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How Do I Choose the Best Pan Lids?

Sherry Holetzky
Sherry Holetzky

If you are searching for the perfect set of pans, the lids will certainly be an important consideration in your selection. If replacement pan lids are on your shopping list, many of the same issues will come into play, but there may also be a few more things to consider. Size, materials from which the lids are made, cost, availability, shipping, how well the lids match the pans, and how much space they take up in your cupboard, are all things worth considering.

Stainless steel, aluminum, and silicone lids can also be effective. However, if you frequently cook items that need to be checked on often, preferably without lifting the lid, glass pan lids could make a great choice. Glass lids look great too. You might even want to grab one of those anti-boil-over lids, which are somewhat deeper than most other styles.

High-end brands of pans may be sold exclusively at particular department stores. You can call the store or visit the websites to see if they have replacement lids available. You may be able to order online or via catalog.

Pots and pans with lids.
Pots and pans with lids.

When it comes to replacement pan lids for your everyday pots, you may also want to keep clutter in mind as well as expense. Instead of purchasing an entire set of pan lids, you may want to choose a universal lid that fits most standard sized pots and pans. A universal lid has ridges in a number of measurements, to fit the perimeter of several different sizes of pans.

Lids for older pots and pans might be found at an antique dealer.
Lids for older pots and pans might be found at an antique dealer.

You can also find lids for your favorite baking pans. Many rectangular cake pans come with a plastic lid, but plastic can break easily. If you need a new top, try contacting the pan manufacturer for information first. If a replacement isn’t easily accessible via that route, try looking online for other options.

Some people are also interested in replacing pan lids for pots and pans that may have been handed down through generations or picked up while treasure hunting. For older copper, brass, or other specialty lids, you may want to check online or visit your favorite antique dealer. Some people actually collect things like pan lids, so you might be able to find a great selection from which to choose.

To ensure that you obtain the appropriate sizes, it is a good idea to measure the pots and pans for which you plan to purchase lids. Be sure to measure across the center of the pan. Take measurements from one inside rim to the other.

Discussion Comments

Spotiche5

I needed replacement lids for a set of pots, pans, and bake ware, but the universal lids that I tried didn't fit the way I wanted them to. Though I wasn't hopeful, I contacted the company that manufactured my cookware set, and to my surprise, they were able to sell me a set of replacement lids that worked perfectly.

Though getting replacement lids directly from a manufacturer can be more costly than buying universal lids, purchasing them this way will give you a better fit. If that is important to you when it comes to your cookware, you should try buying new lids from the manufacturer of your set.

Ocelot60

If you are buying replacement lids for your pots and pans, it is a good idea to find out about the stores return policy. The reason for this is because you can never know for certain until you try the lids with your pots and pans if they are going to fit properly. Though some stores do carry replacement lids that are suppose to be universal, it can be difficult to get a perfect fit.

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    • Pots and pans with lids.
      Pots and pans with lids.
    • Lids for older pots and pans might be found at an antique dealer.
      By: akulamatiau
      Lids for older pots and pans might be found at an antique dealer.