Induction Pots: Cookware That Works on Induction Hobs | Bash

Induction Pots: Cookware That Works on Induction Hobs | Bash

Why induction cookware matters

Induction hobs heat differently: they transfer energy directly to magnetic cookware rather than using a flame or hot plate. That means some pots heat faster, some don’t work at all, and the wrong base can leave you with uneven cooking or a scratched countertop. We’ll help you choose pots that are safe for your induction hob, straightforward to use on everyday meals, and suited to South African kitchens and budgets.

Key features to check

Magnetic base: a pot must attract a magnet at the base to work reliably on induction.
Flat base: ensures full contact with the hob for even heating and avoids wobble on glass tops.
Material and layering: most induction pots are stainless steel with an aluminium core or multi-layer bases for heat distribution.
Size marking: choose a pot whose base roughly matches the ring size on your hob for energy efficiency.

Materials explained - what we recommend

From our experience fitting pots to multiple kitchens across South Africa, these are the practical options:

Magnetic stainless steel (clad) - durable, non-reactive and widely available. Look for a bonded aluminium or copper core for even heat.
Cast iron - excellent heat retention and induction-friendly, but heavier and requires careful care to avoid rust. Cast iron pots
Enameled cast iron - easier to maintain than raw cast iron and safer for acidic cooking.
Cookware with a magnetic stainless-steel base - budget-friendly; check that the base is thick and flat rather than a thin magnetic plate glued onto the pot.

Practical checks before you buy

Magnet test: a small magnet should stick firmly to the centre of the base. If it’s weak or only sticks at the edges, performance may be poor.
Weight and balance: the base should feel solid. Very light ‘induction-compatible’ pots sometimes use thin magnetic discs - they heat unevenly.
Handles and lids: choose riveted or well-secured handles that stay cool and lids that seal without wobble.

If you want deeper reading on choosing shapes and finishes, our Kitchen & Dining collection has focused advice and product listings to match different cooking styles: Kitchen & Dining.

Add as a preferred source on Google

Cost, care and what to expect in a South African kitchen

Prices for induction-ready pots in South Africa vary by material and brand. As a rough guide, durable stainless-steel pots with a good multi-layer base commonly range from about R350 to R1 800 for single pieces, while enameled cast iron and premium multi-ply sets can range from about R1 200 to R4 000 or more depending on size and brand (estimates only). We recommend budgeting by how often you cook and whether you want a long-term investment or an affordable starter set.

Everyday care - simple steps that extend life

Avoid sudden temperature shocks: don’t place a very hot pot under cold water - it can warp bases on cheaper pans.
Use non-abrasive cleaners: for glass induction countertops, lift pots rather than sliding to prevent scratches.
Match pot diameter to the ring: smaller bases on large rings waste energy and can trigger hob safety cut-outs.

Which set or single pot should you start with?

If you cook daily, start with a 20-24 cm induction-ready saucepan and a 3-5 litre saucepan or pot for stews and family meals. For occasional cooks or small households, a good-quality 24 cm multi-purpose pot covers most needs. When shopping, we make it easy to compare options and practical details in the Cookware section: Cookware.

Our simple buying checklist: magnet test, flat base, multi-layer or thick base, comfortable handles, and a lid that seals well. These five checks reduce returns and give better results on induction hobs.

How we help you decide at Bash

We bring together brands, product specs and customer feedback so you can compare real features side-by-side. When you shop with us, look for clear labelling (induction-friendly), product photos of the base, and user reviews that mention your hob type. For heavier investments like enameled cast iron, check for warranty details and care guidance in the product description.

Ready to browse induction pots? Explore our selection and filter by induction-ready bases, size and price to find what suits your cooking style and countertop. We keep the experience simple so you can shop with confidence.

Sources

BBC Good Food - Induction cookware explained
Which? - What cookware you need for an induction hob
HowStuffWorks - How induction cooking works