Is Domo Cookware Safe? What You Need to Know
If you’ve been searching for safe, nontoxic cookware, you may have come across Domo cookware. With its eye-catching diamond-infused ceramic coating, Domo pots and pans promise to be a healthy and durable option for nonstick cooking. But is Domo cookware really safe?
The short answer is yes, Domo cookware is considered safe for cooking when used properly. Domo pans are PFOA-free and use an innovative ceramic-based coating that minimizes concerns about toxic fumes or chemicals leaching into foods.
Below we’ll take a deeper look at Domo cookware, including the materials used, safety standards, proper care and handling, and how it compares to other popular nonstick pans. Read on to learn everything you need to know to decide if Domo is the right choice for your kitchen.
Overview of Domo Cookware
Domo cookware is a relatively new brand of nonstick pots and pans that has grown in popularity in recent years. Here’s a quick rundown of what makes Domo unique:
- Nonstick Coating: Domo pans feature a patented Thermolon ceramic nonstick coating that contains diamond dust crystals. This unique coating is designed to enhance durability and release foods easily.
- Materials: Domo pans have an aluminum or stainless steel body. The rivets are stainless steel and handles are cast stainless steel or silicone.
- Safety: The nonstick coating meets FDA standards and is free of PFOA and other potentially hazardous chemicals.
- Products: Domo offers frying pans, stock pots, sauté pans, grill pans, and skillets in various sizes. Products are also sold in sets.
So what makes Domo’s Thermolon ceramic coating different than other nonstick pans? Let’s take a closer look at the safety of these materials.
Is Domo Cookware Toxic? A Look at the Materials?
One of the biggest concerns with nonstick pots and pans is the safety of the materials used, particularly in the nonstick coating.
Many traditional nonstick pans use PTFE or PFOA in their nonstick coating. At high temperatures, these materials can leach toxic chemicals into food and release hazardous fumes into the air, a condition known as “polymer fume fever”.
However, Domo cookware is PFOA-free and uses an innovative ceramic-based coating designed to be safe and durable:
- Ceramic-Based: Domo’s Thermolon nonstick coating is water-based and uses a ceramic composite matrix, not PTFE.
- Diamond Reinforced: Diamond dust crystals are infused throughout the ceramic coating to enhance durability and scratch resistance.
- PFOA-Free: The nonstick coating is free of PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid) and other perfluorinated chemicals.
- FDA Approved Materials: All materials meet FDA regulations and contain no lead or cadmium.
- No Toxic Fumes: The ceramic-based coating does not release toxic fumes when overheated, according to lab tests conducted by Domo.
So while traditional PTFE-based nonstick coatings come with safety concerns, Domo’s Thermolon coating avoids these issues by using a diamond-infused ceramic formula. This makes it a great option for those wanting safer, non-toxic cookware.
Is the Domo Coating Durable? Scratch Resistance?
Another common issue with nonstick pots and pans is that the coating tends to scratch and chip easily, degrading the nonstick performance. So how durable is the coating on Domo cookware?
Domo claims their Thermolon ceramic coating is significantly more durable than traditional nonstick coatings. This added durability comes from the diamond dust reinforcement.
Diamonds are the hardest natural material on earth. By infusing diamond crystals throughout the ceramic, it makes the coating extremely scratch resistant.
Independent lab tests found the Domo coating lasted 30 times longer than a traditional PTFE nonstick coating under simulated scratch tests.
The diamond-reinforced coating holds up well to metal utensils, whisking, and other abrasions that can quickly scratch and ruin cheaper nonstick pans.
Of course, no nonstick coating lasts forever. But the diamond-infused Domo coating does appear to offer substantially better durability and scratch resistance compared to traditional nonsticks.
What Are Domo Pans Made Of? Full Materials List?
Here is a overview of all the materials used to construct Domo cookware:
- Nonstick Coating: Diamond-infused ceramic Thermolon coating (PFOA-free)
- Body: Heavy gauge aluminum or 18/10 stainless steel
- Rivets: Stainless steel
- Handles: Cast stainless steel or silicone coated stainless steel
- Lids: Tempered glass or stainless steel with steam vent holes
- Handles: Cast stainless steel or silicone coated stainless steel
The combination of a heavy gauge metal body and diamond-reinforced PFOA-free ceramic coating allows Domo pans to distribute heat evenly while providing a very durable nonstick cooking surface.
How Domo Pans are Manufactured?
Domo cookware is produced by a South Korean company called Grebn. Their Thermolon technology was developed in collaboration with DuPont scientists in the US.
Here is an overview of how Domo pans are manufactured:
- Aluminum or stainless steel is pressed into pan shapes.
- The diamond-infused ceramic coating is applied using a patentedThermolon process.
- The coating is kiln-fired at high temperatures to fuse it to the metal.
- Silicone or stainless steel handles are attached using rivets.
- Tempered glass or stainless steel lids are made to fit each pan size.
- Finished cookware is inspected for quality then packaged.
The entire process from raw materials to finished cookware takes place in Grebn’s South Korean factories. Their Thermolon coating technology allows them to apply a smooth, even layer of the durable ceramic nonstick coating.
How Does Domo Compare to Other Top Nonstick Brands?
Domo cookware prices range from around $50 for an 8-inch fry pan up to $300 or more for a 10+ piece set. This puts them in the mid-upper price range for nonstick pans.
Here’s a quick comparison of how Domo stacks up to some other popular nonstick brands:
- T-Fal: More affordable but coating less durable. Prone to scratches.
- Calphalon: Mid-range price. Traditional PFOA nonstick formula.
- All-Clad: Very expensive. High quality but not nonstick.
- GreenPan: Ceramic nonstick but no diamond reinforcement.
- GreenLife: Affordable ceramic option but scratches easily.
Overall, Domo provides a good balance of safety, durability, and performance. The diamond-infused ceramic coating allows it to outperform most standard nonstick brands while avoiding the hefty cost of premium cookware lines.
Is Domo Easy to Clean? Care and Maintenance?
Like all nonstick cookware, Domo pans require some care when cleaning to prevent damage to the coating:
- Hand wash only: Do not put Domo pans in the dishwasher. The harsh detergents can damage the coating over time.
- Avoid abrasive cleaners: Do not use steel wool, abrasive sponges, or harsh cleansers. Stick to soft sponges and mild dish soap.
- Don’t burn food residue: Don’t let food burn onto the pans. If something is stuck, soak in hot water to loosen.
- Dry thoroughly: Always dry pans thoroughly after washing to prevent mineral deposits from forming.
With proper care, the nonstick coating on Domo pans will last for many years. Avoid scratching or chipping the surface and your cookware will continue performing like new.
Can You Use Metal Utensils on Domo Pans?
One advantage of Domo cookware is that it is metal utensil safe. The diamond-reinforced coating is scratch resistant enough for metal spoons, whisks, and other utensils.
Of course, you don’t want to recklessly stab or scrape the pans with a fork or knife. But normal cooking use with metal tools won’t scratch or damage the durable ceramic coating.
Most traditional nonstick pans specifically warn against using metal utensils. So the ability to safely use metal tools makes cooking and preparing foods easier.
Does Domo Cookware Work on Induction Cooktops?
Domo cookware is compatible with all stovetops including induction. The stainless steel and aluminum bodies allow the pans to heat up quickly and evenly on an induction burner.
Some Domo sets even come with a FREE induction cooktop adapter plate. This lets you use the cookware on any induction stove.
So whether you have a gas, electric, ceramic, or induction cooktop, Domo pans will work well for cooking. The aluminum and steel construction conducts heat quickly and evenly across the cooking surface.
Is Domo Oven Safe? What About the Glass Lids?
Most Domo pans are oven safe up to 400-500°F. The silicone handles can withstand temperatures up to 428°F before degrading.
The tempered glass lids are oven safe up to the same 400-500°F range. Higher temperatures could cause them to crack or shatter.
When using in the oven, avoid sudden temperature changes. Don’t put hot cookware or lids straight from the oven onto a cold counter, for example. Let them cool slowly first.
Can You Put Domo Pans in the Dishwasher?
It’s not recommended to put Domo cookware in the dishwasher. The harsh heat and detergents found in dishwashers can slowly degrade the nonstick coating.
Over time, repeatedly dishwashing Domo pans will likely lead to reduced nonstick performance. The coating may also scratch and chip more easily.
To preserve the quality of the nonstick coating, it’s best to only hand wash Domo pans using mild dish soap and soft sponges. Allow to fully dry before putting away.
Tips for Cooking with Domo Pans
Here are some tips for getting the best results when cooking with Domo pans:
- Use at low-medium heat settings only. Avoid very high heat.
- Allow pans to preheat before adding oil or food.
- Use a bit of oil or butter for flavor, but pans don’t require much.
- Don’t cook foods for long periods of time. The moisture can damage coating.
- Avoid broiling in pans or high heat when empty.
- Allow cookware to cool before cleaning or immersing in water.
- Always lift out food instead of scraping. Use wooden or silicone tools.
Following these tips will help prevent scratches and damage to the coating, giving you many years of great performance.
Is Domo Worth the Investment for Safe, Nonstick Pans?
At the end of the day, is Domo cookware worth buying? For those concerned about the safety issues of traditional nonstick pans, Domo provides a great alternative.
The diamond-infused ceramic Thermolon coating succeeds in delivering everything you want in a nonstick pan:
- Extremely durable – lasts up to 30X longer than standard nonstick
- PTFE and PFOA-free – no toxic chemicals or fumes
- Metal utensil safe – diamond coating prevents scratches
- Easy to clean – food doesn’t stick thanks to ceramic surface
- Oven and dishwasher safe – when following proper care guidelines
While pricier than some options, Domo offers excellent value. The pans deliver high performance while avoiding the health dangers of traditional nonsticks.
For home cooks wanting the convenience of nonstick with improved safety, Domo Ceramic Cookware makes an excellent choice. Following the proper use and care instructions will ensure you get great results from these innovative pans.
Conclusion
Domo’s diamond-infused ceramic coated pans provide a safer, more durable option for nonstick cooking. The PFOA-free Thermolon coating minimizes concerns about toxic fumes or chemicals leaching into foods at high temperatures.
While more expensive than typical nonstick brands, Domo delivers better performance and longevity. The scratch-resistant surface holds up well to daily cooking and use of metal utensils. With proper care, Domo pans can provide many years of healthy nonstick cooking.
So in the end, yes – Domo cookware is considered safe when used according to recommendations. If you’re looking for an innovative ceramic-based alternative to standard PTFE nonstick, Domo is worth considering.