Instant Pot Stainless Steel Inner Pot vs. Ceramic-Coated Dutch Oven

Materials

• 18/8 stainless steel interior
• No non-stick coating

Common claims

• Food-grade stainless steel
• Multi-function cooker
• No PTFE coating

Concerns / watch-outs

• Some models offer non-stick inner pots as accessories — avoid those and stick with the stainless insert
• Gasket/seals are silicone; replace per manufacturer schedule

Notes

The standard stainless insert is one of the cleanest cooking vessel options. Avoid the optional non-stick insert accessories if PFAS avoidance is a priority.

Cleaner alternatives

• stainless steel
• enameled cast iron

Materials

• Aluminum body
• Sol-gel ceramic interior coating

Common claims

• PFAS-free ceramic
• Non-stick interior
• Lightweight alternative to cast iron

Concerns / watch-outs

• Ceramic coating can chip or wear if subjected to metal utensils, high heat, or dishwasher
• Lighter weight means less even heating than enameled cast iron

Notes

A PFAS-free option for those who want a lighter dutch oven. The ceramic coating is genuinely fluoropolymer-free, though not as durable as glass enamel on cast iron.

Cleaner alternatives

• enameled cast iron
• le creuset enameled dutch oven