Do You Really Need Special Cookware for Induction?
Induction cooktops are becoming a favourite in modern kitchens because they heat quickly, offer precise temperature control, and are incredibly energy efficient. But one of the biggest questions people ask before switching is: Do I need special cookware for induction cooking?
The short answer is yes. Induction cooktops work differently from gas and traditional electric cooktops. They heat the cookware using magnetic energy, which means the cookware must have a magnetic base to function properly.
How Induction Cooktops Work (Simple Explanation)
Induction cooktops use electromagnetic fields to heat your cookware directly. Instead of heating the cooktop surface, energy transfers to the pot or pan itself, which then heats your food.
- The cooktop creates a magnetic field.
- Only magnetic cookware activates the heat.
- The pan heats up—while the surface stays relatively cool.
- Results: safer, faster, more efficient cooking.
What Cookware Works on Induction?
To work on induction, the bottom of your cookware MUST be magnetic. You can test this by placing a magnet on the base—if it sticks, you're good to go.
Cookware that works on induction:
- Cast iron
- Magnetic stainless steel
- Carbon steel
- Cookware with an induction-ready bonded base
Cookware that does NOT work on induction:
- Aluminium (unless specially made for induction)
- Copper (without magnetic base)
- Glass cookware
- Non-magnetic stainless steel
How to Identify Induction-Compatible Cookware
There are two easy ways:
- Check for the induction symbol (a coil icon) on the base or packaging.
- Use a magnet—if it sticks firmly, the pan is induction-ready.
Why Quality Matters With Induction Cookware
Not all induction cookware is created equal. Poor-quality pans may not heat evenly, may warp over time, or may fail to activate the induction burner. Premium brands design their cookware with stable magnetic bases that deliver reliable performance and long-lasting durability.
Top-selling induction-friendly brands like Scanpan, Essteele, Chasseur, WMF, and Pyrolux ensure even heating, strong magnetic responsiveness, and excellent cooking control.
Benefits of Using the Right Induction Cookware
- Heats up faster than gas or ceramic cooktops.
- Provides highly accurate temperature control.
- Improves energy efficiency and reduces cooking time.
- Enhances safety—no open flames.
- Reduces heat loss around the pan.
Our Recommended Induction-Friendly Cookware Brands
At The Living Styles, we stock a wide range of high-quality cookware designed to perform flawlessly on induction cooktops. Our top induction-compatible brands include:
- Scanpan – Danish innovation with exceptional heat distribution.
- WMF – German-engineered stainless steel built for precision cooking.
- Essteele – Premium Italian craftsmanship with superior induction bases.
- Chasseur – French cast iron that naturally works on induction.
- Pyrolux – Durable, affordable options for everyday kitchen use.
Explore our full range of induction-compatible cookware here: Shop Induction Cookware
Target page: https://thelivingstyles.co.nz/collections/induction-cookware
