Caraway cookware is a popular option with home cooks who need superior non-stick performance without Teflon or PFAS (forever chemicals).
The non-stick cookware coating market was valued at USD 5.4 billion in 2024, with manufacturers actively shifting toward PFAS-free ceramic coatings. Caraway is one of the most visible ceramic cookware brands on the market. But are their products actually any good?
I've been testing the Caraway 12-Piece Ceramic Cookware Set and the Bakeware Set since June 2025. I use them for morning omelets, simmered pasta sauces, stews, and my famous Diablo chili (which my daughters refuse to eat, but that's a separate issue).
In this Caraway Cookware review, I break down exactly how the products performed in my kitchen, what I like about them, and what I don't...
Contents
Caraway is good as far as ceramic nonstick cookware goes, but it's not without limitations. Here's what I found after hands-on testing since June 2025.
Caraway pots and pans are worth the money if you prioritize non-toxic materials, easy cleaning, and kitchen aesthetics. But they are expensive for ceramic-coated cookware with a limited lifespan.
The 12-Piece Cookware Set costs $445 on promotion (list price $675). It includes four cooking vessels, four lids, and four storage pieces. That works out to around $111 per cooking vessel. This price point puts Caraway in the same price territory as professional-grade clad cookware, despite using a ceramic coating that has a finite lifespan.
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The most common customer complaints about Caraway cookware relate to coating care.
Scratching, sticking, staining, and chipping are all issues reported by users on Trustpilot, Reddit, and Amazon. Many users say the pans are durable, but others say they are not.
In my experience, the variance is due to how the cookware is used and maintained. I've been extremely careful with my pans, and they have held up well. But I can see how they would scratch if they were treated less delicately.
Some users feel that the lack of long term durability means that Caraway sets are not good value for money compared to alternatives like stainless steel, cast iron, or titanium.
Caraway's ceramic cookware is made from an aluminium body with a stainless steel base plate and stainless steel handles. The cooking surface is coated with two layers of ceramic non-stick, which Caraway describes as "mineral-based" and made from "inorganic natural ingredients."
It's worth noting that modern "ceramic" non-stick coatings are not traditional fired ceramic. They are sol-gel derived films applied to a metal base. This is standard across the ceramic non-stick category, not unique to Caraway.
Caraway does not provide the full chemical formulation of its ceramic coating. They describe it in broad terms but don't publish a detailed bill of materials. What they do publish is third-party chemical testing results, which I'll cover in the safety section below.
Caraway cookware is manufactured in China and designed in New York.
Caraway states it works with BSCI and SMETA manufacturing partners to support worker safety and fair practices. However, the specific factory names, locations, and audit summaries are not publicly available.
Caraway also claims its packaging uses 100% recycled cardboard, low-impact print dyes, and zero single-use plastics. These are self-reported claims rather than third-party verified, but it's still good to see the effort.
Caraway's non-stick coating is safe based on the third-party testing results the brand has made publicly available.
Caraway partners with Light Labs, an independent consumer product testing lab, to verify its products. The published results show PFAS (including PFOA and PFOS), total organic fluorine, lead, cadmium, mercury, and nickel all reported as "not detected" on the ceramic cooking surfaces.
Caraway's cookware tests free of PFAS, PTFE, lead, cadmium, and other heavy metals on its ceramic cooking surfaces, based on publicly available Light Labs results.
You can view the toxicity report on the Light Labs website.
The result "not detected" means below the lab's reporting limits under specific test conditions. It does not mean "zero" or "can never leach." That's an important distinction, but it's also as good as you are likely to find from any cookware brand publishing test results.
In August 2025, the National Advertising Division (part of BBB National Programs) reviewed Caraway's marketing claims. They found Caraway had sufficient support for its "free of PFAS" and "non-toxic" claims. However, they recommended Caraway stop making comparative claims that implied competitors' non-stick cookware is toxic or harmful to health.
So the safety claims hold up. Just take the broader marketing language with a pinch of salt (no pun intended).
Under California's AB1200 disclosure law, Caraway's stainless steel handles are listed as 202 Stainless Steel and contain nickel and chromium.
These are standard components of stainless steel that improve corrosion resistance and durability. They are present in the handles, not on the cooking surface where your food sits.
You can view the official compliance document here.
For most people, this is a non-issue. But if you have a nickel sensitivity or interpret "toxic metal free" very literally, it's worth being aware that the handles do contain these elements. The relevant safety question is whether metals migrate into your food from the cooking surface, and the Light Labs testing shows "not detected" for heavy metals on those surfaces.
Caraway performs well as everyday cookware when used within its intended limits.
The nonstick surface is genuinely impressive, cleaning is effortless, and heat distribution is even. The trade-off is that ceramic coatings are inherently less durable than stainless steel or cast iron, and Caraway is no exception.
Caraway's aluminium core distributes heat evenly across the cooking surface. In my testing, I found no noticeable hot spots when cooking omelets or simmering sauces at low to medium temperatures.
Caraway instructs users to cook on low to medium heat and preheat for no longer than 90 seconds. This isn't a flaw exactly - it's how ceramic-coated cookware is designed to work. But it does mean Caraway is not the right choice if you want to sear at high heat.
The 10.5" fry pan is the piece I've used most. Eggs slide off with zero oil, and sautéed vegetables cook evenly without sticking.
I've been deliberately careful with this pan, using only wooden utensils, low to medium heat, and handwashing with warm water and mild soap. So far, the non-stick surface has held up with no visible degradation. But I'm conscious that I'm treating it gently, which not every home cook will do.
Caraway's non-stick coating has a finite lifespan, and how long it lasts depends heavily on how you treat it.
In my experience, the coating is still performing like new. But I've taken deliberate care to follow Caraway's guidelines. Reports from other sources paint a more mixed picture. The Strategist noted sticking developing after roughly nine months, and Food & Wine warned the ceramic coating "eventually chips or peels." Epicurious found the surface scuffed quickly in their testing.
This is consistent with ceramic non-stick cookware as a category, not just Caraway. If you follow the care instructions, you'll extend the lifespan. If you use high heat, metal utensils, or a dishwasher, expect faster degradation.
Caraway cookware is compatible with all stovetop types, including induction, gas, electric, and ceramic.
Yes. Caraway's stainless steel base plate makes it fully induction compatible. I tested on induction, and it heated up quickly and evenly.
Caraway is suitable for gas stoves. I tested on a gas ring and had no issues. Just stick to low and medium flame settings, as Caraway recommends for all stovetop cooking.
Caraway cookware is oven safe to 550°F (288°C). This applies to both the cookware and bakeware ranges.
However, Caraway advises against using its ceramic cookware under a broiler, as this can cause warping and reduce the lifespan of the coating.
This is an example of how the products need to be handled with care for the best results.
Caraway pans require careful handling and maintenance to prevent scratching and extend their lifespan.
Caraway is hand-wash only. I clean mine with warm water and mild, eco-friendly dish soap, then dry with a soft towel. Just follow these simple steps.
For most everyday cooking, this is all you need. The non-stick surface releases food so easily that heavy scrubbing is rarely necessary. Caraway advises avoiding harsh abrasives and cooking aerosol sprays, both of which can cause buildup and staining over time.
No. I recommend avoiding metal utensils on any ceramic-coated cookware, and Caraway is no different. Caraway specifically warns that metal utensils with rough edges can damage the coating.
I use wooden utensils exclusively with my Caraway set. Silicone and nylon are also safe options.
Chipping is one of the most commonly reported issues with Caraway's ceramic coating, particularly on saucepans and around pan edges.
I have not experienced chipping on my set so far. But Food & Wine's testing noted chipping and peeling over time, and similar edge chipping was reported on the Our Place Always Pan under heavy use. This suggests it's a common vulnerability for ceramic-coated cookware rather than a Caraway-specific defect.
If you're concerned about chipping, handle your pans carefully during storage. The bundled storage organizers actually help here, because they keep the pans separated rather than stacked directly on top of each other.
Caraway holds its own on non-stick performance and safety credentials, but falls short on dishwasher safety, warranty, and maximum temperature compared to several competitors.
| Feature | Caraway | Our Place Always Pan Pro | GreenPan Valencia Pro | HexClad | Le Creuset |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Coating | Ceramic | No coating - solid Titanium | Ceramic (Thermolon) or Stainless Steel | TerraBond ceramic | Enamel |
| PFAS-Free | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Dishwasher Safe | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Metal Utensil Safe | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Oven Safe | 550°F | 1000°F | 600°F | 900°F | 500°F |
| Induction | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Warranty | 1 year | Limited lifetime (material defects) | Limited Lifetime (material defects) | Lifetime (manufacturer's defects) | Limited Lifetime (material defects) |
| Best For | Non-toxic priority, aesthetics | Very high heat, durability + non-toxic | Large Families | Heavy use, dishwasher users | Heirloom cookware |
| Where to Buy | BUY NOW | BUY NOW | BUY NOW | BUY NOW | BUY NOW |
Ceramic non-stick coatings like Caraway's are mineral-based, sol-gel derived films. Traditional non-stick (commonly called Teflon) is made from PTFE, a synthetic polymer that falls under the broader PFAS chemical family.
The main reason people switch to ceramic is to avoid PFAS. Ceramic is considered to be a safer alternative to Teflon.
No intentionally added persistent organic pollutants (such as PFOA, which is used in Teflon) are used in the manufacture or application of Sol-Gel (ChemSec). Persistent organic pollutants (POPs) are toxic, carbon-based chemical substances that resist environmental degradation.
The trade-off is durability. PTFE coatings generally last longer than ceramic before non-stick performance degrades. If longevity is your top priority and PFAS is not a concern for you, traditional non-stick will likely outlast ceramic. If avoiding PFAS matters to you, ceramic is a better choice.
Our Place is the better quality cookware overall, but Caraway has a slight edge on non-stick food release.
Our Place offers two versions of the Always Pan, both of which I describe in more detail in my Our Place cookware review.
The Always Pan 2.0 uses a ceramic non-stick coating, while the Always Pan Pro uses titanium, making it significantly more durable. The Pro withstands heavy use and even cleaning with a stiff-bristle dish brush without scratching. The ceramic 2.0 also feels like a sturdier build than the Caraway equivalent.
Saying that, though, Caraway's non-stick surface was slightly better in my testing. Eggs and sauces slid off just a touch more easily.
Our Place also offers full supply chain transparency and a more extensive product range, which is a big plus for eco-conscious buyers like me.
GreenPan proved more durable than Caraway in my testing.
I put the GreenPan Valencia Pro set through heavier use than Caraway, and it did not scratch. Caraway requires more careful handling to keep the coating in good shape. The Valencia Pro is also a strong option for larger families, as the set offers a very generous capacity.
If durability under heavier everyday use is your main concern, GreenPan is worth a serious look.
HexClad is the more expensive option but offers significantly more durability and a lifetime warranty.
I haven't tested HexClad hands-on, so this comparison is based on publicly available information. HexClad has a hybrid design with laser-etched stainless steel "peaks" over non-stick "valleys." It is dishwasher safe, metal utensil friendly, and covered by a lifetime warranty. On their UK site, HexClad is marketed as PTFE-free, though it's worth verifying coating chemistry by region.
HexClad is heavier in hand. But the lifetime warranty, dishwasher safety, and metal utensil compatibility make it a very different proposition from Caraway's more care-sensitive ceramic coating.
These are very different products and hard to compare directly. Caraway's 6.5 qt Dutch Oven is ceramic-coated aluminium. Le Creuset's is enameled cast iron.
Le Creuset is significantly heavier, more durable, and retains heat better. It is also considerably more expensive and can be prone to staining.
Personally, I prefer Alva for cast iron as I found it to be of better quality than Le Creuset.
Caraway is best suited to health-conscious home cooks who want non-toxic, easy-to-clean cookware and are willing to follow the care instructions to protect the ceramic coating.
Compare more options in our non-toxic cookware roundup, which also includes stainless steel, cast iron, and pure ceramic alternatives.
Caraway is a decent option for a first-time home cook because it is non-toxic and very easy to clean, which removes a lot of the intimidation factor from everyday cooking.
However, I do have one slight word of caution. The ceramic coating scratches if mistreated, and first-time cooks may not yet have the habit of reaching for wooden or silicone utensils instead of metal ones.
If you're worried about accidentally damaging your pans while you're still learning, stainless steel cookware is a safe choice that may be more forgiving.
The Caraway Minis Duo is the best option for a small kitchen. It contains a ceramic mini fry pan and sauce pan, which covers the essentials without taking up much cabinet space.
The full 12-piece set comes with storage organizers that do help with space efficiency, but four cooking vessels plus lids is a lot of cookware if you're short on room.
Caraway offers a one-year limited warranty on its ceramic cookware and bakeware, valid within the United States only.
This is short compared to several competitors. Brands like HexClad and All-Clad offer lifetime warranties, and even GreenPan offers longer coating coverage on some lines. Given that ceramic coating degradation is the most common failure mode, a one-year warranty shifts the replacement cost onto the buyer relatively quickly.
Caraway offers limited lifetime warranties on its stainless steel and enameled cast iron lines, which suggests the brand recognizes that ceramic coatings have a shorter expected lifespan.
I have not needed to contact Caraway's customer service as my set has held up well with careful use.
The Caraway 6.5 qt Dutch Oven is a lightweight alternative to traditional cast iron, and it performs well for low-to-medium-heat cooking.
I've used mine for stews and my famous Diablo chili, simmering for long periods at medium temperatures. The heat distribution is even, the non-stick surface releases food easily, and cleaning is effortless.
The limitation is the same as the rest of the Caraway range. This is ceramic-coated aluminium, not cast iron. It won't handle high-heat searing or bread baking the way a Le Creuset or Alva Dutch Oven would. If your cooking stays in the low-to-medium range, it's a solid performer. If you need high-heat versatility, look at cast iron instead.
The Caraway 11-Piece Bakeware Set is priced at $445 on promotion (list price $600) and includes two baking sheets, a rectangle pan, a muffin pan, a square pan, a loaf pan, two circle pans, a cooling rack, and two storage organizers.
I tested it on sponge cakes, cookies, and brownies. The non-stick release is on a par with the cookware, and cleaning is just as easy. I haven't experienced warping, though Caraway acknowledges that slight oven warping and "popping" can occur with thin bakeware and states the reinforced rim should flatten once cooled.
I use Caraway bakeware less frequently than I do the cookware. After I finished my non-toxic bakeware testing, I decided I prefer Our Place bakeware for heavier use. But for everyday home baking, the Caraway set does a decent job.
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I tested a set of 3 Caraway cutting boards made from FSC-Certified birch wood. Having a range of sizes means there's a board for just about every need in the kitchen. The boards are solid, sturdy, and seem well-made.
They come with a handy organizer stand similar to the one that comes with the pan set. It's a great space saver and means I can even keep them out on the worktop within easy reach.
Read more about these and other alternative products in my non-toxic cutting board guide.
This is another option in Caraway's ceramic-coated kitchenware range that comes in the same great choice of colorways as the cookware.
I tested the kettle for my Best Non-Toxic Tea Kettles guide and recommend it.
Scratching is less of an issue for kettles, so there are no durability concerns with this product. It boils fast, and the water comes out tasting clean and crisp, all of which helps make the perfect cup of tea. The whistle is quite cool too.
I have not tested Caraway's food storage containers yet, but I plan to do so in a future review.
Caraway markets these as part of its non-toxic kitchen range, and they are available on the Caraway website. I'll update this section once I've had hands-on time with them.
Caraway is a good choice for health-conscious home cooks who want non-toxic, PFAS-free cookware that looks great and cleans up easily. The non-stick performance is genuinely impressive, the bundled storage organizers are a thoughtful touch, and the published third-party safety testing gives real peace of mind.
But there's no getting away from it - Caraway is expensive for ceramic-coated cookware. The one-year warranty is disappointingly short, and the coating requires careful handling to maintain its performance over time. This is not cookware you can treat roughly.
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