What Is the Best Non Stick Cookware?

The best non stick cookware can be a bit tricky to find. With non stick cookware ranging from the Dollar Store to top of the line cookware, the range is broad. You need to remember that not all non stick cookware is made equal.

How many of us stocked our first kitchens with the cheapest non stick cookware we could find? I'm sure many of us have used those pans. You remember the ones… you heat them up, add food and oh! There's a scratch! Before you know it, the non stick coating is peeling off.

This time you're out to find the best. It's time for a few tips on how to find the best non stick cookware. There are a few things you need to know before you just go out and buy the most expensive non stick you can find.

The Non Stick Coating

All good non stick coatings are made with one basic ingredient: PTFE, or polytetrafluoroethylene. This ingredient is good at keeping food from sticking, but it scratches easily. In order to make it more durable, PTFE is mixed with other materials. The big difference between different non stick brands is how the proportions of PTFE are blended with other materials. This is where the cheaper pans have had their costs cut.

First, PTFE must be mixed with something to help it stick to the metal of the cookware. Cheap non stick pans will only have one layer of this material mixed with enough ingredients to help it stick to the steel or aluminum. This causes the PTFE to lose a lot of its non stick properties. This coating should be rolled onto the steel before the pots and pans are formed from it.

Better cookware begins with a similar blend that sticks to the metal. Next, extra layers are added with different proportions of the ingredients. The second layer is formulated to stick to the first layer, but is more non stick than the first layer. The third layer is even more non stick than the second. Three layers is the minimum for a long-lasting non stick cookware. The very best non stick cookware has seven layers.

The easiest way to judge a non stick coating is with the finger test. Rub your fingers back and forth on the surface. Do you feel tiny ridges? Walk away from that pan as fast as you can. A good non stick finish is completely smooth. This is because the coatings have been applied correctly and properly cured.

Look at the coating as well. PTFE based coatings are always matte. If you see a shiny coating, it has been coated with silicon. You do not want a pan coated in silicon. While it is excellent for baking, it reacts poorly with animal fats when heated in a pan.

Price

Compare the pans you like most that fit the above criteria with your budget. You can still get a nice non stick pan without a huge budget. The whole point is to find the best cookware for you. If cooking is an important part of your life, it is worth paying a bit more for a good pot or pan.

If you can't decide between two kinds of non stick cookware, look at the name. Go with one you've heard of. In general, the more expensive cookware will be of better quality, but with the range of quality non stick cookware available, you'll also be able to find one that fits the budget.

Warranty

Before you commit to purchasing the best non stick cookware, check out the warranty. If it guarantees your purchase for three years, do you think that is long enough? While it may mean a more expensive purchase, there are many non stick cookware companies that provide lifetime warranties. Also check to what temperature the cookware is recommended. If you want to move your pan from the stove to the oven, this can be important.

Other Non Stick features

Don't forget to look at the quality of workmanship, how well the handles are connected, and if it comes with a lid, look at how well it fits. Is the cookware too heavy or not heavy enough? Do you like the style? If you find the best non stick cookware that fits all these criteria, you'll be happy with your purchase for years to come.

Top Consumer Rated Nonstick Cookware At Amazon
4 Stars or More

Below are some of the best rated nonstick cookware, based on consumer reviews.

Calphalon Tri-Ply Stainless-Steel 13-Piece Cookware Set

Anolon Advanced Nonstick Hard-Anodized Aluminum 8-Piece Cookware Set

Cuisinart Chef's Classic Nonstick Hard-Anodized 14-Piece Cookware Set

KitchenAid Gourmet Essentials 10-Piece Nonstick Hard-Anodized Cookware Set

Anolon Advanced Nonstick Hard-Anodized Aluminum 12-Piece Cookware Set

Rachael Ray 10-Piece Hard-Anodized Cookware Set, Orange