Measuring Spoons Buying Guide: Stainless Steel vs Plastic
By Viking Culinary Products | Published: 2026-10-28
Category: Buying Guides
Compare stainless steel and plastic measuring spoons to find the best set for your kitchen. Learn about durability, accuracy, and ease of cleaning.
Quick Answer
For most home cooks, stainless steel measuring spoons offer better durability, accuracy, and easy cleaning compared to plastic. Plastic sets are lighter and less expensive, but they can warp over time and may absorb odors.
Durability and Longevity
Stainless steel measuring spoons are virtually indestructible under normal kitchen use. They resist bending, rust, and staining, so they stay accurate for years. Plastic spoons, while lightweight, can crack, warp, or fade when exposed to heat or frequent washing.
Accuracy and Design
Metal spoons typically have deeper bowls and clearly stamped measurement markings that won't wear off. Plastic spoons may have shallower bowls and printed markings that can fade. For precise baking, stainless steel is the more reliable choice.
Ease of Cleaning
Both materials are dishwasher safe, but stainless steel dries without residue and doesn't absorb odors from spices or oils. Plastic can retain smells and may develop a cloudy appearance over time.
How to Choose Measuring Spoons
- Choose stainless steel if you bake often.: Metal spoons hold their shape and markings, ensuring consistent measurements for recipes that require precision.
- Choose plastic if you need a budget-friendly starter set.: Plastic spoons are lighter and usually cheaper, but expect to replace them more frequently as they wear.
- Look for nesting designs with a removable ring.: A removable ring lets you take off individual spoons for easier scooping from narrow jars, and makes cleaning more thorough. Check that the ring is sturdy and the spoons stay securely attached when stored.
- Verify the set includes the sizes you use most.: Most sets cover 1/4 tsp, 1/2 tsp, 1 tsp, and 1 Tbsp. If you need odd sizes like 1/8 tsp or 1/2 Tbsp, look for extended sets.
- Consider dishwasher safety.: Both stainless steel and many plastic sets are dishwasher safe, but metal handles may get hot after a wash cycle. Let them cool before handling.
Product Facts
- Viking 4pc Stainless Steel Measuring Spoon Set: Premium 304 stainless steel construction with four essential sizes: 1 Tbsp, 1 Tsp, 1/2 Tsp, and 1/4 Tsp. The nesting design saves drawer space, and the removable ring lets you separate spoons for individual use or easy cleaning.
Viking 4pc Stainless Steel Measuring Spoon Set
Which Material Is Right for You?
Best for
- Frequent bakers who need precise, long-lasting measurements.
- Home cooks who want easy cleaning and no odor retention.
Not ideal for
- Budget shoppers looking for the absolute lowest price.
- Users who prefer very lightweight utensils and don't mind replacing them occasionally.
