The Best Silicone and BPA Free Cooking Utensils to Cook Without Plastic

Alright, let’s talk about kitchen tools. It turns out, some of them might not be as good for us as we think. If you’re anything like me, it was surprising to see how many of my day to day utensils were made entirely of plastic. For decades I’ve been inadvertently leaking microplastics into my food and I’ve finally decided it’s time to make a change.

This article is all about my journey of finding the best silicone kitchen utensils set and other tools that are safe, durable, and plastic free.

Key Takeaways

• Silicone utensils are generally safe, but look for “Platinum Cured” or “Platinum-Cured Silicone” on the products that you buy.
• Platinum-cured silicone is better because it’s very stable, durable, and odor-less. It doesn’t leech in your foods and is close to medical grade. GIR Brand Silicone Cookware seems to be generally comprised of platinum-cured products.
• The “BPA-free” label on silicone is mostly marketing; BPA isn’t used in silicone production so as long as you’re avoiding plastic, you’ll be using a BPA free item.
• Silicone is great for scraping and flipping because it’s flexible and won’t scratch non-stick pans (even though I recommend switching to entirely aluminum pans).
• Even good silicone tools can wear out over time, so replace them if they start to crack or shed pieces.

The Importance of Finding Silicone Products that are Platinum-Cured.

Platinum-cured silicone is widely regarded as the safest and most durable form of silicone for use in cookware.

Why? Most cheaper silicone kitchen utensils are peroxide-cured, or sometimes tin-cured, which can release byproducts like acetic acid or volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Platinum-cured silicone undergoes an process that produces no byproducts, resulting in a cleaner and more chemically stable material .

This higher level of purity reduces the risk of leaching unwanted substances into food, making it an ideal choice for items like baking mats, spatulas, baby bottle nipples, and food storage containers .

In addition to its chemical safety, platinum-cured silicone offers superior performance in high-heat environments. It withstands temperatures up to 250 °C (482 °F), resists UV degradation, and maintains its structure over time with minimal shrinkage. It’s also commonly used in medical and baby-grade products due to its non-toxic, hypoallergenic properties and is often certified food-safe under strict standards like LFGB and FDA regulations .

For anyone looking to reduce microplastic exposure and ensure long-term durability in their kitchen, platinum-cured silicone is the gold standard. They are going to be more expensive than their peroxide or tin cured alternatives, but they should last longer and be the safest option for your family.

1. The Best Silicone Cookware Set That You’ll Find That Won’t Break the Bank.

Now that we know you’re looking to find products made of Platinum-Cured Silicone, let’s start with my favorite All In One set.

If you’re just looking for an all in one set that’s affordable, high quality, and comprised of platinum-cured silicone, then look no further. GIR’s Get It Right 10 Piece Silicone Utensil Set is what I’d recommend everyone buy.

This set includes nearly every item you’d want to use in your daily cooking routine, and it’s a relatively affordable option for what you’re getting int he set.

All lot of what I’m using in my own kitchen is from the GIR brand and I find that many of the items in this product are durable, easy to clean, and stands up well to nearly daily use. Another great option is the Green Pan Silicone Spatula Set. They held up well during testing and are easy to wipe clean.

2. My Recommended Silicone Spatula

Okay, let’s talk spatulas! You might think they’re all the same, but trust me, once you start caring about what you’re cooking with, you’ll see the difference. We’re aiming for Plastic free (meaning they are also BPA Free) Cooking Utensils, right? So, let’s ditch the plastic and explore some great Silicone Options that are platinum-cured.

First off, why even bother with silicone? Well, silicone spatulas are heat-resistant, non-stick, and won’t scratch your pans. Plus, they’re super easy to clean. Nobody wants food gunk stuck in weird places, am I right?

There are a few things to consider when choosing a spatula:

• Material: Make sure it’s 100% silicone.
• Heat Resistance: Check the temperature rating. You want something that can handle the heat without melting or warping. If you are getting something that’s platinum cured, they should generally be heat resistant up to about 450 degrees F.
• Construction: One-piece spatulas are the best because there are no seams for bacteria to hide.

Switching to Plastic Free Kitchen Utensils is a great step towards a healthier kitchen and a healthier planet. It reduces the risk of harmful chemicals leaching into your food and helps minimize plastic waste.

Just like our All-In One Set. I’ve been eyeing the GIR spatulas myself. They’re made from platinum-cured and pharmaceutical-grade silicone. Plus, they come in a ton of fun colors!

For those willing to splurge, All-Clad utensils are an excellent choice. Known for their superior quality and craftsmanship, they come from a long-established, high-end kitchen brand you can trust. The Silicone Spatula that’s in this All Clad set is platinum cure according to the All-Clad Website.

3. The Best Silicone Scraper

Okay, let’s talk scrapers. You might think, “A scraper is just a scraper, right?” Nope! There’s a whole world of difference between a good one and a bad one. And when you’re trying to get every last bit of batter out of a bowl or pan without scratching it, you’ll be glad you invested in a quality, silicone, BPA-free scraper.

• Heat Resistance: Silicone scrapers can withstand high temperatures, making them perfect for cooking and baking.
• Flexibility: They bend and flex to reach every corner of your bowls and pans.
• Durability: Good silicone scrapers last for years, even with regular use.

Using a silicone scraper is like having an extra hand in the kitchen. They’re so versatile, you’ll find yourself reaching for them all the time. From mixing ingredients to spreading frosting, they make cooking and baking a breeze.

Think about the shape, too. Some are wider, some are narrower. A wider one is great for scraping down large bowls, while a narrow one is awesome for getting into jars. And don’t forget about the handle! A comfortable grip is key, especially if you’re doing a lot of scraping. Trust me, your hands will thank you. You can even find a multifunction tool that can handle scraping, stirring, and scooping!

If you’re not investing in an all in one set, I personally recommend the Kitchen Mama WaltzGrip Platinum Silicone Scraping Spatula.

4. The Silicone Turner That You Should Buy

When you’re cooking, turners are your best friends for flipping everything from pancakes to burgers. You want something that’s sturdy, heat-resistant, and won’t scratch your pans, especially if you’ve invested in some nice non-stick cookware. Silicone turners are great because they check all those boxes. They’re gentle on your pans, can handle high temperatures, and are usually pretty easy to clean. Plus, you can find them in all sorts of shapes and sizes, so you can get the perfect one for your cooking style.

Choosing the right turner can really make a difference in your cooking experience. A good turner should feel comfortable in your hand and have the right amount of flex. It’s all about finding that sweet spot where it’s sturdy enough to lift heavy foods but flexible enough to slide under delicate items without tearing them.

Here’s what to look for in a good silicone turner:

• Heat Resistance: Make sure it can handle the temperatures you typically cook at.
• Size: You want to make sure your turner can handle the job, no matter the size of the object in your pan.
• Handle Comfort: A good grip is essential for safety and control.

I’m going to go back to Kitchen Mama again for my favorite platinum-cured turner. This thing is a beast! It’s one of the largest turners I’ve seen yet, and given it’s a platinum-cured silicon product it’s going to be my single recommendation here.

5. Platinum Cured Silicone Storage Bags

Okay, so you’re probably thinking about ditching those plastic bags, right? Good call! Let’s talk about silicone storage bags.

Silicone storage bags are super versatile and way better for the environment than single-use plastic. You can use them for everything from snacks to leftovers, and they’re freezer-safe, microwave-safe, and even oven-safe in some cases. Plus, cleaning them is a breeze – just toss them in the dishwasher.

Switching to silicone storage bags is one of the easiest ways to reduce your plastic waste in the kitchen. They’re durable, reusable, and can handle a wide range of temperatures, making them a practical choice for any home cook.

Here’s why you should make the switch:

• They help reduce plastic waste and prevent microplastics from leeching into your food. Single use plastic bags are a major contributor to microplastic contamination in our environment and overall plastic waste.
• They’re easy to clean and maintain.
• They’re safe for use in the freezer and refrigerator.

My recommendation for silicone storage bags are from Stasher. Stasher’s Silicone Reusable Food Storage Bags are a bit on the pricier side, but, you’ll get years of use from them and they are made from platinum-cured silicon so you know you’re using the safest option possible in your home.

6. My Favorite Silicon Cooking Spoons

On to our next category: Cooking Spoons. We’re looking for platinum grade silicone and BPA-free options, so you’re keeping things safe and healthy in the kitchen.

• First off, think about size. A cooking spoon is going to be different than a ladle, and we’re going to focus on ladles here.
• Then there’s the material. Silicone is awesome because it’s heat-resistant and won’t scratch your non-stick pans, but wooden cooking spoons are also a great plastic free alternative.
• Don’t forget about the handle. A comfortable grip is key, especially if you’re doing a lot of stirring.

In my opinion, a silicone cooking spoon is a critical item in my cooking tool bag. If you didn’t get an all in one set, make sure to pick one up for your kitchen. GreenPan has a great silicon spoon that is platinum cured according to their website, and GIR has a lot of colorful options as well.

7. Stainless Steel and Silicon Cooking Tongs

Tongs are a must-have in any kitchen, and silicone and BPA-free options give you the best of both worlds: safety and functionality. You can use them for everything from tossing salads to grilling meats. Let’s explore some things to consider when choosing the right pair for you.

When you’re picking out tongs, think about what you’ll be using them for most. Are you flipping delicate fish or grabbing heavy steaks? The material and construction really matter. You want something sturdy enough to handle the job but gentle enough not to damage your cookware. Silicone tips are great because they won’t scratch your pans, and a good grip is essential for control. I’ve used flimsy tongs before, and trust me, dropping a hot dog on the floor is not a fun experience.

Consider the length of the tongs as well. Longer tongs are better for grilling to keep your hands away from the heat, while shorter tongs might be easier to maneuver in a smaller pan. Also, look for tongs with a locking mechanism for easy storage. It’s a small detail, but it makes a big difference when you’re trying to keep your kitchen organized.

Here are some things to look for when buying tongs:

• Heat resistance (up to 450°F is usually good)
• Sturdy construction (stainless steel with silicone tips is the ideal good combo)
• Comfortable grip (you don’t want hand fatigue after a few minutes)
• Locking mechanism for storage

Once again, we’re going back to GIR. GIR has a set of phenomenal stainless steel tongs with platinum grade silicon tips. The price point is reasonable and the quality of their products stands up well.

8. Silicone Whisks

Okay, let’s talk whisks! I think it’s good to have both a stainless steel whisk and a silicone whisk in your kitchen. I use the stainless steel ones for most of my baking when I’m using metal and glass bowls, but when I’m using my frying pans (even the stainless steel one) I gravitate towards the silicone whisk.

A silicone whisk is a great choice to protect your nonstick cookware.

I’ve been using the GreenPan Silicone Whisk, and it’s been a game-changer. It’s got silicone-coated metal wires, so you get the strength of a metal whisk without the risk of scratching your pans. Plus, the wires are flexible enough to get into all those tricky corners. And the best part? It’s dishwasher-safe. Who doesn’t love easy cleanup?

Here’s a quick rundown of why I like silicone whisks:

• Safe for nonstick cookware
• Easy to clean
• Durable and long-lasting

9. Large Silicone Cooking Ladles

Okay, so you’re on the hunt for a ladle that won’t leach chemicals into your soup? Smart move! Silicone ladles are the way to go. They’re gentle on your pots and pans, can handle the heat, and won’t mess with the flavor of your food. Plus, they’re usually pretty easy to clean, which is always a win.

When you’re picking one out, think about the size of your pots and how much you usually serve. A smaller ladle is great for sauces, while a bigger one is perfect for dishing out hearty stews. Also, check the handle – you want something comfortable to grip, especially when you’re dealing with a big pot of hot liquid. You don’t want any accidents!

Our favorite brand in this post is clearly GIR, and we’re going back to them for ladles as well. The GIR Silicon Ladle is going to be our #1 recommendation for a platinum-cured ladle that doesn’t break the bank.

10. The Best Silicone Cooking Brushes

You might not think about them much, but a good cooking brush is a very easy way to level up your cooking game, especially with meats. We’re focusing on silicone and BPA-free options because, well, nobody wants weird chemicals in their food, right?

Think about it: you can use them for everything from basting a turkey to glazing pastries. And the best part? They’re dishwasher-safe, which is a huge win in my book. You can find some really nice ones that are also stain-resistant, so they won’t look gross after a few uses. Durability is key here, so look for brushes that feel sturdy and well-made.

Here’s a quick rundown of why I think silicone brushes are the way to go:

• Easy to clean – seriously, this is a game-changer.
• Heat resistant – no more melted bristles!
• Versatile – use them for everything.

This time I’m recommending Kitchen Mama WaltzGrip Platinum Silicone Basting Pastry Brush. It comes in two sizes which I find to be helpful depending on what I’m making. Their products are all platinum-cured and PFE Recommended.

Wrapping Things Up

So, there you have it! Choosing the right silicone and BPA-free cooking utensils really comes down to picking products that are platinum-cured, functional, and last a long time. It’s pretty cool how far these kitchen tools have come, making cooking easier and healthier. While these are all more expensive than their cheap plastic alternatives, choosing higher quality silicone products will save you money in the long run and reduce your exposure to microplastics. Happy cooking, everyone!

Frequently Asked Questions

Are silicone utensils safe to use?

Yes, but make sure to pick silicone that’s platinum-cured instead. Platinum-cured silicone is better because it handles heat well, lasts longer, is flexible, and doesn’t leek chemicals compared to cheaper silicones. Even if it says “BPA-free,” that’s good, but silicone doesn’t use BPA anyway, so it’s mostly a marketing trick.

Is it okay to use silicone kitchen tools?

Silicone tools are great for cooking because they don’t react with food and don’t relesase microplastics into your food and the environment. Just be careful not to heat silicone tools above their maximum temperature, which is usually listed in the instructions. Too much heat can burn the material. This temperature limit can be anywhere from 400°F to over 600°F, depending on the type of silicone.

When should I get rid of my silicone spatulas?

You should replace your silicone spatulas when they start to crack or break into small pieces. These little bits can end up in your food, which isn’t good. If you see any damage, it’s time to get new ones.

What exactly is silicone?

Silicone is a special material made from silicon, oxygen, carbon, and hydrogen. Even though it feels a bit like plastic, it’s not plastic. It handles heat much better and is more flexible than regular plastic. Silicone doesn’t break down into tiny plastic pieces or release microplastics. However, it doesn’t break down naturally in the environment and isn’t widely recycled.

Why are silicone utensils good for cooking?

Silicone tools are great because they are super resistant to high heat, so you don’t have to worry about them melting when you’re stirring hot sauces or flipping pancakes. They are also BPA-free and soft on your pots and pans, making them perfect for nonstick or ceramic cookware.

What should I look for when buying silicone kitchen tools?

When buying silicone kitchen tools, always look for ones labeled “platinum” or “platinum-cured”.