8 Best Kitchen Utensil Sets, Tested and Reviewed
Upgrade your cooking arsenal with a trusty set of high quality kitchen tools.
Expert consulted: Nicole PapantoniouKitchen Appliances Lab Director
We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.
You'd be surprised how high quality kitchen utensils can make cooking easier and more efficient. Investing in a utensil set saves you money so you don't have to buy each item individually, which can add up. It also ensures that your pieces coordinate, and a matching set looks pretty on your countertop, especially when it's comes with a crock.
Every year, experts in the Good Housekeeping Institute Kitchen Appliance and Technology Lab test thousands of products from stainless steel cookware to grills. When it comes to selecting the best utensil sets, "one of the first things I look at — aside from material and quality — is what pieces are included in the set,” says Nicole Papantoniou, director of the Kitchen Appliances and Technology Lab. “Choose a utensil set that won’t clutter your counter with tools you might not need, but also make sure you have the essentials."
At the very least, she says, look for sets with a ladle, spatula and a spoon. When deciding on the top products for this list, we started by taking a closer look at the quality kitchen utensils that we often reach for ourselves in the Lab when cooking, so we can stand behind their functionality. We also considered the feedback of our testers, making sure we included sets that users felt were sturdy, comfortable to hold and easy to clean.
GIR 10 Piece Silicone Utensil Set
Pros
- Made of high-quality seamless silicone
- Includes versatile pieces
- Lasts for years, according to tester
Cons
- Might not match the aesthetic of some kitchens
Number of pieces: 10 | What's included: Ladle, whisk, spatula, skinny spatula, flip/turner spatula, mini spatula, spoon, spoonula, mini spoon, peeler | Material: Silicone | Dishwasher safe: Yes | Heat resistant: Up to 550˚F
GIR’s silicone tools are ideal for nonstick cookware because they won’t scratch the surface, and their high-heat resistancy makes them an all-around great set for any home cook.
The set comes with a mini spatula, an average-sized spatula, a tall skinny one and a spoonula, which is a cross between a spoon and a spatula. A unique addition is a mini spoon with a long handle and pointed (but still rounded) tip that is perfect for tasting and scooping out jars.
The pieces in the set are made of seamless silicone, which makes them sturdy, durable and easy to clean because there are no crevices where grime can collect or mold can form. Aside from navy, the set is available in eight other colors, like red, mint and slate, but the style might not suit all kitchens.
✔️ Testing notes: Experts in our Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab are fans: “I've used one of these spatulas for about 10 years now, and it looks good as new,” says Papantoniou. “The ladle is the best ladle ever,” she says. “It can hold a cup and has measurement markings on the inside. It's flexible so you can scrape all edges of the pot.” Testers also said GIR’s spatulas are sturdy but flexible.
The company claims the set is heat resistant to 550°F, which is a higher temperature than most brands. And testers appreciated the small but helpful details, like the whisk's textured handle that helps prevent slipping when mixing and the peeler's wide, flat handle that’s easy to grip.
RELATED: The Best Nonstick Cookware Sets
Pros
- Good assortment of tools
- Lightweight but good quality
- Crock is sturdy
Cons
- Nylon can melt at temperatures above 400°F
Number of pieces: 6 | What's included: Ladle, spoon, slotted spoon, pasta spoon, slotted spatula, crock | Materials: Stainless steel, nylon | Dishwasher safe: Yes | Heat resistant: Up to 400˚F
Cuisinart’s classic utensil set has five essential tools and is priced right, making it a great starter set for beginner cooks. It comes with a crock that our experts say is sturdy and lightweight.
The spoons have a nice shape and capacity, and the ladle is deep and wide. The barrel-shaped handles are made of durable stainless steel with a soft foam grip and the nylon heads are safe for nonstick cookware. Though the tools are heat resistant, they are only safe up to 400˚F, so you might prefer another set if you cook with very high heat frequently.
✔️ Testing notes: Testers find the tools long-lasting and pleasant to use. "It's a really good assortment of tools at a good price. This was the first set I ever bought. They’re nice and lightweight but durable," says a Kitchen Appliance Lab expert. "After all these years, I still love this basic set"
OXO Good Grips Everyday Kitchen Utensil Set
Pros
- Great comprehensive starter set
- Slim caddy with removable drip tray
Cons
- Utensils can develop small stains over time
Number of pieces: 15 | What's included: Tongs, flexible turner, square turner, spoon, slotted spoon, grater, peeler, ice cream scoop, potato masher, can opener, balloon whisk, spatula, meat tenderizer, pizza wheel, crock | Materials: Stainless steel, silicone, nylon | Dishwasher safe: Yes, except for meat tenderizer and can opener | Heat resistant: Up to 400˚F
Great for both new and experienced cooks who are starting fresh, OXO’s comprehensive utensil set features many of the brand's best-selling tools, including the spatula, whisk, tongs and peeler that our experts have been using (and loving) for years.
The slim, space-saving stainless-steel caddy is designed with a removable drip tray. It comes with all the essentials plus several specialized tools, including a potato masher, meat tenderizer, can opener and ice cream scoop.
✔️ Testing notes: The tongs are one of Papantoniou’s most used utensils, and she likes that the thin and flexible turner can get under foods easily. The mixing spatula is great too, with a firm and flexible head. The spoons are lightweight and sturdy. After long-term use, some utensils have developed small stains over time.
All-Clad Professional Stainless Steel Kitchen Tool Set
Pros
- Sturdy
- Long, slim handles
- Have good heft
Cons
- Not compatible with nonstick cookware
Number of pieces: 6 | What's included: Ladle, solid spoon, slotted spoon, turner, fork, crock | Material: Stainless steel | Dishwasher safe: Yes | Heat resistant: Yes
These tools match All-Clad's pots and pans down to the signature handle divot on the D5 and D3 cookware lines. The streamlined set includes the basics: a ladle, solid spoon, slotted spoon, turner and fork. Keep in mind that while stainless steel tools are easy to clean, they are not safe to use on some nonstick surfaces.
✔️ Testing notes: Our testers said the polished stainless steel utensils feel smooth and glossy and that the crock is sturdy with plenty of room for other tools if you want to add to your collection. The utensils have a good heft and long handles to keep your hands away from the heat.
RELATED: The Best All-Clad Cookware Sets
Pros
- Beautiful craftmanship
- Thoughtfully designed edges are great for scraping
- Comes in a gift box
Cons
- Pricey
- Hand wash only
Number of pieces: 6 | What's included: Flat-edged spatula, rounded spatula, slotted spatula, spoon, pasta spoon, fork | Materials: Olivewood, copper | Dishwasher safe: No, hand wash only | Heat resistant: Avoid direct exposure to intense heat, according to manufacturer
Ruffoni’s olivewood utensils are stunningly beautiful and about as luxurious as cooking utensils can get — but they are also practical. Each solid wood tool is hand-carved and the handles are thick, smooth and inlaid with a copper rivet for hanging. Though this hand-wash-only set is pricey, it comes in a clear box that our experts say is fit for gifting.
✔️ Testing notes: Our testers loved the tools' thoughtful design details: One spoon has a straight edge — perfect for scraping up the goodies on the bottom of a pot — and two of the utensils have angled edges to help scrape the sides of a pan. The set has held up over the year, but could benefit from being oiled occasionally.
Staub Wood Handle Cooking Utensil Set
Pros
- Multifunctional pieces that work great
- Works well with enameled cast iron and nonstick cookware
- Streamlined design and collection
Cons
- Hand wash only
Number of pieces: 3 | What's included: Multi-function spatula-spoon, ladle, wok turner | Materials: Wood, silicone | Dishwasher safe: No, hand wash recommended | Heat resistant: Silicone heads only; up to 446°
This beautiful three-piece set from Staub is made of silicone and acacia wood, making each piece feel sturdy and comfy in the hand. The utensils are well constructed with a heft and beauty that matches enameled cast iron cookware well. They’re safe for nonstick cookware too, but note that they are hand wash only.
✔️ Testing notes: The multi-functional spatula-spoon is one of Staub’s best-selling products and truly is a two-in-one tool. “I've used it many times to cut casserole-like dishes and scoop up the juices,” says Papantoniou. The wok turner is wide and slightly scooped, which our testers said gets under foods well. While not flexible, the ladle is wide and oblong and great for serving.
RELATED: The Best Cast Iron Skillets and Pans
Hedley and Bennett 11-Piece Tool Set
Pros
- Easy to control and comfortable to hold
- Comes with pieces not commonly found in other utensil sets
- Elevated design
Cons
- Spatulas are just ok
Number of pieces: 11 | What's included: Spatula, turner, tongs, utility spoon, spoonula, ladle, shears, slotted spoon, fish spatula, zester, and bench scraper | Materials: Silicone, stainless steel | Dishwasher safe: Yes, top rack only; hand wash recommended | Heat resistant: Silicone heads only; up to 450°
Initially this Hedley and Bennett set stood out for its giftable color-block design with gold edges, but then impressed us with its comfortability and performance. It comes with 11 pieces including utensils found in most sets, but you'll also get bonus tools like a bench scraper, scissors and a zester that are uncommon in most utensil sets.
✔️ Testing notes: The utensils have a nice shape and are lightweight but still have a sturdy yet balanced feel. Kitchen Appliance Lab analysts noted that they like that the spoons are large and that they are slightly pointy which is ideal for stirring and scooping. Even though the spoons are stainless steel, experts haven't noticed any scratching while cooking since they have so much control while using them.
Analysts also noted that the fish spatula was one of their favorites of the set, though they weren't as impressed with the silicone spatulas, which have straight edges and don’t get into pan edge’s as easy as spatulas with rounded edges.
Pros
- Minimalist look
- Wide variety of tools
- Sturdy and durable
Cons
- Slightly heavy and bulky compared to others
Number of pieces: 10 | What's included: Slotted spoon, mixing spoon, mixing spatula, spoontula, fish spatula, tongs, whisk, peeler, ladle, pastry brush | Materials: Silicone, stainless steel, nylon core | Dishwasher safe: Yes | Heat resistant: Up to 450°
This chic and sturdy set from Misen is great for both new and experienced cooks. You'll get the basics including a ladle and a whisk, but also useful tools like a peeler for veggies and a pastry brush, which are traditionally not found in most sets.
✔️ Testing notes: According to feedback from our experts, this set feels sturdy and durable. When testing, experts found the tongs easy to use and to have a nice grip, especially on the tips. The silicone utensils allow for good control when stirring or flipping. The spatula has a flat edge which is great for scraping up the cooking bits on the bottom of a pan and the fish spatula has a silicone edge suitable for nonstick.
The slotted spoon is a useful addition to the set and so is the silicone bristled brush, which we love for marinating food. While the set is aesthetically pleasing, the analysts in the Kitchen Appliances Lab did note that the set is slightly heavy and bulky compared to others, so keep that in mind when shopping.
Other utensil sets to consider
Goldilocks Potluck Utensil Set: The unique assortment of tools in this Goldilocks set is curated to offer just the right pieces to get a new couple’s kitchen started at a great value of $80. Our testers especially like the stainless steel mixing bowls, which look and perform like commercial ones you’d find in a restaurant kitchen. The set includes handy tools like tongs, a fish spatula, a colander and measuring cups and spoons, though there's no slotted spoon or a whisk.
Hestan Provisions Deluxe Chef's Tool Set: This elegant six-piece set from Hestan is one you'll proudly display on your countertop. The set comes with a shiny stainless steel solid spoon, ladle, pasta fork, French whisk and a white porcelain crock. While this set is pretty, it is on the pricey side at $300.
Quince Olive Wood Utensil Set: Quality wooden utensils at an affordable price is what makes this set from Quince stand apart from the rest. The set of four, including a slotted spoon, blunt-end spoon, medium spoon and large spoon, is made from olivewood. We are still testing wooden set to see how it holds up over time, but it retails for under $50 if you're are in the market for an affordable one.
Made In Kitchen Utensil Set: The streamlined stainless steel set of five comes with a ladle, tongs, whisk, spoonula and fish spatula, and has blue accents for a simple yet professional look. The utensils are lightweight and easy to control, and, according to the brand, dishwasher safe. Though it comes with essentials, the set is pricey, almost $100 for a five-piece set.
How we test kitchen utensil sets
Our pros in the Good Housekeeping Institute Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab and the Good Housekeeping Test Kitchen test thousands of kitchen products each year, from air fryers to nonstick cookware. To find the best utensil sets, we start by considering the kitchen tools and brands that we find ourselves reaching for most often in the Lab and the Test Kitchen.
When narrowing down our selections, we consider comfortability, durability and how easy they are to clean. When making our final decisions, we also evaluate tester feedback. Our top picks feel comfortable, sturdy and nimble in our testers' hands.
What to look for when shopping for the best utensil set
✔️ What’s included: Focus on what you'll use most. You might want more than one kind of spatula, or you might absolutely require a pasta server. Also consider your circumstances: If you’re starting from scratch, go for a comprehensive set with basics and a few specialty items, like the OXO 15-piece set. If you're tight on space or just want to upgrade a few of your most used items, opt for a tightly curated set, such as the Staub three-piece set. If you keep your utensils on display, consider an aesthetically pleasing set with hanging loops, like Ruffoni's olivewood set, or one with a storage caddy, like All-Clad’s stainless steel set.
✔️ Materials: Choose the material of your cooking tools based on what type of cookware you have, whether that’s nonstick, stainless steel or enameled cast iron. You'll need a silicone, nylon or wood utensil set to preserve the coating on your nonstick cookware. Keep in mind that nylon does have a lower melting point of around 450°F so if you cook at higher temperatures, silicone may be a better option for you. If you cook over high heat or grill frequently, stainless steel materials can handle the higher temperatures and burnt-on bits. With that said, you can use stainless steel utensils with stainless steel pans, but some scratching can occur. If you own all of the above cookware, consider a versatile silicone utensil set, like our top pick, the GIR 10-piece set, which can be used on all pans.
✔️ Ease of use: Cooking utensils should sit comfortably in your hand and be long enough to keep your hands safe from the heat. They should also fit the size of your cookware and easily stir, scoop and flip whatever you’re cooking. Also, note how the utensils need to be cleaned and cared for. Some materials — like stainless steel and silicone — can go in the dishwasher. Others — like wood — must be washed by hand and occasionally treated with mineral oil.
Why trust Good Housekeeping?
Raena Loper is an analyst and contributing writer for Good Housekeeping. She has tested various products for the Kitchen Appliances Lab including toaster ovens, egg cookers, ice cube trays and more. Loper did the most recent update on kitchen utensil sets, and incorporated notes from the experts in the Good Housekeeping Institute.
Perry Santanachote is a contributing writer for Good Housekeeping. She has been testing and writing about the best kitchen tools and cookware for over 10 years. She has even more experience in the food industry, working as a recipe developer, food stylist and cook. For this guide, Santanachote worked closely with Kitchen Appliance Lab director.
Nicole Papantoniou, the director of the Good Housekeeping Institute Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab, who has overseen content and testing related to kitchen and cooking appliances, tools and gear since 2019. She’s an experienced product tester and recipe creator, trained in classic culinary arts and culinary nutrition.
Raena Loper (she/her) is a fashion journalist and product analyst based in New Jersey whose work has appeared in Forbes, Good Housekeeping and O, The Oprah Magazine. Raena is a graduate from Montclair State University where she earned a degree in fashion studies as well as gender, sexuality and women's studies. In her free time, she enjoys sewing, cooking BBQ and spending time with family.
Perry Santanachote (she/her) has more than 15 years of experience in service journalism, specializing in food and consumer goods. She tests and reports on kitchen appliances and cooking tools. She also evaluates food products and cleaning supplies. She’s an experienced writer, product tester and recipe developer who has worked in labs, test kitchens and media organizations, including Thrillist and Consumer Reports.
Nicole (she/her) is the director of the Good Housekeeping Institute's Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab, where she has overseen content and testing related to kitchen and cooking appliances, tools and gear since 2019. She’s an experienced product tester and recipe creator, trained in classic culinary arts and culinary nutrition. She has worked in test kitchens for small kitchen appliance brands and national magazines, including Family Circle and Ladies’ Home Journal.
The Best Cooling Blankets
The 15 Best Tinted Sunscreens
The 7 Best Enzyme Cleaners for Pet Stains
The Best Eye Creams
