them as a non toxic cookware?
Good question Lila – the tin lining on copper pans eliminates the concern about reactivity with acidic foods.
Thanks for the reply… Late merry christmas & happy new year in advance…..
What would you recommend as the best pan/material when cooking with acidic foods like tomato sauce?
Thanks!
I would stick to stainless steel for that.
I love your blog! I’m a big fan of non-toxic cookware and I’m always on the lookout for new brands and types to try. Thank you for all the great information!
How safe is the aluminum core in The Always Pan or any other pan? Aluminum leakage is a big concern. Any input would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you.
I am not aware of any concern with aluminum leakage with The Always Pan
Out of these brands which pot would be good for cooking rice?
I personally use stainless steel pots for cooking rice.
What about staub?
I’ve never used Staub but my understanding is that is high quality enameled cast iron cookware.
HELP! I am searching for non toxic (non aluminum) disposable cookware that I can make ahead and freeze items in bulk. I can only seem to find aluminum. Any ideas?
I’m afraid that I don’t know of anything other than aluminum for disposable bakeware.
Hi, Any good rest for a non toxic air fryer?
Any good recs for a non toxic air fryer? ***Not rest
Sorry – I have not tested any air fryers yet.
Im surprised I dont see green pan on here. It is one of the best non toxic nonstick pans I have heard.
I do have a link to one Greenpan product in the post.
What about carbon steel?
I just recently added a carbon steel option to this post!
Hey there! Costco just had a beautiful enameled cast iron dutch oven set and I’m trying to figure out if it’s good quality. The brand is Tramontina. Would love any perspective you have please!!
I’m not familiar with that brand Tramontina – sorry!
Hi mindful momma Micaela,
Have you heard of Heritage Steel. They are supposed to be non toxic and made in the US. I’m so tempted to purchase this brand because their prices are a lot more affordable. Do you know if they are really non toxic?
Thank you
Mary
No I have not heard of that brand.
Out of all the pots and pans ive tried over the years my copper pans are my favorite. My copper pans always cook evenly and food never sticks!
glad to hear you love cooking with copper!