360 Cookware Review – Is It The Best Waterless Cookware?

If you have a passion for cooking and are in search of top-notch stainless steel cookware, you may have come across 360 cookware as a potential option. Now, you may be contemplating whether it is a wise investment.

360 Cookware is a renowned brand that specializes in waterless cookware. In case you are unfamiliar with the concept of waterless cookware, fret not, we will delve into that shortly.

I assure you that I will provide you with comprehensive information about 360 Cookware. This will include addressing queries such as:

- How does it differ from other stainless steel cookware?
- Is it of superior quality?
- How does it compare to other waterless cookware options? What about renowned brands like All Clad?
- Does it contain aluminum?
- Where is the best place to purchase it?

However, before we delve into these details, let's begin by understanding the concept of waterless cookware.

What is waterless cookware?

When I initially came across 360 cookware, I must admit that I was quite perplexed by the concept of waterless cookware. The idea of cookware without water seemed illogical to me. Why would anyone want to cook without water? (spoiler alert: the answer is forthcoming!)

In order to gain a better understanding, I decided to delve deeper into the subject. I wanted to ascertain whether waterless cookware was truly a distinct type of cookware or simply regular cookware masquerading under a more sophisticated name.

If you're interested, you can find a comprehensive analysis of waterless cookware in my article. However, to provide a brief summary,

Simply explained, waterless cookware is cookware that is designed to create a vapor seal between the pot and lid, so that the food can cook faster in its own juices, and retain a lot more of the nutrients that might otherwise be lost by adding extra water or fat.

To address the previous inquiry, this is the rationale behind opting for waterless cooking - to retain the nutritional value of food that would otherwise be diminished through boiling or frying.

Fun fact: waterless cookware is sometimes referred to as ‘greaseless cookware’ or ‘vapor cookware’.

Waterless cookware refers to stainless steel cookware that is constructed with multiple layers of metal, both on the base and up the sides. The inner layer, which comes into contact with food, is typically made of high-quality surgical stainless steel. The outer layer is often composed of magnetic stainless steel, making it compatible with induction cooking. The middle layer(s) consist of aluminum or copper, ensuring excellent heat conduction.

This unique construction allows waterless cookware to evenly distribute heat throughout the food, from the bottom, along the sides, and from the top.

The standout feature of waterless cookware lies in its lids, which are designed to create a vapor seal inside the pot. As the pot is heated, the lid forms a tight seal with the pot, trapping the vapor released by the food and creating an environment similar to a pressure cooker.

Many wonder if other types of cookware can achieve the same vapor seal. The answer is yes, depending on the quality of the lids. Waterless cooking requires lids that fit snugly. Some waterless cookware brands even offer lids with steam release vents. However, it is worth noting that a regular stainless steel pot with well-fitting lids can also achieve a similar effect through vapor cooking.

Why should I should consider waterless cookware like 360 Cookware?

I will reiterate what I mentioned in my comprehensive analysis on waterless cookware:

Imagine you are in the market for new cookware. Let's assume you have narrowed down your choices to stainless steel cookware. Furthermore, you have narrowed it down even further to either a high-quality stainless steel set like Made In cookware or a waterless cookware set like 360 Cookware.

Essentially, you have two excellent options to choose from.

The question now is, why would you choose one over the other? The answer is simple - personal preference.

If you decide to purchase stainless steel cookware, waterless cookware provides all the advantages of stainless steel cookware while also offering the additional benefit of efficient steam or vapor cooking (also known as waterless cooking).

You have the option of a versatile 2-in-1 solution with waterless cookware.

Who doesn't appreciate having options?

Now that we are equipped with knowledge about waterless cookware, let's proceed with a thorough review of 360 Cookware.

What’s included?

360 Cookware specializes in producing a wide range of cookware, bakeware, and accessories. In this review, I will solely concentrate on their stainless steel cookware.

They provide customers with the option to choose from pre-made sets or select individual sauce pans, fry pans, and sauté pans according to their preferences.

One particular product that stands out to me is the 360 Cookware slow cooker, which impressively enhances the versatility of your cookware.

This product essentially serves as a foundation for your slow cooker, enabling you to transform your 2.3 Qt, 4 Qt, or 6 Qt pot into a slow cooker. This means that the same pot can be utilized both on the stove and with the slow cooker base.

Moreover, you have the flexibility to convert any other stainless steel pot you own into a slow cooker by using this base. It's truly a remarkable feature that is hard not to appreciate!

What is 360 Cookware made of?

360 Cookware is crafted using a tri-ply stainless steel construction. This innovative design consists of three layers of metal, extending from the base to the sides of the cookware.

The innermost layer, in direct contact with the food, is made of 18/8, 304 stainless steel. This particular type of stainless steel is also referred to as T304 Surgical stainless steel on their website. It is important to note that 304 and T304 are interchangeable names for the same high-quality, food-grade stainless steel. The designation "surgical" emphasizes its exceptional purity and suitability for culinary purposes. 

The composition of 18/8 stainless steel signifies that it contains 18% chromium and 8% nickel, ensuring durability and resistance to corrosion.

The outer layer of 360 Cookware is constructed using 400 series stainless steel. This layer possesses magnetic properties, enabling compatibility with induction cooktops.

To enhance heat conductivity, stainless steel alone is not sufficient. Therefore, 360 Cookware incorporates a thick layer of aluminum between the two stainless steel layers. This aluminum layer acts as a superior conductor of heat, resulting in efficient and even cooking performance.

For those interested, the aluminum never touches your food, it’s fully encased by the stainless steel layers.  

A note about Surgical stainless steel.

It is common to use high-quality stainless steel for surgical equipment and biomedical implants, hence the term "Surgical stainless steel." Specifically, a more advanced type known as 316 stainless steel is often utilized in surgical equipment, which contains a small amount of molybdenum. Its chemical composition typically consists of approximately 16-18% chromium, 10-14% nickel, and 2% molybdenum.

It is worth noting that there is no official definition for "surgical stainless steel." Consequently, any grade of corrosion-resistant steel, such as 304 or 316, can be referred to as surgical stainless steel.

Now, the question arises: Does 360 Cookware truly provide surgical stainless steel?

In terms of factual accuracy, the answer is yes.

However, the same can be said for any other high-quality stainless steel cookware available in the market today. It is crucial to look beyond the marketing claims and evaluate the actual quality of the product.

Is 360 Cookware good quality?

'Quality' can sometimes be a vague concept, difficult to define and pinpoint. However, there is no need to worry because at the Cookware Advisor, we have got you covered!

We will examine a few objective criteria and combine them with actual user feedback to reach our final conclusion.

1. Material

When it comes to high-quality stainless steel cookware, the standard is 304 or 316 series stainless steel.

2. Weight

A well-made stainless steel pot will have a certain weight or 'heft' that you can feel when you lift it. A heavier pot indicates that the manufacturer did not compromise on the material used, ensuring even cooking without hot spots. It is also less prone to dents and dings.

To assess the weight of 360 Cookware, we decided to compare it with the renowned stainless steel cookware brand, All Clad, which is considered the 'gold' standard.

For an objective comparison, we examined the gauge (wall thickness) of 360 Cookware and compared it to the thickness of 3-ply All Clad cookware (note: All Clad also offers 5-ply stainless steel, which means 5 layers).

A well-made stainless steel pot will have a certain weight or 'heft' that you can feel when you lift it.

A heavier pot indicates that the manufacturer did not compromise on the material used, ensuring even cooking without hot spots. It is also less prone to dents and dings.

To assess the weight of 360 Cookware, we decided to compare it with the renowned stainless steel cookware brand, All Clad, which is considered the 'gold' standard.

For an objective comparison, we examined the gauge (wall thickness) of 360 Cookware and compared it to the thickness of 3-ply All Clad cookware (note: All Clad also offers 5-ply stainless steel, which means 5 layers).

So 360 Cookware definitely passes the ‘heft test’, in fact is thicker than similar All Clad cookware.  As one user said, ‘It’s very well made and sturdy but not unnecessarily heavy!’

3. The inner core

The inner core of 360 Cookware is made of aluminum, which is known for its exceptional heat conductivity and is a great choice for tri-ply cookware.

4. The reputation of the company

360 Cookware has established a strong reputation for producing high-quality cookware and has received an almost perfect rating from users.

But what sets 360 Cookware apart is their dedication to environmental responsibility. According to Bryan Hurley, the owner and CEO, they are a "green" company not because it's trendy, but because it's the right thing to do.

And this commitment goes beyond mere "greenwashing". 360 Cookware has been acknowledged by the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) for their environmentally friendly initiatives. They have no EPA permits, avoid using toxic chemicals, and make no contributions to landfills.

5. What people are saying

There is a lot of positive feedback about 360 Cookware. Here are a few excerpts:

“A great non toxic option when cast iron is too heavy”

“Quality is top shelf!!”

“Fantastic! Vapor cooking has changed my life! Highly recommended!”

“This cookware is excellent quality, holds heat and temperature well, easy cleanup.”

“USA, design, material and workmanship, heftiness and usefulness are most appreciated.” 

Is 360 Cookware healthy cookware?

When individuals inquire about this matter, they typically have one of two concerns in mind:

1. Is the material safe?

In short, yes!

360 Cookware is crafted from top-notch stainless steel. Stainless steel cookware is widely acknowledged as one of the safest options available. It is inert, meaning it does not react with food, disintegrate, or release fumes like Teflon(r) does when overheated.

2. Does it promote healthier cooking?

Certainly, it provides the opportunity to cook food in its own juices without the need for additional water or fat. This preserves the nutritional value and reduces the fat content.

However, it is important to note that the healthiness of any cookware ultimately depends on the person using it. Therefore, it may be more accurate to say that 360 cookware is merely a tool that can assist you in cooking healthier meals. The responsibility for achieving this goal lies with you!

Furthermore, even the highest quality cookware cannot transform a mediocre home cook into a skilled chef. I apologize if this disappoints you, but that's simply not how it works. It's akin to a superior drill not making an unskilled individual a proficient handy person, much like myself ;)

Is 360 Cookware oven and broiler safe?

Yes, you can use it safely up to 500 F.

Is 360 Cookware dishwasher safe?

Yes, it is. However, I would recommend hand washing cookware as the best method for cleaning.

What about the lids on 360 Cookware?

360 Cookware lids are crafted from durable stainless steel and feature a unique domed and grooved design that effectively seals in the flavors and nutrients during vapor cooking. The tri-ply construction ensures that heat and steam envelop the food from all angles, making it aptly named '360 cookware'.

What’s the warranty on 360 Cookware?

360 Cookware provides an exceptional lifetime warranty for both the craftsmanship and materials used in their products. This means that as long as you keep the proof of purchase, your descendants can request a replacement in the event of any defects. Although such a situation is unlikely to occur, the important aspect to note is that this company firmly supports their products and stands by their quality. 

As stated by the company themselves:

"Once you invest in our cookware, you won't need to purchase any other for the rest of your life."

Where is 360 Cookware made?

Until 2019, 360 Cookware exclusively manufactured their products in their Green E-Certified factory located in Wisconsin, USA. Regrettably, due to the closure of their US supplier, they had to seek alternative sources for certain components, which led them to procure from South Korea. Presently, more than 85% of their cookware is still proudly made in the USA.

Is it hard to cook with 360 Cookware?

There is indeed a learning curve involved, although it is not as steep as with nonstick cookware. 

When it comes to waterless cooking, you need to adjust to cooking at lower temperatures. Begin by using medium heat, allowing the pan to heat up sufficiently to create a seal, and then reduce the heat to low once the seal is formed. The cookware will continue to cook effectively at this lower temperature.

Many people wonder if 360 Cookware can be used for purposes other than waterless cooking. The answer is yes, absolutely. It performs just as well as any other high-quality stainless steel cookware set.

The Comparison Zone

This section focuses on the comparison between 360 Cookware and other brands of stainless steel cookware. Before we delve into the details, it is important to note that 360 Cookware is renowned for its high quality stainless steel set. What sets it apart from other stainless steel sets is its unique lids, which are specifically designed to create a vapor seal. 

This feature gives 360 Cookware the added advantage of waterless cooking. In other words, you have the flexibility to choose between waterless cooking or traditional cooking methods. As the company states, "you can use your 360 Cookware to cook everything, in any style." For the purpose of this comparison, we have selected All Clad, Made in Cookware, and Cuisinart MCP as they are the closest competitors in the realm of regular stainless steel cookware.

360 Cookware	All Clad D3	Made in Cookware	Cuisinart MCP
Cooking surface	18/8 304 series stainless steel	18/10 304 series stainless steel	18/10 304 series stainless steel	18/10 304 series stainless steel
How many ply (layers)	3	3	5	3
Innermost layer	Aluminum	Aluminum	Aluminum (3 layers)	Aluminum
Dishwasher safe?	Yes, but hand washing recommended	Hand washing recommended	Yes	Yes but hand washing recommended
Heat distribution	Even, no hot spots	Even, no hot spots	Even, no hot spots	Even, no hot spots
Where Made?	USA. Some materials now sourced from China and Korea	USA. Lids and handles made in China	USA	China
Induction capable?	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Lids and handles	Stainless steel i.e. oven safe	Stainless steel i.e. oven safe	Stainless steel i.e. oven safe	Stainless steel i.e. oven safe
Durability	Yes. Offers lifetime warranty	Yes. Offers lifetime warranty	Yes. Offers lifetime warranty	Yes. Offers lifetime warranty
Company founded in	2007	1971	2017	1971
Green manufacturing?	Yes	No	No	No
Price comparison (snapshot in time)	$999 USD 9-piece set	$699 USD 10-piece set	$749 USD 10-piece set	$219 USD 12-piece set
Where available?	Company website and Amazon	Various retailers, company website and Amazon	Company website and Amazon	Various retailers, company website and Amazon

Important notes on 360 Cookware vs other stainless steel cookware brands: 

As you consider your options for a stainless steel cookware set, it becomes evident that all four choices are quite comparable, making it difficult to make a decision. However, there are two key differences that stand out: the country of origin and the price.

1. Where it’s made

If it is important for you to support products made in the US, then your options are narrowed down to 360 Cookware, All Clad, and Made in. Interestingly, 78% of Americans prefer to purchase products made in America, according to a reliable source. Since most other factors are similar among these three brands, the next criterion to consider is the price. In this case, you have to choose between All Clad and Made in.

However, it is worth noting that all three of these options are considered heirloom cookware, meaning they are built to last and can be passed down to future generations. Therefore, when considering the small price difference over decades of use, it is advisable to choose the one that aligns with your personal sense of design and aesthetics. Ultimately, you can't go wrong with any of them.

2. Price

If the country of origin is not a priority for you, then Cuisinart MCP is undoubtedly the winning choice in terms of price. It offers cost-effective options and is highly popular among stainless steel sets available on the internet.

2. 360 Cookware vs Other Waterless Cookware brands

360 Cookware	Salad Master	Maxam Cookware
Cooking surface	304 series stainless steel	316Ti stainless steel (more corrosion resistant than 304	304 series stainless steel
How many ply (layers)	3 ply clad cookware	3 ply clad cookware	5 ply (on base only i.e. not clad)
Innermost layer	Aluminum	Aluminum	Aluminum (2 layers of aluminum allow 1 layer of pure aluminum. On base only)
Wall thickness (gauge)	0.11	0.09	Not listed
Oven friendly handles?	Yes, stainless steel	No, handles are plastic	No, handles are plastic
Dishwasher safe?	Yes, but hand washing recommended	Yes but have to remove plastic handles	Yes
Where Made?	USA. Some materials now sourced from China and Korea	USA	South Korea
Green manufacturing?	Yes	No	No
Induction capable?	Yes	Yes	Yes
Control knobs on lids?	No	Yes, has a Vapo-Valve™ feature	Yes, has steam control valves
Durability	Yes. Offers lifetime warranty	Yes. Offers lifetime warranty	Yes. Offers lifetime warranty
Company founded in	2007	1946	1950's
Price comparison (snapshot in time)	$999 USD 9-piece set	Not published, have to book a dealer visit but starts at $4,785 USD+	$329 USD 17-piece set
Where available?	Company website and Amazon	Only via authorized dealers, not online or retailers	Company website and Amazon

Important notes on 360 Cookware vs other waterless cookware brands: