For anyone looking to quickly prepare healthy vegetables, a reliable microwave vegetable steamer is essential. The Best Overall pick, the EliteVibe Glass Microwave Steamer, offers a combination of durability and ease of use, making it perfect for everyday cooking. The Collapsible Silicone Steamers stand out for their space-saving design and versatility, ideal for small kitchens or on-the-go meals. However, tradeoffs exist: some steamers may be more durable but less compact, while others are budget-friendly but lack advanced features. Continue reading for a detailed breakdown of the best microwave vegetable steamers and how to choose the right one for your needs.
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Key Takeaways
- The top-ranked steamer combines durability, ease of cleaning, and versatile capacity for daily use.
- Collapsible silicone models excel in space-saving design but may lack the sturdiness of glass or rigid options.
- Capacity varies significantly; larger steamers are better for family-sized portions, while smaller ones suit single servings.
- Material choice impacts durability and safety; BPA-free and dishwasher-safe options are highly recommended.
- Additional features like removable racks and lids improve functionality but often come with a higher price.
| microwave vegetable steamer | Material | Capacity | Dishwasher Safe |
|---|---|---|---|
| 42oz Silicone Microwave Food S | Food-grade silicone | 42oz | Yes |
| Collapsible Silicone Microwave | Food-grade BPA-free silicone | 42oz | Yes |
| Whirlpool W10660052 Universal | — | — | — |
| 42oz Silicone Microwave Steame | Silicone | 42oz | Yes |
| EliteVibe Glass Microwave Stea | Tempered glass, BPA-free PP | 1.5L | Yes |
| Silicone Multi-Steamer Made in | Food-grade silicone | 20.29 fl oz | — |
| Small Micro Cookware 1 Quart M | High-quality BPA-free plastic | 1 quart | Yes |
| Cuisinart Microwave Steamer | Plastic | 6.5 cups | — |
| Sistema Heat & Eat Microwaveab | BPA-Free | 3.2L | Yes |
| Professional Large Micro Cookw | Plastic, Silicone | 2 quarts | Yes |
| Microwave Steamer for Cooking | Ceramic, stainless steel | 75oz | — |
| GoodCook Everyday Microwave Fo | Plastic | — | Yes |
| Collapsible Silicone Microwave | Silicone | 42oz | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
42oz Silicone Microwave Food Steamer with Steam Basket, Collapsible, BPA Free, Dishwasher Safe
This silicone steamer stands out for its combination of safety, flexibility, and storage convenience. Made from BPA-free food-grade silicone, it is safe for microwave use and resistant to high temperatures, unlike some plastics. Its collapsible design makes it ideal for small kitchens or travel, and the included steam basket adds versatility. Compared with heavier, glass options like the EliteVibe Steamer, this one excels in portability but sacrifices some stability and durability. The capacity of 42oz suits small to medium households but may fall short for larger families or batch cooking. Its dishwasher-safe feature simplifies cleanup, although careful handling is needed to avoid burns from hot steam. Overall, this pick is perfect for users prioritizing compact storage and multi-purpose microwave steaming, with a tradeoff in capacity and durability.
Pros:- Made from BPA-free, food-grade silicone safe for microwave cooking
- Collapsible design saves storage space
- Easy to clean and dishwasher safe
- Versatile for steaming, fermenting, and baking
Cons:- Limited to microwave use, not suitable for stovetop or oven
- Capacity may be small for larger families
Best for: Young professionals or students needing a space-efficient steamer for quick, healthy meals in small kitchens or dorms
Not ideal for: Large families or those requiring large-volume steaming, as capacity may be insufficient
- Capacity:42oz
- Material:Food-grade silicone
- Temperature Range:Up to 446°F
- Dishwasher Safe:Yes
- Collapsible:Yes
- Includes:Removable steam basket, microwave steaming time guide
Our verdict“This steamer offers excellent portability and safety for small-scale microwave steaming, but isn’t ideal for large-volume cooking.”
Collapsible Silicone Microwave Vegetable Steamer with Removable Steam Rack, 42oz, BPA-Free
This BPA-free silicone steamer is designed for users who value a large capacity without sacrificing space. Its 42oz volume and collapsible form make it suitable for steaming vegetables, seafood, or dumplings efficiently, especially in compact kitchens. Unlike the Whirlpool W10660052, which is more traditional and less portable, this model emphasizes versatility and storage ease. It withstands high temperatures up to 446°F, ensuring durability during microwave steaming. The included removable rack enhances versatility, but the need to add water for steaming can be a minor inconvenience compared to the more straightforward design of the EliteVibe Glass Steamer. While it’s less suitable for stovetop or oven use, it’s perfect for quick microwave meals, with a notable tradeoff in the need for water and limited capacity for large families.
Pros:- Made from safe, BPA-free silicone that withstands high temperatures
- Collapsible design saves kitchen space
- Includes removable steam rack for versatility
- Easy to clean and dishwasher safe
Cons:- Limited to microwave use, not oven or stovetop compatible
- Requires water addition for steaming process
Best for: Home cooks looking for a large, space-efficient steamer for daily microwave vegetable and seafood meals
Not ideal for: Users seeking a stovetop or oven-compatible steamer or those with limited kitchen space for multiple accessories
- Material:Food-grade BPA-free silicone
- Temperature Resistance:Up to 446°F / 230°C
- Capacity:42oz
- Dimensions:8.7″ x 7.3″ x 3.9″
- Dishwasher Safe:Yes
- Includes:Removable steam rack
Our verdict“A highly versatile, space-saving microwave steamer suitable for those needing a larger capacity with easy storage, but it requires water and isn’t stovetop compatible.”
Whirlpool W10660052 Universal Microwave Steamer
The Whirlpool W10660052 offers a straightforward, universal steaming solution. Its design aims at compatibility with a broad range of microwave sizes, making it a dependable choice for users who want a no-fuss steaming experience. Unlike the silicone options, this model does not specify capacity details, but its focus on simplicity makes it suitable for steaming vegetables, rice, and fish. It’s less versatile in features compared to the collapsible silicone models but excels in ease of cleaning and compatibility. However, the lack of detailed specs and limited information about capacity and materials make it less appealing for those wanting precise control or multi-purpose use. This steamer is ideal for users who prioritize convenience over advanced features or capacity, with the tradeoff being fewer options for customization or versatility.
Pros:- Universal fit for various microwave models
- Simple to use and clean
- Suitable for steaming vegetables, fish, and rice
Cons:- Limited detailed features and capacity info
- Less versatile compared to silicone models
Best for: People seeking a straightforward, universally compatible microwave steamer for daily vegetables and seafood
Not ideal for: Those wanting detailed capacity info or multi-use features like baking or fermenting
- Brand:Whirlpool
- Model Number:W10660052
- Country of Origin:China
Our verdict“A reliable, no-frills microwave steamer that prioritizes compatibility and ease, ideal for basic steaming needs.”
42oz Silicone Microwave Steamer for Cooking, Collapsible Food Steamer for Vegetables, Seafood, Soup, Leftovers, Rice, BPA Free, Dishwasher Safe (Blue), 1 Pack
This BPA-free silicone steamer offers a flexible option for those who want a compact, all-in-one steaming solution. Its 42oz capacity makes it suitable for steaming vegetables, seafood, or reheating leftovers, with a collapsible design that fits well in small kitchens or for travel. Compared with the other silicone options, this one emphasizes ease of cleaning and storage, but it does not include a steamer basket, which might be a drawback for users needing specific steaming accessories. Its dishwasher-safe feature simplifies cleanup, though the limited capacity can be a drawback for larger families or batch cooking. It’s a practical choice for users who prioritize versatility and space-saving but are willing to add accessories for enhanced functionality.
Pros:- Made of BPA-free, food-grade silicone safe for microwave cooking
- Collapsible design saves storage space
- Easy to clean and dishwasher safe
- Suitable for steaming vegetables, seafood, and reheating leftovers
Cons:- No included steamer basket, may need additional accessories
- Limited capacity for large or multiple servings
Best for: Busy individuals or travelers seeking a versatile, compact steamer for reheating and small meal prep in microwave
Not ideal for: Large households or those needing a dedicated steaming basket for more precise steaming tasks
- Material:Silicone
- Capacity:42oz
- Item Dimensions:8.66 x 7.49 x 4.72 inches
- Item Weight:0.84 Pounds
- Temperature Range:446°F to -104°F
- Dishwasher Safe:Yes
Our verdict“A flexible, space-saving microwave steamer ideal for reheating and small meals, with some limitations in capacity and accessories.”
EliteVibe Glass Microwave Steamer, 1.5L Vegetable Steamer Bowl, Microwave-Safe Tempered Glass with Lid and Basket
This 1.5L glass steamer excels in durability and ease of cleaning, making it suitable for steaming vegetables, fish, and even reheating meals. Its tempered glass construction is more robust than silicone options, providing a sense of stability and long-term use, especially compared to lightweight silicone models like the B0GZQ35XSJ. The included lid and basket facilitate versatile cooking, but the smaller capacity limits its usefulness for larger families or extensive batch cooking. Unlike the Whirlpool model, which is more generic, the EliteVibe emphasizes quality and durability, though at the cost of portability and multi-use features. Best suited for users who want a sturdy, microwave-safe bowl with a lid for daily steaming and reheating, but not for large-volume cooking.
Pros:- Made from durable, food-grade tempered glass
- Easy to clean and dishwasher safe
- Includes lid and removable steamer basket for versatility
- Fits most microwaves
Cons:- Limited to single-serving capacity
- Requires water for steaming
Best for: Individuals wanting a durable, easy-to-clean microwave steamer for daily vegetables and reheats
Not ideal for: Those needing large capacity or multi-serving options for family-sized meals
- Capacity:1.5L
- Material:Tempered glass, BPA-free PP
- Dimensions:7.4 x 5.8 inches
- Dishwasher Safe:Yes
- Includes:Lid, removable steamer basket
Our verdict“A sturdy, glass microwave steamer perfect for durability and daily reheating but less suitable for large families or batch cooking.”
Silicone Multi-Steamer Made in Korea Microwave Steamer for Cooking & Reheating BPA-Free Flexible & Durable (Bijou Beige, 20.29 fl oz)
This silicone multi-steamer stands out for its flexibility and ability to handle a variety of foods, from vegetables to seafood and dumplings. Compared with larger options like the Cuisinart Microwave Steamer, it offers a more compact, space-saving design, but its smaller capacity limits larger meal preparations. Made from durable, BPA-free silicone, it resists stains and odors, making it ideal for frequent use. Its handles facilitate safe handling, yet the flexible material requires careful lifting to avoid spills. While not suitable for big batches, this model excels at quick, versatile steaming tasks in small kitchens or for individual servings. Its collapsible nature makes storage effortless. This pick makes the most sense for users who prioritize multifunctionality and space efficiency over large-volume capacity.Pros:- Versatile for steaming vegetables, seafood, and dumplings
- BPA-free and food-safe silicone material
- Flexible and easy to store
Cons:- Limited capacity for large meals
- Requires careful handling to avoid spills
Best for: Home cooks who want a flexible, space-saving steamer for a variety of foods in small quantities
Not ideal for: Families preparing large meals or batch cooking, as its capacity is limited
- Capacity:20.29 fl oz
- Material:Food-grade silicone
- Color:Bijou Beige
Our verdict“This silicone steamer is ideal for small households seeking a versatile, space-efficient steaming solution.”
Small Micro Cookware 1 Quart Microwave Steamer for Vegetables – BPA Free, Dishwasher Safe
This 1-quart microwave steamer is perfect for individuals or small households focused on healthy, quick meals. Its locking lid with small holes ensures moisture retention and spill prevention, making it more secure than some open-lid options like the silicone multi-steamer. Compared to larger models such as the Cuisinart, it sacrifices capacity for compactness, which is ideal for single servings or small portions. Its BPA-free, dishwasher-safe design simplifies cleaning, but the small size can be limiting when cooking for multiple people. It’s best suited for those with limited space or who prefer quick, portion-controlled steaming. The lid’s small holes help preserve nutrients, but the smaller volume may require multiple batches for larger meals.Pros:- Made of BPA-free, food-safe materials
- Locking lid prevents spills during use
- Holes in lid help retain nutrients and moisture
- Dishwasher safe for easy cleaning
Cons:- Limited to microwave use only
- Small capacity may require multiple batches for larger meals
Best for: Single users or small households needing a compact, easy-to-clean steamer for vegetables and seafood
Not ideal for: Families or meal preppers who require larger capacity for batch cooking
- Capacity:1 quart
- Material:High-quality BPA-free plastic
- Finish:Natural/Raw
- Lid Material:Plastic or Silicone
- Dishwasher Safe:Yes
- Color:Black
Our verdict“This small microwave steamer suits individuals seeking a secure, easy-to-clean option for single-portions.”
Cuisinart Microwave Steamer
The Cuisinart Microwave Steamer offers a generous 6.5-cup capacity, making it well-suited for families or meal prepping. Unlike the smaller BPA-free options, this model’s plastic build with a water base allows for larger quantities and more versatile meal prep. Its stay-cool handles enhance safety during handling, but its larger size means it takes up more space and may be less convenient for quick single servings. It requires water and a bit more setup, but the capacity makes it a strong choice for batch cooking or steaming multiple vegetable servings at once. Compared to the compact silicone or 1-quart options, this model prioritizes capacity over storage convenience, making it ideal for busy households.Pros:- Large 6.5-cup capacity for various foods
- Includes steamer tray and water base for versatile steaming
- Stay-cool handles for safety
Cons:- Limited to microwave use; requires water for steaming
- Size may be cumbersome for small kitchens
Best for: Families or cooks preparing multiple servings simultaneously who value capacity and quick meal prep
Not ideal for: Small kitchens or users who need a compact, space-saving steamer for occasional use
- Capacity:6.5 cups
- Material:Plastic
- Includes:Steamer tray, water base
Our verdict“This large-capacity steamer is perfect for family-sized meals and frequent batch cooking.”
Sistema Heat & Eat Microwaveable Food Steamer with Removable Basket, 3.2L Capacity
The Sistema Heat & Eat steamer features a 3.2L capacity with a removable basket, making it highly practical for diverse foods. Its cool-stalk handle and secure clips provide ease and safety during lifting, surpassing the simpler designs like the silicone or small BPA-free models. Made in New Zealand and BPA-free, it’s suitable for freezer-to-microwave use, supporting meal prep or leftovers. However, the lid’s handling can be tricky if not careful, and it’s limited strictly to microwave use. For users who want a larger, dishwasher-safe container with easy handling, this model offers a good balance, especially for those who prefer removable parts for cleaning.Pros:- Large 3.2L capacity suitable for various foods
- Removable basket with cool-stalk for easy lifting
- BPA-free, dishwasher, and freezer safe
Cons:- Lid may be tricky to handle without spills
- Limited to microwave use only
Best for: Meal preppers or busy households needing larger, easy-to-handle steaming containers with removable baskets
Not ideal for: Users seeking a purely compact or space-saving steamer, as its size is more substantial
- Capacity:3.2L
- Dimensions:23.8 x 23.8 x 10.5 cm
- Material:BPA-Free
- Dishwasher Safe:Yes
- Freezer Safe:Yes
Our verdict“This large, removable-basket steamer suits those who want a versatile, easy-to-clean container for bigger meal portions.”
Professional Large Micro Cookware 2 Quart Microwave Steamer for Vegetables, BPA Free, Dishwasher Safe
The Professional Large Micro Cookware offers a 2-quart capacity, making it a solid choice for family meals and larger portions. Its BPA-free plastic and silicone construction ensure safety and durability, with a locking lid that controls humidity for optimal steaming. While it doesn’t include a dedicated steam basket like some models, its larger size makes it a versatile option for steaming, reheating, and even cooking rice. Compared with the smaller BPA-free options, it provides more capacity but is less compact, which might be a drawback for limited storage spaces. It’s ideal for those who want a straightforward, large-volume steamer without complex features.Pros:- Large 2-quart capacity suitable for family meals
- BPA-free and dishwasher safe for convenience
- Locking lid with small holes for controlled steaming
Cons:- Limited to microwave use; no steam basket included
- No oven-safe feature, less versatile for other cooking methods
Best for: Families or individuals preparing multiple servings or larger quantities of vegetables and grains
Not ideal for: Small kitchens or users needing a lightweight, space-saving device for occasional use
- Material:Plastic, Silicone
- Finish:Non-Stick
- Capacity:2 quarts
- Color:Black
- Oven Safe:Yes
- Dishwasher Safe:Yes
Our verdict“This large-volume steamer is best suited for families who prioritize capacity and straightforward operation.”
Microwave Steamer for Cooking, 75oz Ceramic with Stainless Steel Lid and Accessories
This ceramic microwave steamer stands out for its impressive 75oz capacity, making it ideal for preparing entire family-sized portions in a single go. Unlike smaller steamers such as the Collapsible Silicone Microwave Vegetable Steamer, it offers more space without sacrificing durability, thanks to its sturdy ceramic construction. However, the ceramic material, while durable when handled carefully, can be fragile if dropped, and is exclusively microwave-compatible, unlike some multi-use options. Its complete accessory set—including a steaming rack, cloth, and heat-resistant mitts—adds value for those who want a ready-to-use solution. The high-temperature resistance broadens cooking options, but the heavier, breakable ceramic may concern users with limited handling experience. This pick makes the most sense for larger households or frequent cooks who prioritize capacity and durability.
Pros:- Large capacity ideal for family-sized servings
- Durable high-temperature ceramic construction
- Complete set of accessories included
- Food-safe, eco-friendly materials
Cons:- Ceramic can be fragile if mishandled
- Exclusive microwave use limits versatility
Best for: Families needing high capacity and comprehensive accessories for versatile meals
Not ideal for: Small kitchens or individuals seeking a lightweight, space-saving steamer
- Capacity:75oz
- Material:Ceramic, stainless steel
- Temperature Range:-76℉ to 446℉
- Included Accessories:Stainless steel lid, steaming rack, steaming cloth, heat-resistant mitts
Our verdict“This steamer suits busy families or cooks who need a large, reliable, all-in-one microwave steaming solution.”
GoodCook Everyday Microwave Food Steamer – Vegetable & Fish Cooker
The GoodCook Microwave Food Steamer provides a straightforward way to prepare vegetables and fish while preserving nutrients, thanks to its efficient steaming design. Compared with the larger Microwave Steamer for Cooking, this model is more compact, making it suitable for smaller kitchens or quick single-serving meals. Its adjustable steam vent enhances safety and cooking control, but the size—8” x 12” x 2.7”—may limit large portions, and it’s strictly microwave-compatible, unlike some multi-function steamers. The clear lid allows monitoring, reducing overcooking, but the plastic construction isn’t as durable or eco-friendly as ceramic or silicone options. This steamer makes the most sense for singles or small families who prioritize quick cleanup and nutrient retention.
Pros:- Preserves vitamins and nutrients effectively
- Adjustable steam vent for safe use
- Dishwasher safe for easy cleaning
- Transparent lid for monitoring cooking progress
Cons:- Limited capacity for large portions
- Plastic construction may be less durable
Best for: Individuals or small households seeking fast, healthy steaming without fuss
Not ideal for: Large families or users who need to steam big batches regularly
- Dimensions:8” x 12” x 2.7”
- Material:Plastic
- Includes:Steamer tray, lid, bottom tray
- Dishwasher Safe:Yes
Our verdict“Ideal for quick, nutritious meals for individuals or small households who want ease and efficiency.”
Collapsible Silicone Microwave Vegetable Steamer with Removable Steam Rack, 42oz Food-Grade, Dishwasher Safe, Green
This silicone steamer offers a flexible, space-efficient solution for steaming vegetables and more, with a 42oz capacity that suits most small households. Compared to larger rigid steamers like the Microwave Steamer for Cooking, its collapsible design makes it easy to store and transport, perfect for travel or small kitchens. The food-grade silicone ensures safety, and oven compatibility adds versatility beyond microwave use. However, the capacity may be limiting for bigger families or larger portions, and some users might find the collapsible mechanism less sturdy over time. The lightweight construction also means it requires careful handling to maintain its shape during use. This pick is best for those prioritizing space-saving design and multi-purpose use in small living spaces.
Pros:- Space-saving collapsible design
- Made from food-grade, BPA-free silicone
- Oven and microwave safe for versatile cooking
- Dishwasher safe for easy cleaning
Cons:- Limited capacity for large meals
- Collapsible mechanism may feel less sturdy over time
Best for: Small households or travelers who need a compact, versatile steamer
Not ideal for: Large families or those who prefer a rigid, high-capacity steamer for daily use
- Material:Silicone
- Capacity:42oz
- Item Dimensions:8.7 x 7.3 x 3.9 inches
- Oven Safe:Yes
Our verdict“This steamer is perfect for small kitchens, travel, or anyone needing a compact, multi-use steaming option.”
