Most cookware is considered safe, but it’s important to replace items showing signs of wear. (GreenPan/Field Company/Wildone)
When your favorite non-stick skillet has started to lose its non-stick coating or you've knocked your best soup pot around a few too many times and dents are starting to show, it's probably time to let your old cookware go. "It's important to replace cookware when it starts to show signs of deterioration," says Li Li, associate professor of public health at the University of Nevada, Reno, and expert in exposure and health sciences. While he admits there's no specific guideline for how often pots or pans should be replaced, "a good rule of thumb is if deep scratches, dents and pitting can be found on cookware surfaces, or if the coating is peeling or flaking, it's time to buy something new."
If you've found yourself in the market for a new set, it's important to be conscientious about the pots and pans you select to make sure you're adding non-toxic cookware to your kitchen. While new, high-quality cookware sold in major retailers is largely considered safe, it's important to be aware of a few potential risks so you can make the best decision for yourself and your family.
For example, Li points out that while the perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) that was once used in Teflon-coated non-stick cookware has been phased out due to its links to health concerns, there are other chemicals in the same family (per- and polyfluoroalkyl stubstances, or PFAS) that are still being used. "We don't yet know whether these other chemicals will turn out to be just as harmful as PFOA in the long run. This is something researchers, including people like me, are still working to figure out," he says.
Krystal Pollitt, associate professor of epidemiology and environmental health at the Yale School of Public Health, doubles down on the importance of selecting cookware that doesn't contain these other PFAS chemicals. "PFAS are known as 'forever chemicals.' [They] are very difficult to break down and have been linked with chronic disease. Switching to alternatives eliminates exposure to the forever chemicals in the non-stick coatings and [their] associated risk," she explains.
Your best bet while shopping is to look for cookware that says "PFOA-free" or "PFAS-free." Non-stick cookware also frequently uses a polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) coating which is known to be a source of microplastic exposure when the non-stick surface is scratched or broken. If you're trying to cut down on plastics to reduce your overall intake, opting for "PTFE-free" cookware or products that don't use this type of non-stick coating can help reduce your risk. Stainless steel, cast iron and ceramic-coated cookware are often considered the best non-toxic cookware options, as these products don't use coatings that contain PFAS or PTFEs. "I have eliminated all non-stick coated cookware and use stainless steel, carbon-steel and cast iron products," says Pollitt.
However, it's still important to be aware that not all metal-based cookware products are created equal. "If you use metal-based cookware, such as stainless steel, aluminum or cast iron, some lower-quality products can contain trace amounts of heavy metals that might leach into the food while cooking. It's best to invest in high-quality products," Li says. He suggests looking for brands marked as FDA-approved.
To help you find the best non-toxic cookware on the market, we did the research into high-quality options and test-drove nine different cookware sets and a few additional stand-alone pans (made from a variety of materials) to find the best. Here's what we discovered.
Update, Aug. 29, 2025: We’ve confirmed current pricing and availability for all products. Our No. 1 pick remains unchanged.
If you want to stock up your kitchen with a full range of non-toxic cookware, it's going to be hard to beat the GreenPan Valencia Pro Hard Anodized 11-Piece Cookware Pots and Pans Set. This set comes fully loaded with three fry pans, two sauce pans with lids, a large sauté pan with a lid and a good-sized 5-quart stockpot with a lid. You also receive three pan protectors to help keep your cookware protected when stored.
Aside from the breadth of cooking options you get with this set, GreenPan is a leader in the non-toxic cookware industry, and the brand has really leaned into making cooking safe. The interior ceramic coating is diamond-infused for durability and is PFAS, PFOA, PTFE, lead and cadmium-free. The cookware can also be used on all cooking surfaces — a traditional stove or induction cooktop — and the pans are oven-safe up to 600 degrees F (the lids to 500 degrees F).
From a functional standpoint, there are a few reasons this set rises to the top. For one, the stay-flat base ensures your skillet won't tilt or rock off the burner (an issue experienced with the Caraway pans), and any oil added to the pan stays centered. They're also metal utensil-safe, a stand-out feature compared to most ceramic or non-stick pots and pans. This means I don't have to run to the kitchen to save my cookware every time my husband grabs a standard fork to stir whatever he's cooking. I also really appreciate the glass lids — as someone who has always had metal lids, being able to see what's cooking while keeping it covered is a benefit I didn't know I was missing.
We tried quite a few stainless steel cookware sets, including those from Cuisinart, Great Jones and Hestan. But when it came to the balance of value, safety and overall function, Tramontina won out. This 10-piece set is a good option for most home cooks, offering two frying pans, two sauce pans with lids, a 3-quart braiser with a lid and a 6-quart pot with a lid. The set is designed to work with all cooktops, including induction, gas, electric and ceramic glass.
Stainless steel is generally considered one of the safest and most durable options when selecting non-toxic cookware, and we especially appreciate that this set is NSF-certified for safety and durability. It also comes with a lifetime warranty, so you know your investment is well covered.
In testing, we appreciated the range of sizes of the various pots and pans — we felt having the smaller, 1.5-quart sauce pan was a nice option, as well as the 3-quart braiser, which isn't always included in such sets. We also like that the cookware (pots, pans and lids) are oven safe up to 500 degrees F and are dishwasher safe too.
Hand-washing was easy, although our one question is whether the mirror-polished exterior will remain clean and mirror-like with time and use, as the exterior portion of pots and pans in our house tends to show wear faster than the interior portion.
If you're looking for a single stainless steel pan, it's worth noting that the Made In 10-inch pan topped our list of best stainless steel pans in extensive testing. It's not the most affordable pick (we have some other, more budget-friendly options listed below), but if you're looking for one stellar addition to your kitchen, it's worth considering.
If space is at a premium or you're looking for a straightforward (and non-toxic) cookware set that's ideal for one person or a small family, the BytheTable Ombre Modular Cookware set has a lot going for it. It comes with two separate skillets and a saucepan along with two oven-safe lids, a magnetic lid knob and a detachable handle that can be moved between the various cookware items.
This versatility is enhanced given that the cookware can be used on any cooking surface (including induction stovetops) and is oven safe up to 670 degrees F (although the handle and knob shouldn't be used in the oven). This means you can move a dish from the stove to the oven (just pop the handle and knob off first). Then, because the dishes are colorful and inviting, you can move them to the table to use as serving dishes, then straight to the fridge for storing leftovers.
From a safety standpoint, the cookware is made with an FDA-approved ceramic titanium coating and is PTFE, PFOA and PFAS-free. The pots and pans are also very lightweight compared to the other cookware we tested, and they take up much less space thanks to the flat lids and removable handle and knob. Although it's worth noting that my toddlers have enjoyed playing with the knobs and handles, and they have occasionally "walked off," leaving me scrambling to find them when it's time to make dinner. Unfortunately, the brand doesn't sell the handle and knob separately, so if you do end up losing them, the set becomes a lot less functional.
One other thing to keep in mind is that this set isn't metal utensil-friendly (it comes with a wooden spatula, just in case you don't already have your own). While the pans are dishwasher safe, the packaging advises handwashing to help extend the life of the products. After a few months of use (and a few dishwashings), our set hasn't shown any signs of scratches or wear, but their lighter weight does make them seem less hearty than some of the other options.
Ceramic non-stick coatings are generally considered a safe bet when it comes to non-toxic cooking, but many ceramic cookware sets cost several hundred dollars. If you're in the market for "healthier" cookware, but you're also on a budget (aren't most of us?), this 12-piece set from Thyme & Table is a good option. At just under $100, it comes with all the basics that meet most home cooking needs — two fry pans, two sauce pans with lids, a 5.5-quart stock pot with a lid and four pan protectors. The set is also designed for use on all cooktops, including induction stoves, and is oven safe up to 446 degrees F.
This cookware set looks beautiful and performs well — the ceramic interior heats up evenly and is easy to clean. That said, this is definitely a set you don't want to use metal utensils with, and we advise hand-washing rather than putting it in the dishwasher to help extend the life of the products.
The set offers a one-year warranty with proof of defects, so if you end up scratching up the ceramic coating in the first year, your investment should be covered. Just keep in mind that while this is touted as a 12-piece cookware set, it's really more of an 8-piece set, as Thyme & Table includes the pan protectors as part of the count. This is different from other brands, like our best overall GreenPan set, which don't include the protectors in the count toward the number of items in the set.
If you're in the market for one great cast-iron skillet that's sure to last a lifetime? Field Company's No. 8 Cast-Iron Skillet is the way to go. While all cast iron cookware is heavy, this skillet is our favorite non-toxic option because it's lighter than average. This is because the sidewalls are machine-polished to pare down extra weight without removing the heft from the bottom of the pan. We also love that each product is made from recycled iron in the USA and arrives pre-seasoned with organic grapeseed oil.
Also, unlike most cast iron cookware, the machine polishing done by Field Company means that the surface is silky smooth and easier to clean and care for. This is especially handy given that cast iron requires a little extra love — you need to hand-wash and towel-dry your products. Compared to other cast-iron options? We've found the smooth surface makes cleaning easier.
Field Company's products are also all 100% non-toxic and free of all PFOAs and PTFEs, and they're compatible with all cooktops, including induction. And like other cast-iron options, you can even use this skillet over an open flame, making it a good choice to cook up vegetables when you've fired up your grill.
It's worth acknowledging that this single skillet is a bit spendy, but if you're truly looking for a stellar option to pass down to your kids or grandkids one day, you won't be disappointed with this pick — a fact noted in our extensive testing of cast iron skillets.
Cast-iron skillets and griddles are often sold separately rather than as a set, so we appreciated the fact that these two skillets come as a bundle and at a pretty incredible price.
Like other GreenPan products, these skillets are made with safety in mind. Cast iron, in general, is a non-toxic cooking material, but we appreciate that GreenPan owns the factory where their products are made, giving them complete control over the process and ensuring the cookware is PFAS-free.
We also like that these are pre-seasoned, so you can use them straight out of the box without needing to spend time prepping them for use. They're designed for all cooking surfaces, including induction cooktops, and can even be used over an open flame (bonfires and camping trips? Here we come!). At our house, we're getting a lot of use out of the larger skillet for cooking up hamburgers and pancakes. They're easy to use and reasonably easy to clean too.
It's worth noting that in extensive testing for the best cast iron skillets, the Bobby Flay by GreenPan 10-inch skillet came out on top for "best cast iron skillet for searing."
Cast iron has a lot going for it in terms of safety and durability, but there are a few drawbacks. For one, it's a heavy material that heats up evenly across the entire pan, including the handle. You'll almost certainly want to grab a few handle covers to make it easier to grip and move your skillets around. Also, these pans aren't dishwasher safe. To keep them seasoned and to gradually build up the non-stick surface over time, it's important to hand-wash and towel-dry them as soon as they've cooled down after use.
After receiving three carbon steel skillets to put to the test, this Oxo Obsidian Pre-Seasoned Carbon Steel pan has become my go-to when cooking up just about anything (including eggs!). While the three pans I tested are very similar in terms of form and function, the removable silicone handle holder that comes with this pan is the reason I keep reaching for it over and over again. It's comfortable and grippy, making the overall cooking experience a little more enjoyable.
Generally, I've found that carbon steel and cast iron function similarly in terms of building up their non-stick coating over time, and both materials are considered non-toxic and safe for cooking. They can even be used over high heat and open flames. However, I've found I prefer my carbon steel pans to my cast iron options purely for their slightly lighter weight and easier maneuverability.
Of course, many of the drawbacks between cast iron and carbon steel are the same as well — you don't want to put your carbon steel skillets in the dishwasher, and it's important to hand dry them immediately after washing.
If you don't need to purchase a full cookware set, you can opt to purchase just the skillets from our "best overall" winner. These ceramic-covered, eco-friendly, non-stick pans are a good buy and a great addition to your cooking arsenal. You can also choose to purchase 2-pan sets or individual pans if you don't need all three.
While the Great Jones Precious Metals set didn't make our top choices, we really do love the set's Deep Cut skillet. It's a larger-than-average skillet thanks to its 10-inch size and higher sidewalls, making it a more versatile option if you're braising meat or cooking up a saucier dish. It also comes with a lid, which is nice, and is oven safe to 500 degrees F. Oh, and the welded handle is a fantastic detail — there are no screws or other seams to trap food or bacteria.
Were it not for one issue (the inclusion of a single non-stick pan that's not PTFE-free), the Hestan Thomas Keller Insignia Commercial Clad Stainless Steel 7-Piece Cookware Set would have made our list as a "best splurge" for its all-around performance and versatility (see the details in our "other products we tested" section).
But even though the set didn't make the top cut, we can't ignore the fact that after more than a month of use, we're using the brand's Universal Lid practically every day, regardless of which brand's pot or pan we're cooking with.
We love that these lids simply lie flat across the top of any pot or pan and that the integrated steam vent helps prevent accidental boil-overs and the annoying rattling that happens when liquids start boiling. They're also oven-safe up to 600°F.
These stainless-steel baking sheets are a good option if you're looking to replace a set of older or aluminum cookie pans. And the smallest size is suited for most toaster ovens. =
These higher-end sheets with an aluminum core covered by a non-toxic ceramic coating are well loved for their even cooking and easy release of cookies or whatever you decide to cook on them. You can grab a single pan here.
While cast-iron bakeware may not be as commonly used as cast-iron skillets or Dutch ovens, it's a good, safe option if you're looking to make changes to your kitchen. This set covers the basics for casseroles, breads, pies and muffins.
If you're looking to replace all of your measuring cups and spoons, OXO is a great brand that's known for its high-quality construction. Plus, stainless steel is a durable, safer material and these stack tightly to maximize space in your kitchen drawers.
If you don't need to replace your entire cookware set, but you have a pan or two that have seen better days, you can opt to purchase a single skillet. Here are a few of our favorite options.
While we didn't personally test all of the following cooking tools and accessories, selecting non-toxic cookware goes beyond your basic pots and pans. If you're opting to switch out some of your other kitchen tools, use the same guidelines on materials to make your selections.
Before selecting products to test for this piece, we first read the current research and literature on non-toxic cookware and potentially harmful chemicals that are sometimes included in cookware products. We then consulted two professors of public health with expertise in environmental health and exposure sciences to get their take on safe cookware materials and how to select safer pots and pans. Finally, we researched a wide range of popular cookware brands and products, choosing to personally test nine cookware sets and a few additional individual cookware items.
We considered product style, weight, versatility, ease of cooking and cleaning, any special features and most important, any claims or certifications related to the product's safety. We gave special consideration to products with third-party certifications or testing that indicated the product was free of PFOA, PFAS, PTFE or any heavy metals.
Hestan Thomas Keller Insignia Commercial Clad Stainless-Steel 7-Piece Cookware Set: This cookware set has a lot going for it. We love the high-quality craftsmanship, the universal vented lid that can be moved between pots and pans and the fact that it is oven safe up to 600 degrees F. In fact, this was going to be one of our top picks as a "splurge" until we noticed one tiny detail: The non-stick pan that's included in the set is PFOA-free, but is not free of PTFE. Does this mean it's not safe? No, but we're choosing to err on the side of caution. If you're looking for a high-end option, you could always just set the non-stick pan aside or purchase individual pots or pans (we really do love the universal lid).
Caraway Non-stick Ceramic Cookware: We've actually had our Caraway set for well over a year, and assumed it would make our top picks, but the truth is the GreenPan Valencia Pro set is just better all around. While the Caraway set is beautiful and functional, and has all the same non-toxic benefits as the GreenPan set, the GreenPan's stay-flat base offers better balance on the stove, the cooking vessels are oven-safe up to 600 degrees F (versus Caraway's 550 F) and they're metal utensil-safe (Caraway's are not). The Caraway cookware set is also heavier and a little more cumbersome to move around.
Great Jones Precious Metals Set: Like the Caraway set, this Great Jones cookware set is beautiful to look at. We thought it would have a shot at our top spot for stainless steel cookware, but the Tramontina set had more going for it. Namely, Tramontina's NSF certification for safety and durability was a big selling point. Plus, the Tramontina set has more cooking vessels, is more affordable and is backed by a lifetime warranty. That said, we did love the functionality of some of the individual pieces, like the Saucy which includes etched measurements on the interior and a pour spout. We also featured the Deep Cut above as one of our favorite skillets, thanks to its high walls and lid, which amps up its versatility.
Cuisinart 12-piece Cookware Set MultiClad Pro: There's really not much negative to say about this Cuisinart set. In fact, it won best overall cookware set pick. It's affordable, durable and high-quality, and given that it's stainless steel, you can feel good about its non-toxic status. However, I couldn't find any information on the brand's commitment to safety, which resulted in the GreenPan and Tramontina sets winning out for the best overall and best stainless-steel categories, respectively.
Merten & Storck 10" Carbon Steel Skillet: This is a high-quality carbon steel skillet that performs well especially with high-heat cooking. It's also slightly lighter weight than the other carbon steel skillets I tested, giving it greater maneuverability. That said, the proof is in the pudding (so to speak), and I find myself reaching for the Oxo version more frequently, thanks to the silicone sleeve that makes using it a little more comfortable.
GreenPan x Bobby Flay 10" Carbon Steel Frying Pan: While I love my Bobby Flay cast iron skillets and use them often, I just haven't found myself using this carbon steel frying pan as much when given the choice between it and the other carbon steel pans I tested.
Li Li, associate professor of public health at the University of Nevada, Reno, and expert in exposure and health sciences
Krystal Pollitt, associate professor of epidemiology and environmental health at the Yale School of Public Health
Our health content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional medical advice. Consult a medical professional on questions about your health.
