A 28 cm ceramic frying pan is a good fit for many households. Its diameter gives you room to cook several portions, while remaining easier to handle than a very large family pan. Before you buy, though, it’s worth taking a closer look at the coating, base and care instructions. Marketing claims such as “scratch-resistant”, “suitable for all hob types” or “healthy cooking” aren’t always clearly explained.
Most products are coated aluminium pans or have a stainless steel body with a ceramic non-stick coating. These are usually lighter and heat up faster than a solid ceramic pan, making them more practical for everyday use. So, if you’re looking for a 28 cm ceramic frying pan, make sure you distinguish between the base material and the coating.
Even a surface advertised as a scratch-resistant pan can be damaged by knives, forks, hard sponges or abrasive cleaners. Wooden, silicone or plastic utensils are a gentler choice. You should also avoid heating a coated pan empty on a high setting.
A dishwasher-safe frying pan can go in the dishwasher according to the product information, but hot water, detergent and mechanical wear can affect the lifespan of a non-stick coating. For regular use, washing by hand with a soft sponge is often gentler on the materials.
If you’re looking for a PFAS-free pan or a PTFE- and PFOA-free pan, check that the manufacturer makes this clear. The Redchef model is described in the product information as having a ceramic coating without PTFE, PFOA or PFAS. These claims apply to the specific product version, so check them against the current listing before buying.
Other models may only be listed as having a ceramic non-stick coating or a PFOA-free coating. “Ceramic-coated” and “PFAS-free” don’t automatically mean the same thing. For an informed choice, checking the specific coating information in the product details is essential.
An induction-compatible non-stick pan needs a suitable magnetic base. If you want to use the pan on different hob types, check that the listing specifically mentions gas, electric and ceramic hobs. According to their product information, the models featured here are designed for use on various hob types. If you have a specialist hob, such as a halogen or infrared model, it’s worth checking compatibility separately.
A thick or specially designed base can help distribute heat more evenly. However, using the pan correctly still matters: cook over a medium heat, don’t leave it to heat empty for long, and choose a pan that suits the size of your hob ring to help prevent localised overheating.
A shallow 28 cm coated frying pan is best suited to eggs, vegetables, pancakes and quick frying. For sauces, braised dishes or larger quantities, a deep 28 cm frying pan with higher sides is more practical. The handle is worth considering too: a fixed handle needs more storage space, while a removable one, such as those on the Tefal Ingenio range, can save room.
Before buying, also check whether the handle is oven-safe and whether a lid is included. These details vary considerably between models.
Why this product suits this household: The 28 cm pan is versatile enough for everyday dishes such as eggs, meat and pasta. According to the product information, it’s suitable for induction, gas and electric hobs, and has an ergonomic Bakelite handle.
The manufacturer describes the coating as free from PTFE, PFOA and PFAS. The care advice also recommends avoiding metal utensils and cleaning the pan gently.
Ceramic non-stick coating, compatibility with several hob types and, according to the product information, dishwasher-safe.
Why this product suits this household: Its deep shape is well suited to larger portions. The stainless steel body, ceramic coating and Thermo-Signal temperature indicator bring several useful features together in one pan.
The product details specify the dimensions, hob compatibility, coating type and maximum oven temperature. This makes it easier to check the pan’s limitations before buying.
18/10 stainless steel body, 8.2 cm height, induction base and, according to the product description, suitable for gas, electric and ceramic hobs.
Why this product suits this household: With a stated depth of 8 cm, this pan is well suited to braised dishes, ragù and one-pan meals. The Thermopoint indicator helps you keep an eye on the temperature as you cook.
The product information specifically recommends using low to medium heat, soft utensils and hand-washing. This makes the care requirements clear.
High sides, ceramic KERA-GLOSS interior coating, Thermopoint indicator and, according to the product description, compatibility with all common hob types.
We’ve put together a complete, regularly updated list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and fully comply with the safety regulations in force in the EU.
Not every ceramic frying pan is automatically suitable for induction. The key is a magnetic base. The product details should specifically state “induction” or “suitable for all hob types”. If you’re unsure, testing the outside of the pan’s base with a magnet can give you an initial indication, but it doesn’t replace the manufacturer’s information.
Its lifespan depends on the heat, utensils, cleaning method and how often you use the pan. It’s therefore not sensible to give a general figure in years. Low to medium heat, hand-washing and soft utensils can help protect the coating. Even a surface advertised as durable is still subject to wear.
The diameter is usually practical for cooking two or several portions. For braised dishes or larger quantities, a deep 28 cm frying pan with high sides may be a better choice. If you often cook for a lot of people, compare the internal height, base area and capacity too.