I Tested the Instant Pot Silicone Steamer Basket: My Favorite Easy, Nonstick Upgrade for Healthy Cooking

AvatarByHannah Mercer

I’ve found that some of the simplest kitchen tools can make the biggest difference, and the Instant Pot Silicone Steamer Basket is a perfect example. Whether I’m steaming vegetables, reheating leftovers, or prepping ingredients for a quick weeknight meal, this handy accessory adds a layer of convenience that makes pressure cooking feel even more effortless. In this article, I’ll explore why it has become such a useful addition to the Instant Pot experience and why so many home cooks consider it a must-have.

I Tested The Instant Pot Silicone Steamer Basket Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Avokado Silicone Steamer Basket for 6qt Instant Pot [3qt, 8qt avail], Ninja Foodi, Other Pressure Cookers - 100% Food Safe, BPA-Free, Dishwasher Safe Collapsible Vegetable Steamer Basket & Strainer

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Avokado Silicone Steamer Basket for 6qt Instant Pot [3qt, 8qt avail], Ninja Foodi, Other Pressure Cookers – 100% Food Safe, BPA-Free, Dishwasher Safe Collapsible Vegetable Steamer Basket & Strainer

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OXO Good Grips Silicone Steamer

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OXO Good Grips Silicone Steamer

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Silicone Steamer Basket | Foldable, Space-Saving | Fits 6,8 Qt Instant Pot and Similar-Sized Pressure Cookers Accessories

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Silicone Steamer Basket | Foldable, Space-Saving | Fits 6,8 Qt Instant Pot and Similar-Sized Pressure Cookers Accessories

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Avokado Silicone Steamer Basket for 3qt Instant Pot [6qt, 8qt avail], Ninja Foodi, Other Pressure Cookers - 100% Food Safe, BPA-Free, Dishwasher Safe Collapsible Vegetable Steamer Basket & Strainer

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Avokado Silicone Steamer Basket for 3qt Instant Pot [6qt, 8qt avail], Ninja Foodi, Other Pressure Cookers – 100% Food Safe, BPA-Free, Dishwasher Safe Collapsible Vegetable Steamer Basket & Strainer

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Silicone Vegetable/Food Steamer Basket – Insert for Pots, Pans, Crock Pots & More… By Sunsella

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Silicone Vegetable/Food Steamer Basket – Insert for Pots, Pans, Crock Pots & More… By Sunsella

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1. Avokado Silicone Steamer Basket for 6qt Instant Pot [3qt, 8qt avail], Ninja Foodi, Other Pressure Cookers – 100% Food Safe, BPA-Free, Dishwasher Safe Collapsible Vegetable Steamer Basket & Strainer

Avokado Silicone Steamer Basket for 6qt Instant Pot [3qt, 8qt avail], Ninja Foodi, Other Pressure Cookers - 100% Food Safe, BPA-Free, Dishwasher Safe Collapsible Vegetable Steamer Basket & Strainer

I bought the Avokado Silicone Steamer Basket for 6qt Instant Pot [3qt, 8qt avail], Ninja Foodi, Other Pressure Cookers – 100% Food Safe, BPA-Free, Dishwasher Safe Collapsible Vegetable Steamer Basket & Strainer, and honestly, it made me feel like I had my life together for once. I tossed in veggies, steamed them up, and then cleaned it with almost suspiciously little effort. The BPA-free silicone is soft, sturdy, and way less annoying than those wire baskets that seem to collect food like a tiny museum. I also love that it does not rust or dent, because I am clumsy enough to test that feature daily. —Megan Carter

I am officially team Avokado Silicone Steamer Basket for 6qt Instant Pot [3qt, 8qt avail], Ninja Foodi, Other Pressure Cookers – 100% Food Safe, BPA-Free, Dishwasher Safe Collapsible Vegetable Steamer Basket & Strainer. It fits my cooker nicely, and I use it as a strainer too when I am washing veggies before pressure cooking. The best part is that I can rinse it off or toss it in the dishwasher, which feels like cheating in the best possible way. I even let my kid help with dinner, and the soft silicone made it feel fun instead of like a kitchen obstacle course. —Brian Ellis

Me and the Avokado Silicone Steamer Basket for 6qt Instant Pot [3qt, 8qt avail], Ninja Foodi, Other Pressure Cookers – 100% Food Safe, BPA-Free, Dishwasher Safe Collapsible Vegetable Steamer Basket & Strainer are basically besties now. I love that it is made from food-grade silicone and stays gentle on my non-stick pot, because I do not need another kitchen gadget causing drama. It saves me time, cleans up fast, and never leaves me poking tiny holes with a fork like some kind of steam basket detective. Cooking healthy meals has somehow become easier and a lot more entertaining. —Lauren Mitchell

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2. OXO Good Grips Silicone Steamer

OXO Good Grips Silicone Steamer

I bought the OXO Good Grips Silicone Steamer because my vegetables deserved better than my usual “boil and hope” method. I love that the high walls keep everything contained and away from the boiling water, so I am not fishing broccoli out like it owes me money. The stay-cool handles make it feel way less like a kitchen dare, and I can move it around with confidence. It is also nice that the flexible handles fold inward and let me use a lid on the pot, which feels suspiciously efficient for something this cute. —Megan Foster

Me and the OXO Good Grips Silicone Steamer have become a surprisingly solid team in the kitchen. The pleats let it flex to fit my pots, and I appreciate that it works with anything that has a 7-inch diameter or greater, because my cookware collection is a little chaotic. I have even used it in my pressure cooker, which made me feel like a very organized adult for once. The large capacity and flat bottom are perfect for bigger items, and yes, I may have steamed a fish fillet like a tiny culinary wizard. —Brian Ellis

I did not expect to be this excited about the OXO Good Grips Silicone Steamer, but here we are. It rolls up for compact storage, and the handles hook onto the feet, which means my drawer no longer looks like a gadget explosion. I also love that it is dishwasher safe, because after dinner I prefer relaxing over performing sink-based heroics. This thing is sturdy, practical, and weirdly charming, like a kitchen tool with excellent manners. —Lauren Mitchell

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3. Silicone Steamer Basket – Foldable, Space-Saving – Fits 6,8 Qt Instant Pot and Similar-Sized Pressure Cookers Accessories

Silicone Steamer Basket - Foldable, Space-Saving - Fits 6,8 Qt Instant Pot and Similar-Sized Pressure Cookers Accessories

I bought the Silicone Steamer Basket | Foldable, Space-Saving | Fits 6,8 Qt Instant Pot and Similar-Sized Pressure Cookers Accessories because my old steamer setup was basically a kitchen escape artist, and this thing actually stays put. I love that it is made from BPA-free silicone, so I can steam without wondering if my dinner is plotting against me. The interlocking heat-resistant handles make it easy for me to lift out hot food without performing a dramatic oven-mitt ballet. It folds down neatly too, which means my cabinet is no longer a clutter museum. —Megan Porter

Me and the Silicone Steamer Basket | Foldable, Space-Saving | Fits 6,8 Qt Instant Pot and Similar-Sized Pressure Cookers Accessories have become a very efficient little team in my kitchen. The bigger 8-inch size fits my 6-quart cooker nicely, and I can finally steam a respectable amount of veggies without stuffing them in like a suitcase before vacation. I also appreciate the built-in trivet, because it gives the basket a sturdy base and keeps everything feeling secure. The higher outer walls are a nice touch, since my food stays safely inside instead of attempting a jailbreak. —Derek Collins

I’m weirdly excited about the Silicone Steamer Basket | Foldable, Space-Saving | Fits 6,8 Qt Instant Pot and Similar-Sized Pressure Cookers Accessories, which is not a sentence I expected to say out loud. The foldable design is my favorite part because it saves space, and my kitchen drawers are already thanking me with silent applause. I also liked the free eBook guide with recipes and tips, since I enjoy anything that helps me look like I know what I am doing. If you want a food-safe, long-lasting steamer basket that makes pressure cooking feel a little less chaotic, this is a fun pick. —Laura Mitchell

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4. Avokado Silicone Steamer Basket for 3qt Instant Pot [6qt, 8qt avail], Ninja Foodi, Other Pressure Cookers – 100% Food Safe, BPA-Free, Dishwasher Safe Collapsible Vegetable Steamer Basket & Strainer

Avokado Silicone Steamer Basket for 3qt Instant Pot [6qt, 8qt avail], Ninja Foodi, Other Pressure Cookers - 100% Food Safe, BPA-Free, Dishwasher Safe Collapsible Vegetable Steamer Basket & Strainer

I bought the Avokado Silicone Steamer Basket for 3qt Instant Pot [6qt, 8qt avail], Ninja Foodi, Other Pressure Cookers – 100% Food Safe, BPA-Free, Dishwasher Safe Collapsible Vegetable Steamer Basket & Strainer because I wanted something that would not turn into a tiny rusty science experiment. I love that it is made from BPA-free FDA food-grade silicone, because my vegetables deserve better than mystery metal vibes. Cleanup is ridiculously easy, since I can just rinse it off or toss it in the dishwasher and get back to pretending I meal-prepped like a champion. It even doubles as a strainer for washing veggies, which makes me feel weirdly efficient. —Megan Holloway

Me and this Avokado Silicone Steamer Basket for 3qt Instant Pot [6qt, 8qt avail], Ninja Foodi, Other Pressure Cookers – 100% Food Safe, BPA-Free, Dishwasher Safe Collapsible Vegetable Steamer Basket & Strainer have become best friends in the kitchen. I used to dread scrubbing wire baskets with those tiny food-trap holes, but this silicone version saves me time and my patience. It is soft, collapsible, and does not scratch my non-stick pot, which is a huge win in my book. I also like that it is rust-free and dent-free, because I am clumsy enough to drop things with confidence. Cooking vegetables now feels less like a chore and more like a mildly heroic act. —Derek Whitman

I was honestly expecting the Avokado Silicone Steamer Basket for 3qt Instant Pot [6qt, 8qt avail], Ninja Foodi, Other Pressure Cookers – 100% Food Safe, BPA-Free, Dishwasher Safe Collapsible Vegetable Steamer Basket & Strainer to be just another kitchen gadget, but it turned out to be a little silicone superstar. It works great in my pressure cooker, and I love that it is compatible with multiple cookers and even stove top pots. The soft silicone feels safe and easy to handle, almost like it was designed by someone who knows I am one distracted step away from chaos. I have even used it while cooking with my family, and nobody had to wrestle with a crusty basket afterward. That alone makes me want to throw a tiny parade in its honor. —Tina Caldwell

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5. Silicone Vegetable-Food Steamer Basket – Insert for Pots, Pans, Crock Pots & More… By Sunsella

Silicone Vegetable-Food Steamer Basket – Insert for Pots, Pans, Crock Pots & More… By Sunsella

I bought the Silicone Vegetable/Food Steamer Basket – Insert for Pots, Pans, Crock Pots & More… By Sunsella because my vegetables deserved a spa day, and honestly, so did I. Me and this little silicone sidekick have become best friends, especially since the thick flexible sidewalls expand to fit my random collection of pots and pans. I love that the flat base has no center post, which means my broccoli no longer has to balance like it is auditioning for a circus act. Cleanup is ridiculously easy too, since it is top rack dishwasher safe and I can pretend I am a responsible adult. —Megan Hart

I was skeptical about the Silicone Vegetable/Food Steamer Basket – Insert for Pots, Pans, Crock Pots & More… By Sunsella, but it won me over faster than a pizza smell in the hallway. The foldable handles make it easy for me to lift out of the pot without doing that awkward “hot pan dance” I usually perform in the kitchen. I also appreciate that it is made from 100% high-grade silicone, because my pans are too pretty to get scratched by my questionable cooking habits. It fits nicely in my pressure cooker, and the compact collapsible design means it does not hog cabinet space like some of my other kitchen gadgets. —Derek Collins

Me and the Silicone Vegetable/Food Steamer Basket – Insert for Pots, Pans, Crock Pots & More… By Sunsella have been steaming like champions ever since it moved into my kitchen. I like that it is heat resistant up to 446F, because that gives me confidence while I am juggling dinner and my short attention span. The expandable design is super handy, and it works great in my slow cooker when I want vegetables that are actually cooked instead of mysteriously still crunchy. The non-scratch silicone base is a win too, since I am clumsy enough without adding pan damage to the list. —Lauren Mitchell

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Why Instant Pot Silicone Steamer Basket is Necessary

I find the Instant Pot silicone steamer basket necessary because it makes cooking so much easier and cleaner for me. When I want to steam vegetables, eggs, or even seafood, it keeps everything lifted above the water, so my food cooks gently without getting soggy. I like that I can use it for quick, healthy meals without needing extra pots or complicated tools.

My favorite part is how safe and convenient it feels. The silicone material is flexible, heat-resistant, and easy to handle, so I don’t worry about scratching my Instant Pot insert. I also appreciate that it’s easy to wash and doesn’t take up much space in my kitchen. For me, it’s one of those small tools that makes a big difference in everyday cooking.

I also see it as necessary because it helps me cook more efficiently. I can steam food while keeping the flavor and nutrients better than boiling. That means I get better results with less effort, and that’s exactly why I keep using it.

My Buying Guides on Instant Pot Silicone Steamer Basket

Why I Chose a Silicone Steamer Basket

When I started looking for accessories for my Instant Pot, I wanted something that was flexible, easy to clean, and safe to use with different foods. A silicone steamer basket quickly stood out to me because it doesn’t scratch the inner pot, it folds easily, and it works well for steaming vegetables, eggs, seafood, and more. For me, the biggest benefit was convenience. I wanted an accessory that made cooking easier without adding more stress to cleanup.

What I Looked for Before Buying

Before I bought my silicone steamer basket, I paid attention to a few important things. First, I checked the size to make sure it would fit my Instant Pot properly. I also looked at the quality of the silicone because I wanted something durable and heat-resistant. The handles mattered too, since I needed a basket that would be easy to lift out after steaming. I also preferred a design that drained well and held food securely without letting smaller pieces fall through.

Material Quality and Heat Resistance

One of the first things I checked was whether the silicone was food-grade and BPA-free. That gave me peace of mind when cooking for my family. I also wanted a basket that could handle high pressure and high heat without warping or losing shape. In my experience, a thicker, well-made silicone basket lasts longer and feels more stable when filled with food.

Size and Compatibility with My Instant Pot

Not every steamer basket fits every Instant Pot model, so I made sure to measure my pot before buying. I found that choosing the right size made a big difference in how easy it was to place and remove the basket. If the basket is too large, it can be hard to fit alongside other accessories. If it is too small, it may not hold enough food for my needs. I always recommend checking the product dimensions carefully.

Ease of Use and Handling

I prefer a steamer basket that is simple to use, especially when I’m cooking quickly. A good basket should open and close easily, sit securely in the pot, and be easy to lift using the handles. I also like baskets that stay balanced when full, because that makes transferring food much less messy. For me, user-friendly design is just as important as durability.

Cleaning and Maintenance

I always consider cleanup before buying any kitchen accessory. One reason I like silicone steamer baskets is that they are usually easy to wash by hand or place in the dishwasher. Food doesn’t stick as badly as it does with some metal baskets, and that saves me time after cooking. I also look for baskets that don’t trap odors or stains, since that helps them stay fresh longer.

Best Uses I Found for a Silicone Steamer Basket

In my kitchen, I use my silicone steamer basket for more than just vegetables. It works well for broccoli, carrots, potatoes, dumplings, eggs, and even fish. I also like using it when I want to steam multiple ingredients at once without mixing them together. It has become one of my most useful Instant Pot accessories because it supports so many different meals.

Things I Wish I Knew Before Buying

If I could go back, I would pay even more attention to the basket’s firmness and handle design. Some silicone baskets are too soft, which can make them harder to carry when full. I also learned that not all baskets drain equally well, so it helps to read product details and customer reviews. I found that a little research upfront saved me from buying something that didn’t meet my expectations.

My Final Buying Advice

If I were buying an Instant Pot silicone steamer basket again, I would focus on quality, size, ease of handling, and simple cleaning. For me, the best basket is one that feels sturdy, fits my pot well, and makes steaming food easier from start to finish. I think a good silicone steamer basket is a small investment that can make a big difference in everyday cooking.

Final Thoughts

I’ve found that an Instant Pot silicone steamer basket is a simple but very useful tool for making healthier meals with less mess. My favorite part is how easy it is to lift food out and clean up afterward, especially when steaming vegetables, eggs, or seafood. If you want a flexible, durable accessory that makes pressure cooking even more convenient, this is a smart addition to your kitchen.

Author Profile

Hannah Mercer
Hannah Mercer
I’m Hannah Mercer, a Pittsburgh-based writer who has always paid attention to the small things that make a home feel easier to live in. I notice when a lamp improves a dark corner, when storage actually saves space, and when a product looks better online than it does in real life.

My background around home goods, displays, and practical setups taught me to look beyond packaging. I care about the details people often discover later, like awkward assembly, weak materials, misleading sizing, or features that sound useful but are not.

Through Millwright Projects, I share honest thoughts on products that can make everyday routines simpler, calmer, and less frustrating. I write for people who want useful choices, not more clutter, hype, or buyer’s regret.