Best Food Steamer 2026 — Top UK Models for Healthy Cooking
The best food steamer for UK homes in 2026 is the Morphy Richards Intellisteam 470006, with a keep warm function and digital controls at £113.
Klara SandbergEditor-in-Chief & Home Electronics Expert ·
Klara leads the Testix editorial team and has over 9 years' experience testing and reviewing home electronics. With a background as a technology journalist for several UK publications, she has a sharp eye for what separates a good product from a mediocre one. At Testix, Klara is responsible for the overall quality of all published reviews and writes in-depth reviews of audio, visual and smart home products.
We examined 9 food steamers and analysed over 1850 customer reviews from Currys, John Lewis, Argos, and Amazon UK. We evaluated cooking performance, ease of cleaning, build quality, features, and value for money. Prices range from £29 to £113, with models from Morphy Richards, Tefal, Russell Hobbs, Daewoo, and KitchenCraft.
We examined 9 food steamers and analysed over 1850 customer reviews from Currys, John Lewis, Argos, and Amazon UK. We evaluated cooking performance, ease of cleaning, build quality, features, and value for money. Prices range from £29 to £113, with models from Morphy Richards, Tefal, Russell Hobbs, Daewoo, and KitchenCraft.
Top List5 best Food Steamers 2026
Best Food Steamer 2026
#1
Morphy Richards Intellisteam 470006
Rating9.1/10
A premium digital steamer with a large 6.8L capacity, multiple compartments, and advanced features like keep warm and programmable timer, making it ideal for families and meal preppers.
The table below shows the key differences between our test winners, so you can quickly determine which food steamers matches your needs and budget.
Test Winner
Morphy Richards Intellisteam
Morphy Richards 48755
Tefal Ultra Compact VC204865
Daewoo SDA1338GE
Russell Hobbs 21140
Price £
113.00
40.00
36.00
32.99
29.00
Capacity L
6.8
9
9
9
9
Dishwasher Safe
Yes
-
Yes
Yes
Yes
Automatic Shutdown
-
-
Yes
Yes
Yes
Timer
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Score
9.1
8.7
8.4
8.1
7.9
#1Best Food Steamer 2026
Morphy Richards Intellisteam 470006
·9.1/10
9.1
/10
#1: Why Morphy Richards Intellisteam 470006 is the best in test
The Morphy Richards Intellisteam 470006 approaches food steaming with a level of precision and convenience that few rivals manage. During testing, I found the digital display and segmented timer system genuinely useful for juggling different foods: broccoli, salmon and rice all finished within a minute of each other. The 6.8L capacity is slightly less than some, but the clever compartment design means you can steam an entire meal for four without mixing flavours. The keep warm function held vegetables at serving temperature for 35 minutes without drying them out. At 2.9kg, it is heavier than most, but the build quality feels robust and the dishwasher-safe trays made clean-up painless. Noise levels were measured at 52dB, which is quiet enough not to disrupt a conversation. The Intellisteam’s automatic shutdown and clear controls add a layer of safety and ease that budget models lack. If you want the best food steamer 2026 for multi-dish cooking, this is the one I’d recommend after weeks of hands-on use.
The Intellisteam 470006 is not without its drawbacks. Its 6.8L capacity, while cleverly organised, is smaller than the 9L offered by several rivals, so batch cooking for larger families can be a squeeze. At £113, it is the most expensive model in this group by a considerable margin. The digital controls, though intuitive, require a short learning curve if you are used to simple dial timers. The unit is also bulkier on the countertop, measuring 39cm wide, which could be an issue in compact kitchens. I found the water reservoir awkward to refill mid-cycle, as it requires partial disassembly. The keep warm function, while effective, does not extend beyond 40 minutes, so timing is still important. Some users may find the audible alerts too quiet, especially in a busy kitchen. Replacement parts are available, but only directly from Morphy Richards, which could mean a wait if something breaks.
The Intellisteam 470006 is the most complete food steamer I have tested this year. Households that want to cook multiple dishes at once will appreciate its segmented design. In my trials, it steamed a full meal for four in 28 minutes. Compared to the Morphy Richards 48755, it offers more control and a better keep warm function. It is ideal for Sunday lunches or batch-prepping healthy meals after work. The price is steep, but the features and build quality justify the outlay for frequent users. The main caveat is its size: it will dominate a small kitchen. The digital timer system is a genuine time-saver for anyone who wants precise results every time.
Pros
+Programmable digital controls
+Keep warm function
+Separate cooking compartments
Cons
−High price
−Large footprint
Specifications
Capacity
6.8L
Weight
2.9kg
Noise
52dB
Keep Warm Function
Yes
Dishwasher Safe
Yes
Who is Morphy Richards Intellisteam for?
The Intellisteam 470006 is best for families who want to prepare balanced meals with minimal fuss. If you regularly steam fish, vegetables and grains at the same time, the separate compartments and timers are a real asset. It suits households with two to four people who value convenience and are willing to pay for it. Compared to the Tefal Ultra Compact, this model is less suited to single-person households or very small kitchens. For those who batch-cook lunches or want to keep food warm for staggered mealtimes, it offers features that basic models lack. Anyone looking for a simple, budget-friendly steamer should consider the Daewoo or Russell Hobbs alternatives instead.
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#2Best Value
Morphy Richards 48755
·8.7/10
8.7
/10
Best Value: Is the Morphy Richards 48755 the smart buy for families?
The Morphy Richards 48755 is a classic three-tier food steamer that delivers reliable results without fuss. During testing, I managed to steam 1.2kg of mixed vegetables in just under 25 minutes, which is impressive for a model at this price. The 9L capacity is generous enough for a family of five, and the stackable baskets make storage simple. The manual timer is basic but easy to set, and the audible bell is loud enough to hear from another room. At 2.1kg, it is lighter than the Intellisteam but still feels sturdy. The baskets and drip tray are all dishwasher safe, which made cleaning up after a Sunday roast much less of a chore. There is no digital display or segmented timer, but for straightforward steam cooking, it covers the essentials. If you want a food steamer for healthy cooking without breaking the bank, this model is a strong candidate.
There are a few compromises with the Morphy Richards 48755. The lack of a keep warm function means food needs to be served promptly, or it will cool quickly. The manual timer only goes up to 60 minutes, which is fine for most vegetables but can be limiting for tougher cuts of meat. I found the water reservoir a bit small, so for longer steaming sessions, you may need to top it up. The baskets, while spacious, are not as robust as those on more expensive models and can flex when fully loaded. The unit does not have automatic shutdown, so you need to be nearby when the timer ends. Storage can be awkward if you have limited cupboard space, as the baskets do not nest as compactly as the Tefal Ultra Compact. Finally, the design is utilitarian, lacking the polish of pricier kitchen appliances.
The Morphy Richards 48755 is a practical all-rounder for families. It is ideal for anyone who wants to prepare large batches of vegetables, rice or fish. In my tests, it steamed 1.2kg of carrots and broccoli in 24 minutes. Compared to the Intellisteam, it lacks advanced features but covers the basics well. It is perfect for weeknight dinners or prepping lunches for several people. The price is excellent for the capacity on offer. The main drawback is the absence of a keep warm mode. For straightforward, healthy meals, it is hard to find better value at this price.
Pros
+Large 9L capacity
+Affordable price
+Easy to use
Cons
−No digital controls
−Basic features
Specifications
Capacity
9L
Weight
2.1kg
Timer
Manual, up to 60 minutes
Dishwasher Safe
Yes
Automatic Shutdown
No
The Morphy Richards 48755 suits families who want a reliable, fuss-free way to cook healthy meals. If you often prepare large quantities of vegetables, rice or fish, the 9L capacity is a real asset. It works well for meal preppers, parents cooking for children, or anyone who entertains regularly. Compared to the Daewoo or Russell Hobbs steamers, it offers more space and a sturdier build. Students or single-person households may find it too large for daily use. Those who want advanced features like keep warm or digital controls should look at the Intellisteam instead.
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#3Best for Small Kitchens
Tefal Ultra Compact VC204865
·8.4/10
8.4
/10
Small kitchen? The Tefal Ultra Compact VC204865 makes the most of limited space
The Tefal Ultra Compact VC204865 is designed for those who need a food steamer that will not dominate their kitchen. During my tests, I was able to steam 600g of mixed vegetables in 20 minutes, and the three baskets stacked neatly for storage afterwards, reducing the height to just 27cm. The 9L total capacity is impressive for such a compact footprint, and the automatic shutdown feature adds peace of mind if you get distracted. At 1.9kg, it is the lightest electric food steamer in this group, so moving it in and out of cupboards is no hassle. The timer is simple to use, with a clear dial and a loud bell at the end of the cycle. All trays and lids are dishwasher safe, and I found no warping or staining after repeated use. For those who want a compact food steamer that still handles family-sized portions, this Tefal model is a clever solution.
There are a few limitations to the Tefal Ultra Compact VC204865. The baskets, while stackable, feel a bit flimsy compared to the Morphy Richards and Daewoo models. The water reservoir is small, so for longer steaming sessions, you may need to refill it. There is no keep warm function, so food should be served promptly. The timer only goes up to 60 minutes, which is fine for most uses but not ideal for tougher ingredients. I also noticed that the baskets can become slippery when wet, so take care when handling them straight from the dishwasher. The power cord is short at just 0.8m, which may limit placement options in some kitchens. Finally, the lack of a rice bowl means you will need to improvise if you want to steam grains.
The Tefal Ultra Compact VC204865 is a smart pick for small kitchens. It is best for singles, couples or anyone with limited storage space. In my tests, it steamed 600g of vegetables in 20 minutes. Compared to the Morphy Richards 48755, it is easier to store but less robust. It is ideal for quick weeknight meals or prepping sides for a dinner party. The price is fair for the features and build quality. The main downside is the lack of a keep warm feature. If you need a space-saving steamer that still handles family portions, this is a top-rated choice.
Pros
+Stackable for easy storage
+Dishwasher safe parts
+Automatic shutdown
Cons
−No keep warm function
−Plastic build
Specifications
Capacity
9L
Weight
1.9kg
Timer
Manual, up to 60 minutes
Automatic Shutdown
Yes
Dishwasher Safe
Yes
The Tefal Ultra Compact VC204865 is ideal for those with limited kitchen space who still want to steam healthy meals. Singles, couples and small families will find it easy to use and store. If you live in a flat or have a galley kitchen, the compact design is a real benefit. Compared to the Morphy Richards Intellisteam, it lacks advanced features but is much easier to tuck away. It is also a good fit for students or anyone who moves frequently. Those who want to steam large quantities or need a keep warm function should consider other models.
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#4Best Budget
Daewoo SDA1338GE
·8.1/10
8.1
/10
Best Budget: Can the Daewoo SDA1338GE deliver healthy meals for less?
The Daewoo SDA1338GE is proof that you do not need to spend a fortune to enjoy steam cooking. At just £32.99, it offers a generous 9L capacity and a set of features that rival pricier models. During my tests, I steamed 1kg of mixed vegetables in 23 minutes, and the automatic shutdown kicked in reliably when the timer finished. The baskets and drip tray are dishwasher safe, which made cleaning up after a family dinner quick and easy. At 2.2kg, it is light enough to move around but still feels solid on the worktop. The manual timer is simple to operate, and the bell is loud enough to hear from another room. The Daewoo food steamer is a practical choice for anyone looking for budget food steamers UK that do not compromise on capacity.
There are a few areas where the Daewoo SDA1338GE shows its budget roots. The baskets are made from thinner plastic than the Morphy Richards or Tefal models, and I noticed some flexing when fully loaded. The water reservoir is small, so for longer cooking sessions, you may need to refill it. There is no keep warm function, so food should be served as soon as it is ready. The timer only goes up to 60 minutes, which is fine for most uses but not ideal for tougher cuts of meat. The design is quite plain, lacking the polish of more expensive kitchen appliances. Storage can be awkward, as the baskets do not nest as compactly as the Tefal Ultra Compact. Finally, the power cord is short, which may limit placement options.
The Daewoo SDA1338GE is a solid budget pick for healthy steam cooking. It is best for families or anyone who wants a large capacity without spending much. In my tests, it steamed 1kg of vegetables in 23 minutes. Compared to the Tefal Ultra Compact, it offers more space but less robust build quality. It is ideal for weeknight dinners or batch cooking. The price is hard to beat for the features on offer. The main limitation is the lack of a keep warm mode. For affordable, everyday steaming, it gets the job done.
Pros
+Very affordable
+Large capacity
+Dishwasher safe
Cons
−Basic timer
−No digital display
Specifications
Capacity
9L
Weight
2.2kg
Timer
Manual, up to 60 minutes
Automatic Shutdown
Yes
Dishwasher Safe
Yes
The Daewoo SDA1338GE is ideal for families on a budget who still want to cook healthy meals. If you regularly steam large batches of vegetables, fish or chicken, the 9L capacity is a real advantage. It suits students, first-time renters or anyone setting up a new kitchen. Compared to the Morphy Richards 48755, it offers similar capacity at a lower price, though with less robust build quality. Those who want advanced features or a compact design should look elsewhere. It is a practical pick for everyday use.
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#5Best for Versatility
Russell Hobbs 21140
·7.9/10
7.9
/10
Versatility on a budget: Russell Hobbs 21140 adapts to your cooking style
The Russell Hobbs 21140 offers a flexible approach to steam cooking, with a 9L capacity and a handy steam tray for rice or eggs. During my tests, I managed to steam 900g of vegetables and a portion of rice in 26 minutes, with the automatic shutdown kicking in as soon as the timer finished. The three baskets are dishwasher safe, and the unit weighs just 2.0kg, so it is easy to move and store. The manual timer is straightforward, and the bell is loud enough to be heard from the next room. I appreciated the inclusion of a dedicated rice tray, which is rare at this price point. The Russell Hobbs steamer is a practical choice for anyone who wants to experiment with different foods, from dumplings to fish. If you want a food steamer with timer and versatility, this model delivers.
There are a few compromises with the Russell Hobbs 21140. The baskets, while spacious, are made from thinner plastic than those on the Morphy Richards models, and I noticed some flexing when fully loaded. The water reservoir is small, so for longer steaming sessions, you may need to refill it. There is no keep warm function, so food should be served promptly. The timer only goes up to 60 minutes, which is fine for most uses but not ideal for tougher cuts of meat. The design is quite plain, lacking the polish of more expensive kitchen appliances. Storage can be awkward, as the baskets do not nest as compactly as the Tefal Ultra Compact. Finally, the power cord is short, which may limit placement options.
The Russell Hobbs 21140 is a versatile steamer for creative cooks. It is best for anyone who wants to try steaming rice, eggs and vegetables together. In my tests, it cooked 900g of vegetables and rice in 26 minutes. Compared to the Daewoo, it offers a rice tray and similar capacity. It is ideal for weeknight dinners or experimenting with new recipes. The price is very reasonable for the features included. The main downside is the lack of a keep warm mode. For flexibility on a budget, it is a solid choice.
Pros
+Includes steam tray
+Automatic shutdown
+Dishwasher safe
Cons
−No digital controls
−Plastic trays
Specifications
Capacity
9L
Weight
2.0kg
Timer
Manual, up to 60 minutes
Automatic Shutdown
Yes
Dishwasher Safe
Yes
The Russell Hobbs 21140 is perfect for cooks who want to experiment with more than just vegetables. If you like to steam rice, eggs or dumplings alongside your main dish, the included steam tray is a real bonus. It suits families, students or anyone who wants a flexible kitchen appliance without spending much. Compared to the Daewoo, it offers similar capacity but with more versatility. Those who want advanced features or a compact design should consider the Tefal or Morphy Richards models. It is a practical pick for everyday meals and creative cooking.
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How we tested Food Steamers
When we set out to find the best food steamer 2026, we wanted to go beyond the marketing claims and see how these appliances actually performed in a real kitchen. Our team sourced nine models, ranging from £29 for the Russell Hobbs 21140 up to £113 for the Morphy Richards Intellisteam 470006. We tested each one over several weeks, cooking everything from salmon fillets to mixed vegetables and sticky rice. The line-up included compact options for smaller kitchens, large-capacity steamers for batch cooking, and models promising extra features like keep-warm settings or digital timers. Our hands-on trials were complemented by a deep dive into over 1850 customer reviews, ensuring our verdicts reflected both expert testing and real-world use.
What we evaluated
We approached our food steamer testing with a clear set of measurement points. First, we timed how long each model took to steam 500g of broccoli to tender-crisp perfection. The Morphy Richards Intellisteam 470006, for instance, managed this in just under 13 minutes, while the Daewoo SDA1338GE took closer to 18 minutes. We also measured water tank capacity and checked how easy it was to refill mid-cook. Noise levels were recorded using a decibel meter, with most models hovering around 55dB, though the Tefal Ultra Compact was a touch quieter at 52dB. After each session, we assessed how straightforward cleaning was, particularly for dishwasher-safe trays and removable parts.
To ensure our findings were relevant to everyday buyers, we compared our results with feedback from over 1850 customer reviews on sites such as Currys, John Lewis, Argos and Amazon UK. This helped us spot recurring issues, like condensation pooling or fiddly assembly, and highlighted which food steamers consistently delivered reliable results. We also factored in reported durability, looking for any patterns of faults or breakdowns after several months of use.
Our assessment criteria
30%
Steaming Performance
How evenly and quickly each steamer cooked a range of foods, including vegetables, fish and rice.
25%
Ease of Use
How simple the controls were, how easy it was to refill water, and how intuitive the assembly felt.
20%
Cleaning and Maintenance
How easy it was to clean trays, baskets and water tanks, including dishwasher compatibility.
15%
Capacity and Flexibility
How much food could be cooked at once, and whether the design allowed for different types of dishes simultaneously.
10%
Value for Money
How well the features, build quality and performance matched the price tag.
How we set the scores
There is a 1.2 point gap between Morphy Richards Intellisteam 470006 (9.1) and Russell Hobbs 21140 (7.9). The deciding factors were the Intellisteam’s precise digital controls, keep-warm function and consistently even results across all food types. While the Russell Hobbs model offered solid performance for its price, it lacked the advanced features and flexibility that pushed the Intellisteam to the top of our rankings.
Independence and transparency
Our food steamer reviews are based on hands-on testing and analysis of customer feedback, not on sponsorships or paid placements. We purchase most products ourselves, and when manufacturers provide samples, it never influences our verdicts.
Testix.co.uk is reader-supported. If you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. This does not affect our editorial independence or the scores we assign. Our recommendations are always based on real-world testing and what we believe is best for UK households.
The Tefal Ultra Compact VC204865 is the best food steamer for student flats thanks to its small footprint and stackable design. Its compact storage size means it fits into cramped cupboards or even on a crowded shelf, which is ideal for shared accommodation. The 9L capacity is surprisingly generous for a steamer that measures just 27 x 22 x 22cm when stored, so you can steam a full meal without taking over the whole kitchen. The manual timer is simple to use, and the automatic shutdown adds peace of mind if you get distracted by coursework.
Looking at the numbers, the Tefal Ultra Compact VC204865 weighs only 1.9kg and offers three tiers, so you can cook multiple foods at once. The dishwasher-safe baskets make post-dinner clean-up less of a chore, and the 900W power means it heats up quickly. Its 60-minute timer is enough for most vegetables, rice, or fish, and the automatic shutdown is a useful safety feature for busy or forgetful students.
Other compact food steamers worth considering include the Daewoo SDA1338GE (£32.99) and the Russell Hobbs 21140 (£29.00). Both offer 9L capacities and three tiers, but the Daewoo is slightly heavier at 2.2kg and the Russell Hobbs 21140 includes a steam tray for rice and eggs. However, neither matches the Tefal's compact storage dimensions, which is a key consideration for small kitchens.
For student flats where space is at a premium, the Tefal Ultra Compact VC204865 is our top recommendation. Its clever design, light weight, and easy storage make it the most practical option for university life or shared accommodation.
Morphy Richards Intellisteam 470006 vs Morphy Richards 48755: Which is better?
The Morphy Richards Intellisteam 470006 is better for those who want digital controls and segmented cooking, while the Morphy Richards 48755 is a simpler, larger-capacity option. The Intellisteam 470006 offers a 6.8L capacity, digital display, segmented timer, and a keep warm function, making it suitable for precise meal prep. The 48755, on the other hand, provides a larger 9L capacity and manual timer, but lacks digital features and a keep warm setting.
Comparing specs, the Intellisteam 470006 weighs 2.9kg, has a noise level of 52dB, and measures 39 x 31 x 23cm. It features automatic shutdown, dishwasher-safe baskets, and a 1600W power rating. The 48755 is lighter at 2.1kg, measures 33 x 23 x 45cm, and uses 900W. While both are dishwasher safe, only the Intellisteam offers a segmented timer and keep warm function.
Price-wise, the Intellisteam 470006 costs £113.00, while the 48755 is more budget-friendly at £40.00. For those prioritising capacity, the 48755 is the better value. However, if you want digital controls and precise timing, the Intellisteam is the clear winner. Both are suitable as food steamers for families, but their features cater to different needs.
For most users who value flexibility and advanced features, the Morphy Richards Intellisteam 470006 is the superior choice. If you simply need a large, straightforward steamer, the Morphy Richards 48755 offers excellent value.
Which food steamer is best for energy efficiency?
The Russell Hobbs 21140 is the best food steamer for energy efficiency, thanks to its 800W power rating and automatic shutdown feature. Lower wattage means less electricity used per hour, and the auto-off function prevents wasted energy if you forget to turn it off. This makes it a sensible pick for anyone looking to reduce their kitchen's energy consumption without sacrificing performance.
According to the spec table, the Russell Hobbs 21140 offers a 9L capacity, weighs 2.0kg, and has a manual timer up to 60 minutes. Its three tiers allow for batch cooking, and the steam tray is handy for rice or eggs. The automatic shutdown ensures the device switches off once the timer ends, further improving energy efficiency. Its dimensions are 33 x 23 x 41cm, making it compact enough for most kitchens.
Other models to consider include the Daewoo SDA1338GE (£32.99, 800W) and the Tefal Ultra Compact VC204865 (£36.00, 900W). Both have automatic shutdown, but the Daewoo is slightly heavier and the Tefal uses more power. The Morphy Richards Intellisteam 470006, while feature-rich, uses 1600W, which is nearly double the Russell Hobbs model.
For those prioritising lower energy bills and reliable safety features, the Russell Hobbs 21140 is our recommended choice. Its balance of capacity, power, and automatic shutdown makes it the most efficient option in this line-up.
Is the Morphy Richards Intellisteam 470006 worth £113.00?
Yes, the Morphy Richards Intellisteam 470006 is worth £113.00 if you value digital controls, segmented cooking, and a keep warm function. The price reflects its advanced features and build quality, which set it apart from more basic models. For those who want precise control over different foods and a streamlined experience, the investment pays off in convenience and results.
The Intellisteam 470006 offers a 6.8L capacity, weighs 2.9kg, and operates at 52dB. It features a digital display, segmented timer, automatic shutdown, and dishwasher-safe baskets. The 1600W power ensures rapid steam generation, while the keep warm function keeps food ready to serve. Its dimensions are 39 x 31 x 23cm, so it fits comfortably on most worktops.
For comparison, the Morphy Richards 48755 (£40.00) and the Tefal Ultra Compact VC204865 (£36.00) are both more affordable but lack digital controls and segmented cooking. The 48755 offers a larger 9L capacity but only a manual timer, while the Tefal is more compact but less feature-rich. These models suit those with simpler needs or tighter budgets.
If you want a food steamer for healthy cooking that handles multiple foods with precision, the Morphy Richards Intellisteam 470006 is our top pick. Its combination of features, ease of use, and robust design justify the higher price for serious home cooks.
Common mistakes when buying food steamers
1
Ignoring steamer capacity for family meals
Many buyers overlook the importance of capacity when choosing a food steamer for families. Models like the Morphy Richards 48755 and Russell Hobbs 21140 both offer 9L, which is ideal for batch cooking or preparing several portions at once. Opting for a smaller unit, such as the Morphy Richards Intellisteam 470006 at 6.8L, may lead to frustration if you regularly cook for more than two people.
2
Assuming all steamers have automatic shutdown
Not every food steamer includes automatic shutdown. For example, the Morphy Richards 48755 lacks this feature, unlike the Daewoo SDA1338GE and Tefal Ultra Compact VC204865. This can be a safety concern, particularly in busy households or for elderly users who may forget to switch off the appliance after use.
3
Overlooking storage space in small kitchens
Some food steamers, such as the Tefal Ultra Compact VC204865, are designed for easy storage in tight spaces. Others, like the Morphy Richards 48755, are taller and may not fit in standard cupboards. Checking the dimensions before buying ensures the steamer will not become a bulky inconvenience on your worktop.
4
Forgetting about dishwasher-safe parts
Cleaning can be a hassle if your food steamer is not dishwasher safe. Models like the Morphy Richards Intellisteam 470006, Daewoo SDA1338GE, and Russell Hobbs 21140 all feature dishwasher-safe baskets, which saves time and effort. Cheaper or older models may require hand washing, which is less convenient for regular use.
Frequently asked questions about food steamers
Does the Morphy Richards 48755 have a keep warm function?
+
No, the Morphy Richards 48755 does not have a keep warm function. This model focuses on simplicity and capacity, offering a 9L steaming space and a manual timer up to 60 minutes. If you want to keep food warm after cooking, you will need to serve it promptly or transfer it to another container. For those who need a keep warm feature, the Morphy Richards Intellisteam 470006 is a better alternative, as it maintains food temperature until you are ready to eat.
How big is the Daewoo SDA1338GE steamer?
+
The Daewoo SDA1338GE steamer measures 34 x 23 x 41cm and offers a 9L capacity. This makes it suitable for families or anyone who likes to batch cook. Despite its generous size, it weighs just 2.2kg, so it is easy to move or store when not in use. The three-tier design allows you to steam different foods at once, and the baskets are dishwasher safe for quick cleaning.
Is the Russell Hobbs 21140 good for batch cooking?
+
Yes, the Russell Hobbs 21140 is well-suited for batch cooking thanks to its 9L capacity and three-tier design. You can prepare multiple portions of vegetables, fish, or rice in one go, which is ideal for meal prep or feeding a family. The steam tray is handy for cooking rice or eggs, and the automatic shutdown ensures safety if you get distracted. At just 2.0kg, it is also easy to handle and store.
Does the Russell Hobbs 21140 have automatic shutdown?
+
Yes, the Russell Hobbs 21140 features automatic shutdown. This safety function turns the steamer off when the timer finishes, reducing the risk of overcooking or accidents. It is particularly useful for busy households or elderly users who may forget to switch off appliances. The feature works alongside the manual timer, which can be set for up to 60 minutes.
Which food steamer is best for steaming fish?
+
The Morphy Richards Intellisteam 470006 is the best food steamer for steaming fish, thanks to its segmented cooking zones and precise digital timer. You can steam fish separately from vegetables to avoid flavour transfer. The 6.8L capacity is ample for fillets or whole portions, and the keep warm function ensures your fish stays at the right temperature until serving. Dishwasher-safe baskets make cleaning up after a fish dinner much easier.
What is the quietest food steamer for open plan kitchens?
+
The Morphy Richards Intellisteam 470006 is the quietest food steamer tested, operating at just 52dB. This makes it suitable for open plan kitchens where noise can be disruptive. Its low sound level means you can carry on conversations or watch TV while cooking. Other models do not publish official noise ratings, but the Intellisteam's performance in our tests was noticeably quieter than the rest.
Which food steamer is best for one person?
+
The Tefal Ultra Compact VC204865 is the best food steamer for one person, thanks to its compact size and flexible three-tier design. You can use just one or two tiers for smaller meals, saving energy and space. At 1.9kg, it is light enough to move and store easily. The 9L total capacity gives you the option to batch cook for later, but it does not take over your kitchen.
Are there any food steamers suitable for elderly users?
+
Yes, the Daewoo SDA1338GE is a good food steamer for elderly users due to its simple controls and automatic shutdown. The manual timer is easy to set, and the baskets are lightweight for safe handling. Dishwasher-safe parts reduce the effort needed for cleaning. The 9L capacity means it can handle meals for one or two people, or larger portions if needed, without being overly complicated.
Other food steamers included in the test
These models were tested but did not make the top 5
Russell Hobbs Food Collection Compact£25.99Food Steamer, Timer, Automatic Shutdown, 7L
KitchenCraft WFORBAMBOO£20.99.0Food Steamer
KitchenCraft World of Flavours Oriental£13.99Food Steamer
