If you’re anything like me, you’re probably holding on to a well-loved, years-old waffle maker that sits in the back of your kitchen cupboard most of the time. Sure, it gets the job done for family breakfasts, but have you ever thought about the materials you’re using to cook those crispy Belgian waffles? Often, kitchen appliances that tout easy-cleaning, quick-releasing surfaces rely on toxic PFAS “forever chemicals” that can linger in your body for life — not exactly what you want to enjoy on a lazy Sunday morning.
The best waffle maker shouldn’t only churn out golden-brown breakfasts, it should also be able to do so without the use of toxic chemicals. That’s why we’ve tracked down and tested the only two leading PFAS-free waffle makers on the market. Both are made by GreenPan and offer a healthier alternative to traditional PFAS-coated nonstick appliances. If you’re looking to clean up your kitchen and cut back on your synthetic chemical exposure, here’s what you need to know about finding the best nonstick waffle maker for your home.
TL;DR: What Actually Matters
Many nonstick waffle makers use synthetic PFAS-based coatings that can leach “forever chemicals” into your food, even when the coating looks intact. Over time, exposure to large amounts of PFAS has been linked to hormone disruption, immune suppression, and increased cancer risk1. PFAS have earned their nickname because they don’t break down in your body or the environment.
After researching the market and reaching out to brands to inquire about what their nonstick coatings are made of, we could only find two waffle makers that explicitly guarantee PFAS-free coatings: the GreenPan Premiere Ceramic Nonstick 4-Square and the GreenPan Elite Multi-Grill Griddle with Waffle Plates.
Most Waffle Makers Are Hiding a Toxic Secret
Most of today’s top waffle makers feature nonstick coatings for easy food release and cleaning. Unfortunately, they usually rely on PFAS chemicals to achieve their nonstick finish. As is the case with many cookware options and appliances, the value of convenience can often outweigh the potentially unsafe chemicals used to make them.
Waffle makers in particular regularly reach 375°F or higher during normal cooking, at which point the volatile chemicals in the nonstick coating can transfer into your food. Because PFAS contamination is invisible2, it’s easy to overlook, but it’s far from harmless. For your health, it’s worth reconsidering the tools you use to cook with and eliminating appliances with PFAS from your kitchen.
Finding PFAS-Free Products Is Not Always Easy
Many products, including waffle makers, are marketed as “safe,” “eco-friendly,” or “PFOA-free.” However, these claims don’t necessarily mean they’re free of PFAS chemicals. It’s easy for brands to advertise performance, but many can be murky about the specific materials they contain. Scouring everything from waffle maker reviews to product descriptions doesn’t make it easier, either — we often had to contact brands directly in our search for transparency, and many times our questions went unanswered.
Waffle makers require high heat to operate and a slick surface for easy release. But even when it comes to the best waffle maker with a coating that looks brand new and intact, high temperatures can introduce harmful chemicals into your food. If you’re using your waffle maker weekly or even monthly, that repeated exposure can compound quickly. Children are especially susceptible — and that’s concerning because waffles tend to be a family favorite.
That’s why we turn to innovative brands like GreenPan, who were the first to offer PFAS-free nonstick cookware. And they also happen to be the makers of the only two PFAS-free waffle makers on the market.
The Two Waffle Makers That Passed the Clean Kitchen Test
In my search to find the best waffle maker for this guide, I identified the only two widely available certified PFAS-free waffle makers on the market. Both are made by GreenPan, which uses a ceramic nonstick material known as Thermolon to replace PFAS without sacrificing an easy-release finish. Thermolon is made from silicon dioxide, a naturally occurring material present in sand, rocks, and even many fruits and vegetables3. GreenPan cookware is also third-party tested and free of lead, cadmium, BPA, and other heavy metals.
1. GreenPan Elite Ceramic Nonstick 4-Square Waffle Maker
The GreenPan Elite Ceramic Nonstick 4-Square Waffle Maker is a fully-loaded appliance for dedicated waffle lovers. The attractive stainless steel appliance comes with two removable waffle plates, one with smaller divots for classic waffles and a Belgian plate with large, deeper divots.
The machine is easy to use, with a clear, well-labeled control panel that’s part digital, part manual. After selecting your waffle type (Belgian, classic, or Liège), you dial in your desired shade (1 to 7) and your desired texture (from fluffy to crunchy). I love that the variety of options means everyone can have the exact breakfast they’re craving — it definitely makes this a contender for the best Belgian waffle maker. I also found this maker to be very forgiving for ingredients other than traditional waffle batter. I made fluffy baked oatmeal and crispy egg waffles with various mix-ins.
The waffle maker uses preset programs to automatically shut off when your waffle is cooked according to the settings. While great in theory, I found some of these programs better than others during testing. The higher shade setting tended to get darker on the bottom than the top — sometimes too dark.
The instructions recommend a gentle spray of cooking oil for the first waffle. I never had an issue with food sticking, and these plates were quick and easy to clean in the dishwasher.
Specs:
- Comes in 3 colorways: Cloud Cream, Graphite, and Stainless Steel
- Size: 12’’ L x 13.7’’ W x 5.7’’ H
- Weight: 13 lbs
- Includes two sets of removable, dishwasher-safe plates: Belgian & Classic Waffle plates
Price: $299.99 at time of publish
Criteria Evaluation
- Material Quality: 4.5/5 – While the ceramic coating is PFAS-free, it’s still nonstick — meaning it won’t last forever
- Versatility: 5/5 – Two plate styles allow for different waffle styles
- Ease of Use: 4.5/5 – LCD display and dial controls simplify cooking
- Cleaning & Maintenance: 4.5/5 – Removable, dishwasher-safe plates are easier to clean than fixed designs
- Size & Storage: 3/5 – Requires a moderate amount of counter space, but plates can be stored in the appliance
- Special Features: 5/5 – Adjustable texture and color, and interchangeable plates add flexibility
| Pros | Cons | ||
| Interchangeable plates for two waffle styles | Larger and heavier than basic waffle makers | ||
| PFAS-free ceramic coating | Higher price compared to entry-level models | ||
| Adjustable browning and crunch control | |||
| Built-in plate storage reduces clutter | |||
| Dishwasher-safe plates simplify cleanup | |||
Community Reviews and Expert Recommendations
This appliance is great for cooks who want to go beyond the basics and use clean materials. The waffle maker reviews appreciate the multiple options for waffle shape, color, and texture, and especially love that the extra plates can be stored inside the appliance. Of course, the PFAS-free coating also makes this waffle maker stand out for shoppers prioritizing cleaner materials in their kitchens.
2. GreenPan Elite Multi Grill & Griddle with Waffle Plates
The GreenPan Elite Multi Grill & Griddle is a slightly more outfitted appliance that offers seven cooking methods in one. If you’re looking for the best waffle maker with removable plates, you’re in luck — this appliance comes with two sets of plates: a set for waffles and a reversible set with a smooth surface on one side and grill rivets on the other. Dual-zone heating means you can adjust the top and bottom surfaces to different temperatures from 175°F up to 500°F, which is handy for things like indoor grilling or making breakfast for a crowd (think hash browns on one side and bacon on the other).
The waffle feature is controlled separately and uses built-in presets for your desired shade level (1 to 7). The maker beeps and automatically shuts off when your waffle is ready. During testing, my waffles were always thoroughly cooked and crunchy on the outside. I’ll note that on the higher shade levels (5, 6, and 7), the bottoms took on more color than the tops, and I don’t recommend higher levels for sweet batters, as the sugar can burn.
Food did not stick to the cooking surface, and the plates cleaned up easily by hand, though they’re also dishwasher-safe.
Specs:
- Comes in 3 colorways: Cloud Cream, Graphite, Premiere Stainless Steel
- Size: 13.6’’ L x 13.9’’ W x 7.3’’ H
- Weight: 17 lbs
- Includes two sets of removable, dishwasher-safe plates: Reversible Grill/Griddle plates & Classic Waffle plates
Price: $399.99 at time of publish
Criteria Evaluation
- Material Quality: 4.5/5 – PFAS-free ceramic coating
- Versatility: 5/5 – Multi-function design can replace several pieces of cookware
- Ease of Use: 4.5/5 – Presets and dual controls take some guesswork out of cooking
- Cleaning & Maintenance: 4.5/5 – Dishwasher-safe plates and drip tray
- Size & Storage: 3.5/5 – Larger footprint and extra plates require more storage and counter space
- Special Features: 5/5 – Dual-zone heating and flat-open design add flexibility
| Pros | Cons | ||
| Multi-use cooking functionality | Larger and heavier than basic waffle makers | ||
| Dual-zone heating offers precise control | Takes longer to preheat than dedicated waffle makers | ||
| PFAS-free coating is highly nonstick | One set of plates does not store inside the appliance | ||
| Dishwasher-safe parts simplify cleanup | No Belgian or Liege waffle setting | ||
| High temperature range supports searing and grilling | |||
Community Reviews and Expert Recommendations
This is a popular appliance for cooks who want a do-it-all countertop griddle that also doubles as a waffle maker. Its PFAS-free coating and ability to reach 500°F (which is great for searing and grilling) appeal to shoppers who prioritize convenience and cleaner materials, though the fact that it’s not the most compact waffle maker means this is a better option for kitchens with ample storage space.
A Detailed Comparison of PFAS-Free Waffle Makers
| Feature | GreenPan Elite 4-Square | GreenPan Elite Multi Grill |
| Coating | Thermolon™ Ceramic (PFAS-free) | Thermolon™ Ceramic (PFAS-free) |
| Functions | Waffle-only (multi-style) | 7-in-1 (grill, griddle, waffle) |
| Power | 1600W | 1800W |
| Temp Range | Up to ~450°F | 175°F–500°F |
| Plates | Interchangeable waffle plates | Reversible grill/griddle + waffle plates |
| Cleaning | Dishwasher-safe | Dishwasher-safe |
| Size | 12.1 x 13.7 x 5.7 inches | 13.6 x 13.9 x 7.3 inches |
| Best Use | Dedicated waffle making | All-in-one cooking |
| Price | $299.99 | $379.99 |
What to Do If You Already Own a Waffle Maker with PFAS
If you already have an electric waffle maker with a traditional nonstick coating and it’s not feasible for you to replace it right now, there are still a few strategies that can minimize your chemical exposure.
First, regardless of which of the top waffle makers you’re using, always use soft, non-toxic utensils like silicone or wood to avoid scratching the cooking surface. Likewise, use a gentle sponge or scrub brush when cleaning the plates, not an abrasive cleaner. Cooking on a lower heat setting can also minimize the amount of airborne chemicals. When using the appliance, use an air purifier, vent fan, or open the windows for better air ventilation. Finally, check your appliance regularly for chips, scratches, and nicks, and stop using it right away if you notice any damage to the cooking surface.
Frequently Asked Questions
A ‘PFAS-free’ label means the appliance is not made with a specific category of chemicals commonly found in nonstick surfaces. These chemicals, known as PFAS, create a slick, easy-release cooking surface, but they can release compounds into your food that don’t break down in the environment or in your body. The PFAS-free waffle makers tested for this guide use naturally occurring ceramic materials to achieve a similar nonstick surface instead. We believe the best waffle maker doesn’t need to rely on PFAS chemicals, and both of the GreenPan appliances in this guide are great options.
If your waffle maker is a staple appliance in your kitchen, upgrading to a PFAS-free model can be a simple way to limit chemical exposure for you and your family. It’s impossible to be perfect when it comes to chemical exposure in your home and kitchen, but you can make the biggest impact with the tools and appliances you use most — and choosing the best waffle maker could be part of that.
Removable plates in waffle makers are more about convenience than anything else. When you can pop the plates out, it’s easier to clean inside all the nooks and crannies. Plus, in the case of these two appliances from GreenPan, you can even stick the plates in the dishwasher. Fixed plate waffle makers can perform just as well, but require more attention for a thorough cleaning job. If you’re after the best waffle maker with removable plates, both of these GreenPan appliances are solid options.
The Bottom Line: What to Look for in a Waffle Maker
While traditional waffle makers often work well, many rely on PFAS chemicals to achieve their nonstick surface. The good news is that forever chemicals aren’t a requirement for the best waffle maker, or even for a great nonstick finish. Both models I tested for this guide combine excellent performance with safe, PFAS-free materials.
While we don’t yet have a plethora of ceramic-coated waffle makers on the market, GreenPan makes two solid options. Both performed well with a variety of batters, are easy to clean, and have intuitive control panels. If you’re looking for more functionality in your appliance and don’t mind sparing a little more storage space, the GreenPan Elite Multi Grill & Griddle is a great choice. If you have minimal storage space and want to focus on waffles, the Elite 4-Square Waffle Maker is a compact and less expensive option.
Sources:
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7906952/
- https://www.fda.gov/food/environmental-contaminants-food/and-polyfluoroalkyl-substances-pfas
- https://cris.msu.edu/news/trending/trending-silicon-dioxide/
