Always Pan 2.0

I wanted to love the Always Pan 2.0. The aesthetic is gorgeous, the marketing is compelling, and when Consumer Reports verified it's truly PFAS-free (testing 96 different compounds), I was genuinely impressed. Our Place deserves credit for delivering on their safety claims in an industry full of greenwashing.

The pan initially performs well. It heats evenly, the multi-functional design (steamer basket, spatter guard, built-in spoon rest) reduces kitchen clutter, and the nonstick surface works beautifully out of the box. I understand why it became an Instagram darling—it looks incredible on your stovetop and the concept of "one pan does it all" is appealing for smaller kitchens.

Here's where I struggle to recommend it: the coating lifespan. After reviewing hundreds of user experiences and long-term testing data, the nonstick surface typically begins failing between 6-12 months of regular use. Even with gentle care (wood utensils, hand washing, low-medium heat), users report food sticking and coating degradation much faster than expected for a premium pan.

The math is tough. At $135 MSRP (or $99 on sale), you're paying premium pricing for what effectively becomes a 6-12 month product. Compare this to Caraway, which uses similar ceramic nonstick technology but consistently lasts 2-3 years, or Lodge cast iron that can last decades with proper care. The Always Pan's cost-per-year-of-use just doesn't compete.

The safety profile is genuinely solid. Consumer Reports' independent testing confirmed no PFAS (the "forever chemicals" found in traditional nonstick), no lead, no cadmium. The ceramic nonstick coating is made from sand-derived materials and is free from PTFE and PFOA. If you've been using scratched Teflon pans, this is definitely safer.

The multi-functionality works better in theory than practice for some tasks. It's great for sauteing, shallow frying, and one-pot pastas. But the relatively shallow depth (2.75 inches) limits its effectiveness for deep frying or large batch cooking, and the lightweight aluminum core doesn't retain heat like cast iron for searing.

For families who prioritize aesthetics and are okay replacing cookware annually, the Always Pan might work. But if you're looking for long-term value and durability, consider Caraway (better longevity at similar price), Lodge cast iron (requires seasoning but lasts forever), or GreenPan (often on sale, similar performance). You'll get better cost-per-use and less waste from replacing pans.

I wanted to love the Always Pan 2.0. The aesthetic is gorgeous, the marketing is compelling, and when Consumer Reports verified it's truly PFAS-free (testing 96 different compounds), I was genuinely impressed. Our Place deserves credit for delivering on their safety claims in an industry full of greenwashing.

The pan initially performs well. It heats evenly, the multi-functional design (steamer basket, spatter guard, built-in spoon rest) reduces kitchen clutter, and the nonstick surface works beautifully out of the box. I understand why it became an Instagram darling—it looks incredible on your stovetop and the concept of "one pan does it all" is appealing for smaller kitchens.

Here's where I struggle to recommend it: the coating lifespan. After reviewing hundreds of user experiences and long-term testing data, the nonstick surface typically begins failing between 6-12 months of regular use. Even with gentle care (wood utensils, hand washing, low-medium heat), users report food sticking and coating degradation much faster than expected for a premium pan.

The math is tough. At $135 MSRP (or $99 on sale), you're paying premium pricing for what effectively becomes a 6-12 month product. Compare this to Caraway, which uses similar ceramic nonstick technology but consistently lasts 2-3 years, or Lodge cast iron that can last decades with proper care. The Always Pan's cost-per-year-of-use just doesn't compete.

The safety profile is genuinely solid. Consumer Reports' independent testing confirmed no PFAS (the "forever chemicals" found in traditional nonstick), no lead, no cadmium. The ceramic nonstick coating is made from sand-derived materials and is free from PTFE and PFOA. If you've been using scratched Teflon pans, this is definitely safer.

The multi-functionality works better in theory than practice for some tasks. It's great for sauteing, shallow frying, and one-pot pastas. But the relatively shallow depth (2.75 inches) limits its effectiveness for deep frying or large batch cooking, and the lightweight aluminum core doesn't retain heat like cast iron for searing.

For families who prioritize aesthetics and are okay replacing cookware annually, the Always Pan might work. But if you're looking for long-term value and durability, consider Caraway (better longevity at similar price), Lodge cast iron (requires seasoning but lasts forever), or GreenPan (often on sale, similar performance). You'll get better cost-per-use and less waste from replacing pans.