Ever tried to flip a delicate piece of fish only to have it break apart, or struggled to grab a hot potato from boiling water? It’s frustrating when simple cooking tasks become a clumsy mess! The humble kitchen tong seems straightforward, but choosing the perfect pair can actually be a real headache. Do you need metal, silicone, or wood? Should they have locking mechanisms or scalloped edges? The sheer variety often leaves home cooks feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what truly works best for their needs.
Don’t let the wrong tools sabotage your culinary efforts! We understand the struggle of finding tongs that grip well, resist heat, and clean up easily. This detailed guide cuts through the confusion. By the end of this post, you will know exactly which tongs are essential for every kitchen task, from tossing salads to searing steaks.
Ready to upgrade your cooking game with the perfect grip? Let’s dive into the best tongs for every job in your kitchen.
Top Tongs For Kitchen Recommendations
No. 1
GORILLA GRIP Stainless Steel Heat Resistant Kitchen Tongs for Cooking, Set of 2 BBQ Tong, Non Scratch Silicone Tip for Pans, Strong Grip, Grab Food, Toss Salad, Air Fryer, Pull Lock, 7 + 9 Inch, Black
- A STRONG AND PRECISE GRAB: featuring silicone scalloped edges, these kitchen tongs can grab nearly anything; from small ingredients like cherries, to large pieces of bbq meats, veggies and more, the tongs are incredibly durable and strong enough for a variety of ingredients
- SCRATCH RESISTANT SILICONE HEAD: featuring a silicone head, the tongs for cooking are gentle on your nonstick cookware so you can worry less about scratching and wear and tear; silicone is heat resistant up to 484 degrees Fahrenheit, making it a great option for nearly any cooking task
- SLIP RESISTANT HANDLE: kitchen tongs feature a slip resistant, silicone grip that helps you get the best grasp on your food; they also include an ergonomic thumb rest to help alleviate pressure on fingers and thumbs for additional comfort
- STURDY STAINLESS STEEL: kitchen tongs are constructed from durable stainless steel; easily grab even heavy items like burgers and meat; perfect for use on pans, stovetops, and ovens ; rust resistant and designed for long lasting use; dishwasher safe
- EASY PULL LOCK: the tongs easily become compact when you pull the easy pull lock up; they fit seamlessly in most drawers and cabinets for easy storage; also include a hook for easy hang
No. 2
Tongs For Cooking - Heat Resistant 600 Degrees Stainless Steel Kitchen Tong,Heavy Duty Metal Locking Tongs - Perfect for Food,Salad and BBQ set of 3 (7",9" and 12") Dishwasher
- STRUDY FOOD-GRADE STAINLESS STEEL COOKING TONGS - EDDEAS kitchen tongs for cooking are made of 1mm thick food-grade stainless steel in one piece for enhanced robustness and heat resistance, rust resistance and easy handling. The overall light weight and ergonomic features are maintained.
- LOCKING MECHANISM AND PULL-DOWN DESIGN - Perfect Metal Kitchen Tongs for Cooking .Our food cooking tongs feature a pull-ring locking mechanism that gives you better control when using them, and can be quickly unlocked by simply pressing the pull-ring. Better avoid metal cooking tongs accidentally open or close. When locked, you can use the pull ring to hang on the wall or put in the drawer to save space.
- HEAT RESISTANT ERGONOMIC HANDLES - Tongs For Cooking have ergonomic handles with silicone cushioning to ensure good grip and control, avoid burns and provide greater comfort. The metal tongs are super heat resistant and easy to clean, simply hand wash or put in the dishwasher.
- MULTIPLE APPLICATION - Perfect for everyday kitchen tasks or outdoor use, whether you use them as cooking tongs , salad tongs, grill tongs, need reliable Heavy Duty Metal KitchenTongs for Cooking to grab food from boiling water, or as a grill Turner or salad server, EDDEAS tongs will meet your needs for safety and stability.Size:7in+9in+12in
- AFTER-SALES GUARANTEE-EDDEAS provide premium product and service to keep you satisfaction. To ensure you get the great product from us, we promise we will provide the refund for you if our product have any problem, Please contact us without hesitate! Choose and Believe us, We will offer the excellent guaranteed for you!
No. 3
Eddeas Kitchen Tongs with Silicone Tips, Tongs for Cooking Heat Resistant 600 Degrees Stainless Steel Locking Tong - 7" 9" & 12 inch Silicone Tong Non-Stick, Black Set of 3
- FOOD GRADE MATERIALS - Eddeas tongs for cooking featuring a food grade silicone head, the tongs are gentle on your nonstick cookware so you can worry less about scratching and wear and tear, silicone is heat resistant up to 484 degrees Fahrenheit, making it a great option for nearly any cooking task.
- EMBEDDED DESIGN, BUILT TO LAST - Kitchen tongs The silicone tip and stainless steel handle are integrated to provide the best grip and control without bending or breaking, thickened stainless steel, easily grab even heavy items like burgers and meat; perfect for use on pans, stovetops, and ovens, rust resistant and designed for long lasting use, dishwasher safe
- LOCKING MECHANISM & PULL-RING TECHNOLOGY - Eddeas ring-pull technology will keep your tongs from opening and closing accidentally which will allow you to facilitate better control while using them. And can be conveniently dried and stored. the tongs easily become compact when you pull the easy pull lock up, they fit seamlessly in most drawers and cabinets for easy storage; also include a hook for easy hang
- SLIP RESISTANT HANDLE - the silicone tongs feature a slip resistant, silicone grip that helps you get the best grasp on your food, they also include an ergonomic thumb rest to help alleviate pressure on fingers and thumbs for additional comfort
- AFTER-SALES GUARANTEE-EDDEAS provide premium product and service to keep you satisfaction. To ensure you get the great product from us, we promise we will provide the refund for you if our product have any problem, Please contact us without hesitate! Choose and Believe us, We will offer the excellent guaranteed for you!
No. 4
GORILLA GRIP Stainless Steel Heat Resistant Kitchen Tongs for Cooking, 9 + 12 Inch, Set of 2 BBQ Tong, Non Scratch Silicone Tip for Pan, Strong Grip, Grab Food, Toss Salad, Air Fryer, Pull Lock, Black
- A STRONG AND PRECISE GRAB: featuring silicone scalloped edges, these tongs can grab nearly anything; from small ingredients like cherries, to large pieces of meats, veggies and more, the tongs are incredibly durable and strong enough for a variety of ingredients
- SCRATCH RESISTANT SILICONE HEAD: featuring a silicone head, the tongs are gentle on your nonstick cookware so you can worry less about scratching and wear and tear; silicone is heat resistant up to 484 degrees Fahrenheit, making it a great option for nearly any cooking task
- SLIP RESISTANT HANDLE: the tongs feature a slip resistant, silicone grip that helps you get the best grasp on your food; they also include an ergonomic thumb rest to help alleviate pressure on fingers and thumbs for additional comfort
- STURDY STAINLESS STEEL: the tongs are constructed from durable stainless steel; easily grab even heavy items like burgers and meat; perfect for use on pans, stovetops, and ovens ; rust resistant and designed for long lasting use; dishwasher safe
- EASY PULL LOCK: the tongs easily become compact when you pull the easy pull lock up; they fit seamlessly in most drawers and cabinets for easy storage; also include a hook for easy hang
No. 5
HOTEC Premium Stainless Steel Locking Kitchen Tongs with Silicon Tips, Set of 2-9" and 12"
- TOP QUALITY: Hotec kitchen tongs are constructed with high quality stainless steel, sturdy, heat resistance, anti-rust, anti-corrosion, light weight, easy to handle, like new forever. This tongs for cooking comes with 2 sizes, 9 inch and 12 inch. Food safe, Carbonfree Certified.
- EASY TO STORE: These kitchen tongs have locking mechanism, pull the ring for lock and push for unlock, super easy operation. Hang them with the hanging loop after use or put in the drawer by pulling the ring to lock it, space saving.
- ENGINEERING FOR SAFETY: Updated new design pattern for the handle, better protects your hands from cutting by the edge when you grip the handle. Easy to control the handle and to eliminate wobbling & any risk of burning your hands
- EASY TO USE: The handle is cushioned with silicon, good for thumb rest and ensures good grip and control. The silicon tong tip is heat resistance and less prone to scratch the pan. Easy to rinse, dishwasher safe.
- MULTIPLE APPLICATIONS: Basic kitchen utensil, perfect for basic kitchen tasks, indoor or outdoor use, great for grilling corn, flipping burgers, serving salad, cutting roast meat, or used as BBQ turners and much more.
No. 6
Hotec Stainless Steel Kitchen Tongs, Set of 2-9" and 12", Locking Metal Food Tongs for Cooking, Serving, BBQ, Grill Non-Slip Grip
- 🏆Food Level Stainless Steel: The heavy duty Hotec kitchen tongs built with 1MM THICKED stainless steel, sturdy, heat resistance, anti-rust, anti-corrosion, light weight, easy to handle, like new forever. This tongs for cooking comes with a set of 2, standard 9" cooking tongs and large sized 12" BBQ grill tongs. Food safe, Carbonfree Certified👌
- ✅ Durable Spring Structure for Long-Lasting Use: Built to outlast the rest with Hotec Tongs STRONG SPRING STRUCTURE! Engineered for 2.5x the industry’s average longevity. This kitchen tongs set has locking mechanism, pull the ring for lock and push for unlock, super easy operation. Hang them with the hanging loop after use or put in the drawer by pulling the ring to lock it, space saving.
- 💪Ergonomic Handle Design & Heat Resistant 🔥: Crafted with a seamless one-piece structure (no crevices to trap gunk!), this tong pairs a silicone-cushioned handle with a built-in thumb rest—locking in a secure, fatigue-free grip for total control. Its metal head boasts superior heat resistance, while the gapless build rinses clean in seconds (dishwasher-safe, too!), saving you time on cleanup.🧼
- 🛡️Engineering for Safety: Protected & Stable Grip: Our reimagined handle design features a refined contour that shields hands from sharp edges during use. It offers steady, precise control—eliminating wobble and the risk of accidental burns. From tiny beans to massive steak cuts—this tong handles it all with ease, no slips or fumbles.
- 🌟Multiple Applications for Every Occasion: Basic kitchen utensil, perfect for indoor or outdoor use, great for daily kitchen tasks like tossing fresh salads, serving pasta, or portioning side dishes, plus it’s a griller’s best friend for grilling corn, flipping burgers/fish, cutting roast meat. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, prepping weeknight dinners, or catering a casual picnic, this versatile tong does it all!
No. 7
KitchenAid Stainless Steel Utility Tongs, 12 Inch
- STAINLESS STEEL CONSTRUCTION: These tongs feature a high quality, 430 stainless steel frame
- LOCK TONGS WHEN NOT IN USE: Featuring a convenient locking mechanism provides the versatility to securely store the tongs in a drawer or in a crock. When the lock is not engaged, these tong arms should spring open freely at a 30 degree range
- CONVENIENT SIZE: These tongs measure 11.57 inches
- DISHWASHER SAFE: These tongs are dishwasher safe, making clean up quick and easy
- WARRANTY: These tongs come with a 1-year Hassle-Free replacement and lifetime limited warranty
No. 8
HINMAY Stainless Steel Scissor Tongs 10-Inch and 12-Inch Set, Set of 2
- 2-PIECE MULTI-SIZE TONGS SET - Includes 10" and 12" stainless steel scissor tongs. One set handles all kitchen tasks!
- Professional-Grade 304 Stainless Steel Construction - Crafted from heavy-duty, commercial-quality stainless steel that's dishwasher-safe, rust-resistant, and withstands extreme heat up to 600°C/1112°F. Engineered for lifetime durability in busy kitchens.
- ErgoGrip Pro Handles - Advanced non-slip design with soft-touch silicone and reinforced nylon. Spring-free mechanism for precision control, reduces hand strain during long cooking sessions.
- Your Go-To Tool for Indoor & Outdoor Cooking - Master everything from backyard BBQs to meal prep with these multi-purpose metal scissor tongs. Securely grab steaks, flip burgers, serve salads, and handle everything juicy (think bacon, chicken wings, corn cobs) or delicate (like fish fillets, crab legs, veggie kabobs) - no slips, no mess!
- 100% Risk-Free Kitchen Essential - We stand behind every pair of scissor tongs. If they’re not the best scissor-style tongs you've ever used, simply contact us via your Amazon Order. No forms, no waiting - we'll fix it fast and keep serving you until you're completely satisfied. That's our promise to your kitchen!!
The Ultimate Kitchen Tongs Buying Guide
Kitchen tongs are simple tools, but the right pair makes cooking much easier and safer. Think of them as an extension of your hand! This guide helps you pick the best tongs for your kitchen needs.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping, focus on these important features. They decide how well the tongs work.
Locking Mechanism
- Easy Lock/Unlock: Good tongs have a simple locking mechanism, often a loop or button. You should easily slide the lock to keep the tongs closed for storage.
- Sturdy Lock: Make sure the lock stays put. A weak lock means tongs take up more drawer space.
Tipping Design (The Ends)
- Scalloped Edges: These wavy edges grip slippery food better, like pasta or pickles.
- Silicone Tips: Silicone tips protect non-stick pans from scratches. They also handle high heat well.
- Hole or Slot: Some tongs have small holes. These help drain oil or water when you lift fried foods or boiled vegetables.
Comfort and Control
- Ergonomic Handles: Handles should fit your hand comfortably. If you cook for a long time, soft grips help prevent hand strain.
- Tension: Tongs need the right amount of springiness. Too stiff, and your hand tires. Too loose, and they drop the food.
Important Materials
The material affects durability, cleaning, and heat resistance.
Stainless Steel
- Pros: Stainless steel is very strong and lasts a long time. It resists rust well. Most professional kitchens use these.
- Cons: Metal tips can scratch delicate cookware.
Silicone and Nylon
- Pros: These plastics are safe for non-stick surfaces. They usually resist heat up to about 400°F or 500°F. They are lightweight.
- Cons: Cheaper nylon can melt if left on a hot pan too long.
Bamboo/Wood
- Note: While great for serving salads, wooden tongs are not ideal for heavy-duty cooking tasks like turning steaks due to lower heat resistance and harder cleaning.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality isn’t just about price; it is about construction.
What Improves Quality?
- Hinge Smoothness: Test the hinge. It should move smoothly without sticking or wobbling side to side. A high-quality hinge uses sturdy rivets.
- One-Piece Construction: Tongs made from one piece of metal are easier to clean. Food particles cannot get stuck where the handles meet the hinge.
What Reduces Quality?
- Sharp Edges: Poorly finished metal tongs might have sharp edges where the metal was cut. This is uncomfortable and can snag towels.
- Weak Rivets: If the hinge feels loose or floppy, the rivets (the metal pins holding the joint) are weak. These tongs will break sooner.
User Experience and Use Cases
Different jobs require different tongs. Choose the size that matches your cooking.
Size Matters
- Small (6-inch): Perfect for plating desserts, serving small appetizers, or flipping eggs.
- Medium (9-inch): The all-around workhorse. Great for grilling smaller items, tossing salads, and handling most stovetop tasks.
- Large (12-inch+): Essential for grilling large steaks, moving hot items in deep pots, or keeping your hands far from high heat.
Common Uses
- Flipping: Turning burgers or fish fillets.
- Serving: Lifting pasta or tossing vegetables.
- Gripping: Holding meat steady while carving or slicing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Kitchen Tongs
Q: What is the best size tong for everyday use?
A: Most home cooks find that a 9-inch tong works best for most jobs on the stovetop and for serving. If you grill often, you should also own a 12-inch pair.
Q: Are metal tongs safe to use on my non-stick pans?
A: Metal tongs can scratch non-stick coatings. If you use metal tongs near non-stick surfaces, ensure the tips are smooth or covered with silicone.
Q: How do I clean tongs that have a locking mechanism?
A: Most modern tongs are dishwasher safe. If the lock gets sticky, try soaking the hinge area in warm, soapy water. Rub gently with an old toothbrush to clear out debris.
Q: Why do my tongs keep falling open in the drawer?
A: This means the locking mechanism is weak or dirty. Try cleaning the lock area. If it still fails, you should replace the tongs, as a poor lock wastes valuable drawer space.
Q: Are silicone-tipped tongs heatproof?
A: Most high-quality silicone tips handle temperatures up to 450°F or 500°F. Check the packaging, but never leave silicone tongs resting directly on a scorching hot pan rim.
Q: Should I buy tongs with holes or solid tips?
A: Tongs with small holes or slots are better when you lift items from liquid, like boiling water or frying oil, because the liquid drains away quickly.
Q: What is the difference between tongs and salad servers?
A: Tongs are designed for gripping and turning food using spring tension. Salad servers are usually larger and designed more for scooping and tossing, often having spoon-like ends.
Q: How long should good stainless steel tongs last?
A: If you buy high-quality stainless steel with smooth rivets and take care of them, they can easily last for ten years or more.
Q: Are spring-loaded tongs better than scissor-style tongs?
A: Spring-loaded (standard) tongs offer better control for quick flipping and turning. Scissor-style tongs require constant squeezing but can offer a stronger grip for heavier items.
Q: Can I use tongs for baking tasks?
A: Yes! Tongs are excellent for safely moving cookies from hot baking sheets onto cooling racks, preventing burns.