

Maximum oven-safe temperatures vary by manufacturer, but most are around 450☏. Hard-anodized aluminum cookware can be used in the oven, but due to the non-stick coating, it can’t withstand extremely high temperatures. But, if you’re into the shine of stainless steel or the reds, blues, or other bright colors, your options are limited. It certainly doesn’t look bad, and its classic appearance fits in well with any kitchen decor. Unlike standard aluminum cookware that’s often painted bright and fun colors, hard-anodized cookware doesn’t come in many variations. Most hard-anodized aluminum cookware features a dark gray exterior and a black or charcoal cooking surface - a side effect of the anodizing process. The non-stick coating means that it is easy to clean. Hard-anodized aluminum is manufactured by putting the aluminum base through an electromagnetic process that hardens and strengthens the metal, giving it superb durability.Īlthough bare hard-anodized aluminum was popular decades ago, today, almost every option now is non-stick, meaning the cooking surface is coated with a non-stick material (either PTFE or a ceramic-like natural sand-derived silicon).ĭue to aluminum’s inherent conductive properties, this cookware distributes heat more evenly than its stainless steel counterparts. It’s often easier to use and less expensive than stainless steel, and it is relatively versatile. Hard-Anodized Aluminum Cookware: Quick OverviewĬalphalon Hard-Anodized Aluminum Cookware Setįor consumers searching for durability and convenience, hard-anodized aluminum is worth considering. Make sure you read up and watch videos before attempting to season any pan, as taking the proper steps to avoid damaging the product. To avoid food sticking, consider seasoning the cookware. Stainless steel rarely includes a non-stick coating, which can cause frustration if cooking particularly sticky or flaky foods such as eggs or fish. Never use steel wool or other abrasive materials when washing stainless cookware.

Stainless steel surfaces require special care during cleaning – they are generally more high-maintenance than other cookware. Still, many home cooks consider the higher price point worth it because this type of cookware can last a lifetime. Stainless steel cookware leans toward the more expensive end of the price spectrum, especially if you’re considering buying a higher quality or professional-grade product. Polished is the more traditional look, but brushed is gaining popularity because it’s sleek, modern, and hides scratches.

This finish is lightly sanded and polished with a non-abrasive pad to give it a dull, matte look. You may see some pots and pans advertised as having a brushed finish. It’s classy cookware that you can use to cook and serve the food. Stainless steel cookware usually features a shiny polished exterior and a smooth silvery interior. How the metal is bonded, and its thickness tends to be more influential than the number of plys. The latter option won’t distribute heat as well as the former due to the limited scope of the conductive material.įully-clad stainless steel cookware commonly comes in three, five, or seven-ply options.ĭespite what is sometimes advertised, the number of plys isn’t necessarily as important as the overall quality of the cookware’s production process. Stainless steel cookware labeled “ fully-clad” means the conductive core layer is bonded seamlessly throughout, while those labeled “ impact-bonded” are often cheaper and only include a conductive metal at their base (not up the sides).
