Experts Say You Should Replace Your Teflon Cookware Regularly — Here Are 9 Affordable Options At Target
Concern around Teflon broke the internet in the early 2000s when it was revealed that perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), a chemical used in the manufacturing process, could cause hormonal imbalances, fertility and developmental issues, and more.
Since 2013, industry manufacturers have ceased using PFOA in Teflon. Modern Teflon cookware (which can also be identified by the label 'PTFE' on the pan or packaging) instead utilizes a chemical called short-chain PFAS that scientists believe is safe for everyday cooking, according to our previous reporting.
As long as you're using post-2013 Teflon cookware, there's ample reason to rely on this non-stick option. Teflon pans require less continuous seasoning and make cleanup faster and easier.
With proper care, Teflon-coated pans typically last for about five years. For best usage, avoid heating up empty Teflon pans and keep the heat low (typically under or at 500 degrees, according to experts). Use non-abrasive tools for cleaning and cooking, and be careful not to scratch or chip your Teflon cookware.
If your PTFE-containing cookware is past its prime, it's probably time for a new set. Look to affordable retailers like Target to swap out your pots and pans at the end of their lifespan. (If you do notice nicks, replace your tools out sooner than the five-year timeline.)
Ahead, we've created a guide to the best Teflon cookware at Target. From frying pans and woks to Dutch ovens, stock pots, and jumbo griddles, these non-stick, non-toxic options will help you whip up solo and family meals with faster cleanup and easier serving.
1. A dual set of non-stick frying pans
Target
Constructed out of aluminum with non-stick PTFE interiors, this two-piece frying pan set includes both a 7.5-inch and a 10-inch option. Both pans sport a heat indicator in their centers, which, when red, shows that the pan is preheated and ready for frying. Both pans are dishwasher-safe and oven-safe up to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. A jumbo, non-stick wok
Target
This multipurpose, 14-inch specialty wok is made with a non-stick coating for lower-fat meals and quicker cleaning. The wok's sloped edges help prevent spills, while both handles stay cool to the touch as you stir fry and lift. Constructed out of heavy-duty aluminum, the pan is designed for use on gas and electric coil cooktops and is safe for the dishwasher.
Target
Ideal for large-batch cooking from braising and blanching to stews, stocks, and soups, this non-stick, 5-quart Dutch Oven helps speed up cleaning time while lessening the amount of oil you need to use. The pot is designed for food to fall off without getting stuck on the bottom, no extra oil needed.
The pot features an even heat base, a heat indicator at its center and comfy, grippy handles. It comes with a vented glass lid and is dishwasher-safe and oven-safe up to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
4.
Target
Craft yummy stovetop meals for the whole crowd with this non-stick double burner griddle. The 18-inch by 11-inch aluminum griddle fits over two burners to accommodate extra-large cooking.
When you're all done with the meal, cleanup promises to be a breeze with the griddle's non-stick coating and dishwasher-safe construction.
5. A handy non-stick saucepan
Target
This versatile non-stick saucepan enables boiling, blanching, reheating, and, of course, making sauces. Utilize it for cooking rice, beans, veggies, and soups, too. The 3-quart pan comes with a vented glass lid and is dishwasher-safe and oven-safe up to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
6. A jumbo cooker pan for full meals and easy, nonstick cleanup
Target
This 5-quart non-stick cooker will assist you with sautéing, stir-frying, braising, stewing, deep frying, boiling, and more. The pan sports a center heat indicator that shows when the pan is properly pre-heated, plus comfortable handles that help ensure a secure grip. It comes with a vented glass lid and is dishwasher-safe and oven-safe up to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
7. A nonstick griddle and skillet trio
Target
This three-piece non-stick cookware set features 9- and 7-inch frying pans and a square 11-inch griddle. All are constructed with durable, even-heating aluminum along with non-stick interiors for easy food release with even sticky foods like meats and starches.
8. A quality 12-inch non-stick frying pan
Target
This jumbo non-stick frying pan is oven-safe up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit with a non-stick coating for convenient cleanup and quick food release. The frying pan is also dishwasher-safe and includes a tempered glass lid. It's constructed with durable, even-heating aluminum and sports long stainless-steel handles designed to stay cool to the touch on your stovetop.
9. An extra-large, staple-worthy stock pot
Target
Craft nutritious stews and soups with this whopping 12-quart non-stick aluminum stock pot. It includes a tempered glass lid so you can easily keep an eye on your meal, plus soft-grip, riveted handles for more comfortable cooking and lifting. The pot is also dishwasher-safe.
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Alexander Aciman/NYT Wirecutter At times, these smaller sets can feel like a gateway to more aggressive investment in larger Lego sets. I certainly feel a greater magnetic pull toward the Lego aisle in stores now, whereas previously I would have absentmindedly passed it by altogether. The fact that Lego officially calls polybags Recruitment Bags only reaffirms that their true purpose is to reel in lapsed Lego fans and still-uninitiated children. But larger sets will always lack the ephemerality of polybags — the fleeting, paper-crane-like nature of a Mini Build, which is the reason I love them so much to begin with. They enter my life almost as quickly and as easily as they come together. Fortunately for me, the constraints of real estate and square footage also help keep me in check. But if you ever come over to my apartment and dare to open my medicine cabinet, you might just find a TIE Interceptor pointed right at you. This article was edited by Hannah Rimm and Megan Beauchamp. 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