Madeinca.ca is supported by our Canadian readers. This means we may earn a commission through products purchased using links on this page. Read more

Every Canadian household needs cookware, so why not get the best? purchasing a cookware set can be a great way to get all of the pieces you need at once. If you display your cookware when you aren’t using it, it can also add some visual appeal to your kitchen. Choosing the best options for you can be difficult, so we’ll take a look of the best options for cookware on the Canadian market.

To assist you with this challenge, we have created a comprehensive list featuring the best cookware sets in Canada for 2024. Based on high quality, performance, and other details important to Canadians, we went through exhaustive research to compile this list. Here’s what the best cookware sets can offer you.

Best 8 Cookware Sets for Canadians in 2024

  • Best Overall: CAROTE 11-Piece Cookware Set
  • Best Granite: Carote White Granite 10-Piece Cookware Set
  • Best Compatibility: Hexclad Stainless Steel 7-Piece Cookware Set
  • Best Stainless Steel Set: Lagostina Stainless Steel 12-Piece Cookware Set
  • Best Performance: T-Fal Culinaire Aluminum 16-Piece Cookware Set
  • Best Convenience: AmazonBasics 15-Piece Cookware Set
  • Best Comfort: Cuisinart Stainless Steel 12-Piece Cookware Set
  • Best Durability: Rachael Ray Cucina 12-Piece Cookware Set

Why Did We Choose These Cookware Sets in Canada?

Each cookware set on our list has earned the title of one of the best cookware sets in Canada fair and square. Since it’s our mission to help you make a decision relatively quickly and with confidence, we’ve broken down our top picks into categories. Each category stands out thanks to a particular feature, making your choice much easier.

The CAROTE 11-Piece Cookware Set made the top of our list as the best overall choice for numerous reasons. Among them, the highlights include the easy maintenance, the durable lids, and the range of pieces included with the set. This option also comes with soft handles that keep cool while cooking.

The Carote White Granite 10-Piece Cookware Set is our top pick for granite cookware. This durable cookware set is simple to clean and comes with everything you need to get started, especially if you have limited cabinet space. 

The HexClad Stainless Steel 7-Piece Cookware Set is a helpful addition to any Canadian kitchen. It offers great compatibility with all cooktops and features a tri-ply construction for enhanced durability. It is easy to clean and includes resistance to scratches from metal utensils, so you can enjoy the pieces for longer without scratches.

Many cooks who’ve already learned the ropes have come to prefer stainless steel cookware. If that’s the case, you’ll love the Lagostina Stainless Steel 12-Piece Cookware Set, the best stainless steel set on our list.

The T-Fal Culinaire Aluminum 16-Piece Cookware Set is a high-performing option. It features a durable design made from aluminum and includes non-stick interiors with Thermo-Spot heat indicators. The set is easy to clean and maintain, and can even be used in the oven.

Those looking for convenience should consider the AmazonBasics 15-Piece Cookware Set. This option is created to minimise fuss and hassle. It offers easy stacking to optimize kitchen space, and includes great compatibility options with gas, glass, and electric stovetops.

For a comfortable cooking experience, Canadians should consider the Cuisinart Stainless Steel 12-Piece Cookware Set. This option comes with heat surround technology for even heat distribution. It is made with triple-ply construction with a pure aluminum core. The cool grip handles provide extra comfort while cooking and handling.

The Rachael Ray Cucina 12-Piece Cookware Set is a great choice for those seeking a durable option. This set is made from aluminum with hard enamel porcelain on the exterior of each piece. The dual-riveted handles are made from rubber for a comfortable grip, and the glass lids are shatter-resistant for extra convenience.

Best Cookware Set in Canada: Quick Menu

Best Overall

CAROTE 11-Piece Cookware Set

CAROTE 11pcs Pots and Pans Set, Nonstick Cookware Set Detachable Handle, Induction Kitchen Cookware Sets Non Stick with Removable Handle, RV Cookware Set, Dishwasher/Oven Safe

It's Great For:

The CAROTE 11-Piece Cookware Set is a stylish option that is an ideal fit for any Canadian kitchen, especially those with little storage space. This set is a great space saver, as the pieces are designed to stack together and free up to 75% more space than other options. The design makes this set a great choice for those seeking to use a cookware set on the go, either while generally travelling or in RVs.

The set is PFOA-free, as well as free of cadmium and lead. It is a versatile set that can be used in the oven, the grill, and all other stovetops. The removable handle makes it even easier to use the pieces from this set at your convenience. There is a wide range of pieces included with this set, from saucepans and frying pans to several storage options that can be placed in the fridge when cooking is done.

This set from CAROTE offers great performance, as well as even heat distribution, premium materials, and overall reliability. The hassle-free quality of the set also comes with easy maintenance and cleaning, especially as it can be placed in the dishwasher for extra convenience to make the process even more straightforward.

Key Features

  • Optimal Storage. This set stacks so it can occupy far less space in your kitchen. While other available options need more space, this cookware set is easy to store when you aren’t using it. 
  • Reliability. The set provides excellent quality and heat distribution, making it a reliable choice. Your food will be cooked perfectly every time you use this cookware set.
  • Excellent Portability. The set can be enjoyed at home or while on the go thanks to the stacking design and the range of pieces included. 
  • Hassle-Free. Maintenance, use, and cleaning are all extremely simple with this cookware set. There’s no hassle associated with this cookware set in any way.

Our Expert’s Take

“This stylish option from CAROTE provides easy storage and maintenance. It offers great heat distribution and better performance across all of its many uses, including grilling, oven, and stovetop use.”

Best Granite

Carote White Granite 10-Piece Cookware Set

Carote Cookware Sets, 10 Pcs , Pots and Pan Set Non Stick, Kitchen White Cooking Set with Frying Pans nonstick(Granite, Induction Cookware)

It's Great For:

This specially curated cookware set from Carote features two frying pans, including one 5-inch option and one 11-inch option. You’ll get a 3-quart saucepan with a lid and a steamer insert, a 3-quart casserole pot with a lid, and a 4-quart sauté pan with a lid. You’ll also get a white silicone turner for cooking. 

The set elements feature five layers of granite coating the surface, ensuring superb non-stick properties. The ergonomic handle is highly comfortable and includes a stay-cool coating for easy hold and toss. This Carote set is compatible with all stovetops, including induction stoves, making it the perfect choice for most Canadians.

This Carote cookware set is highly durable thanks to a thick die-cast aluminum base. With proper maintenance, it can last you a lifetime. With this set, you’ll use 70% less water for cleaning, thanks to the manufacturer’s innovative non-stick design that features no rivets. Since no food will build up in your pots and pans, you can clean a set element in under 10 seconds. Plus, each element requires less oil for cooking and guarantees an easy release of your food, making cooking a pleasurable activity.

Since granite warms up quickly and evenly and holds heat well, you’ll spend less time cooking and use up to 50% less gas and electricity. Thanks to the set’s stackable design, you’ll also save plenty of space in your kitchen cabinets.

Key Features

  • Compatible with All Stovetops. This cookware set can be used with all stovetops, making it a practical choice. No matter what your stove is like, these pans work great.  
  • Highly Durable. The thick aluminum base included with pieces in this set makes it a very durable option that is designed for long-time wear, and can last in optimal condition through the years. 
  • No Rivet Design. This design feature can be great for the environment, as it prevents food build-up and minimizes how much water is needed for cleaning. 
  • Energy Efficient. As an added eco-conscious benefit, this cookware set heats up quickly and retains heat for longer. 

Our Expert’s Take

“The Carote White Granite 10-Piece Cookware Set is a durable choice that is stylish and eco-conscious. It’s compatible with all stovetops and retains heat longer than other options on the Canadian market.”

Best Compatibility

HexClad Stainless Steel 7-Piece Cookware Set

HexClad 7-Piece Hybrid Stainless Steel Cookware Set with Lids and Wok - Metal Utensil and Dishwasher Safe, Induction Ready, PFOA-Free, Easy to Clean Non Stick Fry Pan with Covers

It's Great For:

The HexClad Stainless Steel 7-Piece Cookware Set is designed with a highly durable triple-ply construction featuring aluminum between 2 layers of stainless steel. There are 7 pieces included with this set, including various pans and a wok. It can be used with all types of stovetops, even induction. The set is oven-safe when using it in temperatures up to 260º Celsius. If you want to use one of the lids in the oven, you should be aware that those can only withstand oven temperatures up to 204º Celsius.

The practical compatibility of the set is enhanced by the easy maintenance it provides. It is dishwasher safe, but cleaning by hand is always recommended to preserve the quality of the surfaces. To help with maintenance and durability, the surface of each piece is resistant to metal utensils to avoid scratches.

HexClad uses only high quality materials and innovative technology like stainless steel ridges and non-stick valleys. Each piece in the cookware set comes with a high-quality handle with a comfortable grip that remains cool during the process. This hybrid approach to cookware features laser-etched design and PFOA-free construction. The design provides quick and even heat distribution, while the non-stick surface enhances the convenience of the process.

Key Features

  • Innovative Design Features. This cookware set includes innovative high-quality design that features a hybrid approach. 
  • Great Compatibility. This set can be used on any stovetop, including induction, which can make it an easier purchase depending on what you have in your kitchen.
  • Easy to Maintain. The set is dishwasher safe but can be easily hand cleaned thanks to the practical design. They are some of the easiest pans on our list to clean.
  • Scratch-Resistant. Each piece has a surface that is resistant to metal utensils, which means you can enjoy a scratchless surface for longer.

Our Expert’s Take

“The scratch-resistant, verstaile surface of the HexClad cookware set is made with innovative technologies that will forever change the way you cook.”

Best Stainless Steel Set

Lagostina Stainless Steel 12-Piece Cookware Set

Lagostina’s Commercial Capsule Technology Stainless Steel Kitchen Pots and Pans Set, 12 piece cookware set, Oven and Dishwasher Safe. Induction Safe

It's Great For:

With this Lagostina cookware set, you’ll get a complete set of pots and pans. This set includes a 5-inch sauté pan with a lid, a 2-quart casserole pan with a lid, a 5-quart saucepot with a lid, and a 3-quart Dutch over with a lid. You’ll also get two saucepans, including a 1-quart option and a 1.4-quart option, both of which come with lids.

This cookware set is designed to last for generations of cooking perfection. This is made possible by the durable exterior constructed using 18/10 stainless steel. This type of steel is known for its quality, sturdiness and long-lasting durability. It is also extremely hygienic and won’t interact with your food, protecting its taste and safety.

The thick base features two layers of stainless steel with an aluminum layer in between. This construction guarantees even heat distribution throughout the entire pan. Thanks to Lagostina’s commercial capsule base technology, this set gives you ultimate and precise control over all your cooking tasks.

You can choose to throw the elements into an oven for browning or baking as long as you keep the temperature below 200 degrees Celsius. In addition, you can cook over any stovetop, including ceramic and induction.

Besides being versatile, this set is easy to use and handle. The ergonomic stainless steel handles are sturdy and durable. They won’t get too hot to be touched with bare hands, regardless of the cooking temperature.

Key Features

  • Great Heat Distribution. This set provides great heat distribution that is even across the surface. All of your foods can be cooked evenly, avoiding burnt spots and cold areas.
  • Easy to Clean. The set comes with easy maintenance thanks to the durable and practical design. Each piece is simple to take care of, with no hassle associated with cleaning at all.
  • Versatile Use. The set can be used with any stovetop, as well as in the oven in temperatures under 200º Celsius. No matter how you need to use the pans, this cookware set can work for you.
  • Precise Control. The commercial capsule base technology provided by Lagostina allows you to exert precise control over what you are cooking and how you want to cook it. 

Our Expert’s Take

“This cookware set comes with impressive technology and even heat distribution. If you are tired of subpar pans burning your foods, this set can help with more even cooking.”

Best Performance

T-Fal Culinaire Aluminum 16-Piece Cookware Set

T-Fal Culinaire Non-Stick Aluminum, 16 Piece Pots and Pans Cookware Set, Dishwasher & Oven Safe, PFOA Free, Stainless (B058SG74)

It's Great For:

The T-Fal Culinaire Aluminum 16-Piece Cookware Set is a high-performing option perfect for Canadian kitchens. The pieces in this set offer comprehensive cooking assistance, making the process much easier, regardless of level of experience. There are various pans and saucepans, along with a square griddle, a Dutch oven, and various utensils like spatulas, a skimmer, and a cookie sheet.

This sturdy cookware set has a scratch-resistant non-stick surface made from substances that are lead, PFOA, and cadmium-free. The base of each piece is made from silk screen aluminum. This helps with quick and even heat distribution, which creates reliable results while cooking.

The fry pans included with the set have pour spouts to easily discard excessive liquids without making a mess. The pieces in the set can be used in the oven, as long as the temperature remains under 175º Celsius. The Thermo-Spot technology included with each stovetop piece will let you know when it reaches the best cooking temperature. This ensures that you can start cooking without worrying about when to do so.

For extra practicality, the pieces in this set can be placed in the dishwasher, and they require minimal maintenance thanks to the easy-clean materials and design.

Key Features

  • High Performance. The pieces in this set perform well no matter how you cook or what you intend to make. They are extremely reliable and work to keep your cooking process simple.
  • Reliable Results. Thanks to the quick and even heat distribution, Canadians can depend on getting reliable results when using these pieces. 
  • Practical Use. The set can be used in the dishwasher and also in the oven, depending on temperature. This cookware set isn’t fussy when you need them to work for you.
  • Pour Spout. This cookware set has frying pans with pour spouts that make quick work of discarding excess liquid without spilling on your countertops.

Our Expert’s Take

“This set offers a ton of different pieces, which makes it ideal for those looking to fully outfit their kitchen with a single purchase. It can be used in the oven and cleaned in the dishwasher.”

Best Convenience

AmazonBasics 15-Piece Cookware Set

Amazon Basics 15-Piece Non-Stick Kitchen Cookware Set - Pots, Pans and Utensils

It's Great For:

The AmazonBasics 15-Piece Cookware Set is a stylish option that is an ideal fit for any Canadian kitchen, especially those with little storage space. This set is a great space saver, as the pieces can stack together to gain counter space whenever needed. This option can be used with ease at home, or while traveling as many of the pieces are easy to pack.

The set is made from durable materials designed to last, for extra reliability. It is a versatile set that can be used with various types of stovetops, from electric to gas. The different pieces in the set make it even easier to use them with comfort and ease, for a variety of recipes. The wide range of pieces in the set includes various cooking utensils, along with different sizes of saucepans and frying pans.

This set from AmazonBasics offers great performance, as well as good heat distribution, durable materials, and overall reliability. It can be used on various stovetops, and while it can’t be placed in the dishwasher it can still be cleaned very easily. The glass lids on the pans are also highly resistant for more peace of mind.

Key Features

  • Space Saver. The pans in this set are made to stack. Whether you store them in your cabinets or on your countertops, they won’t take up too much space in your kitchen.
  • Durability. The set is designed to be durable and long-lasting. Even with daily use, it will last for years to come. You won’t have to switch out pieces often.
  • Convenient Range. The range of pieces included with this set offers everything you need to get your kitchen set started. There are enough pieces for cooks of every experience level, too.
  • Easy to Use. This is an easy set to use that is straightforward. It also includes pieces that make cooking more streamlined.

Our Expert’s Take

“This AmazonBasics Cookware Set is extremely reliable. Even heat distribution and an inexpensive, space-saving design makes this a great option for those just getting started.”

Best Comfort

Cuisinart Stainless Steel 12-Piece Cookware Set

CUISINART MCP-12NCC MultiClad Pro Stainless Steel 12-Piece Cookware Set, Silver

It's Great For:

The Cuisinart Stainless Steel 12-Piece Cookware Set is a stylish choice that can fit right in with all Canadian households. The set can be used on any stovetop, including induction options. It is made from brushed stainless steel, creating high performance and offering premium quality.

Each handle features the proprietary CoolGrip technology, providing a contoured fit for additional comfort and keeping the handle cool as you cook. The lids included with the set feature Flavor Lock technology, keeping all the nutrients locked in until you are ready to eat. The pieces can be used with a broiler or to store food in the freezer. They can also be used in the oven, in temperatures up to 260º Celsius.

The sturdy triple-ply construction has a core of pure aluminum, sandwiched between bonded brushed stainless steel layers. Both the interiors and the exteriors of the pieces included in the set are made from this premium stainless steel. The pieces include heat surround technology, providing even heat distribution for reliable cooking results.

This elegant set takes inspiration from French kitchens and provides excellent support for any Canadian home chef, no matter the level of cooking experience. Those looking for a comfortable cooking experience can find great results with this set.

Key Features

  • Stylish Design. The French-inspired design of the set provides a touch of elegance and sophistication, as well as high performance. 
  • Sturdy Build. The triple-ply construction makes these pans extremely robust. They are durable enough that they won’t wear out after just a few uses.It’s extremely durable ensures the robustness of the set and makes it more durable.
  • Comfortable Handles. The CoolGrip technology included with the set provides a comfortable and cool grip, thanks to the contouring on the handles. 
  • Premium Materials. The brushed stainless steel used for each piece (both interior and exterior) make this set feel luxurious.

Our Expert’s Take

“When other cookware sets can get uncomfortable when you cook larger meals, this set stays comfortable. The well-cushioned handles work well for use on the stovetop, making this set a great option if you don’t plan on using the pans in the oven.”

Best Durability

Rachael Ray Cucina 12-Piece Cookware Set

Rachael Ray Cucina Nonstick Cookware Pots and Pans Set, 12 Piece, Agave Blue

It's Great For:

The Rachael Ray Cucina 12-Piece Cookware Set is an elegant option featuring refined design and high performance that makes cooking easier for the Canadian home chef. This set includes saucepans, frying pans, a sauté pan, and several utensils to ensure a more streamlined cooking process. The set is made from premium aluminum that makes each piece more durable. It also includes comfortable grip handles that keep cool during cooking. These handles are made from dual riveted silicone reinforced with stainless steel.

The PFOA-free nonstick coating creates reliable cooking results and assists with easy cleaning and maintenance, as well as convenient food release. The exteriors of the pieces are reinforced with hard enamel porcelain for added style and durability. This set blends the rustic look with modern technology to enhance the cooking experience of any Canadian. The pieces can be used in the dishwasher.

If you want to transfer any of these stove top pieces to the oven, you can do so as long as the temperature remains under 204º Celsius. Canadians looking for a stylish set that they are looking to display in their kitchens should take this one into consideration, as it complements any space with ease, while providing great results.

Key Features

  • Stylish Look. The blend of rustic and modern creates a great-looking set that can be eye-catching in any Canadian kitchen.
  • Extended Duability. This set is made from durable materials following a design created to provide long life to these pieces. 
  • Easy Use. The set can be used in the oven or with induction stovetops. You don’t have to worry about using them wrong, as their extreme durability and high-end design allows for use in multiple applications.
  • Easy Maintenance. The set pieces are easy to clean as they release food without hassle, and they can also be used in the dishwasher.

Our Expert’s Take

“The Rachael Ray Cucina 12-Piece Cookware Set is a stylish option that perfectly blends rustic elegance with the modern features you need. They are extremely durable and easy to clean, too.”

Comparing the Best Cookware Sets for Canadians

CategoryCookware SetMaterialHandle ConstructionSet SizeDishwasher SafeOven Safe
Best OverallCAROTE 11-Piece Cookware SetGraniteSilicone11 PiecesYesYes
Best GraniteCarote White Granite 10-Piece Cookware SetGraniteStainless Steel and Rubber10 PiecesNoNo
Best CompatibilityHexClad Stainless Steel 7-Piece Cookware SetAluminum/Stainless SteelStainless Steel7 PiecesYesYes
Best Stainless Steel SetLagostina Stainless Steel 12-Piece Cookware SetStainless SteelStainless Steel12 PiecesYesYes (Up to 200 Degrees Celsius)
Best PerformanceT-Fal Culinaire Aluminum 16-Piece Cookware SetAluminumStainless Steel16 PiecesYesYes
Best ConvenienceAmazonBasics 15-Piece Cookware SetAluminum, GlassN/A15 PiecesNoNo
Best ComfortCuisinart Stainless Steel 12-Piece Cookware SetStainless SteelStainless Steel12 PiecesYesYes
Best DurabilityRachael Ray Cucina 12-Piece Cookware SetAluminiumSilicone12 PiecesYesYes

How We Selected These Cookware Sets in Canada

Thanks to the years we’ve spent in the home industry, we know exactly what makes a kitchen product stand out. Every set on our list has been thoroughly vetted to help fellow Canadians find cookware that will enhance the quality of their lives and their food.

When choosing the best cookware sets in Canada, we considered several key factors to ensure each set is ideal for your sautéing, frying, and simmering needs.

  • Material. The best pots and pans in Canada come in a wide array of materials. Each material has its pros and cons. We chose only cookware sets whose construction ensures the material’s advantages outweigh its disadvantages.
  • Budget. Quality cookware can undoubtedly cost a pretty penny. Our mission was to find high-performance pots and pans that won’t break the bank. The costlier entries on our list also feature more set pieces, ensuring you get excellent value for the money.
  • Ease of Use. We considered how easy these cookware sets are to use and clean. The latter will be crucial for Canadians who can’t stand scrubbing. Dishwasher-safe sets are the easiest to clean, so we included plenty of these options on our list.
  • Variety of Pieces. Besides the number of set pieces, discussing their variety is essential. For this reason, we ensured each set we chose as one of the best cookware sets in Canada could cover all the basic cooking needs. We’ve noted if the set pieces are accessories, such as turners and slotted spoons, and lids that go with pots and pans.
Why Should Canadians Buy Cookware Sets

Why Should Canadians Buy Cookware Sets?

When buying cookware, you can choose to curate your collection piece by piece. If you aren’t an experienced chef, this will be incredibly time-consuming, as researching the best pots and pans in Canada takes quite some time.

Brands typically offer substantial discounts for their sets versus individual pieces. Therefore, buying separate pots and pans will likely cost significantly more than purchasing a set.

If you buy a cookware set in one fell swoop, you’ll also benefit from consistency in the elements’ appearance and performance. The former is vital for Canadians fond of aesthetically pleasing kitchens, while the latter can be helpful for new cooks. They will spend less time adjusting from pan to pan since all the set elements come from the same manufacturer and series. Even experienced cooks will benefit from quickly learning how the set behaves on the stove, meaning how it heats up and responds to temperature changes.

How to Choose a Cookware Set for Canadians

When choosing the best cookware sets in Canada, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. The option you should choose depends heavily on your personal preferences, including your cooking style and priorities. While you shop for a cookware set, keep the following features and options in mind. 

Material

The cookware material is arguably the most important consideration when shopping for a cookware set in Canada. The material typically determines the price of the cookware set, its ease of use, durability, and maintenance needs. The most commonly used cookware materials include:

  • Copper
  • Aluminum
  • Stainless steel
  • Cast iron

Copper cookware is the most responsive to heat, meaning your food will stop cooking immediately after you remove it from the heat source. Copper pots and pans heat the most evenly. However, copper cookware is usually pretty pricey. Plus, if you want to keep its bright and shiny finish, get ready for some serious upkeep.

As for aluminum, it also distributes heat well. Most aluminum pots and pans have an enamel or non-stick finish to prevent the metal from leaching into your food and to also make the cookware easier to clean. If you want to ensure your aluminum pans never interact with your food, consider getting hard-anodized cookware elements. These products have undergone an electrochemical process to make them stronger, darker, and more resistant.

Canadian cooks prioritizing durability and beauty will typically go for stainless steel pots and pans. Unfortunately, stainless steel doesn’t excel at conducting heat on its own. The best stainless steel cookware sets available in Canada will have an aluminum core or a layer of aluminum in the bottom, ensuring even heating. In terms of price, stainless steel is on the pricier side. Also, grease splatters might give you a hard time when cleaning these pots and pans.

Cast iron cookware is the go-to choice for many Canadians since it’s durable, inexpensive, and non-stick. It retains heat better than any other cookware material. But this cookware also requires a decent amount of maintenance to prevent it from rusting. Furthermore, cast iron pots and pans are hefty, and aren’t compatible with all food types, such as highly acidic foods like tomatoes.

Handle Construction

The handle is the only cookware element you’ll hold while cooking so it should be comfortable and allow you proper control over the pan. Handles can be the first element to wear out, rendering your cookware unusable.

Silicone sleeves on handles allow them to stay cooler to the touch, making cooking easier and more comfortable. However, don’t forget to check the manual before placing cookware with these handles in the oven.

Regarding the attachment type, look for welded handles. Unlike their screwed-on and riveted counterparts, these handles don’t have tiny spaces that are challenging to clean. Welded handles are more firmly attached and more durable. They don’t have elements inside the pan that can come into contact with your food.

Coating

Nonstick cookware is prized for preventing a mess while cooking and making cleaning easier after you’re done. Unfortunately, the nonstick coating wears out rather quickly, losing its stick-resistant properties and potentially posing a health hazard.

Nonstick cookware that shows signs of wear can release carcinogenic compounds and dangerous fumes during cooking. This occurs when you preheat a nonstick pan or use it over extremely high heat. To minimize the risk, consider buying cookware with a ceramic nonstick coating that can be safely used at higher heat.

Set Elements

Cookware sets available in Canada come in various sizes and contain different elements. Before purchasing a cookware set, determine what elements are essential to you. This usually depends on your cooking style, the number of people you cook for, and your favourite foods to prepare.

A decent cookware set should include 20- and 25-centimetre skillets and a covered 30-centimetre skillet or sauté pan. These larger pans are highly versatile and can be used for frying, stir-frying, and making one-pot dishes.

Next, the set should include a few smaller fry pans for crepes and eggs and a couple of saucepans for reheating and simmering. A large stockpot should be the mainstay of the best cookware sets in Canada. You can use this pot for soup, stew, or pasta water. Plus, it can sometimes double as a Dutch oven.

Since stockpots are customarily used for boiling water, their material won’t affect their performance. When reviewing set elements in more detail, pay attention to those used for frying. The construction, material, and heat distribution and retention will make or break a good frying pan, skillet, or sauté pan.

Stove Type

The best cookware sets in Canada can be used on any cooking surface. However, this isn’t the case for all cookware sets. Some sets are safe to use or perform best on specific stoves and ranges.

For example, copper, aluminum, cast iron, and stainless steel cookware are ideal for gas stoves.

If you have an electric stove, you can also choose stainless steel or go for ceramics. Electric stoves work best with cookware elements with a durable finish and good heat distribution properties.

A glass stovetop calls for heavy-bottomed cookware. In addition, the elements should be flat and have smooth bottoms to avoid damaging the glass.

An induction stove requires magnetic materials, such as cast iron. You should never use aluminum cookware on an induction burner unless there’s a layer of stainless steel in the base.

Dishwasher and Oven Safety

If you own a dishwasher, you’ll probably want to buy a dishwasher-safe cookware set. This way, you’ll save time and energy after cooking. Cookware made with a hard-anodized metal coating can withstand dishwashers the best. Other coating types will likely fade with repeated washing.

Oven safety is another highly beneficial feature. It allows you to move your cookware from your stovetop to the oven, thus allowing you to prepare a greater range of dishes or keep food warm. Avoid using a cookware set that is not rated for use in your oven in this manner. The handle materials can be damaged, and they can even melt in higher temperatures.

Maintenance

The better you take care of your cookware set, the longer it will last. The exact cleaning process will depend on the material you choose. In general, we recommend hand washing your pots and pans instead of using the dishwasher. Dishwashers typically use harsher detergents that can scratch your cookware set elements and speed up their deterioration. Even washing the elements by hand, you should avoid using harsh detergents. Instead, stick to warm water and milder cleaning solutions.

If you want to purchase cookware that fits into your current cleaning routine, here’s what to keep in mind:

  • If you soak pots and pans after cooking, avoid using nonstick cookware and uncoated cast iron pots and pans.
  • Canadians who prefer the convenience of a dishwasher should go for stainless steel elements designated as dishwasher safe.
  • If you clean as you go, nonstick cookware will be your best friend since it only requires a quick rinse and dry using a dishcloth.

Safe Use

To use your cookware safely, remember to following the manufacturer’s guidelines for cooking, use, and cleaning. Failure to follow the guidelines for proper use can lead to damages and injuries. If you want your cookware to last a long time, you should always make sure to use it properly. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Cookware sets in Canada can benefit all types of users, from beginner cooks to advanced home chefs. If you plan on doing any cooking at all in your home, you should invest in a cookware set. Those who plan on minimal cooking can get away with a smaller, budget-friendly set, while those who cook on a daily basis would be smart to invest in a professional-grade cookware set that will last for years to come.

Purchasing a cookware set comes down to personal preferences, and there are many factors to consider. Depending on how much you cook, what you like to cook, and how large your kitchen storage space is will all help to determine the best set. Busy families may want to choose a cookware set that can be dishwasher-cleaned, which can save time and energy. Cookware sets in Canada also have a large range of prices, and that is often a factor when purchasing.

Cookware sets each have their own very specific instructions that must be closely followed to ensure a long life span and to avoid damage. Some cookware sets can be easily cleaned in the dishwasher and are not sensitive to more abrasive cleaning. Other cookware sets available in Canada need to be hand washed carefully, without the use of harsh sponges and bristles, in order to maintain their finish. Make sure to carefully read all enclosed instructions when buying a new cookware set.

Most cookware sets are meant for the stove top at varying temperatures. Some cookware sets in our list today include pieces like baking sheets and dishes that can be used in the oven. Rarely, frying pans and saucepans can also be used in the oven, but these sets are treated for high heat. Canadians who wish to use all their cookware pieces on both the stove and oven need to make sure their desired set is high-heat approved.

Many advanced home cooks love to use stainless steel cookware, which is durable and will last a lifetime with proper care. Stainless steel cookware will ensure even cooking and a pure cooking surface free of all chemicals while being dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning. Because these sets are non-stick, they can be trickier to use for beginner sets. The Lagostina Stainless Steel Cookware Set is a great choice for those seeking a high-quality stainless steel set that is also oven-safe.

With so many different types of cookware material in Canada, choosing the right one for you can be intimidating. Those who are just beginning to learn to cook or who are seeking easier cooking may want to choose a non-stick cookware set. These sets are perfect for eggs, meats and pancakes and are also incredibly easy to clean. Canadians looking for a great non-stick cookware set will love The Rachael Ray Cucina 12-Piece Cookware Set, which comes in great colours and is dishwasher safe.