Interested in buying some measuring spoons? They are an essential kitchen item, after all. Measuring spoons are great for baking and beyond. You need them any time you have to measure out small amounts of ingredients. Measuring spoons are not just practical – they can be cute too, and a decorative addition to your kitchen. However, they are small and easy to lose, which just means you sometimes need to buy more!
Here is a list of some of the most popular measuring spoons available on the market today.
1. Editor’s Choice: Farberware Measuring Spoons
This affordable set includes five measuring spoons of different colors: a ¼ teaspoon, a ½ teaspoon, a teaspoon, a ½ tablespoon, and a tablespoon. This set is bright and vibrant! It’s great for when kids help out in the kitchen. Instead of telling them which size spoon to use, which can be hard for little ones to figure out, you can tell them which color to choose.
Each spoon has easy-to-read measurement markings in standard units, which is especially handy. They are suitable for measuring out both wet and dry ingredients.
The spoons are made of lightweight plastic which is very durable. One other benefit is, because they are made of plastic, they do not have sharp edges, compared to some metal spoons. This makes them more safe for little children.
This set comes on a ring which keeps all the measuring spoons together when they are being stored. No more losing spoons! The spoons can be easily removed from the ring if you wish.
They are also easy to clean and dishwasher safe. You might want to hand wash them instead, though, because the hot water from the dishwasher runs the risk of warping the spoons.
One drawback is some users find the spoons to be too wide and shallow, which poses a challenge when measuring. Also, the handles are a bit short, which is an issue when reaching into jars.
Pros
- Affordable
- Five spoons of different colors ranging from 1/4 tsp to 1 tbsp
- Spoons have easy-to-read measurement markings
- Suitable for measuring both wet and dry ingredients
- Made of durable lightweight plastic with no sharp edges
- Spoons come on a ring to keep them all together
Cons
- Spoons are wide and shallow which may pose a challenge when measuring
- Handles are too short to reach into narrow jars
2. Runner Up: KitchenArt Pro Adjust-A-Tablespoon
This measuring spoon is great for small spaces. It removes the need to have multiple measuring spoons in your kitchen drawer. This is a five-in-one spoon. It is actually a ½ teaspoon, a teaspoon, a 1 ½ teaspoon, a 2 teaspoon, a 2 ½ teaspoon, and a tablespoon all in one, nested together. It has a plastic adjuster that fits onto the spoon and allows you to choose the exact measurement you need.
The spoon is made of an attractive zinc alloy with a beautiful champagne satin finish. The adjuster is plastic.
This spoon is good for measuring both wet and dry ingredients. The spoon has an angled edge which makes it easy to level your ingredients precisely.
The measurements are engraved onto the spoon so they never wear off over time. In addition to imperial measurements like teaspoon and tablespoon, it also provides comparable measurements in metric (milliliters).
This device is easy to clean. Simply take the cover pieces off and wash all the components. Although the manufacturer states it is dishwasher safe on the top rack, users have found this can lead to the plastic degrading or cracking over time. You may want to stick to hand washing instead.
You can also buy a separate teaspoon set that measures out amounts ranging from 1/8 to 1 teaspoon.
One drawback is it is difficult to get this spoon to reach into narrow containers. Also, some force is required to move the adjuster back and forth, and therefore this device might not be suitable for people with low grip strength or arthritis.
Pros
- Five-in-one-spoon – great for small spaces – ranging from ½ tsp to 1 tbsp
- Made of zinc alloy with beautiful champagne satin finish
- Adjuster fits onto spoon and allows you to choose desired measurement
- Measurements are engraved into spoon so will not wear off
- Measurements are available in both imperial and metric (milliliters)
- Easy to clean – simply take apart components and wash
Cons
- Spoon has difficulty getting into narrow containers
- Not suitable for people with arthritis or low grip strength
3. Customer’s Choice: OXO Good Grips Measuring Spoons
This elegant stainless steel measuring spoon set includes four spoons with magnetic handles so they can be stored together. You’ll always be able to find the spoon you need! The spoons come in ¼ teaspoon, ½ teaspoon, 1 teaspoon, and 1 tablespoon sizes.
The magnets allow you to remove just one spoon at a time if you wish, or stack all the spoons for easy storage. If you prefer to store them separate from each other, you can always hang them individually on the fridge or another metal surface.
The spoons are designed with a flared lip for easy, accurate leveling. Each spoon has permanent measurement markings on the handle. These spoons are durable, sturdy, rust-resistant, and long lasting. The edges are machined consistently so as to avoid any sharp angles that you could cut your skin on.
The spoons have elongated bowls which make it easy to fit them into most bottles. The spoons are heavy duty, good at scooping out packed or hard sugar; they don’t bend, and they do not topple over when empty.
They feature handles with a soft, silicone insert that offers a non-slip grip, even if you are working with something slippery. These handles are comfortable to hold.
They are easy to clean and dishwasher safe. However, if you use the dishwasher, you may find the measurements on the spoons wearing off over time.
One drawback is the set is rather expensive compared to other brands. Also, the magnets that hold the spoons together are not that strong, and thus sometimes the spoons will come apart from each other.
Pros
- Set of four stainless steel spoons ranging from ¼ teaspoon to 1 tablespoon
- All four spoons have magnetic handles so they can be stored together
- Flared lip for easy, accurate leveling
- Permanent measurement markings etched into the handles
- Spoons are strong, don’t bend, and have elongated bowls – easy to fit into bottles
- Handles have soft silicone insert which is comfortable and easy to grip
Cons
- Expensive
- Magnets that hold spoons together are not very strong
4. Best Stainless Steel: Spring Chef Heavy Duty Stainless Steel Metal Measuring Spoons
This set of six stainless steel measuring spoons is remarkably accurate, more than many other spoons. They include 1/8 teaspoon, 1/4 teaspoon, 1/2 teaspoon, 3/4 teaspoon, 1 teaspoon, and 1 tablespoon. They nest together for space saving storage, and they can be kept together on a ring.
These spoons are long and slim, and fit into almost any spice jar. There is also a leveling device included, which adds to their accuracy. These spoons can be used to measure both wet and dry ingredients.
The spoons are made of sturdy, single metal construction, and do not rust or bend. They perform well and will last a long time. The handles feel good in your hand.
They have measurement markings engraved in both imperial and metric. The markings are easy to read and will not fade over time.
They are easy to clean and dishwasher safe.
Pros
- Set of six spoons ranging from 1/8 teaspoon to 1 tablespoon that nest together
- Spoons are long and slim, and can fit into almost any spice jar
- Leveling device is included
- Made of sturdy, single metal construction, and will not bend or rust
- Measurement markings engraved in both imperial and metric, will not fade over time
- Spoons can be used to measure wet or dry ingredients
Cons
- None mentioned by users
5. Best Basic: U-Taste 18/8 Stainless Steel Measuring Spoons
This set of nine measuring spoons is a great set for new cooks and accomplished chefs alike. The large number of spoons means there are more options for precise smaller measures that are not included in most basic sets. This set will come in handy for people who like to cut recipes in half, or those who use unusual, precise measurements in their cooking.
This set includes 1/16 teaspoon, 1/8 teaspoon, 1/4 teaspoon, 1/3 teaspoon, 1/2 teaspoon, 3/4 teaspoon, 1 teaspoon, 1/2 tablespoon, and 1 tablespoon. The spoons are deep, and hold dry and wet ingredients well, without spilling.
The spoons are made of food grade 18/8 stainless steel, and they are durable and odor- and rust-resistant. Also, the thickness of this particular stainless steel means it will not bend easily. The edges are polished, so they will not cut your fingers while measuring.
Each spoon is etched with its measurement in both imperial and metric. The measurements are deeply engraved so they will not fade.
The spoons are easy to clean and dishwasher safe. They are also easy to store, as they have a ring to clip all the spoons to. Then you can simply hang up the ring or store it in your drawer. The ring unclips easily so you can remove the spoons as needed.
Pros
- Set includes nine spoons (1/16 tsp to 1 tbsp) for the ultimate in precision and accuracy
- Good for both wet and dry ingredients
- Made of 18/8 stainless steel, which is food grade, durable, and odor- and rust-resistant
- Thick construction, which means they do not bend easily
- Each spoon is deeply etched with its measurement in imperial and metric
- Easy to clean and dishwasher safe
Cons
- None mentioned by users
6. Best Magnetic: Prepworks
Prepworks’ measuring spoons are made of an attractive metal with more than a few extras for sharp-eyed shoppers. Like many measuring spoons Prepworks offers a nested design for easy storage. They take this one step further by using a flat-bottomed design. This is backed up by getting 2 teaspoons for the price of one, so to speak. One end of each measuring spoon is rounded for spice jars, while the other end is flat-bottomed to stop liquid from spilling.
We also really like that Prepworks included an easy-to-grip raised middle section where the measurements are written. Although not engraved, which is our preference, the lettering on each spoon is clear and includes by metric and imperial measurements. They are also advertised as magnetized, meaning they could be hung on a knife block. With that said, there have been some consumer reports of the magnets breaking or not adhering properly to a magnetized band.
Pros
- Nested design including all standard measurements
- Narrow end designed for spice jars and broad end for liquids
- Flat bottomed to avoid tipping
- Magnetic, stainless-steel design
- Easy-grip raised middle
Cons
- Some consumer reports of magnets breaking – although if this is a concern, we can easily recommend the plastic snap-to model instead of magnetic.
7. Honorable Mention: Spring Chef
The Spring Chef set of six measuring spoons is great for those looking for products that last. They come with a standardized nested design across all six commonly used kitchen measurements. They also hang from a central ring, meaning that they can be detached and stored separately if needed. One bonus that we really like was the addition of a leveling arm that includes a set of inch measurements on it.
Spring Chef also doesn’t skimp on quality when it comes to the details. These measuring spoons are both flat-bottomed for both dry and liquid storage, but also feature engraved measurements. This means that you’ll be able to read each measurement, from teaspoon to tablespoon, over the years. We also liked that these were entirely stainless-steel, guaranteeing that they will work with most magnetized knife strips. The lack of any plastic components also means that these measuring spoons are dishwasher safe for easy cleaning.
Pros
- Nested design for easy storage across all standard measurements
- Spoons can be detached from a central ring
- Includes a leveling arm
- Engraved Imperial and Metric measurements – no rubbing off through wear and tear
- Stainless-steel design – works with most magnetic strips
- Dishwasher safe
Cons
- Some consumer reports of incorrectly cut 1/4 tsp and 1/8 tsp measurements.
How to choose measuring spoons
Now that you have seen six of the most popular sets of measuring spoons on the market today, perhaps you have made a list of useful features you’d like to see in your own set. Here are a few suggestions on what to look for if you are thinking of buying a new set of measuring spoons.
Number of spoons
Look for a set that includes at least four spoons of different sizes. The most common measurements in a set are ¼ teaspoon, ½ teaspoon, 1 teaspoon, and 1 tablespoon. Some sets have more spoons, such as a 1/8 teaspoon size or a ½ tablespoon.
Durable material
Measuring spoons are often available in stainless steel or plastic. Stainless steel spoons are popular because they are durable and long lasting, and easy to clean in the dishwasher. However, they are generally more expensive than the plastic versions.
Plastic spoons are less costly and available in many different colors. They might not last as long though, so you most likely will need to replace them more often. If you buy plastic colors, consider getting a set that is multicolored so you can easily pick the correct measurement just by choosing the color.
Shape
Another thing to consider is the shape of the spoons. Spoons with a flat bottom tend to spill less often than those with round bottoms, and they are easier to set down on a countertop. Also, some spoons have longer handles and narrow heads which make it easier to reach into bottles.
Wet or dry measuring spoons
Some spoons sets are for wet ingredients, some are for dry ingredients, and some work well with both. Try to choose the latter, for convenience in your kitchen.
Measurement markings
Look for spoons that have the measurement markings etched on, so they won’t fade over time. Also try to find measurement markings that are in both imperial and metric.
Dishwasher safe
Dishwasher safe measuring spoons are the easiest to clean. This way you do not have to worry about them warping or becoming damaged if you throw them in the dishwasher. If you do not have a dishwasher at the moment, you can always hand wash them. Stainless steel measuring spoons are dishwasher safe but some plastic varieties might not be.
Easy to store
Look for spoons that are stored on a ring or that are stackable/nesting. These are easier to store. A ring will keep them all together so you won’t lose any spoons, and you can easily remove one from the ring if you need to.
Now you know a lot more about measuring spoons than you did before – most likely! You can feel well informed when you go out there to choose your next set. They will truly become an essential item in your kitchen. Happy shopping.
FAQs
What are measuring spoons used for?
Measuring spoons are a specialized tool for adding small amounts of potent ingredients like herbs, sugar, or spices to your meals. Although you could try to measure out 1 tbsp (or 15g) in a measuring cup you’d be using a bucket to get a drop of water. Measuring spoons are also perfect for baking where precision is key.
How do you measure a tbsp (tablespoon) without measuring spoons?
Three teaspoons are equal to 1 tbsp. However, if you’re without any measuring spoons at all then you can use your thumb as a rough indicator of a tbsp. This means measuring out your spices in a small mound equal to the distance between your knuckle and nail. Other tricks include; using the tip of your thumb to measure a teaspoon, cupped hands for 1/2 cup, and a fist for 1-cup.
How accurate are measuring spoons?
Measuring spoons are designed to be 100% accurate out-of-the-box. With that said, manufacturer defects do occur. There’s nothing worse than some new measuring spoons only to discover post-Bundt cake that you were off by 1 tbsp due to an improperly cut measuring spoon. We always suggest doing a few test measures first to make sure that you’re getting what you pay for.
Are metal measuring spoons better than plastic?
Sous Vide Guy definitely prefers metal measuring spoons to plastic for a few reasons. First of all metal spoons are more durable and will last much longer than plastic if treated well. Second, plastic has a habit of picking up oily residue, odors, or colors over periods of prolonged use.
Can measuring spoons be used for liquid?
Absolutely! Measuring spoons are designed for both wet and dry ingredients. This is especially true for ingredients that come in small packages with big flavor – like vanilla extract, syrups, or the like. When working with larger quantities of liquid we instead suggest that you use measuring cups rather than spoons.