The large handle feels comfortable in your hand as you flip and push food around. Wood is gentle on ceramics, non-stick cookware and glass. It is also warmly beautiful and naturally heat resistant.

Despite all the bright-colored, high-tech silicone kitchen utensils out these days, there’s nothing quite like the good old-fashioned feel of wood for cooking needs. Crafted from solid beech wood, this 14-inch turner is long enough to keep hands away from oil or heat, making it ideal for flipping flapjacks or keeping potstickers from sticking. While the gently curved head thins to a straight edge, the give of wood means the edge is safe for nonstick cookware. A natural oil finish protects the wooden turner and won’t contaminate food.

True to OXO’s creed of designing products that are easy to use for the widest range of cooks, the handle, which is flat on top and sensuously curved underneath, comfortably fits the hand. A hole in the end allows the turner to hang where it’s most needed. Set in a crock, the turner forms a handsome bouquet with OXO’s other wooden utensils, such as mixing spoons, slotted spoons, and a spaghetti server. Wooden utensils are best washed by hand. OXO backs all its products with a satisfaction warranty, and will replace or refund any returned item. --Ann Bieri