Ever tried to flip a delicate fish fillet or grab some pasta only to hear that awful scraping sound? You know the one. It’s enough to make you cringe, especially when you’ve invested in good pans. That’s why finding the right tongs for nonstick cookware is such a game-changer. The wrong tool can ruin your expensive coating in seconds, leaving you with scratched-up pans and a sad dinner.
We’ve all been there, reaching for whatever utensil is closest. But protecting that nonstick surface is crucial for it to last. In this review, we’re putting several top models to the test to see which ones offer a gentle grip without any slip-ups. Let’s find the perfect pair that won’t let you—or your cookware—down.
Product Comparison Table: 10 Best Tongs For Nonstick Cookware
| Image | Why We Like This Product | Editor’s Rating | |
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Eddeas Kitchen Tongs with Silicone Tips, Tongs for Cooking…
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9.5 |
Read Review |
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HOTEC Premium Stainless Steel Locking Kitchen Tongs with Silicon…
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9.4 |
Read Review |
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HOTEC Premium Stainless Steel Locking Kitchen Tongs with Silicon…
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9.2 |
Read Review |
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GORILLA GRIP Stainless Steel Heat Resistant Kitchen Tongs for…
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9.1 |
Read Review |
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GORILLA GRIP Stainless Steel Heat Resistant Kitchen Tongs for…
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9.0 |
Read Review |
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KitchenAid Silicone Stainless Steel Tongs, 12 Inch, Red
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8.8 |
Read Review |
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600ºF Heat Resistant Kitchen Tongs: U-Taste 9 inch Silicone…
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8.7 |
Read Review |
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2 Pack Black Kitchen Tongs, Premium Silicone BPA Free…
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8.6 |
Read Review |
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OXO Good Grips 9-Inch Locking Tongs with Nylon Heads
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8.4 |
Read Review |
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OXO Good Grips 12-Inch Tongs with Silicone Head
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8.3 |
Read Review |
Quick Review For Top 10 Tongs For Nonstick Cookware
Eddeas Kitchen Tongs with Silicone Tips, Tongs for Cooking Heat Resistant 600 Degrees Stainless Steel Locking Tong – 7" 9" & 12 inch Silicone Tong Non-Stick, Black Set of 3
The Eddeas Kitchen Tongs with Silicone Tips are a versatile set designed to handle a wide range of kitchen tasks. Available in three essential sizes—7, 9, and 12 inches—this set gives you the right tool for everything from plating salads to turning a roast.
The core of their design focuses on protecting your cookware while providing you with a secure, comfortable grip.
Each tong features a food-grade silicone head thats gentle on nonstick surfaces, so you can use them without worrying about scratches. This silicone is heat resistant up to a impressive 600 degrees Fahrenheit, making it safe for use in pans, on the stovetop, or even directly in the oven.
The tips are embedded into the stainless steel arms, a design that prevents them from bending or falling off during use. This construction, along with the thickened steel, means you can confidently grab heavier items like corn on the cob or multiple burger patties at once.
Control and comfort are key. The handles are coated with a slip-resistant silicone grip that ensures a firm hold, even when your hands are wet or oily.
HOTEC Premium Stainless Steel Locking Kitchen Tongs with Silicon Tips, Set of 2-9" and 12"
The HOTEC Premium Stainless Steel Locking Kitchen Tongs with Silicon Tips, Set of 2, are designed to be a reliable, everyday tool in your kitchen. This set includes two essential sizes: a 9-inch pair for more delicate tasks and a 12-inch pair for jobs that require a bit more reach, like handling food on a hot grill or in a deep pot.
The core construction is high-quality stainless steel, which means they are built to resist rust and corrosion while remaining surprisingly lightweight and easy to handle. They’re also certified as food safe and Carbonfree, which is a nice bonus for the environmentally conscious.
One of the standout features is the simple locking mechanism. You just pull the ring on the handle to lock the tongs closed for compact storage, and push it to unlock them for use.
This makes them incredibly easy to store; you can hang them from the integrated loop or lay them flat in a drawer without them taking up much space. The handles themselves have been thoughtfully engineered with a updated pattern that smooths out the edges, protecting your fingers from any sharp bits and providing a more secure, comfortable grip that minimizes wobbling.
Usability is a key focus here.
HOTEC Premium Stainless Steel Locking Kitchen Tongs with Silicon Tips, Set of 3-7", 9" and 12" (Gradient Blue)
The HOTEC Premium Stainless Steel Locking Kitchen Tongs with Silicon Tips, Set of 3, is designed to be a versatile and durable addition to your kitchen tool collection. This set provides three essential lengths—7-inch, 9-inch, and 12-inch—to handle a wide range of tasks without needing multiple different utensils.
Constructed from high-quality stainless steel, these tongs are built to last. They are sturdy and heat-resistant, yet remain surprisingly lightweight for easy handling.
The material is also anti-rust and anti-corrosion, which means they’ll maintain their like-new appearance even with regular use. You won’t have to worry about them degrading or looking worn out over time.
A key feature is the convenient locking mechanism. You simply pull the ring to lock the tongs closed and push to unlock them. This makes storage incredibly straightforward.
You can hang them up by the integrated hanging loop or lay them flat in a drawer in their locked, compact state, saving valuable kitchen space. Its a simple solution to keep things tidy.
Safety and comfort were clearly priorities in the design. The handles have an updated pattern that better protects your fingers from any sharp edges when you grip them. This design, combined with the secure feel, helps eliminate wobbling and reduces the risk of burning your hands on hot surfaces.
GORILLA GRIP Stainless Steel Heat Resistant Kitchen Tongs for Cooking, Set of 2 BBQ Tong, Non Scratch Silicone Tip for Pans, Strong Grip, Grab Food, Toss Salad, Air Fryer, Pull Lock, 7 + 9 Inch, Black
The GORILLA GRIP Stainless Steel Heat Resistant Kitchen Tongs are a versatile set designed to handle a wide range of kitchen tasks. This set includes two tongs, measuring 7 and 9 inches, giving you the right tool for different jobs, from flipping bacon in a pan to reaching deep into an air fryer or serving a big salad.
Their strength starts with the construction.
They are made from sturdy stainless steel, which means they’re built to last and can handle heavy items like roasts or burgers without bending. The material is rust-resistant and dishwasher safe, making cleanup straightforward. You won’t have to worry about them degrading over time with regular use.
What really sets these tongs apart is their design. The heads feature scratch-resistant silicone tips that are gentle on your nonstick cookware.
You can confidently use them on your favorite pans without fear of leaving marks. This silicone is also heat resistant up to a impressive 484 degrees Fahrenheit, so they’re safe for use on the stovetop, in the oven, or on the grill.
The grabbing power is excellent. The silicone tips have scalloped edges that provide a strong, precise grip. They can securely hold everything from small cherry tomatoes and asparagus spears to large, slippery pieces of chicken or fish.
GORILLA GRIP Stainless Steel Heat Resistant Kitchen Tongs for Cooking, 9 + 12 Inch, Set of 2 BBQ Tong, Non Scratch Silicone Tip for Pan, Strong Grip, Grab Food, Toss Salad, Air Fryer, Pull Lock, Black
The GORILLA GRIP Stainless Steel Heat Resistant Kitchen Tongs are a set of two versatile tools designed to handle almost any task in your kitchen. You get a 9-inch and a 12-inch tong, giving you the right size for different jobs, from reaching into a deep air fryer basket to gently tossing a salad in a wide bowl.
Their core design focuses on strength, protection, and comfort, aiming to be a reliable pair of tongs you’ll reach for every day.
At the business end, the silicone-tipped heads are a key feature. They have scalloped edges that provide a strong and precise grab. This means they can securely hold a large chicken breast or a slippery tomato wedge without crushing it, and they’re nimble enough to pick up smaller items like cherry tomatoes or olives.
Importantly, this silicone is non-scratch, so you can use them confidently on your nonstick pans, ceramic cookware, or baking sheets without worrying about leaving marks. The material is also heat resistant to a high 484°F, making it safe for stovetop, oven, and grill use.
The strength comes from the sturdy stainless steel construction. These tongs feel solid in your hand and can handle heavy items like multiple burgers or a full rack of ribs without bending.
KitchenAid Silicone Stainless Steel Tongs, 12 Inch, Red
The KitchenAid Silicone Stainless Steel Tongs, 12 Inch, Red, are a straightforward tool designed to handle a lot of your everyday kitchen tasks. Their 12-inch length gives you a safe distance from hot pans and boiling water, which is a real plus when your flipping something on the grill or reaching into a deep pot of pasta. The core of these tongs is built from a high-quality 430 stainless steel frame.
This material is chosen for its strength and resistance to rust, meaning these tongs are built to last through years of regular use without bending or corroding.
What really sets these apart are the durable silicone tips attached to that steel frame. Silicone is gentle, so it won’t scratch or damage your more delicate cookware, like nonstick pans or ceramic pots. You can use them confidently on any surface in your kitchen.
More importantly, those silicone tips are heat resistant up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit (260 degrees Celsius). That’s well above normal cooking temperatures, so you can safely use them directly in a hot oven, on a sizzling grill, or in a frying pan without worrying about the material melting or degrading.
A small but appreciated feature is the built-in locking mechanism. When your done cooking, you can simply squeeze the arms together and engage the lock.
600ºF Heat Resistant Kitchen Tongs: U-Taste 9 inch Silicone Cooking Tong with Firm Sealed Non Stick Rubber Tips & Silicon Coated 18/8 Stainless Steel Handle & Smooth Locking for Serving Salad (Black)
The U-Taste 600°F Heat Resistant Kitchen Tongs are designed to be a reliable, everyday tool in your kitchen. This 9-inch silicone-tipped tong is the result of direct customer feedback, with each feature adressing common frustrations people have with ordinary tongs.
If you’ve ever dealt with flimsy construction, tips that scratch pans, or a locking mechanism that’s more frustrating than helpful, this tool aims to solve those problems for good.
At its core, these tongs are built from upgraded 18/8 stainless steel. The handles are a full 0.8mm thick, making them substancially more sturdy than many other models. This means you can confidently grab a large steak or a full chicken breast without the tongs bending or shaking in your hand.
The handles are coated in a food-grade silicone that gives you a secure, comfortable grip that won’t slip, even when your hands are wet or oily. It’s a simple upgrade that makes a big difference in control.
The locking mechanism has been thoughtfully redesigned. It uses larger, durable springs and added gaskets to create a smooth action that’s neither too stiff nor too loose. To lock them, you simply hold them closed and pull the tab out. To unlock, just push the tab back in.
2 Pack Black Kitchen Tongs, Premium Silicone BPA Free Non-Stick Stainless Steel BBQ Cooking Grilling Locking Food Tongs, 9-Inch & 12-Inch
The 2 Pack Black Kitchen Tongs are designed to be a versatile and durable set of tools for your cooking routine. You get two essential sizes in one pack: a 9-inch tong for precise tasks and a 12-inch tong for safer work over grills or deep pots. This pair covers you for everything from plating a delicate salad to flipping a hearty steak on the barbecue. Their construction is focused on longevity and safety, built from premium 304 stainless steel.
This material is known for its strength and resistance to rust, ensuring these tongs won’t bend or corrode after repeated use and washes.
Each tong is tipped with soft, black silicone that is completely BPA-free. This makes them safe for contact with all your food. The silicone heads are non-stick, so you won’t damage the surface of your cookware or pull the breading off your fried foods.
They are also odor resistant, meaning they won’t hold onto the smell of garlic or fish after cleaning. A key feature is their impressive heat resistance, rated for temperatures up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit. You can confidently use them directly on a hot grill, in a searing pan, or to retrieve items from a boiling pot without worrying about the material melting or degrading.
Handling is a major focus here. The stainless steel arms feature a textured, non-slip surface design.
OXO Good Grips 9-Inch Locking Tongs with Nylon Heads
The OXO Good Grips 9-Inch Locking Tongs with Nylon Heads are a kitchen tool designed for serious utility and everyday ease. If you find yourself needing a reliable pair of tongs that can handle a wide variety of tasks, this model is built to meet that demand. Its thoughtful design addresses common frustrations with lesser tongs, focusing on durability, safety, and comfort.
At the core of these tongs is a sturdy, brushed stainless steel construction.
This gives them a solid feel in your hand, allowing you to confidently grab and maneuver food without the flimsiness that can make cooking a chore. The business end features scalloped edges along the nylon heads. These edges are key for grip; they help you securely hold onto everything from slippery pasta to delicate fish fillets without crushing them. And because the heads are made from nylon, they are high-heat resistant and completely safe for use with your non-stick cookware.
You won’t have to worry about scratching the surface of your favorite pans, which is a major advantage for modern kitchens.
Comfort during use is where the “Good Grips” name really comes into play. The handles are coated with a soft, non-slip material that feels secure even when your hands are wet or greasy. Integrated thumb rests provide a natural place for your thumb to sit, reducing hand fatigue during longer cooking sessions, like when you’re grilling outdoors or tossing a big salad.
OXO Good Grips 12-Inch Tongs with Silicone Head
The OXO Good Grips 12-Inch Tongs with Silicone Head are designed to be a versatile and reliable tool in your kitchen. They aim to combine the strength you need with features that protect your cookware and make handling food easier. If you’ve ever struggled with flimsy tongs or worried about scratching your pots and pans, these tongs address those common concerns directly.
At their core, these are sturdy, stainless steel tongs.
The construction feels solid in your hand, providing a good sense of control when you’re turning heavy items like chicken breasts or roasted vegetables. The key feature, however, is the silicone heads. Unlike metal, silicone is gentle on surfaces. This means you can confidently use them on your non-stick cookware without the fear of leaving scratches or marks that can ruin the coating.
The heads are also scalloped and angled, which helps them grip food more securely so you’re less likely to drop something back into the pan.
Heat resistance is a major point here. The silicone heads can withstand temperatures up to 600 degrees Fahrenheit. Whether your’re searing meat in a ripping hot skillet or pulling baked potatoes from a hot oven, these tongs are built to handle the heat without degrading. The handles are designed with comfort in mind.
Tongs For Nonstick Cookware Buying Guide
That satisfying sizzle in your favorite nonstick pan deserves teh right tool. Using the wrong tongs can leave scratches and ruin that smooth surface in no time. The goal is to find a pair that grips food securely without any metal touching your cookware.
Material is Everything
This is the most critical factor. You need tongs with silicone or nylon tips. These soft materials are gentle on coatings. Avoid all-metal tongs; even if thay claim to have rounded edges, they can still cause damage over time. Some models have a stainless steel body with silicone ends, offering the best of both worlds—durability and safety.
Tip Design and Grip
Look for tips that are broad and flat, almost like a spatula. This design provides better support for flipping delicate items like fish fillets. The gripping surface should have a slight texture to prevent food from sliding around. Scalloped or ridged edges can help with this, making your cooking tasks much easier.
Locking Mechanism
A secure lock for storage is a small feature that makes a big difference. It keeps your drawer tidy and prevents the tongs from snapping open unexpectedly. Test the lock; it should be easy to engage and release with one hand, but hold firmly when closed. No one wants a pair that constantly comes undone.
Heat Resistance
Check the temperature rating for the silicone parts. High-quality tongs can withstand heat up to 400°F or more, which is essential for pan-searing. Cheaper versions might warp or melt if left resting on a hot pan rim, which is a suprise you don’t want mid-cook.
Comfort and Leverage
How they feel in your hand matters for everyday use. A good spring tension provides enough resistance for control without causing hand fatigue. Longer tongs (12 inches or so) are great for keeping your hands away from heat, while shorter ones offer more precision. The handle shape should feel natural in your grip.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tongs For Nonstick Cookware
What makes tongs safe for nonstick pans?
Safe tongs have soft, non-scratch tips. They’re usually made from silicone, nylon, or a coated material. These soft tips won’t gouge or scratch teh delicate nonstick surface, which helps your cookware last longer.
Can I use my regular metal tongs instead?
It’s not recommended. Metal tips can easily scratch the coating. Even one small scratch can make the pan less effective and cause food to stick. It’s best to use tools designed for the job to protect your investment.
What length of tongs should I get?
This depends on your cooking. Shorter tongs (around 9 inches) are great for salads or serving. Longer ones (12 inches or more) give you more reach and keep your hands safe from splatters when flipping food in a hot pan.
Are silicone-tipped tongs heat resistant?
Yes, most are. Quality silicone tips can handle high heat from cooking, often up to 400-500°F. Always check the product’s specific heat rating to be sure thay’re safe for your cooking methods, like searing.
How do I clean nonstick safe tongs?
Most are dishwasher safe, which is a nice convenience. For stubborn food, a quick soak in warm soapy water usually does the trick. Avoid using abrasive scrubbers on the soft tips to keep them in good shape.
Do these tongs lock for storage?
Many models have a locking mechanism to keep them closed in a drawer. This is a handy feature for saving space. Not all have it though, so it’s something to look for if organization is important to you.
Will the silicone tips melt or fall off?
High-quality tongs have tips securely attached. They’re designed for cooking heat. However, direct contact with an open flame or a broiler element could damage them. Always keep them away from direct flame to be safe.
Is there a big price difference?
You can find good options at various prices. Simple nylon or silicone-tipped tongs are often very affordable. More features, like a scissor-style design or stainless steel body, might cost a bit more. You don’t always have to spend alot for a good pair.
Our Verdict
So, that’s the lowdown on picking the right tool for the job. It really comes down to protecting your pans. A good pair makes cooking easier and keeps your cookware in great shape for longer. You won’t have to worry about scratches or that annoying sticking. It’s a simple choice that makes a big difference every time you use them.
In the end, investing in a proper set of tongs for nonstick cookware is a smart move for any kitchen. They’re a basic tool that you’ll reach for almost daily. Just remember to look for those soft tips and a comfy grip. With the right pair, you’re all set to handle your food gently and with confidence. Your pans will thank you for it, and your cooking will just feel smoother. It’s one of those small upgrades that feels totally worth it.