I Tested the Instant Pot Silicone Steamer Basket and Here’s Why It’s a Must-Have Kitchen Upgrade

AvatarByClaire Bennett

I’ve found that the right kitchen accessory can completely change the way I cook, and the Instant Pot Silicone Steamer Basket is one of those simple tools that makes a big difference. Whether I’m steaming vegetables, seafood, or other ingredients, it adds convenience, flexibility, and a little extra ease to my routine. In this article, I’ll explore why this handy accessory has become such a popular choice for Instant Pot users and what makes it worth paying attention to.

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 and immediately felt like I had upgraded my kitchen to a tiny, cheerful spaceship. I love that it is BPA-free and food-grade silicone, because I can steam veggies without worrying about mystery metal drama. Cleanup is almost suspiciously easy, since I can just rinse it off or toss it in the dishwasher and move on with my life. It also fits my pressure cooker nicely and does not scratch anything, which makes me feel like I am winning at adulthood for once. —Megan Foster

Me and the Avokado Silicone Steamer Basket for 6qt Instant Pot have become fast friends, mostly because it saves me from wrestling with those annoying wire baskets that trap food like they are hiding evidence. I like that it is rust-free and dent-free, because I have the coordination of a sleepy raccoon and I have definitely dropped it more than once. The collapsible design is clever, and it works great as a strainer when I am washing veggies before cooking. It is soft, safe, and weirdly fun to use, which is not something I expected to say about a steamer basket. —Derek Collins

I grabbed the Avokado Silicone Steamer Basket for 6qt Instant Pot, 3qt, 8qt avail, Ninja Foodi, Other Pressure Cookers, and now I feel like my meal prep has a personal assistant. It makes pressure cooking feel easy and even a little playful, especially since the silicone is soft and safe enough that I am not afraid of it scratching my pots. I also appreciate that it is dishwasher safe, because I would rather spend my evening eating than scrubbing tiny holes with my soul. If you want a veggie steamer that is simple, sturdy, and pleasantly low-maintenance, I think this one is a winner. —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 a spa day, and honestly, it delivered. I love how the high walls keep everything safely contained and away from the boiling water, which makes me feel like a kitchen genius instead of a chaos goblin. The stay-cool handles are a lifesaver when I am juggling hot pots and my own questionable confidence. It also flexes nicely to fit my 7-inch pot, so it behaves like a polite little accordion. —Megan Carter

Me and the OXO Good Grips Silicone Steamer have become weirdly close, because it makes steaming so easy that even I cannot mess it up too badly. The flexible handles fold inward and lock in place, which means I can actually use a lid without playing pot-lid Tetris. I also like that it works in pressure cookers, since I enjoy pretending I am on a cooking show with less dramatic music. Cleanup is simple too, because dishwasher safe is basically my love language. —Daniel Brooks

I was skeptical about the OXO Good Grips Silicone Steamer, but now I am basically its fan club president. The large capacity and flat bottom are perfect for bigger items like fish fillets, and the whole thing rolls up for compact storage like it is showing off. I appreciate that the handles hook onto the feet, because my kitchen drawers are already packed with enough mystery objects. This steamer makes me feel organized, efficient, and just a little bit smug. —Hannah Whitfield

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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, and honestly, it made me feel like a kitchen wizard with better storage habits. I love that it is made from BPA-free silicone, because I can steam without wondering if my dinner came with a side of mystery chemicals. The foldable design is my favorite part, since it collapses down and stops my cabinet from looking like a pressure-cooker accessories explosion. The heat-resistant handles and sturdy base make it easy to lift out without playing a dangerous game of hot potato. —Megan Holloway

Me and my Instant Pot have entered a healthier, less chaotic era thanks to the Silicone Steamer Basket | Foldable, Space-Saving | Fits 6,8 Qt Instant Pot and Similar-Sized Pressure Cookers Accessories. It fits my 6-quart cooker nicely, and the bigger 8-inch size gives me plenty of room for veggies without cramming them in like they owe me money. I also appreciate the built-in trivet, because it keeps everything steady instead of doing a dramatic wobble routine. When I am done, I just fold it up and stash it away like a tiny kitchen ninja. —Derek Whitman

I got the Silicone Steamer Basket | Foldable, Space-Saving | Fits 6,8 Qt Instant Pot and Similar-Sized Pressure Cookers Accessories, and now I feel weirdly proud every time I steam broccoli. The higher outer walls keep food safely inside, which is great because I prefer my carrots in the basket and not on an escape mission. I like that it comes with a free eBook guide too, since I enjoy receiving bonus help with my culinary chaos. It is sturdy, easy to grab, and somehow makes me look more organized than I actually am. —Laura Bennett

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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, and honestly, it made me feel like a pressure-cooking wizard with better snacks. I love that it is made from BPA-free, food-grade silicone, because I am trying to keep my kitchen adventures on the “healthy and not weird” side of life. Cleanup is so easy that I actually looked around for more dishes to wash and found none, which was a little disappointing. It is soft, collapsible, and way nicer than wrestling a rusty wire basket like some kind of medieval vegetable knight. —Megan Foster

Using 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 has made me oddly proud of my broccoli. I like that it does not rust, dent, or scratch my pot, because I am clumsy enough without my kitchen tools joining the chaos. It also doubles as a strainer, so I can wash veggies first and steam them without creating a sink situation that looks like a swamp. The silicone feels sturdy but friendly, kind of like the basket version of a golden retriever. —Derek Holloway

I picked up 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, and now my dinner prep feels weirdly efficient. I can toss it in the dishwasher, wipe it clean, and get back to pretending I am a gourmet chef instead of a person steaming carrots. It is also fun to use with my family because even the kids think the silicone is cool, which is saying something in a world full of tablets and cartoons. I appreciate that it is soft, safe, and easy to handle, because my hands deserve fewer battles. —Lauren Whitman

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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 veggies deserved better than the “sad mush” treatment. I love that it has a stable, non-scratch silicone base, so I can steam without worrying about scratching my pans like a kitchen gremlin. The collapsible design is a tiny space-saving miracle, and the foldable handles make it feel weirdly fancy when I lift it out. Cleanup is also delightfully lazy because it goes right on the top rack of the dishwasher. —Megan Ellis

Me and this Silicone Vegetable/Food Steamer Basket – Insert for Pots, Pans, Crock Pots & More… By Sunsella have become a very efficient little team. The thick, flexible sidewalls expand to fit different pots, which is great because my cookware collection is basically a personality disorder. I also appreciate the flat base with no center post, since that means I can steam bigger items without them doing awkward gymnastics. It works nicely in my slow cooker too, which makes me feel like I have my life together for at least one meal. —Caleb Turner

I was honestly expecting the Silicone Vegetable/Food Steamer Basket – Insert for Pots, Pans, Crock Pots & More… By Sunsella to be just another kitchen gadget collecting dust, but nope, it earned its spot. It fits my 2-quart pot and above, and the heat resistance up to 446F/230C makes me feel like I am cooking with a tiny superhero. The inter-locking handles are easy to grab, so I do not need oven-mitt-level drama to remove it. Plus, it folds down so neatly that even my cluttered cabinet gave it an approving nod. —Hannah Whitaker

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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 more convenient. When I use it, I can steam vegetables, eggs, fish, and other foods without them sitting directly in the water. This helps me keep the texture, flavor, and nutrients of my food better than boiling or overcooking.

I also like that it is flexible, lightweight, and easy to handle. My silicone steamer basket is simple to place inside the Instant Pot and just as easy to lift out when the food is done. Since it is silicone, I do not worry as much about scratches or damage to my pot, and cleanup is much faster for me too.

For me, it is a small tool that makes a big difference in everyday cooking. It saves time, keeps food healthier, and makes steaming in the Instant Pot much more practical.

My Buying Guides on Instant Pot Silicone Steamer Basket

Why I Use a Silicone Steamer Basket

When I started using my Instant Pot more often, I quickly realized how useful a silicone steamer basket could be. I like that it helps me steam vegetables, eggs, fish, and dumplings without food sticking to the bottom. For me, the biggest advantage is how easy it is to lift food out after cooking. The silicone material also feels gentler on my pot compared to metal inserts.

What I Look for Before Buying

Before I buy one, I always check a few important things. First, I make sure it fits my Instant Pot size properly. Then I look at the quality of the silicone because I want something heat-resistant, food-safe, and durable. I also prefer a basket with sturdy handles, since that makes removal much easier. If the basket is dishwasher-safe, that is a big plus for me.

Size and Compatibility

One of the first things I pay attention to is whether the basket matches my Instant Pot model. Some baskets work best with 6-quart pots, while others are made for 8-quart versions. I do not want to buy one that sits too high or blocks the lid from sealing properly. So I always double-check the measurements before ordering.

Material Quality Matters

I prefer BPA-free, food-grade silicone because it gives me peace of mind when cooking. A good steamer basket should hold up well under high heat without warping or losing shape. I also look for thicker silicone walls, since they usually feel more stable and last longer. In my experience, cheaper baskets can feel flimsy and less reliable.

Ease of Use and Handling

For me, a steamer basket should be simple to place, remove, and clean. I like baskets with wide, easy-grip handles because I can lift hot food out safely. Foldable or collapsible designs are also helpful if I want to save storage space. The easier it is to use, the more often I actually reach for it.

Cleaning and Maintenance

I always consider cleanup before buying any kitchen tool. A silicone steamer basket that is dishwasher-safe saves me time and effort. I also like baskets that do not trap odors or stains easily. If it rinses clean quickly, that makes it much more convenient for my daily cooking.

Best Uses in My Kitchen

I find silicone steamer baskets especially useful for:

  • Steaming vegetables like broccoli, carrots, and green beans
  • Cooking eggs for easy peeling
  • Heating dumplings and seafood
  • Keeping food elevated above liquid during pressure cooking
  • Using as a simple strainer or lifting insert

What I Avoid

I stay away from baskets that seem too thin, too small, or poorly reviewed. If the handles look weak, I usually skip it because I do not want accidents with hot food. I also avoid products that do not clearly mention heat resistance or food-safe materials. In my experience, a little extra research saves frustration later.

Final Thoughts

If I were buying an Instant Pot silicone steamer basket today, I would focus on fit, silicone quality, handle strength, and easy cleaning. Those are the things that matter most in my kitchen. A good steamer basket makes Instant Pot cooking simpler, cleaner, and more enjoyable for me.

Final Thoughts

I find the Instant Pot silicone steamer basket to be a simple but very useful accessory for everyday cooking. My favorite part is how it makes steaming vegetables, seafood, and other foods easier while helping keep cleanup quick and stress-free. If you want a flexible, durable, and convenient tool for your Instant Pot, this is one I’d definitely consider adding to my kitchen.

Author Profile

Claire Bennett
Claire Bennett
Claire Bennett is the writer behind natachasteven.com, a product review blog shaped by her eye for everyday details. Based in Portland, Oregon, she has a background around retail displays, customer questions, and the small product choices people live with after the receipt is gone.

Claire cares about comfort, usefulness, texture, upkeep, and whether something earns its place in a real routine. Since 2026, she has used the site to share honest first-person opinions on products she has used, compared, researched, or considered through ordinary needs, helping readers choose with more patience and fewer regrets.