Best Non-Toxic Waffle Maker: 2023 Top 6 Picks! (Ceramic & More)

On lazy weekend mornings, I love whipping up a batch of homemade waffles for my family using our favorite non-toxic waffle maker. The smell of fresh waffles wafting through our home with a big batch of deliciously fresh fruit and whipped cream… isn’t that the best?

But for the longest time, I never considered the potential toxicity of the waffle maker I had been using. It’s a sobering thought, but so many waffle makers are infused with harmful toxins that we unknowingly expose ourselves and our loved ones to.

If you’re on the hunt for the best non-toxic waffle maker that prioritizes your family’s health and well-being, you’ve come to the right place! There are plenty of non-toxic alternatives like ceramic or cast iron to choose from.

As someone dedicated to reducing toxins in our daily lives, I’m always on the lookout for kitchen appliances that are safe and non-toxic, so we can enjoy our nourishing meals without any harmful side effects. That’s why I’ve compiled a list of the top 6 non-toxic waffle makers that not only make delicious waffles with ease but are also safe for you and your family. 

Short on time? Our top picks:

1. Best overall non-toxic waffle maker:
   GreenPan Stainless Steel Belgian Waffle Maker
2. Best flip non-toxic waffle maker:
   Presto Ceramic FlipSide Belgian Waffle Maker
3. Best cast iron non-toxic waffle maker:
   Skeppshult Cast Iron Waffle Maker
4. Best luxury non-toxic waffle maker:
   Calphalon Intellicrisp Belgian Waffle Maker
5. Best affordable non-toxic waffle maker:
   Oster Titanium-Infused DuraCeramic Waffle Maker 
6. Best rotating non-toxic waffle maker:
   Hamilton Beach 26031 Ceramic Belgian Waffle Maker

Do you really need a non-toxic waffle maker?

Choosing a non-toxic waffle maker is a simple way to help you and your loved ones avoid exposure to harmful toxins that can contaminate your food and body. With so many toxins in our daily lives, it’s important to take action where we can make a difference, like what we eat at home.

We all want to enjoy delicious meals without worrying about the contamination of harmful chemicals or toxins that may be lurking! And by using a non-toxic waffle maker, you can have peace of mind knowing that you’re making safe and healthy waffles for yourself and your family.

Are modern “PFOA-free” non-stick waffle makers safe to use? 

Sadly, the answer isn’t as straightforward as we’d like it to be. Though the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) urged companies to phase out PFOA-containing Teflon in 2010, many companies simply replaced PFOA with another type of PFAS. 

So while you may see “PFOA-free” advertised, many waffle makers still contain non-stick coatings made with over 4200 PFOA alternatives, including other PFAS compounds like GenX, and PFBS. These PFOA alternatives have shown harmful effects on the kidneys, blood, liver, and more in lab tests. See below for a list of brands to avoid.

The phrase “PFOA-free” may lead you to believe that these waffle makers are toxin-free, but that’s not the case. What we really need is a waffle maker that’s free from all PFAS, PTFE, GenX, PFBS, PFCs and PFOA included. 

Luckily, there are non-toxic waffle makers that are also nonstick out there that can help you make a delicious and toxin-free breakfast!

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Waffle makers with PFA’s coatings to avoid

These are some of the waffle makers that use a type of PFAS coating, which contains coatings that can be persistent and toxic:

• All-Clad Classic Round Waffle Maker
• All-Clad Belgian Style Waffle Maker
• Cuisinart Double Belgian Waffle Maker
• Cuisinart Round Classic Waffle Maker
• Cuisinart GR-4NP1 5-in-1 Griddler Stainless
• Cuisinart WAF-200
• Cuisinart WAF-V100 vertical
• Cuisinart Belgian Waffle Maker Model # WAF-F10
• Dash Mini Waffle Maker
• Hamilton Beach 26030
• Ninja Belgian Waffle Maker PRO NeverStick #BW1001

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Best overall non-toxic waffle maker: GreenPan Stainless Steel Belgian Waffle Maker

Price at time of publish: $130
Exterior materials: Stainless steel
Plate material: Aluminum
Coating: Diamond-infused ceramic
Weight: 8.82 pounds
Dimensions: 12.8″ 11.38″ 5.31″ 
Waffle size: 4.25″
Waffle thickness: 1″
Styles available: 2-square Belgian, 4-square Belgian and classic

See it on Amazon

What stands out:

• Free of all PFAs (PFOA, PTFE, PFOS, etc)
• Free of lead and cadmium
• Removable plates that are dishwasher safe
• 4-slice option includes both Belgian and classic waffle plates
• Large overflow moat to prevent the batter from spilling out
• Adjustable shade and crunch control
• Easy-to-read LCD display
• Ultra-durable reinforced ceramic coating
• Easily wipes clean
• Includes digital timer 
• Make 2 or 4 waffles at a time
• If you damage your plates, you can order a replacement
• The 4-slice option has pocket to store extra plates

What could be better:

• Bulky
• Costly

The GreenPan Stainless Steel Belgian Waffle Maker is perfect for families or anyone who loves to entertain guests at brunch. It offers a 2-slice or 4-slice option for larger or smaller families.

One of the best features of this waffle maker is its non-toxic diamond-infused ceramic coating that is free of harmful chemicals like PTFE and PFOA. It’s also scratch-resistant and easy to clean, making it a safe and convenient option.

The GreenPan Stainless Steel Belgian Waffle Maker also has a sleek and modern design that looks great on any countertop. Its stainless steel exterior is durable and long lasting, making it a reliable staple in your kitchen for years to come.

Another standout feature of this waffle maker is its adjustable temperature control, which lets you cook your waffles to different levels of crispiness. The wide temperature range makes it easy to cook waffles for everyone, from those who like them soft and fluffy to those who prefer a crispy texture.

Overall, the GreenPan Stainless Steel Belgian Waffle Maker is a fantastic option for anyone looking for a non-toxic, high-quality waffle maker that can make multiple waffles at once. The only fallback may be its slightly higher price point compared to other models on the market, but the long-term benefits of its non-toxic coating and durable construction make it well worth the investment.

MORE CLEAN COOKING: Check out our list of non-toxic air fryers, too!

Best flip non-toxic waffle maker: Presto Ceramic FlipSide Belgian Waffle Maker

Price at time of publish: $62
Exterior materials: Brushed stainless steel and plastic
Plate material: Aluminum
Coating: Ceramic
Weight: 4.94 pounds
Dimensions: 11.25″ 11.75″ 4.00″
Waffle size: 7”
Waffle thickness: 1.5”
Styles available: Extra thick Belgian 1-slice

See it on Amazon

What stands out:

• Free of all PFCs and PTFE
• Small overflow moat
• Flips 180 degrees
• Digital timer 
• Readiness indicator
• Can be stored compactly
• Good value for its price
• Very thick waffles
• Very affordable

What could be better:

• Plates are not removable, making it harder to clean
• No adjustable temperature control
• The stainless steel exterior gets very hot
• No on/off switch
• The timer runs on batteries

The Presto Ceramic FlipSide Belgian Waffle Maker is a great option for anyone looking for a high-quality, non-toxic waffle maker that’s both affordable and easy to use. It’s especially great for those who love extra thick, fluffy Belgian waffles that are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.

Its ceramic nonstick coating is PTFE- and PFOA-free and makes for easy release and cleanup. The ceramic surface is also scratch-resistant and durable, ensuring that your waffle maker will last for years.

Another great feature of the Presto Ceramic FlipSide Belgian Waffle Maker is its flip design, which allows you to easily rotate the waffle maker 180 degrees for even cooking. The waffle maker also has a countdown timer and adjustable temperature control, so you can customize your waffles to your preferred level of crispness!

While the Presto Ceramic FlipSide Belgian Waffle Maker is a great option for most people, one potential fallback is its size. It can only make one waffle at a time, so it may not be the best choice for large families or groups.

Overall, the Presto Ceramic FlipSide Belgian Waffle Maker is a great non-toxic choice. Its ceramic nonstick coating, flip design, and adjustable temperature control make it a great investment for any waffle lover.

Best cast iron non-toxic waffle maker: Skeppshult Cast Iron Waffle Maker 

Price at time of publish: $200
Material: Cast Iron
Coating: None
Weight: 8-3/4 pounds
Dimensions: 16.8″ x 8.2″ x 0.9″
Waffle size: 7″
Waffle thickness: 0.5″
Styles available: Classic 1-slice

See it on Amazon

What stands out:

• No synthetic or chemical coatings, just requires oil to be naturally non-stick
• Handmade by skilled artisans in Sweden
• Made from high-quality, durable cast iron
• Eco-friendly, sustainable production process
• Heart-shaped waffles
• Suitable for all stovetops, including induction
• Can be used over an open flame or grill
• Even heat distribution
• Extremely durable
• No aluminum base, meaning scratches or chips won’t expose aluminum to your food

What could be better:

• Expensive
• Waffles may stick without proper seasoning and maintenance
• May take longer to heat up than electric waffle makers

The Skeppshult Cast Iron Heart-Shaped Handmade Waffle Maker is a unique and beautiful addition to any kitchen. Handmade by skilled artisans in Sweden, this waffle maker is made from high-quality, durable cast iron and is built to last.

One of the best features of this waffle maker is that it doesn’t have any synthetic or chemical coatings that could potentially harm your health or the environment. However, it does require proper seasoning and maintenance to prevent sticking and ensure longevity.

The Skeppshult Cast Iron Heart-Shaped Handmade Waffle Maker is also eco-friendly, with a sustainable production process that uses 100% recycled materials and is powered by renewable energy.

This waffle maker makes heart-shaped waffles that are perfect for special occasions or a romantic breakfast in bed. It’s suitable for all stovetops, including induction, and can even be used over an open flame or grill.

Overall, the Skeppshult Cast Iron Heart-Shaped Handmade Waffle Maker is a fantastic choice for those who appreciate quality craftsmanship and a natural, non-toxic cooking surface. However, it may not be the best option for those on a budget or those who prefer the convenience of an electric waffle maker.

The best luxury non-toxic waffle maker: Calphalon Intellicrisp Belgian Waffle Maker

Price at time of publish: $150
Exterior materials: Black stainless steel
Plate material: Aluminum
Coating: Ceramic
Weight: 8.88 Pounds
Dimensions: 16.22″ x 13.38″ x 12.4″
Waffle size: 4.5”
Waffle thickness: 1.2“
Styles available: Belgian 2-slice

See it on Amazon

What stands out:

• Free of PTFE, PFOA, lead or cadmium
• LCD screen displays cooking time and temperature
• Even heat distribution top and bottom
• Countdown timer
• 5-setting waffle shade selector
• Indicator for preheating, ready to cook, cooking, and done
• Large, deep-pocketed plates make extra thick Belgian-style waffles
• It locks closed and can be stored standing up to save space
• On/off switch
• 2-slice Belgian waffle capacity
• Very easy to wipe clean
• Wrap around moat to catch overflow batter

What could be better:

• Plates are not removable
• Expensive

Get ready for thick, fluffy waffles with the Calphalon Intellicrisp Belgian Waffle Maker – the perfect kitchen gadget for those who value quality and durability. This waffle maker is designed to last for years and comes with a range of impressive features to elevate your waffle game.

Not only is the ceramic cooking surface PTFE- and PFOA-free, ensuring that your waffles are healthy and safe to eat, but its unique and beautiful design is sure to add a touch of style to your kitchen.

The Calphalon Intellicrisp Belgian Waffle Maker comes with six different heat settings, allowing you to customize the browning level to your liking. This means you can enjoy crispy or fluffy waffles just the way you want them. And with its easy-to-use flip design, you can be sure that your waffles are cooked evenly on both sides.

With a 2-square capacity, this waffle maker is perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping. Its only fallback is that it’s a bit pricier than other options on the market. But if you’re looking for an appliance that’s built to last and produces perfect waffles every time, then the Calphalon Intellicrisp Belgian Waffle Maker is definitely worth the investment. Say goodbye to unevenly cooked waffles and hello to a top-notch breakfast experience with this fantastic waffle maker.

Best affordable non-toxic waffle maker: Oster Titanium-Infused DuraCeramic Waffle Maker 

Price at time of publish: $40
Exterior materials: Stainless steel
Plate material: Aluminum
Coating: Titanium-infused ceramic
Weight: 4.9 pounds
Dimensions: 10.72″ x 4.97″ x 11.77″
Waffle size: 7”
Waffle thickness: 1″
Styles available: Belgian 1-slice

See it on Amazon

What stands out:

• Free of PTFE, PFOA, lead, and cadmium
• Includes pre-measured cup to avoid overspill
• Reinforced ceramic coating
• Easily wipes clean
• Even heat distribution
• Unique vertical orientation
• Dial waffle shade selector
• Indicator for when the waffle is done cooking
• Easy to use
• Very compact to store away
• Funnel catches overflow

What could be better:

• Plates are not removable
• The funnel can get hot

The most affordable non-toxic option that’s for those who crave crispy, fluffy waffles every time is the Oster DuraCeramic vertical waffle maker.

This waffle maker is best for those who only need 1 waffle at a time and are looking for an easy-to-use, vertical design that saves space on the counter while delivering perfectly cooked waffles. Its unique vertical design allows the batter to spread evenly, creating the perfect waffle in just a few minutes, no flipping necessary.

The Oster Titanium-Infused DuraCeramic waffle maker is a great option because of its PTFE- and PFOA-free DuraCeramic coating. It’s also lead-free, cadmium-free, and safe for the whole family to use.

One of its best features is its adjustable temperature control, which allows you to customize the level of browning and crispiness to your liking. Plus, its non-stick surface means that you can easily remove your waffles without any mess or sticking. It also offers a premeasured cup to use for a precise pour to avoid any messes!

The Oster Titanium-Infused DuraCeramic vertical Waffle Maker Model has a compact and sleek design, making it easy to store when not in use. Its lightweight build makes it portable and perfect for travel, camping, or small apartments.

The only fallback is that the vertical design may not suit everyone’s preference and it creates smaller-sized waffles compared to other traditional waffle makers. But, if you’re looking for a space-saving, easy-to-use, and healthy waffle maker, the Oster Titanium-Infused DuraCeramic vertical Waffle Maker Model is an excellent option to consider.

The best rotating non-toxic waffle maker: Hamilton Beach 26031 Ceramic Belgian Waffle Maker 

Price at time of publish: $68
Exterior materials: Stainless steel
Plate material: Aluminum
Coating: Ceramic
Weight: 6.38 pounds
Dimensions: 9.5″ x 16″ x 10.5″
Waffle size: 7″
Waffle thickness: 1″
Styles available: Belgian 1-slice, Belgian 2-slice

See it on Amazon

What stands out:

• Free of PTFE, PFOA, lead, and cadmium
• Adjustable browning control
• Removable plates and drip tray that is dishwasher safe
• Flips easily
• Deep pockets for thick, fluffy Belgian waffles
• 1 slice and 2 slice option
• Even heat distribution
• Power on and ready-to-cook indicator lights
• Simple to use
• Cool-touch handle for safe opening and closing of the lid

What could be better:

• The overflow moat is fairly small
• No digital display or timer
• Cord is a bit short

Make restaurant-quality waffles right in your own home with the Hamilton Beach 26031 Ceramic Belgian Waffle Maker.

This waffle maker is ideal for anyone who wants a quick and easy way to make delicious, fluffy waffles at home. Its flip design ensures even cooking and browning on both sides of your waffle, so you get perfect results every time.

The Hamilton Beach 26031 has a ceramic cooking surface, which is PTFE- and PFOA-free, making it a healthier option for you and your family. It also has adjustable temperature control, allowing you to customize the level of browning to your liking.

This waffle maker has a 2-waffle model, making it perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping. It also has a drip tray to catch any excess batter, making cleanup a breeze.

The fallback of the Hamilton Beach 26031 is that it doesn’t have as many bells and whistles as some other waffle makers on the market. However, if you’re looking for a reliable, straightforward, easy-to-use waffle maker that produces delicious results every time, this is a great option.

What to consider when buying a non-toxic waffle maker

Material

It’s best to look for waffle makers with plates made of cast iron or stainless steel since they’re non-toxic and very durable. Though ceramic waffle makers are very popular, they are not built with ceramic materials, only ceramic coatings (see below). 

A durable non-toxic coating can help prevent harmful chemicals from the underlying material from seeping into your waffles, but the coating can eventually wear off and lead to scratches and chips. These little scratches expose the underlying material to your food. Plus, the material can affect how evenly the waffles cook and how well the heat is retained. 

Overall, waffle makers with a base made of high-quality stainless steel or cast iron are typically the most non-toxic option. Both are known for their durability and resistance to chipping, scratching, and harmful chemical leaching. Other materials like aluminum and copper can contaminate food if their coatings become scratched.

• Stainless steel

  A great option for a waffle maker as it is durable, easy to clean, and does not react with food if the coating gets chipped. However, it’s not as good a conductor of heat as cast iron.

• Cast iron

  A durable natural material, retains heat well, and can add small amounts of iron to your food. It is non-toxic and does not release any chemicals into food. However, it requires seasoning and can be heavy and difficult to clean.

• Aluminum

  A popular base material for waffle makers because it is lightweight, heats up quickly, and cooks waffles evenly. But if the non-stick coating on an aluminum waffle maker gets chipped, the underlying metal can leach trace amounts of aluminum into your food, which is known to have health concerns. When picking an aluminum-based waffle iron, it is crucial to choose one with a high-quality, durable, non-toxic coating and take good care of it.

• Silicone

  Also a good material for making non-toxic waffles but is simply a silicone mold that can be used for baking. Though far less common, they are non-toxic, do not have a coating, and don’t release any harmful chemicals when heated. It is also scratch-resistant and very easy to clean. 

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Safe non-stick coating

It’s so important to choose a waffle maker with a non-stick coating that is free of perfluorinated compounds (PFCs) and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), which can release toxic fumes when heated. 

There are options that don’t use a coating at all like cast iron waffle makers but they require a stovetop and manual flipping. When not using cast iron, you should look for a ceramic coating on the plates of your waffle maker for the safest non-toxic option.

• Ceramic coatings

  One of the best non-toxic coatings for cookware. They are free of perfluorinated compounds (PFCs) and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), and are known for being scratch-resistant, easy to clean, and able to withstand high temperatures without breaking down or releasing toxic fumes. But careful! Some ceramic coatings can contain trace amounts of heavy metals like lead or cadmium so it’s still important to properly research and vet ceramic-coated waffle makers before purchasing them.

• Natural seasoning coatings

  Often found on cast iron waffle makers, natural seasoning coatings are another option for non-toxic waffle makers. These coatings are made from oils that are heated onto the surface of the waffle maker, creating a natural non-stick coating. It does require some regular seasoning and proper cleaning to prevent rusting.

• “PFOA-free” Teflon coatings

  They’re considered safer than those that do have PFOA, but they still release toxic fumes. PFOA is only one of many potentially harmful chemicals used in the production of Teflon. Instead, look for a coating that is both PFOA and PTFE free like ceramic or silicone-based coatings.

• Diamond-infused non-stick coatings

  Another great non-toxic option. These coatings are created by infusing diamond particles into a non-stick coating like ceramic to make it more durable and resistant to scratching. They are also free of harmful chemicals like PFOA and PTFE.

BPA-free

To ensure that your waffle maker is free from BPA, you should look for models that use BPA-free plastic or avoid plastic altogether. Bisphenol A (BPA) is a chemical that has been linked to various health problems. 

Unfortunately, just because a product is labeled as “BPA-free,” it does not necessarily mean it’s free from other harmful chemicals like phthalates. Some manufacturers replace BPA with other chemicals that have similar properties, such as BPS, which may still pose health risks.

To determine if a product is truly toxin-free, it’s essential to do some research and look for reliable third-party certifications.

Reliable third-party certifications

Look for third-party certifications or other evidence of non-toxicity. Several third-party certifications can certify a product as non-toxic. Here are some examples:

• Green Seal
• UL Environment
• Greenguard
• NSF International

Shape and size

When it comes to the shape and size of waffles, there are two main categories: Belgian and American (or regular) waffles. Belgian waffles are thicker and have deeper wells, while American or regular waffles are thinner and have shallower wells.

Both American and Belgian waffles can be made in either a circle or a square shape, so it’s up to you to decide which you prefer!

If you have limited storage space, also consider a waffle maker that is compact and easy to store.

Price

When it comes to choosing a non-toxic waffle maker, it’s important to keep in mind that the more non-toxic, durable, or available features a waffle maker has, the higher the price tag tends to be. 

There are affordable non-toxic waffle makers available, even though a higher price tag sometimes indicates higher quality.

Features

When it comes to choosing a non-toxic waffle maker, there are a ton of features to consider. You’ll want to think about which features are most important to you, based on your waffle-making needs and preferences. Some things to consider include:

• Removable plates: Do you want removable plates for easy cleaning? This can be a real time-saver and make cleaning up a breeze.
• Temperature controls: This can give you more control over the cooking process and help you get the perfect waffle every time. Lovers of crispy waffles will want this feature.
• Indicators or displays: This can help you monitor your waffles and know when they’re ready to eat.
• Timer settings: This can be especially helpful if you’re a stickler for consistency.
• 180-degree flip: Would you like a waffle maker that flips 180 degrees? This can help you get even cooking on both sides of your waffle.
• Electric or stovetop waffle maker: This is a matter of personal preference and convenience. 
• Cord length: Important for those who have limited counter space or need to place the waffle maker far from an electrical outlet.
• Accessories: Some waffle makers come with accessories, like a batter dispenser or a drip tray that can make the waffle-making process easier.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Do modern waffle makers have Teflon?

Yes, many waffle makers have a Teflon coating. Teflon, or polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), has been used as a non-stick coating on cookware for decades, including on some waffle makers. However, due to concerns about the potential health risks of PTFE, many manufacturers have started using alternative non-stick coatings in their waffle makers. These better alternatives include ceramic, silicone, and diamond-infused coatings, which are generally considered safer and more eco-friendly than Teflon.

Are non-stick waffle makers safe?

Non-stick waffle makers can be safe if they are made with non-toxic coatings such as ceramic or silicone-based coatings. It’s important to carefully research and choose waffle makers with coatings that are free of harmful chemicals like PFOA and PTFE to avoid potential health risks.