Welcome back to the kitchen, friends! 👋 If you’ve been following me for a while, you know I’m all about clean cooking, high-quality tools, and making smart choices in the kitchen.

Today, I want to share why I’ve made the permanent switch to stainless steel cookware — specifically the Kirkland Signature Stainless Steel Copper Core Pots and Pans — and why you might want to do the same.

✅ Yes, you can still get them even though Costco no longer carries them. I found them here on Amazon.

🥄 Why I Ditched Non-Stick (Teflon) for Good

Let’s be real — non-stick pans had their moment. Easy to use, easy to clean… until the coating starts to chip, flake, and wear off.

Here’s why stainless steel is the better, safer, long-term option:

It’s More Durable

Stainless steel pots can last a lifetime. I’ve had my Kirkland set for years, and they still look and cook like new. No warping, no peeling, no mystery scratches.

No More Flakes in Your Food

Non-stick coatings wear down over time. Those tiny black flakes? Not seasoning — it’s the coating coming off. Stainless steel is naturally non-toxic, so you can cook without worrying about what’s ending up in your meal.

It Can Handle High Heat

Teflon and similar coatings break down at high temperatures. Stainless steel? Bring on the sear, boil, and bake. You’ll get beautiful browning and flavor that non-stick can’t match.

Copper Core = Even Cooking

One of the best features of the Kirkland set is the copper core — it heats quickly and distributes evenly. That means no more hot spots or uneven cooking

⚠️ Health Risks with Other Cookware Materials

If you’re prioritizing wellness in your home, this part is important. Not all cookware is created equal. Here’s what you need to know:

Teflon (PTFE) & Non-Stick Coatings

When overheated, Teflon-coated pans can release toxic fumes. Prolonged use of scratched or degraded non-stick cookware may also expose you to PFOA, a chemical linked to hormone disruption, liver issues, and other health concerns (even though newer pans claim to be PFOA-free, safety is still debated).

Aluminum

Aluminum is lightweight and conducts heat well, but it’s a reactive metal. If the surface isn’t anodized or coated, it can leach into acidic foods (like tomato sauce), and there have been concerns linking excess aluminum exposure to neurological conditions.

Ceramic-Coated Cookware

Many ceramic-coated pans are marketed as a safer alternative to Teflon, but the coating can chip and wear off over time. Even with “non-toxic” claims, be cautious — the glaze, gloss, or paint used in some ceramic cookware can contain lead or other harmful metals that leach into food, especially if the item is imported or not properly tested.

🧴 We’re Making the Switch: Clean, Conscious Kitchen Swaps

In our home, we’ve committed to slowly phasing out:

• Plastic containers and utensils
• Aluminum foil and cookware
• Rubber spatulas and lids

And replacing them with:

• Glass storage containers and baking dishes
• Stainless steel pots, pans, and cooking tools
• Silicone when needed (food-grade and BPA-free only)

These small swaps reduce our exposure to endocrine disruptors, heavy metals, and other harmful chemicals — and they make a huge difference over time.

✨ But Isn’t Stainless Steel Hard to Clean?

Not if you know what you’re doing. 😉

✅ Heat the pan before adding oil
✅ Don’t cook on super high heat
✅ Deglaze with water or broth (chef’s kiss 💋)
✅ Toss them in the dishwasher or scrub with a little baking soda if needed

Trust me — once you get the hang of it, cleanup is easy, and your food will taste better too.

🔄 What If I Can’t Find the Kirkland Set?

No worries! If you missed out or want another great set with similar features, check out these top-rated stainless steel cookware alternatives:

🔗 Ciwete Tri-Ply Stainless Steel Pots and Pans Set (11-Piece)

A budget-friendly, quality option with tri-ply construction for even heat distribution.

🔗 Calphalon Premier Stainless Steel Cookware Set (8-Piece)

Sleek, durable, and easy to clean. Great for everyday use and built to last.

🔗 MIU France 10-Piece Copper Core Cookware Set

A lesser-known gem with serious performance — copper core and heavy-duty construction.

👩‍🍳 Final Thoughts

Cooking clean doesn’t stop with ingredients — your cookware matters too. Switching to stainless steel with a copper core has completely transformed how I cook and how I feel about what I’m serving my family.

We’re choosing health, durability, and peace of mind — and honestly, it feels amazing.

If you’re ready to cook with confidence, skip the coatings and make the investment in something that truly supports your health and your food.

Already cooking with stainless steel or switching to glass too? I’d love to hear your story — drop a comment or tag me in your kitchen transformation!

Until next time,
Happy cooking! 🍳✨