Essential Kitchen Tools: Performance and Alternatives

Looking to limit exposure to plastic and nonstick kitchen gear? In our first roundtable episode, two of our staff experts share their best advice. 

Sustainability editor Katie Okamoto digs into the health risks of various materials, while kitchen editor Marilyn Ong shares swaps that are beloved by chefs—and that may last a lifetime.

Products we recommend: 

• PFAS and plastic free, non-stick pans:  OXO Obsidian Carbon Steel Frypan with Silicone Sleeve and Lodge Chef Collection 12-Inch Cast Iron Skillet
• Glass food storage containers (with plastic lids): Pyrex Freshlock 10-piece Glass Storage Set
• Completely plastic free food storage containers we love: Pyrex Ultimate 10-Piece Glass Storage Set
• A toaster over option we love (to consider replacing an air-fryer): Panasonic FlashXpress Toaster Oven
• A rice cooker alternative with a stainless steel bowl: Instant Pot Rio 6-quart
• Our favorite spatula:  Victorinox Swiss Army Slotted Fish Turner
• Other plastic-free spatulas we love: GIR Mini Flip Silicone Spatula, OXO Good Grips Silicone Small Flexible Turner and GIR Ultimate Spatula
• Baking sheets without non-stick coating: Nordic Ware Naturals Baker’s Half Sheet
• Cake pans without non-stick coating: USA Pan 9-inch Round Cake Pan
• Our favorite wood cutting board: Jones Cutting Board 20 x 14 x 1.5 Inch Maple End Grain
• A plastic-free kettle: Cuisinart GK-1 Digital Gooseneck Kettle
• A single use plastic bag swap we like: Stasher Reusable Silicone Bag Multi-Pack
• Katie loves: Amrikan: 125 Recipes from the Indian American Diaspora
• Marilyn loves: HoMedics Shiatsu Elite II Massage Cushion

Additional reading: 

• Forever Chemicals Are Everywhere. Here’s How to Limit Your Exposure.
• Black Plastic Kitchen Tools Might Expose You to Toxic Chemicals. Here’s What to Use Instead.
• 12 Ways to Break Up With Single-Use Plastics
• Microplastics Are Everywhere. Here’s How to Avoid Eating Them.
• The 3 Best Nonstick Pans of 2025
• The 4 Best Food Storage Containers of 2025
• The 11 Best Spatulas of 2025
• The 5 Best Cutting Boards of 2025
• The 6 Best Cake Pans for 2025
• The Wirecutter Show Episode 7: Can We Stop Eating Microplastics?
• The Best Plastic-Free Bowls, Plates, Cups, and Utensils for Babies and Kids
• Silicone Kitchen Gear Isn't As Sustainable As Many People Think. Try These Solutions Instead.

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Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast