When it comes to high-performance cookware and flatware, stainless steel is a popular choice due to its versatility and durability. But not all stainless steel is created equally—in fact, there are a variety of different types of stainless steel that aren’t high-quality, so knowing the difference is a must when buying pots and pans.
If you're on the hunt for high-quality stainless cookware or flatware, 18/10 stainless steel is the way to go. Learning more about this popular alloy (and why it is the superior choice for cookware) will enable you to make smart choices when selecting the best products for your kitchen. Here's what you should know.
What Is 18/10 Stainless Steel?
Stainless steel cookware, made from a combination of alloys, is a composite material composed of multiple metallic elements. These alloys are often combined to enhance resistance to corrosion and are commonly used in applications requiring durability and longevity. The cookware typically includes a number in the title, also called a "grade," that indicates the percentage of chromium and nickel alloys present.
These two elements are added to stainless steel to help reduce rust, enhance shine, and increase durability. In this case, 18/10 indicates a makeup of 18% chromium, 10% nickel.
Why Does It Matter?
The makeup of stainless steel matters when it comes to your cookware for a simple reason: the higher the percentage of chromium and nickel, the higher quality stainless steel product you're getting.
A product made with 18/10 stainless means the end result will be extremely durable and both rust- and corrosion-resistant—three must-have qualities in high-quality cookware.
What are the Different Grades of Stainless Steel?
For comparison purposes, here are some different types of stainless steel grades and the percentage of additional alloys that are used to create them.
- 18/10 stainless steel contains 18% chromium, 10% nickel. This is rust-proof and holds polish well.
- 18/8 stainless steel contains 18% chromium, 8% nickel, and is highly rust-resistant.
- 18/0 Stainless Steel contains 18% chromium and less than 1% nickel, and is known for having reduced corrosion resistance.
Since 18/10 stainless contains the highest amount of nickel, it offers the highest resistance to rust and holds onto polish for longer, meaning it will stay new-looking for longer.
On the other end of the spectrum, corrosion and damage to your pots and pans is more likely to occur with 18/0 stainless steel due to the extremely limited amount of nickel, indicating that it is less resistant to oxidation or rust.
Why Is 18/10 Stainless Steel Used for Cookware?
High quality 18/10 stainless steel is a popular choice for cookware due to the way it handles and dispenses heat. Stainless steel alone is a poor heat conductor, meaning that a solely stainless steel pan would not perform well on the stove. This is why stainless steel requires different cladding in order to guarantee optimal cooking performance, which is why the combination of the additional alloys is needed.
Here are some other reasons why 18/10 stainless steel is perfect for high-quality cookware and flatware.
- It can be easily molded into pots, pans, and flatware due to the softness of the alloy.
- Hot and cold liquids, as well as acidic foods, can be contained long term without corrosion.
- It is chemically stable, which means that it can stand up to extreme temperature changes and resists warping due to thermal shock.
Is 18/10 Stainless Steel Safe?
Another benefit of opting for high-quality 18/10 stainless is the safety and peace of mind it offers. Our Stainless Clad Collection, made with 18/10 stainless, is made so the chromium binds to the stainless steel surface and protects it from rust, while the nickel prevents corrosion.
The strong bond of these alloys means no leaching, making it very safe to cook with. Inferior stainless steel cookware that is made with weaker alloys can mean nickel leaching into your food, making it unsafe for consumption.
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To prevent repurchasing cookware once couple years and ensure you're getting pans that last, it's important to read the fine print on what materials are used—especially with a workhorse material like stainless steel.
Our Stainless Clad is made with 18/10 stainless steel, offering unmatched durability and corrosion resistance as well as world-class heat response and control. It's the pan that put us on the map, and one that is trusted by restaurant customers and home cooks alike. See the difference professional quality and 18/10 stainless can make in your culinary arsenal.
