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patperry2766's avatar
patperry2766
Explorer II
Oct 17, 2016

stainless steel cookware pros & cons

I'm looking to spend some money upgrading my home cookware, so I figured this might be a good spot to pose a few questions.

To date, I've always used the non-stick variety, but my Calphalons are slowly dying out and need to be replaced. I'm looking at the 18/10 stainless steel All Clads, but don't know what to expect from this type of cookware. Also looking to upgrade my home stove and I haven't completely ruled out induction if I can afford it. I want oven & dishwasher safe.

I've always been told that spend the money to buy it once, and you will be rewarded, but is this brand overkill or are there other equally capable options that are less $$.

Thanks

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  • DutchmenSport's avatar
    DutchmenSport
    Explorer
    Oct 17, 2016
    We purchased SaladMaster cookware about 30 years ago. We're still using it, still good as the day we purchased it. Click here. It wasn't cheap the, and it's not cheap today. But in 30 years, the only additional cook wear we've added has been a Presto Electric flat griddle.

    To clean, if something is stuck to the bottom, just add a 1/4 inch of water, set on the stove top on a low-medium temperature. Wait 10 minutes and it melts right off. (Mostly it cleans with no problem, but if something does stick ... that's the way to clean it off).
  • patperry2766's avatar
    patperry2766
    Explorer II
    Oct 17, 2016
    how does stainless steel cook as compared to the traditional "non-stick" cookware?

    I have seen a lot of people complaining about food sticking and a B to clean.
  • harley-dave's avatar
    harley-dave
    Explorer
    Oct 17, 2016
    We picked up some SS induction capable pans at Ikea and they have been great. Easy to clean and they work with every type of stove. Reasonably priced also surprisingly enough. Replaced our Calphalon with them at home and the RV.

    Dave
  • Ivylog's avatar
    Ivylog
    Explorer III
    Oct 17, 2016
    Halmfamily wrote:
    Only issue is we cannot use them on an induction cooktop.

    Are you sure about this? Many SS pots are not pure SS... they are magnetic and will work with induction burners.
    OP, take a magnet with you and buy SS that is magnetic as once you use an induction cooker, especially in a RV, you will not use the propane burner again unless you are dry camping.
  • 04fxsts's avatar
    04fxsts
    Explorer
    Oct 17, 2016
    We have had a "Saladmaster" set for 40 years, still like new, not cheap to buy but IMHO the best in SS. Jim.
  • Hiker_01's avatar
    Hiker_01
    Explorer
    Oct 17, 2016
    15 years ago I bought a set of Kitchen Craft by Westbend. Expensive - YES. But they are all in excellent shape today, easy to clean, very heavy.
  • Halmfamily's avatar
    Halmfamily
    Explorer
    Oct 17, 2016
    My wife purchased a set of Wolfgang Puck stainless steel pots and pans in 2004 and they still look and perform like new today. Easy clean up and if needed a brilo pad works wonders. We do throw them in the dishwasher when they need a deep clean. Only issue is we cannot use them on an induction cooktop.
  • Old-Biscuit's avatar
    Old-Biscuit
    Explorer III
    Oct 17, 2016
    Most Calphalon have Lifetime warranty....some have 10 yr

    I just had a griddle replaced that was showing wear after 10 yrs.

    We also have a set of Lustre Craft Cookware (West Bend ----which has Kitchen Craft, Regal ----all same)

    Had it for 10 yrs. Easy cleanup, great even cooking.
    Got the set when we were getting ready to go FT back in '06
    Prior to that had just a hodge podge of pots/pans...mostly cheap junk
    threw that all out.....kept cast iron and got the stainless set to go with it.

    Cooking is so much easier with the right equipment. No regrets.
  • theoldwizard1's avatar
    theoldwizard1
    Explorer II
    Oct 17, 2016
    One of the originals is still the best in my book ! Farberware.

    I think they were they first to "bond" an aluminum plate to the bottom of a stainless cooking vessel for better heat distribution.

    We have some that are over 40 years old and still look good. Use Cameo stainless cleaner to polish the inside.)

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