YourCookwareHelper.com
Cookware Materials Comparison Chart

Stainless Steel Cookware

Durable and long lasting. Nice appearance. Easy to clean. Usually dishwasher safe. It is considered "low stick."

Does not distribute heat well without copper or aluminum layers. Wide price range depending on how many clad layers.

Anodized Aluminum Cookware

The most common cookware material. Generally inexpensive. Distributes heat well so it reduces "hot spots." One-third the weight of steel, and twice as strong. Even without a non stick surface, it is considered "low stick." Inside can have a nonstick surface.

Preferred washing method is hand washing. Dark color makes it hard to visually inspect cooking foods. Most are not dishwasher safe. Avoid if you are trying to severely limit aluminum in your diet.

Cast Iron Cookware

Extreme durable. Lasts for generations. Very precise heat distribution. Considered a healthy cookware unless you need to avoid iron. Naturally nonstick Surface improves over time. New enamel surfaces offer varied colors.

Heavy. Requires hand washing and drying. Non-enameled products are subject to rusting if not cared for. Non-enameled surfaces usually needs to be "seasoned" to get the non stick surface.

NonStick Cookware

Easy to clean. Usually requires less fat or liquids to cook with. Great for quick cooking.

Avoid high heat, metal utensils, or harsh cleaning pads and cleaners. Usually not dishwasher safe. Inexpensive pieces may flake or wear off into your food. There are health uncertainties. Quality is dependant on the actual cookware material under the nonstick coating.

Copper Cookware

The absolute best for heat distribution whether on the outside or clad inside.

Expensive. Requires hand washing. Copper is toxic if its internal layer becomes exposed. It may need to be polished to maintain its luster.

Glass / Ceramic / Stoneware Cookware

Dishwasher safe. Attractive and versatile. It is considered "low stick." Versatile in that some can be taken from refrigerator or freezer to stovetop or oven. Easy to see contents. Does not absorb food odors. Retains heat well. Considered a healthy cookware material.

Subject to thermal shock, and can break. Does not distribute heat very well.