If you’re shopping for a cookware upgrade, the Nuwave Duralon Blue cookware set is likely on your radar for three reasons: it’s ceramic nonstick, it’s marketed as PFAS-free, and it’s built to work on induction. That combination is exactly what many home cooks want—easy release for eggs and delicate foods, a coating that avoids certain “forever chemical” concerns, and compatibility with modern cooktops.
In this review, I’ll walk through what the set is, what you actually get, how it performs in real-life cooking routines, and who it makes the most sense for. I’ll also cover tradeoffs (because every nonstick set has them), plus a few solid alternatives if your priorities are different.
Affiliate disclosure: If you decide to buy through Amazon after reading this, I may earn a small commission—at no extra cost to you.
Credit:Amazon
Quick snapshot
- Type: Ceramic nonstick cookware set with tempered glass lids
- Best for: Everyday home cooking, lower-oil meals, induction households, weeknight simplicity
- Not ideal for: High-heat searing all the time, people who want “buy it for life” cookware
- Typical CTA: Check the latest price on Amazon (prices and deals change often)
What Is the Nuwave Duralon Blue Cookware Set?
The Nuwave Duralon Blue cookware set is a 12-piece ceramic nonstick cookware bundle designed for day-to-day cooking: sauces, soups, pasta, sautéing, and quick frying. It uses a forged body (for strength and easier handling), a ceramic nonstick cooking surface, and a base designed to be induction-ready.
It’s positioned as a “health-conscious” cookware option because it’s marketed as free from PFAS and other chemicals commonly associated with traditional nonstick coatings. It also includes tempered glass lids, which are handy for simmering and monitoring food without constantly lifting the lid.
If your goal is simple cooking with easy cleanup—without jumping into the maintenance of cast iron or the learning curve of stainless—this set aims to sit right in that sweet spot.
Key Features of the Nuwave Duralon Blue Cookware Set
What’s included in the 12-piece set
This set counts pieces the same way most cookware brands do: each pot plus its lid counts as two pieces.
You’re getting:
- 1.5-quart saucepan + tempered glass lid
- 2-quart saucepan + tempered glass lid
- 3-quart saucepan + tempered glass lid
- 5-quart stock pot + tempered glass lid
- 8-quart stock pot + tempered glass lid
- 8-inch fry pan
- 9.5-inch fry pan
That lineup covers a lot of real cooking: oatmeal and sauces (1.5 qt), rice and sides (2 qt), pasta sauce or small soups (3 qt), meal-prep soups or chili (5 qt), and larger batches or pasta nights (8 qt), plus two everyday fry pans.
Ceramic nonstick surface designed for easy release
Ceramic nonstick is popular for a reason: it’s typically great for low-to-medium heat cooking where you want food to slide out without much oil.
With a ceramic set like this, you can reasonably expect:
- Easier eggs, pancakes, and fish
- Less sticking for quick sautéed veggies
- Faster cleanup after sticky foods (like oatmeal or rice)
One important reality check: ceramic nonstick isn’t “forever nonstick.” Like any nonstick surface, performance depends heavily on:
- Heat level (lower is usually better)
- Utensils (silicone/wood is gentler than metal)
- Cleaning habits (avoid abrasives and harsh scrubbing)
Used with some care, ceramic can stay enjoyable for a long time—but it’s not the same “decades of abuse” story you might get with stainless steel.
Marketed as PFAS-free (and why that matters to shoppers)
A lot of people shop ceramic specifically to avoid coatings tied to PFAS concerns. This set is marketed as PFAS-free, and it’s also positioned as free from several other substances commonly mentioned in nonstick discussions.
Practical takeaway: if avoiding those chemicals is a priority for you, this set checks that box as a product positioning and purchasing criteria—but you still want to treat any nonstick cookware responsibly (avoid overheating empty pans, use the right heat range, and replace cookware if the surface becomes damaged).
Scratch resistance and everyday durability (with the right expectations)
The set is described as “diamond-infused” and highly scratch resistant. That’s good news if you’ve ever had a delicate nonstick surface that seemed to mark up quickly.
That said, here’s the honest, kitchen-realistic version:
- Scratch resistant doesn’t mean scratch proof.
- You’ll get the best longevity by using silicone, wood, or nylon utensils, especially for stirring or scraping.
- Stacking pans without protection can still cause wear over time.
If you’re the type who wants to toss pans in a pile and stir with a fork, you’ll still shorten the life of most nonstick—ceramic included.
Induction-ready base for modern cooktops
Induction compatibility is a big deal, because not all cookware works on induction. This set is designed to be induction-ready, meaning it should perform on:
- Induction
- Electric
- Gas
- Other common stovetops
If you’re moving into a newer home, buying for an apartment with induction, or just future-proofing your kitchen, this feature alone makes the set more compelling than many basic ceramic sets.
Tip for induction users: Try to match pan size to burner size so the heat pattern is even and efficient.
Oven-safe—with different limits for pans vs. lids
One of the most useful “quality of life” features here is oven capability.
- Cookware (the pans/pots) is oven-safe up to 500°F
- Tempered glass lids are oven-safe up to 350°F
That difference matters. It means you can finish dishes in the oven (like baked pasta or a frittata) but you’ll want to:
- Remove the glass lid if you’re going above 350°F
- Consider covering with foil for higher-temp oven use
This is a strong point for busy home cooks who like one-pot meals or finishing with a quick bake.
Tempered glass lids with venting
Glass lids are underrated—until you’ve cooked with them for a week. They let you:
- Keep an eye on simmering sauces
- Reduce splatter while sautéing
- Monitor boil intensity without “peek lifting” (and losing heat)
A vent can help release steam, which reduces the chance of boil-over and keeps condensation from building up too aggressively.
Handles designed for comfort and control
Comfort matters more than most people think—especially when you’re lifting a full stock pot.
This set uses handles designed to stay more comfortable during stovetop cooking and offer a secure grip. Regardless of marketing terms, still treat handles like any cookware:
- Use a mitt when moving between oven and stove
- Don’t assume “cool-touch” means “never gets warm,” especially near heat sources
Who the Nuwave Duralon Blue Cookware Set Is Best For
This set is a strong fit if you want easy meals, quick cleanup, and induction compatibility without going ultra-premium.
Best for:
- Busy weeknight cooks who value nonstick convenience
- Apartment dwellers or homeowners with induction cooktops
- Families and meal preppers (the 8-quart pot is great for big batches)
- People reducing oil/butter in everyday cooking
- New homeowners building a functional cookware base fast
Not the best fit for:
- High-heat sear lovers who regularly crank burners to max
(Ceramic nonstick generally prefers medium heat for longevity.) - “One set for the next 20 years” shoppers
(For that, stainless steel or cast iron is a better long-term bet.) - Anyone who relies on dishwasher-only cleaning for everything
(More on this below—there’s nuance.)
How It Performs in Real-Life Cooking
You don’t buy cookware to admire it on the shelf—you buy it to make dinner easier. Here’s what you can realistically expect from a ceramic nonstick + forged construction setup like this.
1) Everyday nonstick cooking: where it shines
Ceramic nonstick is typically strongest for:
- Eggs and omelets
- Pancakes and French toast
- Stir-fried veggies
- Fish fillets and shrimp
- Reheating leftovers without turning them into a stuck-on mess
Use low to medium heat, preheat briefly, then add oil (even a small amount). You’ll usually get better browning and less sticking than adding oil to a cold pan.
2) Soups, pasta, and batch cooking
The stock pots are the workhorses here.
- The 5-quart size is a sweet spot for family chili, curry, or soup.
- The 8-quart is the “meal prep / holiday / big batch” option.
Glass lids help you keep simmer control without constantly opening the pot.
3) Heat distribution and hot spots
Forged cookware paired with a reinforced base is generally designed to:
- Reduce warping
- Spread heat more evenly than thin bargain cookware
On any stove (especially induction), even heating also depends on:
- Burner size match
- Preheating appropriately
- Not blasting max heat when you don’t need to
4) Searing and browning: manage expectations
Can you brown meat in ceramic? Yes—especially if you:
- Pat meat dry
- Preheat at medium
- Use a bit of oil
- Don’t move it too soon
But if your #1 goal is hard, restaurant-style searing every night, stainless steel or cast iron will usually outperform ceramic nonstick.
How to Use and Get Started (So the Coating Lasts)
Nonstick longevity is less about luck and more about habits. Here’s a simple “do this, not that” routine.
Before first use
- Wash with mild soap and warm water
- Dry fully
- Optional (but helpful): wipe a thin film of oil onto the cooking surface, then wipe out excess
Best cooking practices
- Stick to low-to-medium heat for most meals
(Ceramic doesn’t need high heat to work well.) - Avoid overheating empty pans
- Use silicone, wood, or nylon utensils
- Use gentle oils (avoid aerosol cooking sprays if possible—they can leave residue over time)
Cleaning and maintenance
Here’s the nuance: the set is marketed as dishwasher-safe, but the care guidance commonly recommends handwashing the cookware and using the dishwasher mainly for glass lids.
For best results:
- Let cookware cool before washing (avoid thermal shock)
- Handwash with a soft sponge and mild soap
- For stuck-on residue: soak in warm soapy water for 10–20 minutes
- Skip abrasive powders and harsh scrubbers
Storage tips
- If stacking: place a towel or pan protector between pieces
- Store lids carefully to avoid chips or banging the glass edges
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Ceramic nonstick surface for easy everyday cooking
- Marketed as PFAS-free (appealing for health-conscious shoppers)
- Induction-ready (more versatile than many ceramic sets)
- Useful, well-chosen pot sizes—including a true large stock pot
- Oven-safe cookware up to 500°F (great for finishing dishes)
- Glass lids help monitor food and control splatter
- Two fry pans cover most daily needs
Cons
- Glass lids have a lower oven limit (350°F) than the pans
- Ceramic nonstick longevity depends on careful heat and cleaning habits
- Not the best option for constant high-heat searing
- “Dishwasher-safe” may not equal “dishwasher-best” for long-term performance
Alternatives and Comparisons
If you’re not 100% sure this is your set, here are smart comparison angles that match common shopper intent.
If you want ceramic nonstick but a different style or price point
Look at other ceramic cookware sets that emphasize:
- PFAS-free positioning
- Similar saucepan/stock pot coverage
- Induction compatibility (not always included—verify before buying)
Choose this Nuwave set if induction-ready cookware and larger stock pot capacity matter to you.
If you want higher searing performance (and don’t mind learning)
Consider stainless steel cookware.
- Pros: Very durable, great browning, oven-friendly, often “buy it for life”
- Cons: Not nonstick; you’ll need technique and more cleanup effort
Pick stainless if you cook lots of meats and want strong fond development for sauces.
If you like nonstick but want a “hybrid” approach
Hybrid cookware (often stainless + a textured cooking surface) can be a middle ground:
- Pros: Better searing than typical nonstick, often very durable
- Cons: Usually needs more oil than ceramic for truly stick-free eggs
Pick hybrid if you want one pan type for everything and accept a small learning curve.
If you want ultra-simple, ultra-tough cookware
Cast iron is the durability king.
- Pros: Incredible heat retention, naturally nonstick when seasoned, lasts generations
- Cons: Heavy, needs maintenance, can be reactive with acidic foods (depending on seasoning)
Pick cast iron if you don’t mind the upkeep and want rugged performance.
Is the Nuwave Duralon Blue Cookware Set Worth It?
For the right household, yes—especially if your checklist includes:
- Ceramic nonstick convenience
- PFAS-free positioning
- Induction compatibility
- A practical mix of saucepans + stock pots
- Oven finishing flexibility (within lid limits)
This is the kind of set that makes dinner easier when you treat it like nonstick cookware: moderate heat, gentle utensils, and sensible cleaning. Do that, and you’ll likely enjoy the daily friction reduction that good nonstick brings.
If you’re price-checking, I’d recommend looking for promotions because cookware sets often swing in price.
Check the latest price on Amazon and compare any available bundle options before you decide.
Final Verdict
The Nuwave Duralon Blue cookware set is a smart, well-rounded choice for everyday home cooking—especially for kitchens with induction and for shoppers who prefer ceramic nonstick and PFAS-free positioning. The included pot sizes make sense, the two fry pans cover daily tasks, and the oven-safe rating (with clear lid limits) adds flexibility beyond basic stovetop use.
It’s not the set I’d pick for constant high-heat searing or for someone who wants cookware that lasts decades with zero care. But if your goal is easy cooking, easier cleanup, and a modern feature set, it’s a strong contender.
See today’s deal on Amazon if you want to compare current pricing and available variations.
FAQ
1) Is the Nuwave Duralon Blue cookware set PFAS-free?
It’s marketed as PFAS-free and positioned as a “cleaner” ceramic alternative to traditional nonstick. If PFAS avoidance is a top priority, this is one of the key reasons people choose this set.
2) Is it safe to use on induction?
Yes—this set is designed to be induction-ready. That makes it a good option for newer homes and apartments where induction is common.
3) What is the oven-safe temperature?
The cookware (pots and pans) is oven-safe up to 500°F. The tempered glass lids are oven-safe up to 350°F, so remove the lid or use foil if you’re cooking hotter than that.
4) Is it really dishwasher-safe?
It’s commonly listed as dishwasher-safe, but for best longevity most nonstick cookware performs better with handwashing. A practical approach is: handwash the pans and feel more comfortable dishwashing the glass lids when needed.
5) Can I use metal utensils with it?
It’s built to resist scratches better than some delicate coatings, but metal utensils can still reduce the life of most nonstick surfaces over time. For the best long-term results, stick with silicone, wood, or nylon.
6) Do I need to season ceramic nonstick cookware?
You don’t have to, but wiping a very thin layer of oil on the surface before first use (and occasionally after deep cleaning) can help maintain smooth release.
7) How long will the nonstick coating last?
There’s no honest one-size-fits-all number. Lifespan depends on heat levels, utensil choice, cleaning method, and storage. Treat it gently (medium heat, soft tools, handwash) and you’ll typically get much better longevity than with high heat and abrasive cleaning.
