Is HexClad Cookware Safe?

Understanding HexClad’s Construction and Materials

HexClad cookware uses a tri-ply construction that combines three layers of metal. The exterior layer is magnetic stainless steel, which allows the cookware to work on induction stovetops. The middle layer is an aluminum core that distributes heat evenly across the cooking surface. The interior features a stainless steel base with a patented hexagonal pattern.

The hexagonal design creates peaks of stainless steel and valleys coated with a non-stick surface. This hybrid approach aims to deliver the durability of stainless steel with the convenience of non-stick cooking.

The Non-Stick Coating Composition

HexClad uses a polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) based non-stick coating. PTFE is the same material found in traditional Teflon products. The company states their coating is PFOA-free, which addresses one of the primary safety concerns consumers have had with non-stick cookware.

PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid) was previously used in the manufacturing process of PTFE coatings. Studies linked PFOA to health risks, which led manufacturers to phase it out. Since 2013, most cookware brands eliminated PFOA from their production processes.

Safety Considerations for PTFE Coatings

Temperature Thresholds and Toxic Fumes

PTFE coatings remain stable and safe at cooking temperatures below 500°F (260°C). Most home cooking occurs between 300°F and 450°F, which falls within the safe range.

When PTFE exceeds 500°F, the coating begins to break down and release fumes. These fumes can cause polymer fume fever in humans, with symptoms that include:

• Headaches
• Chills
• Fever
• Chest tightness
• Mild cough

The condition is temporary and resolves within 24-48 hours. However, these fumes are extremely toxic to birds, which have sensitive respiratory systems.

Preventing Overheating

You can prevent PTFE breakdown by following these practices:

1. Never preheat empty pans – Always add oil or food before heating
2. Use medium or medium-high heat – High heat is rarely necessary for cooking
3. Avoid broiler use – Broilers can quickly exceed safe temperatures
4. Monitor cooking – Never leave cookware unattended on a hot burner
5. Use exhaust fans – Proper ventilation removes any fumes that may develop

Comparing HexClad to Other Cookware Materials

Cookware Type	Non-Stick Performance	Durability	Metal Utensil Safe	Maintenance Level	Primary Safety Concerns
HexClad	Good	High	Yes	Low	PTFE fumes above 500°F
Traditional Non-Stick	Excellent	Low	No	Low	PTFE fumes, coating degradation
Stainless Steel	None	Very High	Yes	Medium	None (food may stick)
Cast Iron	Moderate (when seasoned)	Very High	Yes	High	Heavy weight, rust potential
Ceramic Non-Stick	Good	Medium	Limited	Low	Performance degrades over time
Carbon Steel	Moderate (when seasoned)	High	Yes	High	Requires seasoning maintenance

The HexClad Hybrid Advantage

HexClad’s hexagonal pattern exposes stainless steel peaks that create a more durable cooking surface than traditional non-stick pans. The stainless steel peaks allow you to use metal utensils without damaging the non-stick valleys.

This design reduces the amount of non-stick coating exposed during cooking. Less coating exposure means less potential for coating degradation and ingestion of coating particles.

Heat Distribution and Hot Spots

The aluminum core in HexClad’s tri-ply construction spreads heat evenly. Even heat distribution prevents hot spots that can cause food to burn and coating to degrade prematurely.

Uneven heating is a common problem in cheaper cookware that uses thin bases or poor-quality materials. Hot spots accelerate coating breakdown and increase safety risks.

Chemical Safety and Third-Party Testing

HexClad states their products are free from:

• PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid)
• PFOS (perfluorooctane sulfonate)
• Lead
• Cadmium

The cookware meets standards set by the FDA for food contact surfaces. However, consumers should note that PTFE-based coatings still contain other PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) compounds.

The PFAS Debate

PFAS are a large family of synthetic chemicals known as “forever chemicals” because they don’t break down in the environment. While PFOA and PFOS are no longer used, other PFAS compounds remain in modern non-stick coatings.

Research on the health effects of these newer PFAS compounds is ongoing. Some studies suggest potential risks, while manufacturers argue their products are safe when used correctly.

If you want to completely avoid PFAS exposure from cookware, consider alternatives like stainless steel, cast iron, or carbon steel.

Proper Use and Maintenance for Safety

Cleaning Guidelines

Hand wash HexClad cookware with warm water and mild dish soap. The company states the pans are dishwasher safe, but hand washing extends the life of the non-stick coating.

Avoid these cleaning methods:

• Abrasive scouring pads (steel wool, rough sponges)
• Harsh chemical cleaners
• Oven cleaner
• Bleach-based products

Use soft sponges or cloths to preserve both the stainless steel and non-stick surfaces.

Signs of Coating Degradation

Replace your HexClad cookware if you notice:

1. Visible peeling or flaking of the non-stick surface
2. Discoloration that doesn’t clean off
3. Deep scratches that expose the base metal
4. Significant warping of the pan bottom
5. Loss of non-stick properties despite proper cleaning

Ingesting small particles of degraded coating is generally considered low risk, but damaged cookware performs poorly and may release more fumes during cooking.

Who Should Consider HexClad Cookware?

Best For

HexClad works well for home cooks who:

• Want non-stick convenience with improved durability
• Use metal utensils frequently
• Cook at medium temperatures most of the time
• Prefer low-maintenance cookware
• Have induction cooktops

Not Ideal For

Consider alternatives if you:

• Want to completely avoid PFAS chemicals
• Frequently use very high heat cooking methods
• Need oven-safe cookware above 500°F
• Prefer ultra-lightweight pans
• Have a limited budget (HexClad is premium-priced)

Safety Compared to Older Non-Stick Technology

HexClad represents an improvement over older non-stick cookware in several ways:

PFOA elimination – The removal of PFOA from manufacturing addresses one major health concern from previous generations of non-stick cookware.

Increased durability – The hybrid design resists scratching and peeling better than traditional non-stick surfaces. Less coating degradation means fewer particles in your food.

Better heat tolerance – The tri-ply construction helps prevent hot spots that can cause localized overheating and coating breakdown.

Metal utensil safety – The stainless steel peaks allow normal utensil use without constant worry about damaging the coating.

Environmental and Disposal Considerations

PTFE coatings present environmental concerns due to their PFAS content. These chemicals persist in the environment and accumulate in water systems.

When disposing of HexClad cookware:

• Check local recycling guidelines for mixed-metal products
• Some scrap metal facilities accept cookware
• Do not place damaged non-stick pans in regular recycling bins
• Consider manufacturer take-back programs if available

The durability of HexClad means less frequent replacement compared to traditional non-stick pans, which reduces overall environmental impact.

Making an Informed Decision

HexClad cookware is safe for most home cooking applications when you follow proper temperature guidelines and maintenance practices. The PTFE coating performs safely below 500°F, and the hybrid design offers better durability than traditional non-stick surfaces.

Key safety factors include:

• Temperature control – Keep cooking temperatures moderate
• Proper ventilation – Use exhaust fans during cooking
• Regular inspection – Replace damaged cookware promptly
• Correct cleaning – Use gentle methods to preserve coating integrity
• Appropriate utensils – Metal utensils are safe but gentle use extends pan life

The main safety concern remains the PTFE coating and its potential to release fumes at high temperatures. This risk exists with all PTFE-based cookware, not just HexClad.

If you want absolute assurance of no PFAS exposure, choose cookware made from stainless steel, cast iron, carbon steel, or pure ceramic (not ceramic-coated non-stick). These materials require different cooking techniques and maintenance but eliminate concerns about coating chemicals.

For cooks who value non-stick convenience and are comfortable with PTFE safety parameters, HexClad offers a durable hybrid option that outperforms traditional non-stick cookware in longevity and versatility. The decision ultimately depends on your cooking style, health priorities, and willingness to manage temperature controls during cooking.