Kitchen cookware is the backbone of any home chef’s arsenal. Having durable, high quality pots and pans makes cooking easier, more enjoyable, and can elevate your meals. But with so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming trying to decide what set is right for your needs and budget.
In this in-depth blog post, we’ll be reviewing Thyme & Table’s ceramic non-stick cookware to see if it lives up to its claims. More specifically, we’ll answer the question:
Should you buy Thyme & Table ceramic cookware for your home kitchen?
The short answer: Yes. Thyme & Table’s ceramic non-stick pots and pans offer excellent bang for your buck with their combination of performance, durability, and aesthetics. Home cooks wanting a quality ceramic set that won’t break the bank will be highly satisfied with this brand.
Below we’ll examine Thyme & Table cookware’s key features, pros and cons, how it compares to competitors, care instructions, where to buy, and more details so you can determine if this affordable ceramic cookware is the right choice to meet your cooking needs. Let’s dive in!
An Overview of Thyme & Table Ceramic Cookware
Thyme & Table was founded in 2015 by husband and wife duo, James and Erica, after years of frustration trying to find high quality yet affordable cookware that was toxin-free. After testing countless materials and designs, they perfected their ceramic non-stick line which is now sold exclusively online direct-to-consumer.
Their collection includes:
- Skillets/frying pans
- Saucepans
- Saute pans
- Stock pots
- Bakeware items
And accessories like:
- Interchangeable silicone handles
- Steamers
- Lids
All Thyme & Table cookware features a lightweight aluminum core coated with a PFOA-free ceramic non-stick interior. The combination of materials allows for quick, even heating while the non-stick makes cooking and cleaning a breeze.
The aluminum core encased in the non-stick ceramic coating also creates a good balance of durability without being overly heavy like some clad stainless or cast iron pans.
Thyme & Table’s product line of stylish and functional ceramic cookware has earned praise and popularity with home cooks looking for a PFOA-free non-stick option. The company has over 1200 positive verified reviews.
“I absolutely love my new Thyme & Table cookware set! The ceramic coating is truly non-stick and so easy to cook with.” – Jessie M.
“These pots and pans heat up fast and cool down fast. Everything slides right off without oil. And they clean up great in the dishwasher.” – Brian C.
Some negatives mentioned by reviewers include the heavier weight of larger pots, pans staining from acidic ingredients like tomato sauce, and rare damage from extreme overheating.
Overall though, most customers agree Thyme & Table offers quality ceramic cookware at reasonable prices.
Next let’s look at some key features and benefits of this ceramic non-stick cookware.
Key Features and Benefits
Quick, Even Heating
The aluminum core in the bottom and sides allows Thyme & Table cookware to heat up rapidly and distribute that heat evenly. No more getting frustrated with hot spots or cold spots!
The responsive heating is ideal for:
- Searing meats to get a nice brown crust
- Frying eggs over gentle heat without sticking
- Simmering sauces or soups without scorching
- Browning veggies or stir fries with high heat
With Thyme & Table cookware, you’ll have much better temperature control compared to slower heating materials like stainless steel or glass.
Ultra Non-Stick Ceramic Coating
The real star of the show is the PFOA-free ceramic non-stick coating. This innovative interior makes cooking and cleaning a total breeze in several ways:
Easiest Food Release – Everything from eggs to pancakes to fish will slide right off with little or no oil/butter needed. No more wrestling with stuck on food!
Simple Clean Up – Food residue wipes away easily by hand or in the dishwasher. No need for steel wool scrubbing!
Safer Health-Wise – PFOAs (perfluorooctanoic acid) are toxic chemicals often used in traditional non-stick coatings. Thyme & Table’s PFOA-free pans are safer for your health.
Oven and Broiler Safe
One limitation of many non-stick pans is they can’t be used at high temperatures in the oven or under the broiler. But that’s not the case with Thyme & Table ceramic cookware, which is oven safe up to 600°F!
You’ll have the flexibility to:
- Start a dish on the stovetop then transfer to oven
- Broil fish or chicken with lovely charring
- Bake casseroles in ceramic bakeware pieces
No need for specialty oven-safe pans. Thyme & Table pots and pans do it all!
Dishwasher Safe
While hand washing is recommended to prolong the life, Thyme & Table cookware is labeled dishwasher safe for anyone who prefers that convenience.
The ceramic non-stick holds up well to high heat dishwasher cycles. Just avoid abrasive detergents.
No more dreading scrubbing cooked on messes by hand. Simply pop them in the dishwasher!
Tempered Glass Lids
The tempered glass lids make it easy to monitor your food while cooking. The transparent lid avoids the need to constantly remove and replace a solid lid just to check progress.
And when covered during cooking, the tapered glass lids form a tighter seal to circulate heat and moisture back down over the food.
This allows you to:
- Steam vegetables and keep them crisp-tender
- Trap in juices while braising meat
- Speed up cooking times
The lids also feature steam release holes so you can adjust evaporation as needed.
Thyme & Table lids fit snugly and are shatter-resistant.
Durability and Design
Now let’s discuss how these pans are constructed and hold up over time.
Hard Anodized Aluminum Core
Hard anodization is an electrochemical process that creates a durable, oxidation-resistant layer on the aluminum exterior. This makes the cookware stronger, harder, and more corrosion resistant than typical aluminum.
Thyme & Table hard anodized bodies are impressive at conducting and retaining heat. But at the same time, they remain lightweight compared to alternatives like stainless steel or cast iron.
Riveted Stainless Steel Handles
Riveting the stainless steel handles ensures they are securely attached for confident maneuvering. The handles have a curved ergonomic design that’s comfortable to grip even when pans are heavy.
And since they are made from stainless steel, they can withstand high oven temps when you need to start a dish on the stove and finish in the oven.
Helper Handles Provide Control
Larger pans like stock pots feature helper handles opposite the main handle. These helper handles have a silicone grip which allows you to securely grasp them when pouring liquids or transferring a heavy pan, even with hot contents.
The silicone ensures the helper handle doesn’t become uncomfortably hot like the metal would. Having that extra control makes a big difference in maneuverability.
Attractive Matte Colors
Thyme & Table cookware comes in fashionable matte colors to suit any kitchen decor. Choices include:
- Navy Blue
- Robin Egg Blue
- Mint Green
- Lavender Purple
- Rich Red
The colors have a modern minimalist look. And the exterior ceramic coating resists staining or chipping.
It’s rare to find colorful ceramic pans that still offer non-stick performance. These will brighten up your kitchen!
The stylish appearance makes them suitable to go straight from stove to table when serving.
Cost and Value Analysis
When evaluating any major purchase decision, it’s wise to weigh the cost versus expected value you’ll receive. Let’s see how Thyme & Table stacks up.
Budget-Friendly Price Point
Considering the high quality ceramic construction and performance, Thyme & Table is very reasonably priced:
- Individual fry pans start at just $24
- 5-piece sets around $100
- Larger 10 to 12-piece sets range from $180 to $300
At these price points, Thyme & Table costs significantly less than leading ceramic competitors like GreenPan and Caraway while offering similar non-stick ability.
For shoppers wanting reliable ceramic cookware on a budget, Thyme & Table delivers excellent value.
A Long-Term Investment
Thyme & Table ceramic pots and pans should easily last several years with proper care and maintenance.
Replacing cheap scratched non-stick every year or two gets expensive! With this set’s durability, you’ll save money in the long run.
Plus quality cookware just makes cooking at home more enjoyable, which saves money over eating out.
Peace of Mind Warranty
For further peace of mind, Thyme & Table offers a 60-day money back satisfaction guarantee.
If you decide the cookware does not meet your needs for any reason, return it for a full refund.
They also provide a 2-year limited warranty covering manufacturer defects. Reach out to their helpful customer service for any warranty issues.
Knowing they stand behind their products will give you confidence in your purchase.
How Does Thyme & Table Compare to Popular Cookware Brands?
Thyme & Table ceramic pots and pans offer a great combination of non-stick performance, durability, and affordability. But how do they stack up to other leading national brands?
Vs. T-Fal:
- Thyme & Table has higher quality construction with the anodized aluminum core.
- More stylish appearance compared to T-Fal’s industrial look.
- Outperforms T-Fal in oven safety and scratch resistance tests.
- Similar non-stick ability when new, but Thyme & Table’s lasts significantly longer.
- Costs only $50-100 more for the upgraded quality.
Vs. Rachael Ray:
- Thyme & Table pans heat up quicker and more evenly due to the aluminum core.
- Stands up to metal utensils and abrasive scrubbing better than Rachael Ray non-stick.
- Provides smoother, longer-lasting non-stick performance.
- Edges out Rachael Ray in owner satisfaction and durability.
- Worth spending $20-30 more for better modern design and materials.
Vs. GreenPan:
- Very comparable non-stick ability, though GreenPan claims to be the best.
- Durable enough for most homes, but GreenPan construction is nearly indestructible.
- GreenPan uses a safer ceramic-based coating called Thermolon.
- Much more budget friendly than GreenPan’s $300+ cookware sets.
- GreenPan worth it for strict non-toxic homes; Thyme & Table a better value for most.
Vs. Caraway:
- Neck and neck in non-stick performance and ease of cleaning.
- Caraway has gorgeous designs and colors that out-style Thyme & Table.
- Thyme & Table scores a bit better in owner reviews for long-term durability.
- At half the price or less, Thyme & Table is the clear value winner over Caraway.
- Caraway only worth the splurge if you appreciate top-tier design.
So in summary, while not the absolute best in every regard, Thyme & Table ceramic cookware compares very well to leading national brands while costing significantly less. For most households, they offer the ideal combination of quality and value in ceramic non-stick cookware.
Ideal Buyers for Thyme & Table Cookware
Thyme & Table’s affordable prices, trendy colors, and smooth ceramic coating will appeal to certain demographics in particular:
First-Time Home Cooks – Just starting out? A Thyme & Table set covers all the essential pots and pans you need to equip your first kitchen.
College Students & Young Adults – The low prices work well for budgets. Smaller sets fit in apartments. Vibrant colors add personality.
Health-Conscious Households – If you avoid Teflon and other traditional non-sticks, Thyme & Table’s PFOA-free ceramic is a safer bet. Provides non-stick convenience without the health concerns.
Home Cooks Seeking Beautiful Cookware – While not as gorgeous as Caraway or Le Creuset, Thyme & Table pans provide a stylish appearance for a fraction of the price.
Cooks Wanting Versatility – The oven and broiler safety up to 600°F gives you flexibility to seamlessly transition from stovetop to oven.
If you fit one of those descriptions, Thyme & Table likely aligns well with your needs, preferences, and budget.
Thyme & Table Cookware Drawbacks to Consider
While we’ve raved about the benefits of this ceramic cookware, no product is perfect. There are a few potential drawbacks to keep in mind:
Requires Gentle Care – The exterior ceramic coating can stain or chip if you regularly use metal utensils or scrub too aggressively. Handle with a little extra care.
Not Completely Non-Stick Long-Term – While the non-stick holds up very well over time, after 3-5 years you may notice some sticking as it wears down. Simply replacing worn pans preserves non-stick.
Heavy Weight – Full sets with 10+ pieces can get quite heavy. Individual pans are light enough but combined weight makes storage and handling tricky.
Can Crack if Overheated When Empty – Heating an empty pan causes temperature shocks that can damage the ceramic. Don’t preheat empty or leave empty on a hot burner.
As long as you care for the pots and pans properly, these issues are easily avoided. The pros still far outweigh the few cons for most owners.
Thyme & Table Cookware Care and Maintenance
To keep your Thyme & Table cookware looking and performing like new, follow these care instructions:
- Hand wash gently with non-abrasive sponges and liquid dish soap, or place on delicate cycle in the dishwasher
- Don’t use metal utensils or abrasive scrubbers which can scratch the coating
- Avoid extreme temperature shocks – don’t put hot pans in cold water or vice versa
- Don’t leave empty cookware over high heat, always have food or liquid when cooking
- Don’t use aerosol cooking sprays which can build up and degrade the non-stick over time
- Reseason the non-stick surface monthly by rubbing with a small amount of vegetable oil when pan is warm (not hot)
Follow those care guidelines and your Thyme & Table ceramic cookware will provide many years of smooth, non-stick cooking!
Where to Buy Thyme & Table Cookware
Thyme & Table only sells their ceramic cookware direct-to-consumer through their own website at thymeandtable.com.
This direct retail model allows them to cut out the middleman and pass significant cost savings on to customers.
On their site, you can shop for specific pans or pots based on what your kitchen needs. Or browse pre-configured sets and bundles:
- Starter Sets (4-6 pieces) – Perfect for outfitting a first apartment or for college students. Includes essential saute pans and pots.
- Essential Sets (8-10 pieces) – Ideal first set for outfitting an entire kitchen. Contains most pots and pans needed for basic cooking.
- Premium Sets (10-12+ pieces) – For the home chef who cooks large meals. Adds extras like grill pans, stock pots, and steamers.
- Bakeware Sets – Includes all the baking dishes needed to bake casseroles, breads, cookies, and more.
- Individual Add-On Pieces – Single pots, pans, and lids to augment an existing set. Great for replacing old worn pieces.
Thyme & Table also offers shipping nationally in the US and to over 40 countries internationally.
Ordering directly from their site gives you easy access to their 60-day return policy and 2-year warranty should any issues arise.
Final Verdict: A Quality, Affordable Ceramic Set
In our detailed review, Thyme & Table’s ceramic cookware clearly stands out for offering impressive performance, durability, and ease of use at budget-friendly price points.
Home chefs benefit from rapid, even heating while the PFOA-free ceramic coating allows effortless food release and cleanup. The aluminum core construction gives it strength without excessive weight. And the attractive colors look beautiful in any contemporary kitchen.
While not as indestructible as the best ceramic brands, Thyme & Table pots and pans provide reliable cooking and longevity for years when properly cared for. Given the reasonable prices, they deliver outstanding bang for your buck.
For shoppers seeking quality ceramic cookware that won’t demolish their budget, Thyme & Table is an ideal choice. Their combination of value and performance makes cooking at home a pleasure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Thyme & Table ceramic cookware safe?
A: Yes, Thyme & Table cookware is free of the toxic chemicals PFOA and PTFE found in traditional non-stick coatings. The ceramic coating is inert and does not interact with food.
Q: How long does Thyme & Table ceramic cookware last?
A: With proper care, Thyme & Table’s ceramic non-stick lasts 3-5 years on average. After that time some degradation occurs but many owners get longer service life out of it.
Q: Does Thyme & Table cookware work on induction cooktops?
A: No, unfortunately Thyme & Table ceramic cookware does not work on induction ranges since it does not have a magnetic steel component. It’s best suited for traditional electric or gas stovetop cooking.
Q: What are the best tips for caring for Thyme & Table ceramic cookware?
A: Avoid metal utensils, go low and slow when preheating, don’t use cooking sprays, hand wash or use delicate dishwasher cycle, and recondition the ceramic with vegetable oil monthly. Follow those tips and the non-stick will last.
Q: Does Thyme & Table offer larger stock pot sizes for big batch cooking?
A: Yes, in addition to smaller 2-3 quart stock pots, they offer 5, 8, and 10 quart size options perfect for preparing large soups, steaming seafood, and more family-style cooking.
Q: Is Thyme & Table ceramic cookware made in the USA?
A: Thyme & Table cookware is designed in Southern California. The ceramics are sourced from various countries then assembled in China under fair working conditions.
And that wraps up our in-depth Thyme & Table ceramic cookware review! Let us know in the comments if we answered all your questions about this affordable product line. Happy cooking!
