Nonstick cookware can make cleaning up after a meal easy, but it does come with its downsides. Most nonstick cookware is coated with a layer of Teflon, which is a chemical lining that prevents food from becoming stuck while you're cooking. If you're using the wrong utensils (like sharp-edged metal spatulas), you can end up scratching that layer. And while the best cooking utensils for nonstick cookware all avoid scratching, there are multiple materials to choose from including wood, bamboo, nylon, and silicone.
Wood & Bamboo
Wooden and bamboo utensils shouldn't scratch your pans, but they're not great for flipping patties or eggs because they aren't flexible. They also won't melt if left by a hot pan — but wooden selections can catch fire if you accidentally leave one alone on the stove, so be careful.
Nylon
Nylon utensils aren't as heat resistant as wood, because they can melt if left unattended — but they're more versatile when it comes to flipping patties and other grilled meats. They're also more durable than wooden utensils because they can be put in the dishwasher for an easy cleaning (most wooden and bamboo utensils should be washed by hand).
Silicone
Silicone utensils, however, are the most heat resistant out of the three. Believe it or not, they shouldn't melt when placed against a hot pan on your stovetop, unless they're exposed to extremely high temperatures. The only downside is that they're usually not as sturdy as nylon utensils. They're thin enough that you can use them to flip eggs, but probably too flexible for heavy burgers or steaks.
No matter what kind of meal you're planning on making, there's a set of nonstick cookware utensils that can help you get the job done. Here are four of the best picks.
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