Let’s talk about the pan that probably gets the most use in your kitchen: the nonstick skillet. Perfect eggs? It’s your go-to. Easy cleanup on a weeknight? You reach for it again. But somewhere along the way, you heard a whisper: “Aren’t those things toxic?”
So let’s clear it up.
Where Did The Rumors Start?
In the past, nonstick cookware got a bad rap, and, honestly, it was kind of deserved. Until the early 2000s, many nonstick coatings were made using a PFAS chemical called PTFE. It was used in the manufacturing process of Teflon, the original nonstick coating, and yes, it had some not-great environmental and health implications when overheated. Studies from 2014 linked negative health risks to the use of PTFE produced with PFOA, which led to companies to pivot to a PTFE produced without PFOA.
So What's The Deal With PTFE?
Now let’s talk about PTFE — which is what Teflon actually is. PTFE is the slick, nonstick coating that keeps your scrambled eggs from becoming scrambled cement.
Is PTFE dangerous? Not unless you abuse your pan. PTFE is stable and safe under normal cooking conditions. But if you crank the heat up to 600°F+ (which is way hotter than most recipes require), it can break down and release fumes.
Here’s how to stay safe:
- Don’t use nonstick pans on high heat.
- Don't use metal utensils (We prefer wood or silicone)
- Don't heat an empty skillet
Basically, if you treat your nonstick pan like the everyday workhorse it’s designed to be — low to medium heat, gentle cleanup, soft utensils — you’re good.
What About "Ceramic" Nonstick?
“Ceramic” nonstick cookware isn’t made of ceramic — it’s usually aluminum coated with a sand-derivative called silicon dioxide. These coatings are PTFE-free and often marketed as “green” or “non-toxic.”
The upside: no chance of PTFE breakdown.
The downside: they tend to wear out faster, especially if overheated or scrubbed with anything abrasive.
If you’re leaning ceramic, Le Creuset’s Ceramic Cookware is a gorgeous, reliable option — just remember it’s best for low to medium heat and gentle cooking.
[product=essential-non-stick-ceramic-fry-pan-8-in]
Superior non-stick performance for easy food release and cleaning. All-over ceramic coating is made without PFAS.
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So What Do We Use?
We carry Swiss Diamond and Le Creuset for a reason. These brands use high-end coatings and materials that are:
- Free of PFOA (and in many cases, PFAS-free)
- Oven-safe
- Designed to last for years with proper care
If you’re looking for the ultimate in performance and durability, Le Creuset’s Toughened Non-Stick line combines a hard-anodized aluminum base with a triple-reinforced nonstick surface that’s perfect for every day cooking, induction ready, and oven safe up to 500°F. In other words: this is the good stuff.
[product=le-creuset-toughened-nonstick-fry-pan]
Triple-reinforced PFOA-free surface that is now 4x stronger. Compatible with all cooktops and oven-safe up to 500°F.
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And if you’d rather skip synthetic coatings altogether? Go with Le Creuset’s ceramic options for gentle, everyday cooking.
Either way, you’re choosing quality that’s built to last.
Nonstick Alternatives Worth Considering
Nonstick pans are convenient, but they aren’t the only way to achieve an easy-release surface. If you’d prefer something more traditional, or virtually indestructible, here are three stellar alternatives:
Hestan Nanobond
This cookware is made from bonded stainless steel reinforced with thousands of titanium nano-layers (yes, it’s as high-tech as it sounds). Nanobond is naturally stick-resistant, resistant to scratching and staining, and can handle any level of heat. It’s dishwasher safe, broiler safe, and basically indestructible. Its silky, smooth surface helps reduce sticking, meaning that even you can master the art of scrambled eggs in stainless steel cookware!
[product=nanobond-titanium-8-5-skillet]
100% nontoxic, PFAS, chemical free cookware
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Smithey Cast Iron
Cast iron is the original nonstick once it’s properly seasoned! Smithey takes it to the next level with their polished, heirloom-quality skillets. They come pre-seasoned and only get better the more you use them. They’re versatile, oven safe, and will literally last a lifetime. Think crispy potatoes, golden cornbread, and steaks with a perfect crust.
[product=smithey-no-10-skillet]
Crafted with traditional Smithey features like pour spouts and a helper handle, the beloved No. 10 Skillet boasts an easy-to-clean polished interior.
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De Buyer Carbon Steel
Carbon steel is the best of both worlds: lightweight like stainless, naturally nonstick like cast iron (once seasoned), and safe at high heat. De Buyer pans are a favorite among professional chefs because they can go from delicate omelets to a seared ribeye without missing a beat. Over time, they develop a natural patina that makes them better and better.
[product=blue-carbon-steel-fry-pan]
This high-performance fry pan blends the strength of cast iron with the precision of stainless steel, offering exceptional heat retention, fast responsiveness, and effortless handling in one versatile pan.
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The Bottom Line: If you love the convenience of nonstick but want something longer-lasting or higher-heat safe, these alternatives are worth exploring. Many home cooks keep both in their kitchen: a trusty nonstick skillet for eggs and pancakes, and one of these heavy-duty options for searing, baking, and roasting.
Ready to upgrade your nonstick setup?
Come by and let us walk you through the difference between ceramic and traditional nonstick pans — and help you find the right fit for how you cook. We’ll even show you the utensils and cleaners that’ll keep your investment in top shape.
Because breakfast should be easy — and safe.