Buying guide
Mixing Bowls: Glass, Steel or Ceramic?
How mixing bowl materials compare for baking, and what sizes are worth owning.
Ad: this guide contains affiliate links. If you buy through them we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you (how we make money).
Most British baking starts with a big bowl. The material affects weight, stability and whether you can use it in the microwave.
Our shortlist
Shortlist in progress
We only list products once their specifications have been checked against the manufacturer or retailer. Until then, use the criteria in this guide to compare what's available.
Where to buy
Browse current options and prices at the retailer. These are affiliate links: we may earn a commission, at no cost to you (disclosure).
Materials compared
| Material | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Glass (toughened) | See-through, microwave-safe, doesn't stain | Heavy, can break if dropped |
| Stainless steel | Light, unbreakable, chills quickly for cream | Not for the microwave |
| Ceramic / earthenware | Heavy and stable when beating by hand | Heavy to lift, can chip |
| Plastic | Cheap, light | Can hold grease: not ideal for whisking egg whites |
Sizes to own
A large bowl (about 4–5 litres) for bread and big cake batters, a medium one for everyday baking, and a small one for melting butter or beating eggs. Nesting sets save cupboard space.
Look for
- A non-slip base or enough weight to stay put.
- A pouring lip for batters.
- Measurements marked inside are a bonus.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best material for a mixing bowl?
Toughened glass is the all-rounder: see-through and microwave-safe. Stainless steel is light and unbreakable, and ceramic is heavy and stable for beating by hand.
Why should I not whisk egg whites in a plastic bowl?
Plastic can hold a trace of grease, which stops egg whites whipping up. Use glass or stainless steel.
What size mixing bowl do I need?
A large bowl of about 4–5 litres for bread and big cake batters, plus a medium and a small bowl. Nesting sets save space.
How we choose
BeneRecipes compares tools using manufacturer specifications and retailer listings. We have not tested these products ourselves and don't publish star ratings. We explain which type suits which cook and why.
Some links are affiliate links: if you buy through them we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you. See our affiliate disclosure.
Recipes to go with it
Recipe · 30 min
Classic British Scones
Tall, light scones for afternoon tea or a cream tea, ready in about 30 minutes.
Recipe · 1 hr 15 min
Victoria Sponge
The classic two-layer sponge with jam and buttercream, named after Queen Victoria.
Recipe · 1 hr 30 min
Lemon Drizzle Cake
A soft lemon loaf soaked with a crunchy sugar-and-lemon drizzle while still warm.