Better Series - Clean Cookware
Image Source: lolly gagging - Pinterest
Welcome to the Better Series! I’m a big believer that when you know better, you can do better, so I thought this would be a great space to talk about some positive alternatives when it comes to healthier, happier living.
Anyone who knows me knows I’m quite a health conscious person. However, I’ve found over the years, at times, it’s been a daunting and overwhelming process just learning how to look after myself better given how many pollutants, toxins and chemicals are in our food, clothes, home, air and general environment.
So, I made a pact with myself to go slow. Make changes deliberately and sustainably and just try and do my best when it comes to toxic-free living.
The goal for me - longevity. To live the longest, healthiest, most connected and fulfilling life possible. I know that to do this in the world we live in, it takes consistent and deliberate effort to make this a reality.
I’ve been slowly making changes to my lifestyle and home over the last decade. I also try to incorporate these principles into my work through design too. And so, I thought I’d start sharing them in the Better series, so you too can take your time to do the same.
Why Clean Cookware?
Smithey Ironware Company - Pinterest
Wow, that was a looooong winded intro into this month’s Better piece which is on clean heat - AKA - switching up your pots, pans and general cookware.
Your cookware does more than cook — it leaches, reacts, absorbs, remembers.
For years we’ve fallen for the non-stick promise of ease and convenience.
What I’ve come to realise is that almost everything in life has a cost attached to it. It’s our job to be aware of the trade-offs and decide if they’re worth it.
What has been delivered by the cookware industry is the cost of coatings that degrade under heat and emit toxic fumes that are then consumed by us.
I’ll leave you to google the not so nice truth if you want to learn more.
The shift to toxin-free cookware isn’t about fear though — it’s about intention.
Clean Cookware Options
Stainless steel, cast iron and carbon steel are all great options. However what I will say is that not all of these materials are made equal - couldn’t be that easy, could it.
Just like a food label, look at the grade of the steel and do a little digging. Manufacturers seem to easily be able to sell things under the guise of it being a certain type of steel but really, it’s just coated and filled with other metals so that is one to watch.
Great cookware is made from honest materials. They don’t hide behind coatings or chemicals. They demand a little more care, but they give more back — better sears, deeper flavour, longevity that outlasts trends.
I’ve also swapped out all of my plastic cooking utensils for 316 marine grade stainless steel - think tongs, spatulas, large spoons, ladles, mashers, graters etc…I also still use the trusty wooden spoon.
The pots I recently purchased are actually from Ikea and so far I’m loving them. It’s called the FINMAT pot and it is designed by interior designer Ilse Crawford who puts wellness at the centre of everything she does. They’re made from traditional copper and hardwearing stainless steel making them both beautiful and easy to use.
What Clean Cookware to Purchase First?
When it comes to curating your home to become a more healthier space, starting with cookware and cooking utensils feels really good. Cooking becomes tactile and more deliberate. Clean heat can make a big difference to our health.
Don’t feel like you have to make this a purge though. Start where heat is highest and wear is fastest - frying pans, saucepans, baking trays. Replace gradually. Invest once. Buy fewer pieces, better made. I am still in the phase out phase - trust me, it takes time.
Lastly, when making a purchase, think of natural materials that age and patina but will stand the test of time.
Because you deserve better.