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No kitchen is complete without the best saucepan set. Perfect for speedy soups and cooking elaborate curries, a saucepan set will be used each and every day in your home. Many of the best saucepan sets in our guide are non-stick, which makes them very easy to clean and will prevent food from burning onto the base, but we have also included stainless steel saucepan sets from Le Creuset and Stellar that will let you get that great sear on beef or fish when cooking flavour-packed meals.

Because they’re used every single day, the best saucepan sets are definitely worth investing in. However, not everyone can stretch to a premium set, so we’ve reviewed every set in our guide to make sure they’re worth whatever the price may be. Typically, every saucepan set will include a 16cm, 18cm, and 20cm pan, and some will also come with 26cm and even 28cm pots for cooking seriously large servings; perfect for bulk-cooking.

When reviewing these saucepan sets, we made sure they were easy to use and to clean. You should be able to place every saucepan in the dishwasher, but if you do clean by hand, we took into account ease of cleaning and also the design when trying them out in our own kitchen. From secure handles that won’t loosen over time, to pouring spouts that will help you when draining the water from your veggies, every little feature was taken into account. For more kitchen essentials, take a look at our reviews of the best chef’s knives.

How much does a saucepan set cost?

Budget at least £100 for most good-quality saucepans, but if you’re on a tight budget, we’ve got you covered too. Beyond that, it’s a question of how many pans and what size. More money buys quality and quantity, but if you get the sizes right then you only really need three or four saucepans and a frying pan – you’ll save money and storage space.

Best saucepans set 2021

1. Ninja Foodi ZEROSTICK 3-Piece Pan Set

Best saucepan set overall

Type: Non-stick
Sizes: 16cm, 18cm, 20cm
Reasons to buy: Super durable, reasonably priced, lightweight
Reasons to avoid: None!

We’re big fans of Ninja. Not only does the brand come out with some of the best air fryers, food processors and other kitchen innovations, but they’ve also dipped into cookware with their ZEROSTICK range. The verdict? A smashing success. This three-piece pan set has a 16, 18 and 20cm pan, each with a tightly fitted glass lid.

One standout feature is that you are free to use metal utensils when cooking with this range. It felt weird to use a metal whisk and slatted spoon when cooking in the set, but it was one less thing to worry about in the kitchen, and also cuts back on the less-durable and often-plastic alternatives you’re forced to buy with non-stick saucepan sets.

The handle is angled upwards, which makes for an ergonomic experience and also lightens the load when it comes to pouring. All of the pans and lids can go in the dishwasher, and even in the oven, up to 260°C (the highest of any set in this guide). We like this three-piece set for the price, which is very reasonable for such a durable range.

Ideal Home’s rating: 5 out of 5 stars 

2. BergHOFF Leo 3 Piece Non Stick Saucepan Set

Best saucepan set for modern design

Type: Non-stick
Sizes: 16cm, 18cm, 20cm
Reasons to buy: Tactile and easy to use, we love the non-stick and tightly fitted lids
Reasons to avoid: The look isn’t for everyone

Visually, the BergHOFF Leo 3 Piece Non Stick Saucepan Set isn’t for everyone, but you’ll know instantly if it’s up your street. Taking the pans out of the box instantly divided the kitchen. The pans are lightweight and the phenolic handles clearly designed for balance and safe grip. 

These pans feel high quality, too. They’re induction-friendly and the lids are tempered glass, with silicone rims that rattle the least of any of the pans we tested. The lids are also fitted with modern-feeling handles and a vent for steam. This vent also comes in handy when draining liquid from veggies and pasta. That’s one less sieve for hand-washing. 

The set is non-stick and includes PFOA free non stick coating which cuts down on the amount of oil you’ll need. The three saucepans are 6cm, 18cm, and 20cm in width, so not the most versatile set out there when it comes to hearty portions, but it would be a good set for students or small households who want their pans to slot together neatly. Everything is dishwasher-safe too. A great value set.

Ideal Home’s rating: 5 out of 5 stars 

3. Stellar Induction Draining Saucepan Set

Best induction saucepan set

Type: Induction
Sizes: 16cm, 18cm, 20cm
Reasons to buy: Very high quality, oven-safe silicone handles, draining design is easy to use
Reasons to avoid: Expensive and not non-stick

We’ve tried to be fair to the non-stick sets out there, but in our view the best saucepans are typically those high-quality fuss-free aluminium types. The Stellar Induction saucepan set is no exception. 

It’s (as the name suggests) safe for use with induction hobs, and the pans are oven-safe up to 180 degrees. That’s despite the stay-cool handles, which really do just that when cooking on the hob. 

A standout feature with this set is the draining vents on either side of the pan. This makes draining anything from pasta to peas a relatively pain-free process, and the lids are fitted with holes to make sure you won’t lose anything. One caveat is that you may lose the odd grain of rice, because it’s fitted with small holes. The draining sides are also great for pouring drinks into cups and bowls (think hot chocolate or soup) without spilling. A great touch.

Ideal Home’s rating: 5 out of 5 stars 

4. Tefal Ingenio Pan Set, Stainless Steel, 13 Piece

Best space-saving saucepan set

Type: Stainless steel, removable handles
Sizes: 16cm, 18cm, 20cm
Reasons to buy: Easy to store and stack 
Reasons to avoid: Prone to scuffing

We tested the Ingenio ’13-piece’ Tefal saucepan set but don’t expect 13 pans. It is in fact just five pans, plus glass lids, airtight plastic covers for storing leftovers in the fridge and two removable handles. With the handles off, the pans stack ingeniously (hence the name) inside each other, so you can store five in the space usually taken up by just a couple of pans We’ve tested both the stainless steel and non-stick induction versions of the Ingenio. Both are induction-friendly.

The three saucepans (16, 18, 20cm) in the stainless steel set are built with titanium to make them even tougher and have graduations inside to indicate capacity. The two frying pans (22,26cm) in the set are non-stick inside and have a Tefal Thermo-Spot that changes colour at the optimum frying temperature. The non-stick induction set has a titanium pro-non-stick coating on all pans, inside and out. We found it to be hardwearing but over the long term it does get scuffed around the rim, where the handle clips on and off.

Both saucepan sets come with superbly built handles that clip on and off very securely. Remove them and the pans are oven-safe to 260°C. Ingenio is also available in smaller saucepan sets and in other finishes, including enamel and “essential” (a more affordable non-stick set that isn’t induction-compatible). Ingenio saucepans are pricey but beautifully made and a great space-saver.

Ideal Home’s rating: 5 out of 5 stars 

5. Salter Megastone Collection 3 Piece Saucepan Set

Best non-stick saucepan set

Type: Non-stick
Sizes: 16cm, 18cm, 20cm
Reasons to buy: High quality and durable non-stick
Reasons to avoid: Handles aren’t the most tactile

This set of three is a great price when you consider how sturdy they feel. This non-stick isn’t peeling off any time soon. The set is made of forged aluminium and coated in a PFOA free non-stick. The coating is rough to touch which was a surprise at first, but it actually helps with the cooking process because you’re able to use metal utensils when cooking. 

We enjoyed how the three pans, 16, 18, and 20 cm, taper out towards the top slightly. It makes stacking easy and increases capacity. Other winning features include the handles, which were easy enough to hold and not too light as to upset the balance of the pan, and the lids, which fit easily and securely.

While we don’t love the speckled look of these pans, that’s a pretty subjective complaint, and the quality is top notch.

Ideal Home’s rating: 5 out of 5 stars 

6. Samuel Groves 3-Piece Classic Set

Best saucepan and frying pan set

Type: Saucepan, frying pan, stock pot
Size: 20cm saucepan, 26cm casserole, 28cm frying pan
Reasons to buy: Pure quality and designed to last
Reasons to avoid: An expensive option with no stay-cool handles

Buying the best saucepan set will often mean spending a lot of money, but if it’s within your budget, the Samuel Groves 3-Piece Classic Set is a worthy investment. While it’s not a traditional saucepan set, its three components are all necessary for any kitchen and will allow you to cook just about anything you may wish. The 20cm saucepan is ideal for boiling veggies and heating up smaller portions, whereas the 26cm casserole has a quality design and sturdy handles to cook up large servings of bolognese or rice.

We also love the frying pan, which has the same sleek and quality handle as the saucepan which, while not heatproof, does stay cool throughout use thanks to the elevated design. Do note that it can’t go in the dishwasher, but because the non-stick is so quality it’s very easy to wipe down by hand.

Enjoyable features include the fact that it comes in a burlap bag that can be used for groceries and other storage needs, and that it’s handcrafted in the UK. The brushed exterior meant that heat spread evenly in testing, and the tri-ply stainless steel feels high quality and long-lasting. The company also offers a ‘Pan for Life’ refurbishment service, so they will re-polish and restore any damage it may incur over the years.

Ideal Home’s rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars 

7. Prestige Eco 3 Piece Non-Stick Saucepan Set

Best eco saucepan set

Type: Eco
Sizes: 16cm, 18cm, 20cm
Reasons to buy: Genuinely eco-conscious 
Reasons to avoid: A more basic handle construction

If you like to keep things green (both literally and figuratively) then the Prestige Eco 3 Piece Non-Stick Saucepan Set will be a welcome addition to your kitchen. The pans taper out towards the top and have steel induction bases.

Made of recycled aluminium and coated in scratch-proof PFOA-free non-stick, this set is designed to last. Prestige has partnered with TreeAid to donate one tree for each pan sold and there was absolutely no plastic in the packaging when it arrived. A win for the environment, and a good option for those who want a long-lasting pan set. 

Our one complaint is the handle, which was one of the least ergonomic in testing. We did like the one on top of the lid, though, and after months and months of testing, this one was still going strong on the non-stick front. 

Ideal Home’s rating: 4 out of 5 stars 

8. Zwilling 5 Piece Stainless Steel Cookware Set

Best saucepan and pot set

Type: Pots and saucepans
Sizes: 16cm stock pot and saucepan, 18cm stock pot, 20cm stew and stock pot, 24cm pot
Reasons to buy: Great for the whole kitchen 
Reasons to avoid: Not all of the pans stack together

The quality is immediately apparent with the Zwilling 5 Piece Stainless Steel Cookware Set. For those who want a mixture of pots and pans (ok, more pots than pans) it’s our top pick. 

Everything feels well-made and the handle of the saucepan as well as the handles of the pots are all very ergonomic and clearly designed to be conscious of the modern kitchen. Saucepans can be irritating when it comes to storage, but we enjoy how well this set stacks together. Do keep in mind that, as there’s some duplicates in terms of size, you won’t be able to stack in one pile.

Included in this set is the largest pot we tested, the 24cm stock pot, as well as a 20cm stew pot, 20cm stock pot, and a 16cm stock pot and saucepan, which doesn’t include a lid. The entire set is made of 18/10 stainless steel and has a circular pouring rim, as well as markings in quarts and litres which come in very helpful when cooking and portioning.

Ideal Home’s rating: 4 out of 5 stars

9. Le Creuset 3-Ply Stainless Steel Cookware Set

Best premium saucepan set

Type: Premium stainless steel
Sizes: 16cm, 18cm, 20cm, 24cm
Reasons to buy: Designed to last, with a complete kitchen kit
Reasons to avoid: Very expensive

This one’s designed to last. The Le Creuset 3-Ply Stainless Steel Cookware Set comprises a deep non-stick saute pan, a deep casserole pot measuring 20cm, as well as two saucepans measuring 16cm and 18cm. The set slots together very well and has everything you need for a starter kitchen. 

The handles are riveted and incredibly sturdy. Construction is 3-ply stainless steel with an aluminium core, meaning the set heated very evenly. We enjoyed how easy the stainless steel was to clean, too, and everything can go in the dishwasher after use. 

Some would prefer a lidded saucepan with tempered glass over stainless steel, but the Le Creuset 3-Ply Stainless Steel Cookware Set will last for decades if you invest now.

Ideal Home’s rating: 5 out of 5 stars 

10. Judge Vista Draining Saucepan Set

Best value saucepan set

Type: Stainless steel
Sizes: 16cm, 18cm, 20cm
Reasons to buy: 25 year guarantee and draining spout
Reasons to avoid: The lid can rattle and the plastic doesn’t feel the best to touch

If you’re on a budget it’s best to spend your cash on a saucepan set that’s made of stainless steel. This lasts much longer than some of the cheaper non-stick on the market. This set from Judge ticks the box for a reliable budget option, with plastic lid and handle fixtures that are oven safe to up to 150°C and covered by an impressive Judge 25 year guarantee. 

The range has your classic 16, 18 and 20cm saucepans and is suitable for induction ovens as well as most other hob types. You can also place this option in the dishwasher. We didn’t find the handles or lid fixture particularly tactile in testing, and the lid can rattle a bit, but these are non-essential features that are offset by the low cost. 

What we did like was the pouring lip at either side of the pan, which makes pouring sauce away very easy and also allow you to drain out peas and pasta with ease.

Ideal Home’s rating: 4 out of 5 stars

11. Progress BW09025EU Scandi Smartstone Non Stick Saucepan Set

Best looking saucepan set

Type: Scandi non-stick
Sizes: 16cm, 18cm, 20cm, 24cm
Reasons to buy: Lovely to look at and hold
Reasons to avoid: Less durable than other options in our guide

The Scandi look isn’t going anywhere, and we thought this non-stick set with its nod to scandi wood kitchenware would fit in well to a selection of kitchen designs. While lovely to look at we were also impressed with the lightweight feel and induction-friendly construction.

This set was less sturdy-feeling than other non-stick options but did hold up well under testing. If you like the idea of non-stick but could skip the wooden accents, scroll back up to the Prestige set. The lids have an in-built vent to allow steam to escape and the handles are coated in a soft-touch wooden effect. This is lovely to hold, and the lid accent also resisted heat well when cooking. 

The lids on the Progress BW09025EU Scandi Smartstone Non Stick Saucepan Set were some of the best fitting, with minimal rattling. The three pans come in 16cm, 18cm and 20cm. Progress also has a new Plant A Tree Mission, so every Amazon sale of these pans will mean good things for the planet, and your kitchen!

Ideal Home’s rating: 4 out of 5 stars 

How did we review the best saucepan sets?

How did we review the best saucepan sets? Every set in this guide has been used hands-on by a member of the Ideal Home team for at least a few weeks. We looked out for how evenly the pan heated, the quality of the design, how enjoyable the handles and lids are to use and store, and the versatility of each set. Where a saucepan set was non-stick, we made sure that this would last and tested how well it cooked our fried eggs and bacon. Other features to look out for is oven-safe designs and heat-resistant handles. We tested for both, where appropriate, as well as evenly heated bases and the convenience of cleanup and day-to-day use.

What size saucepans do I need?

Image credit: Dominic Blackmore

Saucepans measuring 16, 18 and 20cm are good standard sizes to aim for. Then optionally a larger stockpot for big dishes. The other size worth considering is a 14cm milk pan; these tend to have pouring spouts but no lids, perfect for sauces, gravy, custard, hot chocolate and more.

What are the other main features of a good saucepan?

• What are the pans made from? Materials-wise, most modern pans use a combination of aluminium and stainless steel. The stainless steel is durable and low maintenance while the aluminium (usually a disc of it, encapsulated in the pan base) is light and spreads heat quickly and evenly. Meanwhile, cast iron is tough and induction friendly but takes a long time to heat up (and cool down).
• Should I go for non-stick coatings?Non-stick coatings are easy to clean and tougher than they used to be, but they do wear over time. Ceramic pans are an alternative that avoids the chemicals in traditional non-stick coatings made using Teflon and PFOA.
• What style of pan handle is best? Phenolic (black, plasticky) handles are cooler to the touch, so you can handle pans and lids without resorting to oven gloves. Metal handles and knobs get hotter but they’re oven-safe to higher temperatures. Basically, if you like to finish dishes in the oven or grill, go for metal. If not, weigh up the practicality and looks of both options. The trend is currently more for metal handles.
• What other extra features are handy? Nice extra features include graduations for measuring quantities and lid materials – metal is tough and easy to clean; glass lets you keep an eye on cooking without lifting the lid. And if you’re short of storage space, look out for pans that stack well or fit inside each other neatly.

Will my saucepans work with induction hobs?

Image credit: Fiona Walker-Arnott

All the pans featured here are induction-friendly. Cast iron pans and some stainless steel pans work with induction. But if you have an induction hob, do check first because some types of stainless steel don’t. If you’re buying a pan made of a different material – such as aluminium or copper – definitely check. The base needs to contain a magnetic material so the pan works with induction. If you have a saucepan in front of you and want to check, simply hold a fridge magnet to the base of the pan: if it sticks then the pan will work with induction.

Are they dishwasher safe?

Most pans (and all the ones featured here) call themselves ‘dishwasher safe’ but the care instructions usually suggest hand-washing is better for them in the long term. It’s your call, but you won’t do them major harm by using the dishwasher.

The post Best saucepan set 2021: reviews of our must-have saucepans appeared first on Ideal Home.

Multicookers have become a popular, must-have appliance in the kitchen nowadays. Not only do they provide convenience and capabilities to rustle up delicious meals, but they can also save us precious cooking time. And while the market is full of competing big brands, the Tefal All-in-One pressure cooker is certainly one not to underestimate.

A brand known for reliability, the Tefal All-in-One is a versatile, electric pressure cooker that offers more programs and functions that you’ll ever need (it’s in the name!). For those who enjoy cooking up a feast, it comes with a large 6-litre capacity which can easily hold large quantities at a time, making it ideal for larger households.

Best of all, it comes with a very affordable price tag, making it a worthwhile consideration. I put the Tefal All-in-One cooker to the test to find out if it can perform just as well as its more expensive counterparts, and if it’s one of the best slow cookers you can buy.

Ideal Home rated: 4 out of 5 stars

Reasons to buy:

• 25 one-touch programmes
• Large 6-litre capacity
• Automatic 24-hr keep warm function
• Convenient hinged lid
• Handy recipe book
• Attractive design and control panel

Reasons to avoid:

• Confusing for beginners to use without manual
• Spatula has small handle so can easily touch the hot pot
• No auto shut-off

Tefal CY505E40 All-in-one Pressure Cooker/Multi Cooker

Specs:

• Power: 1600W
• Capacity: 6 litres
• Pre-sets: 11
• Cooking functions: Pressure, steam, slow cook, simmer, brown, bake, baby food, oatmeal, rice
• Weight: 5.8 kg
• Size: 34 x 34 x 39.7 centimetres
• Included: Measuring cup, spatula, steam basket, trivet, recipe booklet

Unboxing the Tefal CY505E40 All-in-One Pressure Cooker

The Tefal All-In-One Pressure Cooker was easy to lift out of the box, with minimal fuss (and packaging). Design-wise, it looks attractive and sleek in a black and stainless steel design and has a neat LED display screen and panel.

Due to its extra large, 6-litre capacity, it does seem a little bulky on the worktop compared to other brands. So if you have limited space or a cluttered worktop, you’d need to bear this in mind. What’s more, it has a hinged lid, making it easier to open and dish out, without leaving wet circles on the worktop. However, if you have low hanging cabinetry like myself, you will have to locate the cooker towards the edge when you need to open.

The Tefal cooker comes with several accessories including a steaming trivet, measuring cup, white spatula and drip pan for collecting steam. Another bonus is the handy recipe booklet packed with 30 dishes to help get you inspired at mealtimes.

Cooking in the Tefal CY505E40 All-in-One

If you’re a beginner to multicookers, the Tefal All-in-One cooker seems a tad tricky to use at first without thoroughly reading the manual. I had to carefully read to understand what the basic functions are.

In addition, the front control pad looks a little overwhelming and can be difficult to figure out at first glance. For instance, there isn’t a clearly labelled Start/Stop button like on other models. Instead, the start button is an icon (which you’ll find out in the manual), and you’d need to stop each program at the end by pressing Cancel.

In any case, beginners will certainly appreciate its 25 preset programs to choose from, making it suitable for just about every cooking need. Not only can it pressure cook, steam cook and bake, but it can also make baby food and oatmeal, amongst many others. There is also a DIY option if you want to customise your own recipe timings.

All the programs are listed in the instruction manual, and you’re bound to find a new dish to try out in the recipe booklet. This will tell you what programs you need to use, temperature and the correct time to set it for. You can choose between temperatures of low, medium or high, depending on preference.

Once I got confident with the settings and process, I found it easier to use and cook dishes in. When you select the program of your choice and time, the LED display turns to a circular rotation to signal the cooker is getting ready. This is followed by a timer display to start counting down the suggested time. It has a one-button pressure release at the end of each program, and the hinged lid proved to be convenient. Especially since I have very little worktop to place a separate lid down.

Overall, I enjoyed the flexibility of the Tefal All-in-One cooker, and the countless options available. The Keep Warm function also came in handy when I had to step away for an hour for a meeting and came back to piping hot food.

Pressure cooking goulash in the Tefal All-in-One Electric Pressure Cooker

There were so many tempting dishes to choose from in the recipe book, but I decided to first try out the popular goulash, using cubed cuts of stewing beef. This recipe utilises the Brown program, which I used to sauté my onions for about 5 minutes whilst stirring them around. After adding my meat and other ingredients to the pot, the timer beeps, at which point you press the Cancel button. I was surprised at how quickly the meat browned in the oil within a short time.

Next, I pressed the Pressure Cook program followed by the timer button, to decrease the time as instructed in the book. I then closed the lid and pressed the Start icon to start the cooking process.  As suggested, the goulash took just 20 minutes to cook, with an extra 5 minute browning time. Once the timer beeps to indicate the end of the process, you’ll need to open the pressure valve to release the steam before pressing Cancel again.

Considering the minimal time it had taken to prepare and cook, the goulash results were impressive. The meat was soft, tender and had retained much of its delicious flavour. The tomato-based sauce was able to thicken slightly, without needing further reducing. Bear in mind though, the pot is quite deep so it can be awkward to serve the contents onto a plate without making a mess. However, this is a minor complaint in the grand scheme of things.

Pressure cooking basmati rice in the Tefal CY505E40 All-in-One

I decided on cooking basmati rice to compliment the goulash. Rice can be one of those tricky dishes that can either be too soggy or undercooked if not done properly. I measured a cup of rice to a water, using the measurement lines inside the pot as a guide. Closing the lid, I selected the Rice program, set the timer to 9 minutes before pressing the Start. Once again, after it beeps, open the valve to release the steam, which seemed to be quite a lot.

I was a little sceptical that the 9 minutes would be sufficient to cook my rice to perfection. I tend to use a rice cooker to achieve my ideal fluffy rice, so I was keen to find out what the outcome would be. Surprisingly, the results were fluffy rice with a soft, consistent texture. In fact, it made a rather tasty addition to the goulash recipe.

Cooking chicken cacciatore in the Tefal All-in-One Electric Pressure Cooker

I do enjoy a good chicken side dish and so opted for the chicken cacciatore recipe in the booklet. Again, this uses the Brown function, which I used to heat up the oil and cook the chicken for about 10 minutes. This was able to cook relatively quickly compared to my conventional saucepan. I removed the chicken from the cooking pan, to stir in the onion to cook. Once it beeped, I pressed Cancel. I then added the remaining ingredients before selecting the Pressure Cook program.

As instructed, I increased the timer to 15 minutes, closed the lid, and pressed the Start icon. I must say that the results were not as impressive as the goulash dish, as I found the chicken to be slightly dry in places. However, this could have been resolved if I added more water into the pot. In any case, the dish was still tasty and flavoursome.

Cleaning the Tefal All-in-One Electric Pressure Cooker

Only the accessories are dishwasher safe, but cleaning the inner pot is easy and doesn’t take long to handwash. The inner pot has a non-stick coat, which means there were no food residue to scrub off. In addition, you can quickly clean the cooker exterior and give the inside of the lid a good wipe. One thing to note is, the chrome is prone to picking up fingerprints and smudges, but this can be resolved with a lint-free, micro cloth.

Should you buy the Tefal All-in-One Electric Pressure Cooker?

If you’re looking for a top multicooker that won’t break the bank, the Tefal All-in-One cooker is a great option. With its 25 one-touch programs, it’s incredibly versatile, and you’re guaranteed to find a setting for just about anything. Plus, if you’re new to the world of multicookers, it takes the guesswork out of cooking and will make mealtimes a breeze. The cooking performance is impressive, producing tender and flavoursome meat dishes and fluffy basmati rice.

Another feature is the large 6L capacity bowl, which was more than enough to cook a family meal, and still have leftovers! Having said that, the bowl is rather deep when serving, which doesn’t bode well with the small spatula that comes with the cooker.  Also, it doesn’t have an auto shut-off feature for safety, so you’ll have to remember to switch off after long periods. However, it’s a great performing multicooker and at such an affordable price, certainly worth the money.

About the reviewer

Cynthia Lawrence is a freelance lifestyle and homes/interiors journalist and writes for various national publications. With an unhealthy obsession for all things homes and gardens, she also has an interior design blog. When she’s not spending time surfing online for decor inspiration to revamp her 1930s home, she is busy reviewing some pretty awesome home appliances.

A regular contributor to Real Homes, she has written for Livingetc., Gardeningetc., Ideal Home, T3.com, Top Ten Reviews and House Beautiful amongst others.

The post Tefal CY505E40 All-in-One Cooker review: a great multicooker for families appeared first on Ideal Home.

With festivities ahead, there’s nothing like the best juicer to make sure that your glass is topped up with delicious fresh juice. From a glass of zesty OJ to start the day off right, to healthy and cleansing celery juices, the best juicer can keep your diet topped up with vitamins and healthy nutrients.

There are two main types of juicers: masticating, and centrifugal. A centrifugal juicer is often cheaper, and mimics the best blender in shredding fruits and vegetables using blades. The is then strained away from the pulp, and poured directly into your glass. A masticating juicer, also known as a cold press juicer, will slowly remove the juice from fruits by replicating a hand-juicing motion. This can be more expensive, but it will leave the fibres in your drink intact, which means they are often seen as a healthier choice.

We have also included a citrus juicer in our guide to the best juicers. A citrus juicer is only suitable for those who want fresh-squeezed oranges, grapefruit, and lemons, but they have a spinning reamer that will take all of the hard work out of making fresh juice. When testing the best juicers we checked for key indicators of a good juicer. The main one is how dry the pulp is, because this means that the maximum amount of juice has been extracted from your ingredients. Juicers are known to be quite hard to clean, so we also considered the cleaning process and the setup process.

How much does the best juicer cost?

It might not be as essential as the best kettle or toaster but add a juicer to your worktop and you’ll find yourself using it almost as much as blenders out there. As well as creating exciting drinks to boost your breakfast, the same machine may be able to make frozen desserts, smoothies and even dairy alternatives, such as almond or rice milk.

Many of the best juicers come from brands you’ll recognise for other kitchen must-haves. Smeg, Philips, Nina, and Nutribullet all feature in our guide. There are also top picks from Kuvings and Braun, with a price range of £100 to well over £500. A basic model can be bought for as little as £30, but for reliable operation and better build quality, it’s advisable to spend more. Budget from £70-£180 for a centrifugal model and at least £125 for an entry level masticating design, with more advanced models costing £200 upwards.

A machine that suits your daily routine is the best way to encourage you to make juicing a habit, so it’s a good idea not to buy on price alone. Instead, consider how much value different features will add to your new juicing regime.

Best juicers 2021

1. Nutribullet Centrifugal Juicer

Best juicer overall

Type: Centrifugal
Reasons to buy: Smart design, two speeds, excellent recipe book
Reasons to avoid: The pulp chamber is a little small

Nutribullet is making home juicing easy with its new juicer. Simply named the Nutribullet Juicer, it comes with a central column for extraction and an external pulp container. The recipe book is glorious, with plenty of inspiring suggestions for health shots and even recipes to use up the pulp once you’re done, which is a fantastic touch for those who hate waste.

We found that our juice was mostly froth-free and packed with delicious flavour when testing. There are two speeds, high and low, and the instruction book guides you through which setting to use on which fruits and vegetables to help you improvise your own recipes.

The outer pulp container fills up a little fast if you’re doing juice for a crowd, but it’s easy enough to clean thanks to the angled brush that is designed to scrape all the excess away and scrub the centrifugal mesh. Most parts are dishwasher-safe, which is a real relief when it comes to home juicing. Oh and did we mention, this juicer is under £100?

Ideal Home’s rating: 5 out of 5 stars 

Read our full Nutribullet Juicer review

2. Philips Viva Cold Press Masticating Slow Juicer

Best slow juicer

Type: Masticating
Reasons to buy: Reasonably priced, easy to use, not too large
Reasons to avoid: Extraction could be better

There are probably three things that can stop juicing from becoming a habit – extensive food prep, more hassle than juice and cleaning up afterwards. Fortunately, these are all points that the Philips Viva Cold Press Masticating Slow Juicer can help with.

All detachable parts are dishwasher safe, and the machine is designed to be cleaned in 90 seconds for repeat usage. The feeding chute is wide enough to fit a whole apple, although we found it was still better to cut up large apples as the 70mm feeding chute is not wide enough for everything.

This juicer isn’t too expensive given that it’s a masticating juicer with a sturdy design. The footprint is also not too expansive, which is great news for smaller kitchens. The Philips Viva Cold Press Masticating Slow Juicer also comes with a container that can fit up to a litre of juice, but the pulp collector is a little on the small side. We found that the pulp was a little damp on testing, but the 80% extraction claim generally holds true.

Ideal Home’s rating: 4 out of 5 stars 

Read our full Philips Viva Collection Masticating Juicer review

3. EVO820 Evolution Cold Press Juicer by Kuvings

Best juicer for serious juicing fans

Type: Cold press
Reasons to buy: Superior quality
Reasons to avoid: An expensive option

Getting the most out of your fruit and veg isn’t always easy but this is the cold press juicing machine to solve all your yield issues. It’s ideal for tackling the trickiest ingredients, such as green leafy veg, as well as being able to make dairy-free milks from nuts and purées for baby food and sauces.

Bolt on the separate citrus module and it’ll also function as a reamer so you can juice limes, lemons and oranges without peeling. The secret to its success is in the clever design. Where it differs from many slow juicers is that it has an 82mm feed chute equipped with a flip gate rather than a fin to protect your fingers.

No fin means it can handle the larger chunks of fruit and veg (including small whole apples) most slow models can’t – so there’s less food prep and waiting around for your morning juice medley.

Other features we found useful include the drip-stop spout (so you can mix juice in the machine as well as protect your worktop from mess) and wrap-around brush for the filter, so clean up was straightforward (although it’s not dishwasher-safe).

In tests, we found it performed well with hard fruit, such as apples, as only dry pulp was ejected, while one piece of fruit produced a good 100ml of juice, and the same with oranges – three fruit yielded 250ml. Pineapple also processed efficiently, although mango and ginger root were trickier and tended to leave pulp wrapped around the inside.

It also made smooth almond milk – thinner than pre-made but with the bonus of being able to use the waste pulp in recipes. The only elements to be aware of is that it’s heavy, so best as a permanent worktop resident, and it’s pricey, so a more suitable choice for juice devotees rather than those who enjoy an occasional glass.

Ideal Home’s rating: 5 out of 5 stars 

4. Stellar Electricals Juice Extractor

Best budget juicer

Type: Centrifugal
Reasons to buy: Great value for money and good extraction
Reasons to avoid: A tricky machine to clean

Budget-friendly and surprisingly high quality, the Stellar Electricals Juice Extractor is a great centrifugal juicer. It has two speeds, which is great for different types of fruit and veg, and there’s a handy guide that breaks down which foods to juice at which speed. The lid locks tightly into place using the panels at the front and back, and when plugged in the switch glows blue, indicating that it’s ready to juice.

This juicer comes with a handy jug that’s marked with measurements at the side. We used it to make a mix of smooth and more frothy drinks, from celery juice (not a favourite) to apple and ginger. When we encountered a lot of foam this wasn’t a concern, because the clever central panel in the 1.25 litre jug catches any froth as you pour, meaning you’re left with a smooth fresh drink. This is a noisy option and we found that it juices incredibly fast, even with solid veggies such as carrot.

As with most juicers, it’s a nightmare to clean. All the attachments can be placed in a dishwasher but because the lid of the jug can’t be removed we found that it’s easier to clean this part by hand. Another plus is that you can place apples and oranges in this juicer completely whole, which cuts back on prep time significantly.

Ideal Home’s rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars 

5. Smeg CJF01 Citrus Juicer

Best citrus juicer

Type: Citrus
Reasons to buy: It’s a beautiful machine that’s easy to use and clean
Reasons to avoid: Not so versatile

The Smeg CJF01 Citrus Juicer is no multi-tasker, but it is a beautiful appliance that we would never want to take off the kitchen counter. It’s larger than most citrus juicers (about the size of a small kettle) but immensely easy to use and set up. The electric juicer starts to spin as soon as you apply the pressure of lemon or orange, and this is strained by a removable pulp filter.

Simply click down the side spout to fill a cup with fresh OJ or lemonade, and enjoy. As the name suggests, you can’t juice anything other than citrus in this option, but it’s a fantastic brunch companion that comes in a massive range of colours.

The body is made of die-cast aluminum which feels classy and high-quality, and the attachments are all dishwasher safe.

Ideal Home’s rating: 5 out of 5 stars 

6. Sage SJE830BSS The Nutri Juicer Cold XL

Best juicer for beginners

Type: Centrifugal
Reasons to buy: Wide feeding chute and not too noisy
Reasons to avoid: No anti-drip spout

The centrifugal Nutri Juicer Cold XL is easy to assemble, feels reassuringly robust, cuts down on chopping with its 88mm chute (which can accommodate whole apples) and everything can go in the dishwasher, with the exception of the pusher, or be rinsed in seconds.

All of which means you can make juice quickly and with minimum mess. There’s also a quiet option for processing soft fruit, so you don’t have to let everyone for miles around know that you’re juicing, and a boost option for tackling hard veg.

Besides its speeds, there are smart design features, such as its large pulp container and two-litre juice jug with an airtight lid, meaning that you can juice a batch and it’ll keep for up to three days in the fridge, and a flexible nozzle that allows you to juice straight into a glass.

However, it’s worth noting a few downsides, such as the lack of recipes included and the fact that there’s no anti-drip spout, so it’s wise to keep a glass in place after you’ve finished or face cleaning up splashes.

In our tests we used the quiet speed to juice citrus fruit, which worked fairly well, although there was more moisture left in the pulp than we would have liked. Two oranges made about 100ml of juice, which was quite foamy and would have benefited from a separator within the jug. Spinach leaves produced a lot of waste with not much juice.

However, we had more success with apples on boost, which created a clear, sweet juice with no visible residue, and pears using the fast speed. Both produced minimal dry pulp and a good amount of juice for the fruit used.

As long as you’re not juicing wheatgrass, this is a great all-rounder of a machine, though you may need to experiment with the speeds to get the best results.

Ideal Home’s rating: 4 out of 5 stars 

7. Braun Multiquick 7 Juicer

Best for value juicer for money

Type: Centrifugal
Reasons to buy: Fast to use and an impressive yield
Reasons to avoid: Noisy

Efficient, easy to assemble and packed with features, the Identity Spin juicer delivers plenty of bang for your buck. Not only will it whizz through large pieces of fruit and vegetables in seconds, with even whole apples fitting down its 7.5cm chute, but the anti-drip and anti-splash spout also ensures your worktop stays spotless throughout.

A 900W motor and two speeds help it adapt to hard and soft fruit, while a 1.25-litre lidded jug with a foam separator allows you to store juice. The machine is especially noisy in operation. In testing, it produced a glass of juice in around 15 seconds, a good yield that was only slightly less than more expensive machines.

Where the Identity Spin may not appeal to everyone is in its equally efficient design – it’s rather chunky, and at a weighty 6.2kg, not as suitable for lifting in and out of a cupboard. However, clean-up is a big win for fans of low-maintenance kit – all the parts are dishwasher-safe and there’s a cleaning brush for whisking away stubborn fibres from the micro-mesh filter.

Ideal Home’s rating: 4 out of 5 stars 

8. HR1947 Avance masticating juicer by Philips

Best juicer for small kitchens

Type: Masticating
Reasons to buy: Easy to store 
Reasons to avoid: Prone to surges

If the idea of yet another appliance cluttering your kitchen fills you with horror, you’ll love this clever compact juicer. Measuring a mere 11cm wide, it’s skinny, stylish and a doodle to stash away thanks to dedicated cable storage and parts that fit inside the pulp container. It’s simple to assemble and afterwards can be cleaned by hand in less than a minute.

The Avance has a few quirks, however. One is a narrow feed tube, so while you might save time on cleaning up, you’ll spend some of that chopping beforehand. It’s also prone to surges when food needs a firm push through, so it may splash the worktop. The recipe book would benefit from some extra guidance amongst the ideas, too.

Those things aside, the juicing yield is high, it’s near-impossible to clog as there’s no sieve, and it’s quiet enough to maintain a conversation while it’s in use. Pricey for a machine that only produces juice, the Avance’s diminutive size and minimal maintenance makes up for this.

Ideal Home’s rating: 3 out of 5 stars 

9. Smeg SJF01

Best juicer for style

Type: Masticating
Reasons to buy: Gorgeous design
Reasons to avoid: That price tag

Start saving up now for this gorgeous, design-led masticating juicer. In contrast to all the contemporary versions on the market, this machine combines retro curves with modern technology – but it comes with a premium price tag.

Available in four colours, it’s not only impressive to look at on the kitchen worktop, it’s also fantastically functional. Inside it boasts a 43rpm squeezing system with a choice of two strainers – fine and coarse – for creating silky smooth or thicker juice with pulp.

These were more difficult to clean than some but the included brushes were invaluable. Another notable feature is its density regulator lever that helps to get the last few drops out at the end. The slow juicer performed well in testing, producing a high yield quickly from both hard and soft fruit and vegetables, but that’s not the only good reason to buy.

What’s just as convincing is its impressive construction: combining an auger made from durable material Ultem, a 150W induction motor and a sturdy base, this feels every inch a machine that’ll be happily juicing for years to come.

Ideal Home’s rating: 4 out of 5 stars 

10. Ninja Cold Press Pro

Best budget slow juicer

Type: Centrifugal
Reasons to buy: An entry-level option
Reasons to avoid: Low yield

If you’re thinking of starting a fresh juice habit and aren’t willing to budge from a cold press model, this is a good pick. For starters, there are two filters, so you can choose from a variety of different pulp levels.

The whole thing slots together very easily, and it’s certainly appealing for its compact dimensions. The feeding chute is small though, so it’s best to chop up fruit in advance.

Because it’s a cold press juicer this machine works very slowly. It also has a sensitivity to seeds and skin, so we found that there was a lot of prep needed to get a quality glass of juice.

On the plus side though, it’s a very quiet machine, and most of the parts can go in the dishwasher. The price is also very reasonable for a cold press juicer.

Ideal Home’s rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars 

Black Friday juicer deals 2021

Black Friday 2021 juicer deals are closer than you might think, and if you want to head into the New Year with a healthy diet and lifestyle, a juicer is the perfect investment to make. Last year we saw juicer deals with as much as £150 off top models from Kuvings and Hurom. Cheaper models, like the NutriBullet juicer, will also see discounts at retailers like Amazon and AO.com.

What are the different types of juicer?

There are two types of juicer, which are known as centrifugal and masticating. They use different methods to extract the juice and are sometimes referred to as fast and slow juicers.

Centrifugal juicers are high-speed machines that extract by shredding the fruit or vegetables with spinning blades, before straining it against metal mesh to separate seeds and pith from juice. As well as being speedy, centrifugal juicers are well suited to handling hard fruit and vegetables, such as ginger, apples and carrots. They’re also good for cutting down on food prep time as many have large feed chutes that can accommodate whole apples and veggies.

However, as the process adds more air into the juice, you may find that it doesn’t store for more than a day or two and discolours quickly. Centrifugal juicers can also be quite noisy although it won’t be for long. If you plan to use your juicer mostly for OJ, you may want to consider a straightforward citrus press instead.

Masticating juicers are also called slow juicers or cold press juicers, and work by ‘chewing’ fruit and vegetables before crushing or squeezing out the juice at a gentle rate. This provides a high yield and maximum nutritional content plus the juice may have a longer shelf life. Many ‘slow’ juicers have almost caught up with centrifugal juicers in terms of speed and they’ll also be quieter while in use.

Masticating juicers can tackle a variety of vegetables, soft fruit and nuts, so they’re worth spending a bit extra on if you plan to juice every day. Most have a smaller chute than a centrifugal machine, so food requires a bit more chopping and prep to prevent clogs. You’ll find horizontal machines, which are perfect for tucking at the back of worktops below wall cabinets, and upright vertical models, which take up less space on a worktop.

What are the main features to look for?

• It’s key to choose a machine that’s easy to use and maintain. Time spent assembling and cleaning can become a reason not to juice regularly. Look for those that can be put together easily and have a non-drip spout. Ideally, they should have dishwasher-safe parts or dedicated brushes for clearing fibres and residue from mesh filters.
• Power is another consideration. If you’re opting for a centrifugal machine, its wattage should be at least 400W so fruit hitting the blades won’t slow it down. More than one speed, or automatic adjustment, will also be useful as centrifugal juicers handle hard fruit at high speed. but need a slower one for soft fruit. Masticating machines will be lower wattage, usually between 150-240W as the slower juicing process doesn’t require the extra power. One speed should do for all, with a reverse to clear blockages.
• Look for models that can make more than smooth juice if you’re keen to get extra mileage out of your purchase. Additional filters that blend smoothies, make fruit coulis or juice with pulp, and solid inserts that can process frozen fruit into sorbet will make your juicer really earn its place on the kitchen worktop.

Other things to consider when buying a juicer

• A recipe book is essential for getting the most out of your juicer. They’ll often include ideas for mocktails, desserts, savoury dishes, nut milks and more.
• Choose a model that suits your lifestyle. For example, if you want to juice straight into a glass, check the spout is high enough for one to fit below. Similarly, if you want to spend minimal time chopping up fruit, pick a juicer with a wide feed chute.
• The best juicers will have a good guarantee. Choose one with at least two years on parts and several on the motor.
• Other useful accessories include a lidded jug for making and storing juice ahead of time, and storage for spare parts.

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