How do you tell if Calphalon pans are anodized or nonstick?

Author: Ernest Schowalter IV  |  Last update: Wednesday, January 21, 2026

Stainless steel cookware is typically a shiny silver material, hard-anodized cookware is a deep dark gray color, and cookware that is nonstick typically will have a smooth light gray, dark gray, or black interior that is clearly different than the exterior of the pan. Please reference the pictures below.

How do I know what type of Calphalon I have?

Calphalon pans are designed with specific codes and material numbers imprinted on the bottom, serving as identifiers for their size, type, and respective product line. When the codes or prefixes are unclear, you can determine the product line by inspecting the handle.

Why does everything stick to my Calphalon pans?

If food is sticking to your nonstick surface, there may be a residue on the surface causing food to stick. This residue is usually formed from the natural oils in the foods you cook and does not always come clean with regular dish washing liquid.

When did Calphalon stop using Teflon?

A: Calphalon stopped manufacturing our nonstick using PFOA back in the third quarter of 2012. We have then since moved to a formula that is completely FDA approved.

What coating is on Calphalon pans?

PTFE Nonstick Coatings

Traditional nonstick coatings are made with PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene), a manufactured chemical that has been used in industry and consumer products worldwide since the 1940s. Calphalon cookware contains just one PFAS chemical, PTFE, used to prevent food from sticking to cookware surfaces.

Hard-Anodized vs. Non-Stick Cookware: The Real Difference

Which Calphalon line is best?

For the intermediate chef looking to take their cooking to the next level, Calphalon Premier™ provides high-performance and precision. For the advanced chef, Calphalon Signature™ and Calphalon Elite cookware provide premium-level responsiveness and versatility, for professional results chefs can rely on.

Should I use a scratched Calphalon pan?

No. While they don't necessarily present a safety concern, you still shouldn't hold onto your scratched nonstick pans. If the scratches are fresh, you may end up with flakes of the coating in your food, which we can all agree is not delicious.

When should I throw away my Calphalon pans?

In general, you want to replace nonstick pans after five years. But you need to be particularly careful with nonstick cookware produced before 2015, as it may contain PFOA. If your cookware dates back to 2015 and earlier, it's likely time to replace it even if it doesn't contain PFOAs.

What happened to Calphalon?

PERRYSBURG, Ohio — Calphalon, a company that produces cookware and appliances, confirmed Wednesday it will close its Perrysburg production facility at the end of 2023, a move that will cost 130 people their jobs.

What is the safest cookware for your health?

ceramic is among the safest material for pans

From dishes, to glasses, bakeware and cookware, ceramic bakeware is our pick for the best cookware material for health thanks to its non-reactive nature and resistance to high temperatures and acidic foods. Plus it's so pretty!

Can you spray Pam on Calphalon pans?

CALPHALON SIGNATURE NONSTICK

We recommend not using aerosol cooking sprays as they contain a chemical propellant that is difficult to remove. Instead, use and oil mister with olive or vegetable oil or dab a bit of oil on a paper towel and carefully wipe the interior of the pan.

How do you make Calphalon pans non-stick again?

How To Restore a Non-Stick Pan: 5 Easy Steps
  1. Mix One Part Vinegar and Two Parts Water. ...
  2. Pour the Mixture Into the Pan and Let It Boil. ...
  3. Pour the Mixture Out and Wipe It Clean. ...
  4. Scrub the Inside of the Pan With Baking Soda. ...
  5. Rinse the Pan and Wipe It Clean. ...
  6. Find a Dishwasher-Safe Pan.

Why is my anodized sticky?

If it felt "sticky," it wasn't sealed. Good sealing will eliminate the stickiness. However, many hard anodized coatings are purposely not sealed in order to preserve maximum coating hardness. The sticky feel does not affect the quality of the hard anodic coating in any way.

How do I know if my cookware is anodized?

Stainless steel cookware is typically a shiny silver material, hard-anodized cookware is a deep dark gray color, and cookware that is nonstick typically will have a smooth light gray, dark gray, or black interior that is clearly different than the exterior of the pan.

What brand is comparable to Calphalon?

Calphalon's alternatives and competitors. See how Calphalon compares to similar products. Calphalon's top competitors include Made In, Rational, and All-Clad Metalcrafters. Made In specializes in kitchenware and cookware, catering to home cooks and culinary professionals.

Do Calphalon pans need to be seasoned?

Before using any Calphalon cookware for the first time, wash in warm, sudsy water, rinse and dry thoroughly. Most Calphalon cookware does not require seasoning.

Does Calphalon still use teflon?

While Calphalon cookware features polytetrafluoroethylene-based nonstick finishes, we are not associated with, nor do we use, Teflon® branded products.

Why is my non stick Calphalon sticking?

Do NOT preheat on high heat and wait for the pan to cool. Calphalon cookware is very heat-efficient; using high heat will quickly cause food to stick and burn. High heat is typically used for boiling water or stir-frying. Test the pan to ensure it is hot enough.

What can I do with old Calphalon pans?

Calphalon also provides free mail-in recycling of old pots and pans with the purchase of its products.

How to know if a pan is nonstick?

You can recognise a pan with Teflon coating by the following points:
  1. Teflon pans usually have a black or dark brown colour.
  2. Teflon pans have a non-stick property. If the pan is also easy to clean, this may be an indication that it is a Teflon pan.

Is hard anodized cookware safe if scratched?

The anodization makes the aluminum non-reactive, keeping your meals safe. If the surface sustains damage or gets scratched, it can expose the aluminum core, which has reactive properties with certain foods.

How to tell if a non-stick pan is ruined?

While most non stick pans will develop light discoloration over time—especially if the surface of your pan is a light color—deep, dark discoloration is a sure sign that your pan's coating is wearing out.

When should Calphalon pans be replaced?

The nonstick coating is designed for long-term use when used properly and at the recommended cooking temperatures. If your nonstick coating is chipping or peeling, and your pan has been cared for according to the Use and Care guide, your pan should qualify for replacement under the manufacturer's warranty.

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