Best Utensils for Stainless Steel Cookware in 2023

When it comes to cooking with stainless steel cookware, using the proper utensils is essential. Not only will using the appropriate utensils prevent scratching and damaging your cookware, but it will also ensure that your food is cooked evenly and safely. In this post, we will discuss the best utensils for stainless steel cookware and provide recommendations for each type of utensil. Whether you are a seasoned chef or just starting in the kitchen, having the right tools at your disposal can make a world of difference in your cooking experience. So, let’s dive in and discover the best utensils for your stainless steel cookware.

Why stainless steel cookware is popular and versatile

• It is durable and virtually indestructible. It can withstand high temperatures, frequent use, and harsh cleaning without chipping, warping, bending, or rusting.

• It is easy to clean and maintain. It does not require seasoning or special care, and most of it is dishwasher-safe. It can also handle acidic foods without reacting or leaching harmful chemicals.

• It is high-performing and responsive. It heats up fast and evenly, thanks to the layering of different metals, such as stainless steel and aluminum. It also retains heat well and responds quickly to temperature changes, making it ideal for searing, sautéing, and other cooking techniques.

• It is versatile and compatible with all cooktops. It can be used for almost any cooking purpose, from frying to braising to baking. It is also oven and broiler safe and works well with induction stoves.

• It is non-reactive and does not interfere with the taste of food. It does not impart any flavor or odor to the food, unlike some other materials that can react with certain ingredients or foods.

• It is sleek and beautiful. It has a shiny and polished appearance that adds elegance and style to any kitchen.

The benefits and challenges of different types of utensils for stainless steel cookware 

• Wood utensils. Wood utensils are natural, germ-resistant, elegant, and gentle on cookware. They do not scratch, melt, or react with acidic foods. However, they can stain, warp, crack, or splinter over time. They also require hand washing and occasional oiling to maintain their condition.

• Bamboo utensils. Bamboo utensils are similar to wood utensils, but they are more sustainable, affordable, and stain-resistant. They are also lightweight, durable, and biodegradable. However, they can also warp, crack, or splinter over time. They also require hand washing and occasional oiling to maintain their condition.

• Silicone utensils. Silicone utensils are heat-resistant, long-lasting, dishwasher safe, and come in various colors and shapes. They are also flexible, non-stick, and gentle on cookware. Sharp objects or low-quality silicone can easily damage them.

•  They can also vary in quality and safety depending on the presence of fillers or additives

• Nylon/plastic utensils. Nylon/plastic utensils are durable, affordable, dishwasher-safe, and rigid. They make cleaning and storing a simple task.

• However, they can melt easily if exposed to high heat or direct contact with flames or hot surfaces. They can also cause food to stick or scratch the cookware surface. They are also less elegant and eco-friendly than other types of utensils.

• Metal utensils. Metal utensils are durable, attractive, thin, easy to clean, dishwasher safe, and low maintenance. They are also good for scraping and flipping food. However, they can be pricier, heat-conductive, prone to rust or scratches, or damage the cookware surface if used roughly. They can also react with acidic foods or cause a metallic taste or odor.

If you have stainless steel cookware, you may wonder what type of utensils are best to use with it. Different types of utensils have different benefits and challenges when it comes to cooking with stainless steel. In this article, we will compare and contrast six common types of utensils: wood, bamboo, silicone, nylon/plastic, metal, and hybrid. We will also provide some tips on how to choose and care for your utensils and cookware. By the end of this article, you will have a better idea of which type of utensil suits your needs and preferences.

Wood Utensils

• Spoons: Wood spoons are great for stirring, mixing, scooping, and serving food. They come in various shapes and sizes, such as round, oval, slotted, or angled. They are gentle on cookware and can handle high heat without melting or burning.

• Spatulas: Wood spatulas are useful for flipping, turning, scraping, and spreading food. They have flat or slightly curved heads that can slide under food easily. They are also gentle on cookware and can handle high heat without melting or burning.

• Ladles: Wood ladles are ideal for scooping and serving soups, stews, sauces, and other liquids. They have deep bowls that can hold a lot of liquid and long handles that can reach into deep pots or pans. They are also gentle on cookware and can handle high heat without melting or burning.

• Tongs: Wood tongs are handy for grabbing, lifting, tossing, and serving food. They have two arms that can be squeezed together to grip food securely. They are also gentle on cookware and can handle high heat without melting or burning.

• Salad servers: Wood salad servers are perfect for tossing and serving salads and other dishes. They usually consist of a fork and a spoon that can be used together or separately. They are also gentle on cookware and can handle high heat without melting or burning.

Pros And Cons

Pros:

• Germ-resistant. Wood has natural antibacterial and antifungal properties that can prevent the growth of harmful microbes on its surface.

•  Durable. Wood is strong and sturdy and can last longer if properly cared for.

•  Elegant. Wood has a unique and beautiful grain pattern that can enhance the appearance of any cookware or tableware.

•  Gentle. Wood is soft and smooth and will not scratch or damage the surface of stainless steel or other cookware.

•  Non-conductive. Wood does not conduct heat well, so it will not burn your hands or melt when exposed to high temperatures.

Cons:

• Staining. Wood can absorb colors and flavors from food, especially acidic or spicy foods, and become stained over time.

•  Warping. Wood can expand and contract due to changes in temperature and humidity, which can cause it to warp or crack.

•  Splintering. Wood can develop rough edges or splinters due to wear and tear or improper cleaning.

•  Maintenance. Wood requires more care and attention than other types of utensils. It needs to be hand washed, dried thoroughly, and occasionally oiled to prevent drying out.

Top 6 Wood Utensils

How to care for wood utensils:

Wood utensils require more care and attention than other types of utensils to keep them in good condition. Here are some tips on how to care for wood utensils:

• Hand wash. Wood utensils should be hand washed with warm water and mild soap after each use. Do not soak them in water for too long or put them in the dishwasher, as this can cause them to warp, crack, or lose their natural oils.

• Dry thoroughly. Wood utensils should be dried thoroughly with a clean cloth or paper towel after washing. Do not leave them wet, as this can cause them to mold, mildew, or rot.

• Oil occasionally. Wood utensils should be oiled occasionally with food-grade mineral oil or beeswax to prevent them from drying out and losing their luster. To oil your wood utensils, apply a thin layer of oil or wax with a soft cloth and rub it into the wood. Let it sit for a few hours or overnight, then wipe off any excess oil or wax with a clean cloth.

• Store properly. Wood utensils should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or heat sources. Do not stack them too tightly or pile them up, as this can cause them to warp, crack, or scratch.

Bamboo Utensils

• Spoons. Bamboo spoons are great for stirring, mixing, scooping, and serving food. They come in various shapes and sizes, such as round, oval, slotted, or angled. They are gentle on cookware and can handle high heat without melting or burning.

• Forks. Bamboo forks are useful for piercing, lifting, and serving food. They have sharp and sturdy prongs that can grip food securely. They are also gentle on cookware and can handle high heat without melting or burning.

• Tongs. Bamboo tongs are handy for grabbing, lifting, tossing, and serving food. They have two arms that can be squeezed together to grip food securely. They are also gentle on cookware and can handle high heat without melting or burning.

• Chopsticks. Bamboo chopsticks are ideal for picking up, eating, and serving food. They are thin and lightweight and can be used with one hand. They are also gentle on cookware and can handle high heat without melting or burning.

• Skewers. Bamboo skewers are perfect for making and serving kebabs and other grilled or roasted foods. They are long and pointed and can hold a lot of food. They are also gentle on cookware and can handle high heat without melting or burning.

Pros and Cons: 

Pros:

• Sustainability. Bamboo is one of the most eco-friendly materials available, as it grows quickly, requires little water and pesticides, and absorbs more carbon dioxide than trees. Bamboo utensils are biodegradable and compostable, reducing waste and environmental impact.

•  Affordability. Bamboo utensils are usually cheaper than wood or metal, making them a budget-friendly option for anyone who wants to stock up on utensils or replace them frequently.

•  Stain resistance. Bamboo utensils are naturally resistant to stains, odors, and colors from food, especially acidic or spicy foods. They do not absorb flavors or smells as much as wood utensils, making them easier to clean and maintain.

•  Durability. Bamboo utensils are strong and sturdy and can last long if properly cared for. They do not warp, crack, or splinter as easily as wood utensils and can handle high heat without melting or burning.

Cons:

• Extra maintenance. Bamboo utensils require more care and attention than other utensils to keep them in good condition. They must be hand washed, dried thoroughly, and oiled occasionally to prevent them from drying out and losing their luster.

•  Variation in quality. Bamboo utensils can vary in quality and safety depending on the bamboo’s source, processing, and finishing. Some bamboo utensils may contain harmful chemicals or additives that can leach into food or cause allergic reactions. Buying bamboo utensils from reputable brands that use organic or natural bamboo and avoiding synthetic glues or coatings is important.

Top 5 Bamboo utenlis

How to care for bamboo utensils

Bamboo utensils require more care and attention than other types of utensils to keep them in good condition. Here are some tips on how to care for bamboo utensils:

• Hand wash. Bamboo utensils should be hand washed with warm water and mild soap after each use. Do not soak them in water for too long or put them in the dishwasher, as this can cause them to warp, crack, or lose their natural oils.

• Dry thoroughly. Bamboo utensils should be dried thoroughly with a clean cloth or paper towel after washing. Do not leave them wet or damp, as this can cause them to mold, mildew, or rot.

• Oil occasionally. Bamboo utensils should be oiled occasionally with food-grade mineral oil or beeswax to prevent them from drying out and losing their luster. To oil your bamboo utensils, apply a thin layer of oil or wax with a soft cloth and rub it into the bamboo. Let it sit for a few hours or overnight, then wipe off any excess oil or wax with a clean cloth.

• Store properly. Bamboo utensils should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or heat sources. Do not stack them too tightly or pile them up, as this can cause them to warp, crack, or scratch.

Silicone Utensils

• Spatulas. Silicone spatulas are useful for flipping, turning, scraping, and spreading food. They have flexible and non-stick heads that can slide under food easily and conform to any shape or surface. They are also heat-resistant and gentle on cookware.

• Whisks. Silicone whisks are ideal for whisking, beating, stirring, and blending food. They have thin and flexible wires that can create air bubbles and mix ingredients smoothly and evenly. They are also heat-resistant and gentle on cookware.

• Brushes. Silicone brushes are perfect for brushing, basting, glazing, and coating food. They have soft and non-stick bristles that can hold and distribute liquids well and reach into corners and crevices. They are also heat-resistant and gentle on cookware.

• Spoons. Silicone spoons are great for stirring, mixing, scooping, and serving food. They have round or oval heads that can hold a lot of food and fit into any container or pot. They are also heat-resistant and gentle on cookware.

• Tongs. Silicone tongs are handy for grabbing, lifting, tossing, and serving food. They have two arms that can be squeezed together to grip food securely and silicone tips that can prevent slipping or scratching. They are also heat-resistant and gentle on cookware.

Pros and Cons: 

Pros:

• Heat-resistant. Silicone utensils can withstand high temperatures up to 600°F without melting or burning. They are also resistant to cold temperatures and can be used in the freezer or microwave.

•  Long-lasting. Silicone utensils are durable and do not warp, crack, or fade over time. They have long durability if you take good care of them.

•  Dishwasher safe. Silicone utensils are easy to clean and can be washed in the dishwasher without damage. They do not absorb odors, flavors, or colors from food, making them hygienic and sanitary.

•  Color choices. Silicone utensils come in various colors and shapes that match any kitchen decor or theme. They can also add some fun and personality to your cooking experience.

Cons:

• Easily damaged by knives. Silicone utensils are soft and flexible, making them gentle on cookware and vulnerable to cuts and scratches from sharp objects. If used carelessly, they can be easily damaged by knives, forks, or other metal utensils.

•  Quality issues. Silicone utensils can vary in quality and safety depending on the manufacturer, source, and processing of the silicone. Some silicone utensils may contain harmful fillers or additives that can leach into food or cause allergic reactions. Buying silicone utensils from reputable brands that use food-grade silicone and avoiding using cheap or low-quality products is important.

Top 6 Silicone Utensils

How to choose and use silicone utensils:

Silicone utensils are easy to use and clean, but they also require some caution and attention to ensure their quality and safety. Here are some tips on how to choose and use silicone utensils:

• Check for fillers. Silicone utensils should be made of 100% food-grade silicone, which is a synthetic rubber-like material that is safe and non-toxic. However, some manufacturers may add fillers or additives to the silicone to reduce costs or improve performance, which can compromise the quality and safety of the utensils. To check for fillers, pinch or twist the silicone and look for any white streaks or gaps. If you see any, it means the silicone is not pure and may contain harmful substances that can leach into food.

• Avoid sharp objects. Silicone utensils are soft and flexible, which makes them gentle on cookware, but also vulnerable to cuts and scratches from sharp objects. To prevent damaging your silicone utensils, avoid using knives, forks, or other metal utensils with them. Instead, use wooden, bamboo, or plastic utensils that are more compatible with silicone. Also, store your silicone utensils away from sharp objects or in a separate drawer or container.

• Use moderate heat. Silicone utensils are heat-resistant up to 600°F, which means they can handle most cooking temperatures without melting or burning. However, they can still degrade or discolor over time if exposed to very high heat or direct contact with flames or hot surfaces. To protect your silicone utensils from excessive heat, use moderate heat settings when cooking and avoid placing them on hot burners or in the oven without food. Also, do not leave them unattended in hot pots or pans for too long.

• Wash thoroughly. Silicone utensils are easy to clean and can be washed in the dishwasher without any damage. However, they can still harbor bacteria or mold if not cleaned properly. To ensure your silicone utensils are hygienic and sanitary, wash them thoroughly with warm water and mild soap after each use. Rinse them well and dry them completely before storing them. If you notice any stains or odors on your silicone utensils, you can soak them in a solution of vinegar and water for a few hours or overnight to remove them.

Nylon/Plastic Utensils

• Turners. Nylon/plastic turners are useful for flipping, turning, scraping, and spreading food. They have flat or slightly curved heads that can slide under food easily and rigid handles that can provide leverage and control. They are also good for scraping and flipping food.

• Slotted spoons. Nylon or plastic slotted spoons are ideal for scooping and serving food that needs to be drained, such as pasta, vegetables, or meat. They have round or oval heads with holes or slots that let the liquid pass through, and long handles that can reach into deep pots or pans.

• Ladles. Nylon/plastic ladles are perfect for scooping and serving soups, stews, sauces, and other liquids. They have deep bowls that can hold a lot of liquid and long handles that can reach into deep pots or pans.

• Whisks. Nylon/plastic whisks are great for whisking, beating, stirring, and blending food. They have thin and rigid wires that can create air bubbles and mix ingredients smoothly and evenly.

• Tongs. Nylon/plastic tongs are handy for grabbing, lifting, tossing, and serving food. They have two arms that can be squeezed together to grip food securely and nylon/plastic tips that can prevent slipping or scratching.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Durability. Nylon/plastic utensils are durable and do not warp, crack, or fade over time. They have long durability if you take good care of them.

•  Affordability. Nylon/plastic utensils are usually cheaper than wood or metal utensils, making them a budget-friendly option for anyone who wants to stock up on utensils or replace them frequently.

•  Dishwasher safe. Nylon/plastic utensils are easy to clean and can be washed in the dishwasher without damage. They do not absorb odors, flavors, or colors from food, making them hygienic and sanitary.

•  Rigidity. Nylon/plastic utensils are rigid and sturdy and can handle heavy or dense food without bending or breaking. They are also good for scraping and flipping food.

Cons:

• Food sticking. Nylon/plastic utensils are not very non-stick and can cause food to stick or burn on the surface. They can also scratch the cookware surface if used roughly.

•  Melting easily. Nylon/plastic utensils can melt easily if exposed to high heat or direct contact with flames or hot surfaces. They can also release harmful chemicals or fumes when heated, affecting food quality and safety.

•  Less elegant. Nylon/plastic utensils are not elegant or stylish and can look cheap or low-quality. They are also less eco-friendly than other utensils, as they are made from non-renewable resources and can create more waste and pollution.

Top 5 Nylon/Plastic Utensils

How to use nylon/plastic utensils safely and effectively: 

Nylon or plastic utensils are easy to use and clean, but they also require some caution and attention to ensure their safety and effectiveness. Here are some tips on how to use nylon or plastic utensils safely and effectively:

• Check the heat resistance level. Nylon/plastic utensils can vary in their heat resistance level depending on the type and quality of the material. Some can withstand temperatures up to 400°F, while others can only handle up to 200°F. To avoid melting or burning your nylon/plastic utensils, check the heat resistance level on the package or label before using them. Also, avoid using them for deep-frying or other high-heat cooking methods.

• Avoid direct contact with flames or hot surfaces. Nylon/plastic utensils can melt easily if exposed to direct contact with flames or hot surfaces, such as burners, grills, or ovens. They can also release harmful chemicals or fumes when heated, which can affect food quality and safety. To prevent this, avoid placing your nylon/plastic utensils on or near flames or hot surfaces. Also, do not leave them unattended in hot pots or pans for too long.

• Use gentle pressure. Nylon or plastic utensils are rigid and sturdy and can handle heavy or dense food without bending or breaking. However, they can also cause food to stick or scratch the cookware surface if used roughly. To prevent this, use gentle pressure when using your nylon or plastic utensils and avoid scraping or scratching the cookware surface. Also, use non-stick spray or oil to reduce sticking and make cleaning easier.

Metal Utensils

• Forks: these are used to pierce and hold food, such as meat, salad, or pasta.

• Knives: these are used to cut, slice, or chop food, such as bread, cheese, or vegetables.

• Spoons: these are used to scoop, stir or measure liquid or semi-solid food, such as soup, sauce, or ice cream.

• Ladles: these are used to serve soups, stews, or sauces from a pot or bowl.

• Skimmers: these are used to remove foam or impurities from the surface of liquids, such as broth, stock, or oil.

• Whisks: these are used to beat, blend or aerate ingredients, such as eggs, cream, or batter.

• Tongs: these are used to grasp, lift or turn food, such as meat, salad, or pasta.

• Spatulas are used to flip, scrape or spread food, such as pancakes, cake batter, or frosting.

• Turners: these are used to turn or lift food, such as burgers, fish, or eggs.

• Mashers: These are used to mash or crush food, such as potatoes, beans, or avocados.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Durability. Metal utensils are durable and do not warp, crack, or fade over time. They have long durability if you take good care of them.

•  Attractiveness. Metal utensils are attractive and stylish and can enhance the appearance of any cookware or tableware. They have a smooth and polished surface that can reflect light and create a pleasing aesthetic.

•  Thinness. Metal utensils are thin and sharp and can slide under food easily and precisely. They are also good for scraping and flipping food.

•  Easy to clean. Metal utensils are easy to clean and can be washed in the dishwasher without damage. They do not absorb odors, flavors, or colors from food, making them hygienic and sanitary.

•  Low maintenance. Metal utensils are low maintenance and do not require any special care or attention. They do not need to be oiled, dried, or stored in a particular way.

Cons:

• Pricier. Metal utensils are usually pricier than wood or plastic utensils, making them a more expensive option for anyone who wants to stock up on utensils or replace them frequently.

•  Heat conduction. Metal utensils can conduct heat well, so they can get hot quickly, burn your hands, or melt other utensils if exposed to high temperatures. They can also affect your food’s cooking temperature and time if left in the pot or pan.

•  Chance of rust. Metal utensils can rust or corrode over time if exposed to moisture, salt, or acidic foods. They can also lose their shine or luster if not cleaned properly.

•  Superficial scratches. Metal utensils can scratch or damage the surface of stainless steel cookware or other types of cookware if used roughly. They can also react with acidic foods or cause a metallic taste or odor.

Top 3 Metal Utensils

How to prevent and remove rust and scratches from metal utensils: 

• To prevent rust, you should clean your metal utensils properly with a mild detergent or soap and a soft-bristled scrubber. Don’t use abrasive cleaners or steel wool that can ruin the surface.

• You should also dry your metal utensils thoroughly after washing them, as moisture can cause rust to form. A clean towel or a paper towel can help you dry them off.

• You can also apply a protective coating to your metal utensils to prevent rust from forming. For example, you can use stainless steel cleaners, paste wax, mineral oil, or WD-40 to provide a thin layer of protection against moisture and air.

• To remove rust, you can use household remedies such as vinegar, lime, salt, baking soda, or potato. These ingredients can react with the rust and dissolve it off the metal surface. You can soak the utensils in vinegar or lime juice mixed with salt for a few hours or rub them with baking soda or potato dipped in dish soap.

• You can also use store-bought products such as oxalic acid, rust removers, or metal polishes. These products contain chemicals that can break down rust and restore the shine of the metal. You should follow the instructions on the label and wear protective gloves, goggles, and clothing when using these products.

• To remove scratches, you can use fine-grit sandpaper or steel wool to gently buff the affected area along the grain of the metal. This will smooth out the surface and remove any rough edges. You should then rinse and dry the utensils and apply a protective coating to prevent further damage.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when it comes to choosing utensils for your stainless steel cookware, it’s important to select ones that are safe to use and won’t scratch or damage the surface. Look for utensils made from materials like silicone, nylon, or wood, as these are gentle on stainless steel. Additionally, consider the cooking you’ll be doing and choose utensils that are appropriate for the task, such as spatulas for flipping and turning, spoons for stirring, and tongs for grabbing. By using the proper utensils, you can protect your cookware and ensure that it lasts for years to come.