Silicone spatulas have been available on the domestic market for a short time. They’ve been commercially available before, but since 2004, silicone spatulas have invaded the home kitchen, taking the place of the traditional rubber or plastic spatula. The traditional rubber spatula replaced metal and wooden spatulas some years earlier.
Silicone has a number of advantages over most rubbers in that it is more heat resistant and inert, so it doesn’t stain or retain odors easily. Spatulas are used to mix ingredients, both wet and dry, as well as scrape bowls when emptying. The flexibility of a silicone spatula allows it to take the shape of a bowl when scraping, much like a rubber spatula. For this task, rubber spatulas have been preferred to metal and wooden ones. Silicone works very well in this application. The heat resistant property of the silicone spatula allows it to be used without fear of melting or degrading at any normal cooking temperature. Foods can be mixed directly in containers on the stove or in pans. Accidental exposure to heat will not damage silicone utensils.
Silicone spatulas are not available in as many sizes as rubber or plastic spatulas yet, but the number is increasing. The efficient cook probably doesn’t need many sizes to cook.
Silicone spatulas won’t damage the nonstick surfaces of pots and pans like metal spatulas do. They are smooth and will not deposit tool debris like rubber will when it gets very hot. However, the silicone will not melt, change shape or flake at normal food preparation temperatures. Silicone will not rust or discolor.
The weakest part of a silicone spatula is probably the handle. Handles are made from many different products, but they are usually not as heat resistant as the working part.
The silicone spatulas can be gently washed in warm water with a soft cloth or can be washed in the dishwasher. Be careful not to puncture the spatula during the cleaning process or during storage.
Silicone kitchen tools, utensils, and products are available at most major kitchen supply outlets, as well as online. Keep in mind when purchasing silicone spatulas that they are made of quality silicone and read the manufacturer’s instructions. If they are not suitable for all home cooking temperatures, find another.
