Cookware is essential in nearly every household that engages in daily cooking. While many people are familiar with the types of cookware and their respective benefits, it is important not to overlook the variety of handles available. A good handle can enhance your daily cooking experience, ensuring comfort and safety. It serves as the initial point of contact, so a quality handle is crucial for cooking safety.

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This blog will explore different cookware handles and their pros and cons to help you choose a durable and suitable option.

Metal Handle

Metal handles are highly popular in kitchens. They are typically made from iron, stainless steel, or carbon steel, making them strong, durable, and heat-resistant. Because metal conducts heat quickly, these handles can be used in ovens without risk of warping or burning. They are also dishwasher-safe, ensuring easy cleaning.

However, metal handles can become hot during cooking, posing a risk if you attempt to lift the pan with bare hands. You might need oven mitts or a wet cloth to handle them safely, which can be cumbersome, especially with larger pans or when cooking substantial quantities.

Despite this downside, metal handles are reliable. Stainless steel handles, in particular, are preferable for their enhanced features.

Plastic Handle

Plastic handles are often the most affordable option and come with good stay-cool properties, making them convenient for daily use. However, they are less durable and can melt under high heat or direct flames, releasing harmful fumes. They are not suitable for oven use or dishwashers.

Not all plastic handles are of equally low quality. It's essential to read product descriptions and check reviews to choose the right one. Ensure they are kept away from high heat to prolong their utility.

Bakelite Handle

Bakelite is a hard, infusible, and chemically resistant plastic made from phenol and formaldehyde. It resembles plastic but has distinct differences.

Bakelite

Bakelite is a thermosetting plastic material that doesn't conduct electricity and serves well as an insulator. It is heat- and chemical-resistant, non-flammable, and boasts a dielectric constant of 4.4 to 5.4, making it more versatile than other plastics. Known as the first synthetic plastic, Bakelite is used in cookware handles, electric irons, plugs, switches, jewelry, toys, and firearms.

Plastic

All plastic materials are organic polymers composed of repeating monomer units. Their ability to be easily molded into various shapes makes them highly versatile. Many types of plastic have unique properties and applications, often replacing traditional materials like wood, glass, and ceramics.

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Bakelite, the first synthetic plastic, is noted for being heat-resistant and non-conductive, withstanding temperatures up to 350°F. This makes it particularly suitable for applications requiring these properties.

The key difference between Bakelite and other plastics is that Bakelite is a thermosetting plastic with superior heat resistance and electrical non-conductivity.

Every handle material has its advantages and disadvantages. Selecting the right handle depends on your specific needs for the pan. High-quality handles are essential for safe cooking and can significantly affect the overall quality of the cookware. Stay safe and enjoy cooking!

Sources:

https://www.differencebetween.com/difference-between-bakelite-and-vs-plastic/

https://www.britannica.com/science/Bakelite

I recently purchased two serving fork and knife sets. The online auction listing states that the handles are Bakelite, but I know not to take that for granted.

One set has cream/yellow handles, and I'm still identifying the hallmarks on the metal parts. They appear to be at least silver-plated, possibly sterling, indicating they might be quite old. The handles on the other set are more orange, and the metal parts are stainless steel.

I did some research to determine if the handles are indeed Bakelite. Here’s a summary of my findings based on an article:

1. Testing by sound: When tapped together, they produce a higher pitch compared to modern plastic.
2. Testing by Feel: They feel heavier than modern plastic, but this is inconclusive due to the metal parts.
3. Testing by Smell: Running them under hot water produces a faint smell, but rubbing does nothing.
4. Testing by Sight – Using Simichrome Polish: I don’t have this polish, and lacquered pieces fail this test.
5. Testing by Sight – Using Formula 409 Cleaner: Results were inconclusive, especially for the orange set, which did not significantly turn the swab yellow.
6. Testing by Sight – Inspecting Closely: Both sets have a patina, scratches, darkening color, and no mold seams, though the orange handles show color variation at the bottom edges.

Based on my research, I doubt these are modern plastic, but I am not sure if they are Bakelite. Any help is appreciated.

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