When you need reach and control in the kitchen, extra long handled spoons are a practical choice. This guide highlights five top options, ideal for cooks who work with large pots, buffets, or long simmering recipes. Each pick is best for a specific use case—buffet service, heavy stirring, home canning, or deep-pot cooking—so you can choose the spoon that fits your workflow. The table below compares key points to help you decide at a glance.
| Product | Best For | Length | Material |
|---|---|---|---|
| Winco 18″ Stainless Steel Basting Spoon | Buffet/restaurant prep | 18″ | Stainless steel |
| ECOSALL 18″ Wooden Spoon | Large-batch cooking | 18″ | Wood |
| Brewing Spoon, 21-Inch | Stirring thick mixtures | 21″ | Stainless steel |
| Flat Wooden Spatula, 24″ | Deep pots and crawfish boils | 24″ | Beech wood |
| 17-inch Large Wooden Spoon | Non-stick cookware and delicate stirring | 17″ | Wood |
Winco 18″ Stainless Steel Basting Spoon
The Winco basting spoon uses a solid, 1.2 mm thick stainless steel design to withstand heavy daily use in foodservice settings. The 18″ handle provides ample reach for buffet lines or deep stock pots, while the bowl holds juices and sauces for easy serving. Best for commercial kitchens, caterers, and home cooks who need robust, reliable performance without added weight.
Best for: professional kitchens and serious home cooks who need durability and long reach. Why selected: combines a rugged build with practical basting and serving capabilities. Caution: the long handle may be heavier than some home-use spoons, requiring a comfortable grip over long tasks.
ECOSALL 18″ Heavy Duty Wooden Spoon
This 18″ wooden spoon features a deep scoop and a sturdy beechwood construction suitable for large-batch cooking, canning, or cajun boils. The long handle keeps hands away from heat, and the smooth finish reduces the chance of scratching nonstick pots. Best for: home canners, chefs who work with large pots, and cooks who prefer a natural wood tool. Why selected: natural wood offers heat resistance and versatility, while the long handle supports safer stirring in deep pots.
Caution: wood can wear over time with heavy use; avoid exposing to excessive moisture to extend life.
Brewing 21-Inch Stainless Steel Spoon
At 21 inches, this stainless steel spoon is designed for thick mixtures and mash stirring in large batches. The rugged, corrosion-resistant spoon is a solid option for home brewers or cooks working with heavy, dense ingredients. Best for: brewers or big-pot cooks who need a long, sturdy stirring tool. Why selected: length and construction promote durability in demanding tasks. Caution: solid spoon design may be heavier and less maneuverable for small pots.
Flat Wooden Spatula for Cooking, 24″
This 24″ wooden spatula is a versatile stirring paddle suitable for deep stock pots, crawfish boils, and heavy mixing. Made from smooth beech wood, it offers robustness without splintering and keeps hands away from heat. Best for: cooks who need a long reach and a paddle-like tool for scraping and scraping-like tasks. Why selected: combines stirring and scraping capabilities in a single, heat-safe wooden tool. Caution: wood can be more susceptible to moisture damage if not dried properly after washing.
17-inch Large Wooden Spoon
This 17-inch wooden spoon offers a balance of length and manageability for everyday cooking and stirring in deep pots. The smooth, burr-free finish helps prevent food sticking and minimizes wear on nonstick cookware. Best for: cooks who want a dependable wooden spoon that won’t scratch pans while delivering comfortable control. Why selected: long enough for deep pots yet lighter than some 18″ models. Caution: might not reach very deep stockpots as effectively as longer tools.
Buying Guide
What should I consider when choosing an extra long handled spoon?
Material matters for heat resistance, durability, and care. Stainless steel is rugged and dishwasher-safe, while wood offers natural heat protection and a gentler touch on cookware. Consider the type of cooking you do most—large-batch, buffets, canning, or deep-pot cooking—and match length to reach without straining.
Which length is best for my pots?
18 inches covers most medium-to-deep pots and buffets. For very deep stock pots or commercial use, 21 to 24 inches increase reach and reduce heat exposure to your hands. Weigh comfort against weight when choosing heavier metal spoons.
Are wooden spoons safe for nonstick cookware?
Yes, nonstick surfaces are typically safe with wooden spoons because wood is softer and less likely to scratch. Ensure the finish is smooth and well-maintained to prevent burrs from forming.
How important is a spoon’s bowl design?
A deeper or wider bowl helps hold sauces and juices for serving and mixing. A flat or beechwood paddle is excellent for scraping and stirring in large pots, while a thinner bowl is easier to maneuver in tight spots.
Maintenance tips
- Wash promptly after use and dry thoroughly to prevent corrosion or wood cracking.
- For wooden spoons, occasionally treat with a food-grade mineral oil to extend life.
- Avoid harsh abrasives on metal spoons to preserve finish.
Comparison snapshot
- Best for buffets and restaurant prep: Winco 18″ Stainless Steel Basting Spoon.
- Best for large-batch cooking: ECOSALL 18″ Wooden Spoon.
- Best for thick mixtures: Brewing 21-Inch Stainless Steel Spoon.
- Best for crawfish boils or deep pots: Flat Wooden Spatula, 24″.
- Best budget-friendly long wooden option: 17-inch Large Wooden Spoon.
FAQ
- What length should I choose for a standard stockpot? — An 18″ spoon is usually sufficient for most stockpots, but a 21″ or longer model can help with deeper pots.
- Are metal spoons better than wooden ones? — Metal spoons are more durable and dishwasher-safe; wooden spoons are gentler on nonstick surfaces and stay cooler to the touch.
- Can I use wooden spoons for high-heat frying? — Yes, but avoid prolonged exposure that could scorch the wood; use metal for high-heat, quick-stir tasks if needed.
- Do these spoons come with protective coatings? — The listed features describe the materials and finishes; follow care instructions to maintain finishes over time.
- Is a longer spoon harder to control? — It can be heavier, so choose based on your comfort and the size of your cooking vessels.
- Are these suitable for buffet service? — Yes, several options are designed for buffet and restaurant use, offering sturdy construction and large serving capability.