Food Network Chef Maeve Rochford Reveals the Kitchen Tools You Should Toss This Spring

Executive chef Maeve Rochford reveals which kitchen tools to toss during spring cleaning, from bacteria-trapping spatulas to worn nonstick pans.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 18, 2026, 6:05 AM EDT

Source: People

The "Spatula Rule": Why One-Piece Silicone Wins

One of Rochford’s most urgent warnings concerns the humble spatula. She advises home cooks to immediately discard any spatulas with seams where the head meets the handle. These crevices are prime real estate for bacteria and food particles "where dirt can grow," even with regular washing. To combat this, she recommends switching to all-silicone, one-piece designs. These seamless tools are more hygienic and significantly easier to sanitize in a dishwasher.

The Nonstick Myth: They Aren't Forever

A common mistake in home kitchens is treating nonstick pans as heirloom pieces. "Nonstick pans aren’t meant to last forever," Rochford explains, noting that she replaces her professional sets frequently. Once food starts sticking or the coating shows visible scratches and dullness, the pan has lost its utility. Instead of chasing expensive, trendy "forever" pans, the chef suggests investing in reliable workhorses like All-Clad, which provide even heating and a dependable release for everyday cooking.

Upgrading the Basics: Mitts and Boards

Rochford also highlights two often-overlooked essentials: oven mitts and cutting boards.