Silicone spatulas have been available on the domestic market for a short time. They have been commercially available before, but since 2004, silicone spatulas have invaded the home kitchen, in place of the traditional rubber or plastic spatula. The traditional rubber spatula replaced metal and wooden spatulas a few years earlier.

Silicone has a number of advantages over most rubbers, as it is more resistant to heat and inert, so it does not easily stain or retain odors. Spatulas are used to mix ingredients, both wet and dry, as well as scrape down bowls when emptying them. 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 those made of metal and wood. 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. Food can be mixed directly in containers on the stove or in pans. Accidental exposure to heat will not damage silicone utensils.

Silicone spatulas aren’t available in as many sizes as rubber or plastic spatulas yet, but the number is increasing. The efficient cook probably does not need many sizes to cook.

Silicone spatulas won’t damage the nonstick surfaces of pots and pans the way metal spatulas do. They are smooth and also won’t deposit tool debris like rubber will when very hot. However, silicone will not melt, change shape or fray 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 washed gently in warm water with a soft cloth or can be washed in the dishwasher. Take care not to puncture the spatula either 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 from quality silicone and read the manufacturer’s instructions. If they aren’t suitable for all home cooking temperatures, find another.