By Leen Randell
Updated: Feb 14, 2025
13 best double boilers for herbalists
A double boiler, also known as a bain-marie, is a heat-retaining cooking vessel used by apothecaries to gently warm and mix ingredients.
This product consists of a heat-resistant bowl or container placed over a pot of simmering water, allowing for precise temperature control. Apothecaries rely on double boilers to avoid scorching or overheating sensitive herbal extracts, essential oils, and other temperature-sensitive materials. The double boiler's controlled heat ensures the stability of ingredients, preserving their potency and properties.
By using a double boiler, apothecaries can create high-quality, effective remedies with precise and consistent results.
1. Oster Sangerfield Double Boiler Cookware 3.0-Qt Dutch Oven
These double boilers feature excellent steamer performance for cooking a variety of vegetables, allowing apothecary professionals to achieve fast and efficient steaming cooking results.
The medium size of the double boiler is suitable for two adults and two kids, making it an ideal choice for small to medium-sized apothecary operations. Constructed from high-quality, light weight stainless steel, these double boilers provide good quality at an affordable price point, making them a great value for apothecary professionals on a budget. Additionally, the easy to clean and store design features make maintenance a breeze, allowing apothecary professionals to focus on their craft.
Two steamer baskets are also included, providing the flexibility to perform multiple cooking tasks at once, while bolted handles ensure secure and easy handling.
Key Features:
- Excellent Steamer Performance for Cooking Veggies
- Medium Size Suitable for 2 Adults 2 Kids
- Good Quality at Affordable Price Point
- Light Weight Stainless Steel Construction Material
- Easy to Clean and Store Design Features
Warnings:
Some users expressed concern about the durability and safety of the double boiler, citing issues such as rusting of the pot and pasta drainer, burning metal smell when on the stove, scorching easily due to thin pot material, rust stains appearing on the pot after use, and a loud bang and damage from a loose rivet.
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2. Stainless Steel Double Boilers with 18/8 Steel Construction
These double boilers are compact and functional, ideal for small-batch melting purposes in an apothecary setting.
Their small size makes them perfect for melting shea butter and butters, allowing for precise control over the melting process. The stainless steel design is easy to clean, ensuring that residue does not remain after use, and can be washed with soap and water to maintain its cleanliness. A precise pouring spout is also included, allowing for accurate pouring into small containers, while the durable handle remains cool to the touch even when in use.
This design makes the double boilers well-suited for tasks such as melting chocolate and wax, and their easy cleaning makes them a valuable asset in an apothecary.
Key Features:
- Small but functional double boiler size
- Easy to clean stainless steel design
- Precise pouring spout for small containers
- Works well for melting chocolate and wax
- Durable handle that does not heat up
Warnings:
Some users experienced issues with the double boiler's performance, citing complaints such as black residue on chocolate after melting and a chemical smell, indicating potential problems with the materials used in the product.
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3. Stainless Steel Double Boiler Fondue Pot Set with Temperature Control
These double boilers offer effortless temperature control with precise settings, allowing apothecary professionals to accurately heat and maintain the ideal temperatures for various fondue options.
The quick heat-up time enables rapid fondue preparation, perfect for busy apothecary environments that require swift service. With a generous capacity, these double boilers can accommodate multiple fondue options at once, streamlining the preparation process and reducing the need for multiple devices. The non-stick interior and detachable components make for easy cleanup, minimizing the time spent on maintenance and allowing apothecary staff to focus on other tasks.
Additionally, the compact footprint and color-coded fondue forks facilitate efficient storage and organization, while the variable temperature control and heat retention ensure a seamless fondue experience.
Key Features:
- Effortless Temperature Control with Precise Settings
- Quick Heat-Up Time for Rapid Fondue Preparation
- Generous Capacity for Multiple Fondue Options
- Easy Cleanup with Non-Stick Interior and Detachable Components
- Variable Temperature Control for Different Fondue Types
Warnings:
Some users experienced issues with the performance and functionality of the double boiler, citing problems such as inconsistent temperature, insufficient heat for melting cheese or oil, and temperature dial lacks clear heat level indication, which affected the product's usability and effectiveness.
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4. Stainless Steel Double Boiler 3 Piece Set 2.5 Qt
These double boilers offer an easy to use and clean design, making them a perfect addition to any apothecary's workspace.
Their fast and even heating performance with stainless steel ensures that melting chocolate and other cooking tasks are completed efficiently. The reliable and good build quality construction provides durability and a long lifespan, while the durable and lightweight material makes it easy to handle and maneuver. Additionally, the double boiler's design features easy to clean and minimal stickiness inside, allowing for hassle-free maintenance.
With a good size for medium to large projects melting and affordable price point, these double boilers are suitable for making sauces, melting cheese, and various other cooking tasks.
Key Features:
- Easy to use and clean double boiler design
- Fast and even heating performance with stainless steel
- Reliable and of good build quality construction
- Durable and lightweight double boiler material
- Easy to clean and minimal stickiness inside
Warnings:
Some users expressed frustration with the double boilers due to issues such as pots developing holes and rust spots after short periods of use, pans made from very thin and low-quality materials, and handles that bend and break off after minimal use.
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5. Double Boilers Stainless Steel 18/8 Melting Pot
These double boilers boast an easy to clean stainless steel construction, allowing apothecary professionals to efficiently maintain their equipment.
Their dishwasher safe design ensures hassle-free cleaning, saving time in the busy apothecary environment. A silicon scraper is also included for efficient food removal, minimizing waste and preserving valuable ingredients. The double boiler's versatility is a significant advantage, as it fits over multiple pan sizes, accommodating different recipes and applications.
Ideal for melting chocolate and other foods, these double boilers also excel in herbalism medicine making and remedies, providing even heat distribution and melting for precise results.
Key Features:
- Easy to clean stainless steel construction
- Dishwasher safe for hassle-free cleaning
- Silicon scraper for efficient food removal
- Fits over multiple pan sizes for versatility
- Compact design for space-saving storage options
Warnings:
Some users experienced issues with the durability and functionality of double boilers, citing complaints such as broken handles, rusted or flimsy construction, and silicone melting onto the sauce pan due to excessive heat.
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6. Farberware Classic Double Boilers 2-Quart Stainless
These double boilers offer even heat distribution for cooking, ensuring that delicate ingredients like chocolate and cheese are melted to perfection.
Their multi-use design allows them to be used for various purposes, such as making sauces, infusions, and even preparing medicinal remedies. Constructed with durable and long-lasting materials, these double boilers withstand regular use and cleaning, making them a reliable addition to any apothecary's toolkit. Furthermore, their easy-to-clean design and heat retention capabilities allow for effortless maintenance and the ability to keep dishes warm for an extended period.
Additionally, their portability makes them ideal for use in different settings, from a fixed laboratory to a mobile apothecary setup.
Key Features:
- Even heat distribution for cooking
- Multi-use kitchen ware for various purposes
- Durable and long-lasting construction
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Heat retention for keeping dishes warm
Warnings:
Some users experienced issues with the double boiler's design, citing problems such as steam buildup, handles that were too short for comfortable lifting, and a rolled edge that collected steam and caused messy spills.
Additionally, the product's construction was also a concern, with complaints about cheap and thin metal prone to burning and rusting, and discolored and rusted pans despite being made of stainless steel.
Furthermore, the design flaws led to issues with the knob on the cover falling off after minimal use.
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7. Double Boilers Stainless Steel Melting Pot Set
These double boilers are designed with a sturdy and functional design for durability, allowing apothecary professionals to rely on their equipment for a long time.
Their good value for the money spent is an added benefit, making them a worthwhile investment for any apothecary. A heat protectant handle ensures safe use, protecting users from burns and other accidents. Easy operation and a small size for convenient storage and use make them perfect for crafting projects and tasks, such as melting chocolate and candy, where precise measurements are crucial, as the double boiler measures the perfect amount of water perfectly.
Additionally, their ease of cleaning with minimal maintenance means that apothecary professionals can focus on their craft without the hassle of tedious cleaning.
Key Features:
- Sturdy and functional design for durability
- Good value for the money spent
- Heat protectant handle for safe use
- Easy to use with simple operation
- Small size for convenient storage and use
Warnings:
Some users expressed concerns about the product's design and quality, citing issues such as poor fit between the top and bottom parts, a big gap between the containers resulting in heat loss, and a melting pot that was unstable and sat outside the edging of the boiler pot.
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8. T-fal Double Boilers, 3 Quart Oven Safe Nonstick Cookware
These double boilers feature a large capacity of up to 3 quarts, making them ideal for apothecary applications that require the preparation of large batches of ingredients.
The top and bottom pots are constructed from durable stainless steel, ensuring that they can withstand high temperatures and heavy use. The non-stick coating on the bottom pot simplifies the cleaning process, reducing the risk of contamination and making maintenance easier. The glass lid with a vent hole allows for safe use and helps to regulate the temperature within the boiler.
Additionally, the double boilers are designed with comfortable handles on both pots and are lightweight, making them easy to handle and maneuver during use.
Key Features:
- Large capacity of up to 3 quarts
- Top and bottom pots made of stainless steel
- Non-stick coating on bottom pot for easy cleaning
- Lightweight and easy to handle
- Glass lid with vent hole for safe use
Warnings:
Some users expressed concerns about the durability and functionality of the double boiler, citing issues such as the top pan being ultra thin and prone to sticking and burning, the non-stick coating only being applied to the bottom pan, and the top pan's design making it difficult to clean. Additionally, complaints were made about the non-stick coating wearing off and releasing black residue, and the product not being suitable for cooking with high heat.
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9. 304 Stainless Steel Double Boilers with 1200ML & 2800ML Capacity
These double boilers are ideal for apothecary professionals who need a reliable tool for melting chocolate and performing delicate tasks, thanks to their large capacity for melting and precise temperature control.
The even and gentle heating system helps to prevent scorching, ensuring that the chocolate or other ingredients are heated to the perfect temperature without losing their texture or consistency. The durable stainless steel construction of the boiler makes it easy to clean and maintain, reducing the risk of bacterial contamination and ensuring that the equipment remains in good working condition. A precise double boiler insert is also included, allowing for controlled melting of chocolate and other ingredients, while the ergonomic handle provides convenient pouring and maneuvering.
The pour spout on the boiler makes it easy to handle the melted chocolate, and its perfect size is ideal for single batch chocolate melting, making it an excellent choice for making candies and chocolate treats.
Key Features:
- Large capacity for melting chocolate and delicate tasks
- Even and gentle heating for scorching prevention
- Durable stainless steel construction for easy cleaning
- Precise double boiler insert for controlled melting
- Ergonomic handle for convenient pouring and maneuvering
Warnings:
Some users expressed dissatisfaction with the performance of the double boiler, citing issues such as difficulty in melting chocolate and making hollandaise sauce, as well as the double boiler's inability to reach high temperatures necessary for tasks like caramel making. Additionally, some users found the design to be problematic, with uneven pan fitting and handle issues, making it difficult to use the product effectively.
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10. 304 Stainless Steel Double Boilers for Melting Chocolate & Wax
These double boilers are designed with ease of use in mind, featuring double handles that provide a secure grip, making it simple to handle even the hottest mixtures.
The steam prevention system reduces the risk of mess and stress, allowing apothecary professionals to focus on the craft without worrying about spills. The double boiler is also beneficial for melting chocolate and making cookies, with an accurate water level indicator ensuring perfect melts every time. Additionally, the product comes with a small spatula for easy handling and is dishwasher safe, making cleaning a breeze.
The double boiler pours nicely from the top, allowing for smooth melts, and is ideal for candle making and small portion sizes, making it a valuable tool for apothecary professionals.
Key Features:
- Double Boiler for Chocolate Dipping Sauce
- Easy to Use with Double Handles Included
- Steam Prevention Reduces Mess and Stress
- Helpful for Melting Chocolate and Making Cookies
- Dishwasher Safe for Easy Cleaning
Warnings:
Some users expressed concerns about the double boiler's construction and performance, citing issues such as poor materials used, including aluminum instead of stainless steel, which may compromise durability and heat resistance.
Additionally, users found the item to be too thin, overheating easily and causing uneven heating, particularly when working with delicate ingredients like chocolate. The lack of steam and uneven heating further exacerbated these problems, making it difficult to achieve consistent results.
Furthermore, the item's small size and thinness made it ill-suited for heavy use, and some users experienced difficulties pouring from the double boiler, highlighting potential design flaws.
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11. Double Boilers Set - 18/8 Steel Melting Pots
These double boilers feature an easy to clean design, making them a staple in apothecary settings where hygiene is a top priority.
The medium weight and good quality construction ensure that they can withstand regular use, while the non-stick or stainless steel material options provide durability and ease of cleaning. Double boiler upper pans and lower pots are designed to work together seamlessly, allowing for precise temperature control and even heating. Convenient pour spouts and handles for lifting make it easy to transfer and pour ingredients, while the rubber handles provide a secure grip and added safety.
With sturdy and durable double boiler sets that can accommodate various pot sizes and shapes, these double boilers are perfect for melting chocolate and other ingredients in apothecary settings.
Key Features:
- Easy to clean double boiler design
- Medium weight and good quality construction
- Non-stick or stainless steel material options
- Double boiler upper pans and lower pots
- Convenient pour spouts and handles for lifting
Warnings:
Some users expressed concerns about the double boilers' functionality and quality, citing issues such as poor craftsmanship and breakable handles, defective or snapped clips on pots, and ineffective welding and loose attachments.
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12. Double Boilers 1000ML Melting Pot for Chocolate and Wax
These double boilers are designed with the apothecary in mind, boasting a stainless steel construction that ensures durability and withstanding the rigors of frequent use.
The double boiler holds an exact 6 cups of liquid, making it perfect for cooking large batches of frosting. The long straight metal handle provides heat protection and allows for easy handling of the unit, while the pouring spouts facilitate effortless liquid handling and pouring. Additionally, a small hook is conveniently located on the side, allowing the double boiler to be straddled over bowls for efficient mixing and stirring, and a bonus mini spatula is included for easy stirring.
The double boiler's easy-to-clean surface and ability to heat evenly and efficiently for melting make it an ideal tool for apothecary professionals who require precise temperature control.
Key Features:
- Holds exact 6 cups of liquid for cooking frosting
- Stainless steel construction for durability
- Long straight metal handle for heat protection
- Pouring spouts for easy liquid handling
- Small hook for straddling over bowls
Warnings:
Some users experienced issues with the double boiler, specifically citing problems with black residue appearing in white chocolate due to metal contamination, and a product design that led to breakage, including the handle breaking off after being dropped.
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13. Double Boilers Stainless Steel Saucepan Cookware Set
These double boilers feature a heavy bottom for even heat distribution, ensuring that the contents are heated consistently and efficiently.
The sturdy and well-made construction of the double boiler also provides a secure and stable cooking environment, making it ideal for apothecary applications. A glass lid allows for easy visibility of the contents, while the built-in measuring cup offers convenience and precision in measuring ingredients. The multiple recipe versatility of the double boiler makes it a valuable addition to any apothecary, as it can be used for a wide range of applications, from infusions to distillations.
The engraved measurements and nice handles also facilitate easy handling and precise addition of ingredients, making the double boiler a valuable tool for apothecary professionals.
Key Features:
- Heavy bottom for even heat distribution
- Sturdy and well-made construction
- Glass lid for visibility
- Multiple recipe versatility
- Easy clean up and maintenance
Warnings:
Some users had issues with the design and functionality of double boilers, citing problems such as scorching due to thin metal construction, non-stick coatings chipping, and rust forming on the inside bottom of the pans, among other issues.
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