Know Your Stainless Steel
Most utensil listings say "stainless steel" and stop there. Here's what we print on every Sidiko listing and why it matters.
1. Grade
Stainless steel comes in different grades, each with its own mix of chromium, nickel and other elements. Every Sidiko listing states the grade of stainless steel used, and we never mix grades within a set.
Like all stainless steel, it lasts longest when it's washed and dried after use, and when salty or sour food (pickles, tamarind, curd, salty gravies) isn't left sitting in it for days. See our Care Guide.
2. Gauge and thickness
Gauge (SWG) is the trade's way of describing sheet thickness. A higher gauge number means thinner steel.
| Gauge (SWG) | Thickness |
|---|---|
| 20 | 0.91 mm |
| 22 | 0.71 mm |
| 24 | 0.56 mm |
| 26 | 0.46 mm |
| 28 | 0.38 mm |
Because "gauge" is used loosely in the market, we also list thickness in millimetres. Thicker steel dents less and spreads heat more evenly; thinner steel is lighter and cheaper.
3. Weight
For the same size, a heavier vessel usually means thicker steel. We list the actual weight of every product and set, so you can compare it with anything else you're considering.
4. A magnet test doesn't tell you the quality
Some stainless steels are magnetic and some aren't, and forming can make non-magnetic steel slightly magnetic around bends and edges. So a magnet can't tell you the grade or the quality. Go by the grade stated on the listing.
5. Induction
Induction hobs need a magnetic base. Most plain stainless steel vessels won't work on induction unless they have a special base. Each listing says whether the product is induction compatible.