Stainless Steel Cookware Explained: Types, Benefits, and 18/10 Quality

At All-Clad, we are metallurgists and use a variety of materials, like stainless steel, aluminum, copper, and graphite, in a variety of applications in our cookware pieces. Much like a chef creating the perfect dish, we use our knowledge and experience to determine the right combination of materials for the ideal performance. From selecting the precise materials in the exact thickness to precise bonding with meticulous polishing, All-Clad cookware is thoughtfully engineered and carefully crafted for making your culinary masterpieces.

What is Stainless Steel?

Stainless steel is a metal known for its high corrosion resistance, strength, durability, and versatility, which makes it ideal for a wide range of applications, from kitchenware to medical equipment.

Are there different types of Stainless Steel?

There are hundreds of varieties of stainless steel, known as alloys. Each is composed of iron and chromium, but other elements like nickel, molybdenum, and carbon are added to enhance specific properties and corrosion resistance.

Are some Stainless Steel alloys better than others?

There is not one alloy that is better than the rest. Each of the hundreds of stainless-steel alloys has different properties, so the best alloy depends on its specific performance and use. For example, a pot’s exterior needs to be magnetic for induction stovetops, so we select a ferritic alloy for the cookware exterior.

What does 18/10 Stainless Steel mean? What is its composition?

18/10 is stainless steel that contains 18% chromium and 10% nickel. In housewares, this terminology is used to communicate the quality of flatware material: 18/0, 18/8 and 18/10, with 18/10 being the most corrosion resistant. However, 18/10 isn’t a term that you’ll hear from the pros. Metallurgists speak in alloys (like 304 or 316), which addresses more than just the level of chromium and nickel.

Why is Stainless Steel used in cookware?

Not only is Stainless steel durable, strong, ductile, resistant to high temperatures, corrosion resistant, and safe for food contact, it is a chef’s essential. Stainless steel is ideal for searing and browning foods to perfection. The pan’s surface retains delicious brown bits, called fond, which is the base for a pan sauces.

Does All-Clad use 18/10 Stainless Steel?

Yes. 304 is one of stainless steel alloys that we use.

What are the Benefits of using a Stainless Steel Pan?

The exceptional heat distribution of All-Clad stainless steel pans makes them perfect for creating restaurant-quality dishes at home. Their superior temperature control allows you to achieve the perfect crispy crust on meats while maintaining tender, juicy interiors.

A stainless steel pan is also perfect for creating rich, flavorful sauces. After searing meat, deglaze with wine or stock to unlock deep, concentrated flavors that will surely elevate your dish.

Professional chefs value these pans for their versatility. From pan-roasting vegetables to creating delicate cream sauces, the precise heat management ensures consistent results every time. The non-reactive surface means you can confidently cook acidic ingredients like tomatoes or wine without affecting the taste of your dishes.

 

All-Clad's Premium Stainless Steel Cookware Sets

At the heart of All-Clad's renowned collections lies premium stainless steel.

Our signature D3 and D5 collections showcase premium craftsmanship with high-grade stainless steel cooking surfaces. The D3 collection features a responsive three-layer design perfect for fast and even temperature control, while our D5 line elevates cooking with five alternating layers for superior heat stability.

The Copper Core collection combines this material with a pure copper center, creating a five-layer design that delivers precise temperature control. Each piece showcases a distinctive copper ring around its base, showcasing its superior craftsmanship.

The innovative G5 Graphite Core series pairs stainless steel with a revolutionary graphite center. This unique combination creates remarkably lightweight pans that heat rapidly and cool quickly, perfect for home chefs who value both performance and comfort while cooking.

From our classic fry pans to versatile sauté pans, these collections bring professional-grade performance to your kitchen, backed by our proud Bonded, Engineered, and Assembled in America manufacturing heritage in Canonsburg, PA.

Use and Care Tips for your All-Clad Stainless Steel Cookware

Maintaining your All-Clad stainless steel cookware starts with proper heating. Preheat pans on medium heat before adding oil or ingredients to prevent food from sticking. For cleaning, allow cookware to cool naturally before washing with warm water and mild soap.

White spots or rainbow stains on stainless steel pieces respond well to a gentle cleaning with white vinegar. A soft cloth or non-abrasive sponge preserves the polished surface while removing stubborn residue. Regular maintenance keeps your cookware performing at its peak. Always dry thoroughly after washing to prevent water spots, and store in a dry place to maintain the brilliant finish of your stainless steel pieces.