Why I Switched to a Non-Toxic Crockpot 

Discover the benefits of using a non-toxic crockpot and why the 360 Cookware Slow Cooker is a top choice for health-conscious families. Join me as I share the journey to safer, intentional living in the kitchen!

As a homeschool mom of three active boys, the kitchen is easily one of the most used spaces in our home. Between preparing hearty breakfasts, lunch breaks between lessons, and family dinners after long, busy days, I’ve come to truly appreciate tools that make my life easier—and healthier. Over the past few years, I’ve been on a journey of transforming our home into a safer, more mindful space, intentionally swapping out everyday products for non-toxic alternatives (see my own Intentional Home Guide). One of the most game-changing decisions I’ve made in the kitchen was switching to a non-toxic crockpot, and more specifically, investing in the 360 Cookware Slow Cooker.

I love sharing why non-toxic cookware matters, what to look for when shopping for nontoxic slow cookers, and why I believe 360 Cookware (use code BRIT25 for a discount!) is the best choice—especially for families like ours who want healthier meals without compromising on convenience!

Why I Ditched My Old Crockpot

A few years ago, I started reading more about toxic chemicals in everyday products, and one rabbit hole led to another. I was shocked to learn that even something as seemingly innocent as a crockpot could be leaching unwanted materials into the food I was lovingly preparing for my kids.

Traditional slow cookers often come with ceramic inserts. On the surface, they seem fine—easy to clean, evenly heated, and reliable. But what I didn’t know is that many ceramic inserts are glazed with materials that may contain lead or cadmium, especially in older or cheaper models. Even though these substances are supposed to be within “safe” limits as regulated by the FDA, I started asking: What is actually safe for developing bodies? Do I want to take that risk, especially when better options are available?

The Problem with Conventional Crockpots

Let’s break it down. Here are some common concerns with standard crockpots:

  •  Lead in Glaze–Even crockpots labeled “lead-free” may contain trace amounts of lead or cadmium in their glaze. Over time, especially with wear and tear, cracks in the ceramic can cause the leaching of heavy metals—something that can accumulate in our bodies with serious long-term effects.
  • Non-Stick Coatings–Some slow cookers have non-stick or Teflon-style coatings on the insert. These are often made with PFOA or PTFE, which are known to release toxic fumes at high temperatures and have been linked to hormonal disruption and other health risks.
  • Plastic Components and Off-Gassing–Many slow cookers have plastic lids or parts that may off-gas or leach chemicals when heated, especially if you’re cooking on high for long periods.

As I learned more, I knew it was time to upgrade. I wanted a slow cooker that aligned with the same principles I bring into our homeschooling—wholesome, thoughtful, and intentional choices that nourish my children and protect their growing bodies.

What to Look for in a Non-Toxic Crockpot

As I researched and eventually made my purchase, I compiled a mental checklist of what truly mattered in a non-toxic slow cooker. If you’re currently shopping or thinking of making a switch, here are the features you should prioritize:

  • Material Safety–Look for stainless steel or unglazed clay inserts—no coatings, no glazes, no synthetic linings. Stainless steel is incredibly safe, durable, and doesn’t leach. 
  • No Plastic in Contact with Food–Check for lids and handles. Even if the insert is safe, you don’t want plastic that touches food or is exposed to high heat.
  • Ease of Use and Versatility–Busy moms don’t need extra work. Choose something that’s easy to clean and doesn’t have a steep learning curve.
  • Made in the USA (or a country with strict manufacturing standards)–This isn’t just about supporting local jobs—it’s about knowing that safety standards are being enforced.
  • Reputation and Transparency–Choose companies that are transparent about their materials, sourcing, and environmental impact. Greenwashing is real, and it’s important to buy from brands that walk the walk.

Meet My Favorite: The 360 Cookware Slow Cooker

After lots of research and personal deliberation, I landed on the 360 Cookware Slow Cooker—and I haven’t looked back. I know you already know I love their basic cookware!  I talk more about it HERE. I know there are other good options out there, but let me start by saying this isn’t your average slow cooker. It’s actually a surgical-grade stainless steel pot (18/8 stainless steel) that sits on a heating base—so it’s not ceramic at all. This design is both smart and safer, and I genuinely feel more at peace knowing what my food is coming into contact with.

Why I Love It:

  • 100% Non-Toxic–No glazes, no chemical coatings, no PFOAs, and no heavy metals. The cooking surface is pure stainless steel, which is completely inert and won’t interact with acidic foods (hello tomato stew!).
  • Multi-Functional–The stainless steel pot doubles as a regular stovetop and oven-safe pot. I love this feature. I can sear a roast on the stove, pop it on the base to slow cook all day, and then stick it in the oven to finish, all without transferring dishes.
  • Made in the USA–360 Cookware is manufactured in West Bend, Wisconsin. I love knowing that it’s made under strict quality controls, supports American workers, and adheres to some of the highest standards for food-grade safety.
  • Eco-Friendly–360 Cookware’s production process uses no harsh chemicals, and their lifetime guarantee means less waste in the long run. As a mom teaching my boys to steward the earth well, that means a lot.
  • Waterless Cooking Option–Their unique vapor-seal technology allows you to cook without added water or oils, preserving nutrients and enhancing flavor. It’s not something I use every time, but it’s nice to have the option.

Real-Life Mom Wins with 360 Cookware

I’m all about practical, real-life applications. Here are just a few ways this slow cooker has helped simplify and clean up our kitchen routine:

  • Meal Prep with Peace of Mind–I can set up a beef stew in the morning, walk away to homeschool lessons, and not worry that my appliance is leaching sketchy chemicals into the food.
  • Easy Cleanup–The pot cleans up beautifully. No crusty, baked-on mess, and no weird coatings to worry about scratching or damaging.
  • Perfect for Big Batches–With three growing boys, I love that I can double recipes in the 360 pot—chili, pulled pork, bone broth—everything turns out flavorful and evenly cooked.
  • Time Saver–It gives me back time—something we homeschooling moms know is priceless. I can throw dinner in early and forget about it while I focus on teaching, field trips, or just catching up on life.

A Non-Toxic Lifestyle is a Journey, Not a Sprint

If you’re reading this and thinking, “Wow, I have so much to replace,” please let me encourage you: It doesn’t have to happen overnight. My switch to non-toxic living has been gradual, step-by-step. I started with the water we drink, water bottles, and food storage. Then cleaning products. Then skincare. Eventually, I looked at my cookware and knew it was time.

Choosing a non-toxic crockpot was one of the most impactful swaps I’ve made—not just for my peace of mind, but for the health of my family. It’s a daily-use item, so I feel the benefits every time I use it.

Why This Matters

As moms, we make a thousand decisions a day—some small, some that shape the future. Choosing what we cook with may seem minor, but it’s part of a larger commitment to protecting our homes, nourishing our families, and modeling mindful living to our children. Our homes are sacred places. For me, creating a non-toxic environment is one of the ways I express love and care. 

The 360 Cookware Slow Cooker fits beautifully into that vision—not just as a healthier cooking tool, but as a symbol of the kind of intentional life I’m striving for.

If you’re in the market for a safe, effective, and durable crockpot, I can’t recommend 360 Cookware enough. It’s been one of my favorite investments—not just for the health benefits, but for the simplicity and reliability it brings into our busy homeschooling days.  Don’t forget to use code BRIT25 for a discount!

More Posts on Intentional Healthy Living

As always, thank you for following along!  If you want more recipes or healthy living ideas brought to your inbox, be sure to subscribe to my newsletter!  I would love for you to tag me @thehensrudehome over on instagram. Cheers to healthy living!

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