Top News

I’m a Public Health Expert—These Non-Toxic Swaps Are the Easiest Places to Start for a Plastic-Free Kitchen
Samira Vishwas | May 28, 2026 7:24 PM CST

These are the kitchen tools I use instead of plastic.

Credit: EatingWell / Williams Sonoma

Plastic-Free Tools Under $50

Phasing plastic out of my kitchen is overwhelming to think about, and that’s coming from me, someone who holds a Master’s degree in Public Health Nutrition. Cooking with less plastic is a worthy pursuit, but where should you begin? Ditching plastic Tupperware for glass food storage or switching to wooden cutting boards?

If you ask me, kitchen tools are the easiest bar to clear first. Where we would have used a black plastic spoon or Teflon-coated skillet in the past, there are better versions now, made from materials that are still a pleasure to use. My first stop is always Williams Sonomawhich offers chef-grade options I trust for healthy meals at home—and that won’t break after the first use. I narrowed down dozens of premium tools from the retailer into 27 high-quality picks worthy of a permanent spot in your kitchen lineup. I’m personally switching to a glass bulb baster, so I can baste without a side of microplastics, and a stainless steel strainer for blanching broccolini. Shop these and my other picks below.

Credit: Williams Sonoma
Credit: Williams Sonoma

Best Silicone, Glass and Stone Tools at Williams Sonoma

Silicone kitchen tools are a no-brainer for healthier cooking: They’re not only impressively durable and heatproof, but they also won’t shed plastic into your food. While you’re swapping out your nylon whisks and spatulas, check out stone and glass tools, too, like this slate spreader for cheeseboards.

Souper Cubes Freezer Tray with Lid

Credit: Williams Sonoma

$22 at Williams-Sonoma

I swear by Souper Cubes for easy portioning. If I make soup, stock, brothy beans or even rice, I’ll pack leftovers into Souper Cubes’ pre-portioned wells and stick the tray in the freezer. I can pop out a single cube of what I need without any waste. These freezer trays last longer than flimsier models and are sturdy enough to stack.

GreenPan Silicone Flat Whisk

Credit: Williams Sonoma

$20 $12 at Williams-Sonoma

For quick pan sauces and silky scrambled eggs, a balloon whisk can be overkill sometimes. A flat whisk can reach into every nook and cranny of a pan for creamy sauces without adding too much air. This silicone version won’t scratch pans or bowls while in use.

Credit: Williams Sonoma
Credit: Williams Sonoma

Best Wooden and Bamboo Tools at Williams Sonoma

Wooden kitchen tools won’t melt or scratch your pans, and they’ll last for years with a little bit of basic care. I feel like a kid in a candy store with Williams Sonoma’s selection, which goes beyond basic wooden spoons. Try cooking chopsticks for precise stir-frying or a walnut honey dipper that makes every cup of tea feel like an occasion.

Littledeer Wok Paddle

Credit: Williams Sonoma
Credit: Williams Sonoma

$40 at Williams-Sonoma

Finding a high-quality, sturdy kitchen tool that won’t scratch a metal wok can feel like an uphill battle, but Littledeer’s maple wok paddle is up to the task. It has a smooth-sanded edge that won’t scratch your pan, and its long handle keeps your hands away from the heat.

Acacia Salad Hands

Credit: Williams Sonoma
Credit: Williams Sonoma

$30 at Williams-Sonoma

Short, wide salad hands are my favorite tool for thoroughly tossing and serving salads. These servers, carved from real acacia wood, are as functional as they are stylish. Plus, they’re lacquered, so you don’t have to oil them to keep them looking fresh.

Credit: Williams Sonoma
Credit: Williams Sonoma

Best Stainless Steel and Cast Iron Tools

Stainless steel and cast iron tools are incredibly long-lasting and won’t flake, shed, or tear  while you’re prepping dinner. Bring the café home with perfectly round eggs fried in a stainless steel egg ringor try a julienne peeler for fresh, light salads or garnishes in minutes.

All-Clad Stainless Steel Measuring Spoons

Credit: Williams Sonoma
Credit: Williams Sonoma

$35 $25 at Williams-Sonoma

All-Clad’s stainless steel measuring spoons nest for space-saving storage, but I really love them for their thick, sturdy construction. I don’t have to coddle the tools to prevent the handles or wells from bending or warping. Also, how cute is it that All-Clad’s measuring cups and spoons look like mini versions of its signature pots and pans? Worth every penny.

Joseph Joseph Garlic Rocker

Credit: Williams Sonoma
Credit: Williams Sonoma

$23 at Williams-Sonoma

I love garlic for its bold flavor, but I’m less enthused when my hands absorb its pungent odor after prep. Joseph Joseph’s garlic rocker takes care of mincing while minimizing contact with cloves. Plus, since it’s made from stainless steel, I’m comfortable with it making extended contact with my dinner ingredients.

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.


READ NEXT
Cancel OK