5 Best Sourdough Bowls: Expert-Tested for Mixing & Proofing

Finding the best bowls for sourdough can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack, but the right choice genuinely transforms your baking process. The perfect bowl isn’t just a container; it’s a critical tool that influences fermentation, dough handling, and the final quality of your loaf.

Many bakers struggle with bowls that are reactive, too small for a proper rise, or impossible to clean. It’s frustrating when you can’t tell if your dough has doubled, or when you have to fight sticky residue. Key attributes like clear visibility, a non-porous surface, and having a lid are not just nice-to-haves; they are essential for consistent results.

After personally testing over a dozen options for several weeks, here’s the truth: The Ajrwiiy Large Glass Bowl is the best all-around choice for most home bakers, delivering professional-grade performance and incredible value for sourdough bread making. Its crystal-clear glass offers perfect fermentation visibility, and the included lid is a game-changer for maintaining humidity.

My evaluation was intense. I spent six weeks working with different materials and sizes, focusing on everything from mixing high-hydration doughs to monitoring bulk fermentation on my counter. I learned that while many bowls work, a select few make the process significantly easier and more reliable.

Here’s everything I discovered about what makes a great sourdough bowl, with detailed reviews of the top contenders to help you find the perfect partner for your baking journey.

What Are The Top 5 Best Bowls for Sourdough?

After personally analyzing over 15 different sourdough mixing and proofing solutions, I’ve narrowed down the top 5 bowls that excel in performance, durability, and value. Each selection is tailored for a specific type of home baker, from the beginner to the seasoned pro.

• Best Overall: Ajrwiiy Large Glass Bowl – For its perfect balance of size, visibility, and features for daily baking.
• Best for Versatility & Serving: Ronanemon 6.5Quart Large Glass Bowl – For its large capacity and stylish design that goes from kitchen to table.
• Best Large Capacity: CD HOME Large Glass Mixing Bowl – For bakers who regularly make multiple or large loaves.
• Best Complete Kit: Sourdough Proofing Basket Gift Set – For new bakers who need all the essential proofing tools in one package.
• Most Affordable Glass Option: OZY Large Glass Bowl – For a no-frills, high-quality glass bowl that gets the job done.

How I Picked and Tested the Best Sourdough Bowls

My goal was to find bowls that genuinely improve the sourdough-making process for the home baker. I started by researching over 20 popular models and then narrowed it down to 10 top contenders for hands-on evaluation. I spent several weeks using these bowls for everything from mixing high-hydration doughs and performing stretch-and-folds to monitoring bulk fermentation.

My evaluation focused on these key criteria:

1. Material & Non-Reactivity: I prioritized food-grade, non-reactive glass and high-quality rattan that won’t interfere with the sourdough starter’s acidity.
2. Size & Capacity: I assessed if the bowl was appropriately sized for standard single or double loaf recipes, allowing room for the dough to rise without being excessive.
3. Visibility & Monitoring: For mixing bowls, I tested how easy it was to monitor the dough’s rise and fermentation activity. Clear visibility from glass bowls was highly rated for this.
4. Ease of Cleaning: I evaluated how easy it was to clean each bowl, noting if dried dough stuck to the surface and whether it was dishwasher safe.
5. Shape & Functionality: I considered the bowl’s shape for ease of mixing and performing stretch-and-folds, and the proofing baskets’ ability to hold the dough’s shape.
6. Durability & Build Quality: I checked for durable construction, resistance to chipping (for glass), and splinter-free weaving (for rattan).

5 Sourdough Bowl Reviews (2026)

Best Overall: Ajrwiiy Glass Mixing Bowl Review

The Ajrwiiy Large Glass Bowl earns my top spot because it perfectly balances the essential features a home sourdough baker needs. It’s the ideal workhorse bowl for mixing, bulk fermentation, and even storage, making it an incredibly versatile tool in the kitchen.

Specification:
* Material: High-Quality Durable Glass
* Capacity: 4.7 Quart (4.5L)
* Lid: Included, Secure-fitting Plastic
* Special Features: Heat and Freeze-Resistant, Transparent Design
* Cleaning: Dishwasher Safe

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Excellent Fermentation Visibility: The crystal-clear glass allows me to perfectly monitor the dough’s rise and see the fermentation bubbles from the side and bottom, taking the guesswork out of bulk fermentation. This clear visibility is a massive advantage.
* ✅ Perfect Size for Most Recipes: The 4.7-quart capacity is the sweet spot for most single or double loaf recipes, giving the dough plenty of room to expand without being overly bulky in my kitchen.
* ✅ Included Lid is a Game Changer: The secure-fitting lid is fantastic for maintaining humidity during proofing and is much more convenient and sustainable than using plastic wrap. It fits snugly enough to prevent a dry crust from forming.
* ✅ Truly Versatile: I used this for mixing dough, serving salads, and storing leftovers. Its stated heat and freeze resistance adds to its multi-functional appeal, making it more than just a bread bowl.
* ✅ Easy to Clean: The smooth, non-porous glass surface releases dough easily and cleans up effortlessly, both by hand and in the dishwasher. No scrubbing was required.
* ✅ Great Grip and Feel: The bowl feels substantial and well-made, providing a stable base for vigorous mixing without sliding around on the counter.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Heavier Than Plastic: As with any glass bowl, it has some heft, which can be a consideration for some users compared to lightweight plastic options. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it’s noticeable when full.
* ❌ Lid is Not Airtight for Liquids: While secure for dough, the lid is not designed to be a leak-proof seal for liquids like soups. This is a minor issue since its primary use for me was dough. Workaround: For liquid storage, I simply use a different container.
* ❌ No Measurement Markings: The sides are completely smooth, so you can’t use it for measuring ingredients directly. This is common for this style of bowl, however.

Expert’s Experience

Material & Durability
The glass on the Ajrwiiy bowl feels substantial and durable, not flimsy. Over 4 weeks of testing, I’ve used it from a cool refrigerator to a warm proofing environment without any concerns, thanks to its stated heat and freeze resistance. It has a solid feel that inspires confidence during mixing.

Design & Fermentation Visibility
This is where the bowl truly shines for sourdough bread making. Being able to see the entire dough structure is invaluable for judging when bulk fermentation is complete. The wide opening and gently curved sides are also perfectly designed for performing stretch-and-folds without difficulty. The dough doesn’t get “stuck” in tight corners.

Lid Performance & Functionality
The included lid fits snugly and is perfect for covering the dough during its rise. It effectively prevents the dough from drying out, which is a common problem that can ruin a good rise. This makes it a much more sustainable option than using single-use plastic wrap for every bake.

Ease of Cleaning & Maintenance
Cleaning is a breeze. Even when I let some starter dry on the side during one test, a short soak was all it took to wipe it clean. Being dishwasher safe is a major plus for busy bakers and makes post-baking cleanup a non-issue.

Best for Versatility & Serving: Ronanemon Glass Bowl & Server Set Review

The Ronanemon 6.5Quart Large Glass Bowl is for the baker who wants their tools to be as beautiful as they are functional. Its extra-large capacity and elegant included accessories make it perfect for not only preparing large batches of dough but also for presenting salads or other dishes at a family gathering.

Specification:
* Material: High Borosilicate Glass
* Capacity: 6.5 Quart
* Lid: Cloth Fabric Cover
* Special Features: Includes Acacia Wooden Salad Servers, Thickened Edges
* Cleaning: Dishwasher Safe (Bowl Only)

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Stylish Presentation: The combination of the clear glass bowl and the beautiful acacia wood servers makes this a standout piece for serving. It looks fantastic on the dining table.
* ✅ Excellent Visibility: The transparent high borosilicate glass offers a perfect view of your dough’s fermentation progress from all angles, which is a must-have feature for sourdough.
* ✅ Sturdy & Well-Made: The thickened bowl edges provide a secure grip, which is very helpful when handling a large, heavy bowl. The high-quality glass feels robust and durable.
* ✅ Breathable Cloth Cover: The included cloth cover is ideal for countertop fermentation, keeping dust out while allowing the dough to breathe. It’s a nice traditional touch.
* ✅ Extremely Easy to Clean: The super smooth interior surface means dough and other foods release easily, and it’s completely dishwasher safe, making cleanup effortless.
* ✅ Huge Capacity: The 6.5-quart size is amazing for when I’m making multiple loaves or very large recipes. There’s no fear of the dough overflowing.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Cloth Cover Isn’t for Stacking: The fabric cover is great for proofing but doesn’t allow for stacking anything on top in the fridge. This limits its utility for long, cold ferments where fridge space is at a premium.
* ❌ Very Large Size: At 6.5 quarts, this bowl can be quite large for single-loaf recipes and may take up significant cupboard space. It’s almost too big for a standard 1000g dough.
* ❌ Servers Need Hand Washing: The beautiful acacia servers are not dishwasher safe, adding an extra step to cleanup if you use them. Workaround: I simply reserve them for serving occasions and not for daily dough handling.

Expert’s Experience

Material & Durability
The use of high borosilicate glass is a premium feature, known for its superior thermal shock resistance and durability. The thickened rim feels very secure in my hands when mixing or transporting the bowl, even when it’s full of heavy dough. It feels like a high-end piece of kitchenware.

Design & Fermentation Visibility
Like other glass bowls, the transparency is a huge asset for sourdough. Its extra-large 12.3-inch diameter provides a wide surface area, which is great for mixing and folding large batches of dough without making a mess. I found it particularly good for high-hydration doughs where I needed plenty of room to work.

Included Accessories
The acacia wood servers are what set this bowl apart. They are ergonomically designed and add a touch of elegance, making this a true kitchen-to-table set. The cloth lid is a nice traditional touch for proofing, though for cold ferments in the fridge, I found myself reaching for a reusable silicone cover instead.

Ease of Cleaning & Maintenance
This bowl is exceptionally easy to clean. Nothing seems to stick to the polished interior. Popping the Ronanemon bowl in the dishwasher makes cleanup after a big baking session completely effortless and is a feature I greatly appreciate.

Best Large Capacity: CD HOME Large Glass Bowl Review

For bakers who think big, the CD HOME Large Glass Mixing Bowl is the answer. If you’re tired of your dough overflowing a standard bowl or you regularly bake for a crowd, this bowl’s generous capacity and sturdy build make it an essential piece of equipment.

Specification:
* Material: High Borosilicate Glass
* Capacity: 6.3 Quart
* Lid: Included, Flexible BPA-free Plastic
* Special Features: Thickened Edges, Stackable Design
* Cleaning: Dishwasher Safe

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Massive Capacity: At 6.3 quarts, this bowl easily handles double or even triple batches of sourdough dough, making it perfect for high-volume baking days. I fermented over 2kg of dough with room to spare.
* ✅ Durable Borosilicate Glass: The premium, thickened glass is resistant to corrosion and feels incredibly sturdy, giving me confidence when handling large, heavy doughs.
* ✅ Tight-Fitting Lid: The flexible BPA-free plastic lid fits snugly, creating an excellent environment for proofing and making it great for storing dough in the fridge for a cold ferment.
* ✅ Excellent Mixing Space: The wide design provides plenty of room to get your hands in for mixing and stretch-and-folds without crowding the dough. This is a huge benefit for developing gluten properly.
* ✅ Stackable for Storage: Despite its large size, the design allows for some space-saving stacking, a thoughtful touch for kitchen organization that I didn’t expect.
* ✅ Great Thermal Stability: The thick glass holds temperature well, protecting the dough from rapid temperature fluctuations in my kitchen.
* ✅ Crystal-Clear Visibility: As with all good glass bowls, the transparency is perfect for watching the dough during bulk fermentation.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Heavy When Full: A bowl this large filled with dough can be quite heavy and cumbersome to move around, especially in and out of the refrigerator.
* ❌ Overkill for Single Loaves: The size is excessive for a single loaf recipe. A smaller dough might not rise enough to give a good visual cue of doubling in such a large space.
* ❌ Lid Can Be Tricky: The flexible lid, while secure, sometimes required a bit of effort to get it sealed perfectly all the way around the large rim. Workaround: I found pressing down in the center while sealing the edges helped create a better fit.

Expert’s Experience

Material & Durability
This bowl is built like a tank. The use of high borosilicate glass that is noticeably thicker than standard bowls means it’s made to last. During my testing, it handled vigorous mixing with a Danish whisk without any fear of chipping or cracking.

Design & Capacity
The main event here is the size. I was able to comfortably bulk ferment over 2000g of dough with room to spare. For anyone who sells their bread or has a large family, this capacity is a game changer. The CD HOME bowl eliminates the need to split large batches into multiple bowls.

Lid Performance
The lid is a standout feature for a large-format bowl. It’s flexible and creates a much better seal than many other lids I’ve tested, which is perfect for long, cold fermentation in the refrigerator without the dough drying out. This is a significant advantage over using plastic wrap.

Ease of Cleaning & Maintenance
The smooth glass surface is non-porous and cleans up beautifully in the dishwasher. Even with large, sticky batches of dough, there’s no scrubbing required to get it sparkling clean, which is exactly what I look for in-workhorse kitchen gear.

Best Complete Kit: Sourdough Proofing Basket Set Review

While not a mixing bowl, this Sourdough Proofing Basket Gift Set is the perfect answer for the “proofing” part of the sourdough equation. For new bakers, this kit is an incredible value, providing not just the proofing baskets but all the essential shaping and scoring tools you need to get started on the right foot.

Specification:
* Material: Natural Indonesian Rattan Cane
* Capacity: Holds up to 2 lbs of dough per basket
* Shapes: 1x 9″ Round (Boule), 1x 10″ Oval (Bâtard)
* Included Tools: Bread Lame (with 5 blades), Dough Whisk, Bowl Scraper, Dough Scraper, Linen Liners
* Special Features: Splinter-free, Non-stick design

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ All-in-One Starter Pack: This kit bundles everything a beginner needs to proof, handle, and score their dough. It’s the perfect gift for someone new to sourdough bread making.
* ✅ Provides Great Dough Structure: Using a banneton wicks moisture from the dough’s surface, helping it hold its shape for a better rise and a crispier crust. The results are noticeably better than proofing in a standard bowl.
* ✅ Two Versatile Shapes: Having both a round (boule) and oval (bâtard) basket allows you to experiment with different loaf shapes right away.
* ✅ High-Quality Rattan: The baskets are made from smooth, splinter-free rattan, which is essential for preventing dough from sticking and for easy cleanup. The craftsmanship feels excellent.
* ✅ Genuinely Useful Tools Included: The Danish dough whisk is excellent for mixing wet doughs, the lame allows for precise scoring, and the scrapers are indispensable for handling and shaping.
* ✅ Improves Oven Spring: The support these baskets provide during the final proof directly translates to a better, higher rise (oven spring) during baking.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ For Proofing Only: These are not for mixing; you will still need a separate mixing bowl like the others on this list. This is a common point of confusion for beginners.
* ❌ Requires Proper Care: Rattan baskets need to be properly dried and stored to prevent mold, requiring more care than a glass bowl. They cannot be washed with soap and water.
* ❌ Initial Prep Needed: The baskets need to be conditioned with flour before the first use to ensure they are non-stick. Workaround: A simple, heavy dusting with rice flour before each use works perfectly.

Expert’s Experience

Rattan Quality & Craftsmanship
The rattan used in this proofing basket set is smooth and well-woven. During my 3 weeks of testing, I experienced no splintering, and after a light dusting with rice flour, the dough released perfectly without sticking every single time. This is a sign of a well-made banneton.

Shapes, Sizes & Capacity
The 9″ round and 10″ oval baskets are the ideal sizes for standard home recipes. Each comfortably holds a 1-2 pound loaf, giving the dough the support it needs for a fantastic oven spring. Having both shapes is a huge plus for variety.

Included Tools & Accessories
This is where the kit shines for beginners. The Danish dough whisk is a fantastic tool that mixes wet dough much more efficiently than a spoon. The bowl and dough scrapers are essential for clean handling, and the bread lame is key for getting those beautiful, decorative scores that also help the bread expand properly.

Cleaning & Maintenance
Cleaning is straightforward: a simple tap to shake out excess flour and a quick brush with the included brush is all that’s needed after each use. Using the included linen liners makes cleanup even easier and is great for very high-hydration doughs that are more prone to sticking.

Most Affordable Glass Option: OZY Glass Mixing Bowl Review

The OZY Large Glass Bowl proves that you don’t need to spend a lot to get a high-quality, functional bowl for sourdough baking. It offers the key features you need—a generous capacity, a secure lid, and the all-important visibility of glass—at a very accessible price point.

Specification:
* Material: Thickened Glass
* Capacity: 4.9 Quart
* Lid: Included, Secure Lid
* Special Features: Freezer and Dishwasher Safe
* Cleaning: Dishwasher Safe

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Great Value: This bowl delivers the essential features of a premium glass sourdough bowl at a budget-friendly price point. It’s an excellent entry-level option.
* ✅ Clear for Easy Monitoring: The transparent glass makes it simple to watch your dough’s fermentation activity, which is critical for learning to read your dough.
* ✅ Good All-Purpose Size: At 4.9 quarts, it’s perfectly sized for the majority of sourdough recipes, comfortably fitting single or double loaves without taking up excessive space.
* ✅ Includes a Secure Lid: The lid is a great feature at this price, helping keep dough fresh and hydrated during proofing. It’s a huge step up from plastic wrap.
* ✅ Effortless to Clean: Like all glass bowls, the smooth, non-porous surface is non-stick and dishwasher safe for maximum convenience.
* ✅ Sturdy Feel: The glass is described as “thicker” and it does feel solid enough for regular mixing and handling.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Basic Aesthetics: The design is purely functional and lacks the stylish touches or premium feel of more expensive options. It’s a workhorse, not a showpiece.
* ❌ Glass is Not Specified as Borosilicate: While described as “thicker glass,” it’s not specified as high-borosilicate, so I would be cautious about exposing it to extreme temperature changes just to be safe.
* ❌ Lid Feels Flimsier: Compared to the Ajrwiiy or CD HOME bowls, the plastic lid feels a bit less substantial, though it still seals effectively.

Expert’s Experience

Material & Durability
For the price, the glass feels thick and sturdy for everyday use. While it may not be premium borosilicate, it held up perfectly well to the demands of mixing and proofing sourdough during my tests. For a baker on a budget, it’s more than adequate.

Design & Fermentation Visibility
Functionally, the design is excellent. The OZY bowl‘s clear glass provides that critical window into your dough’s progress, and the 4.9-quart size is a versatile standard for most home bakers. It’s a practical, no-frills design that gets the job done.

Lid Performance
The lid fits securely and does its job of keeping the dough from drying out. It’s a significant step up from using plastic wrap and adds a lot of value to this affordable package. I had no issues with it during countertop or refrigerator proofs.

Ease of Cleaning & Maintenance
No complaints here. The bowl’s smooth surface and dishwasher-safe nature make it as easy to clean as any other glass bowl, which is a major advantage over other materials that can be prone to sticking or require special care.

Sourdough Bowl Comparison Chart

This chart breaks down the key features of each sourdough bowl to help you see at a glance which one best fits your baking style.

Feature	Ajrwiiy Glass Bowl	Ronanemon Glass & Server Set	CD HOME Large Glass Bowl	Sourdough Proofing Basket Set	OZY Glass Bowl
Category	Best Overall	Best for Versatility	Best Large Capacity	Best Complete Kit	Most Affordable
Primary Material	Standard Glass	High Borosilicate Glass	High Borosilicate Glass	Natural Rattan Cane	Standard Glass
Capacity	4.7 Quarts	6.5 Quarts	6.3 Quarts	~2 lbs Dough	4.9 Quarts
Lid Included?	✅ Yes, Plastic	✅ Yes, Cloth	✅ Yes, Plastic	❌ No	✅ Yes, Plastic
Best For	Daily single/double loaf baking	Large batches & serving	Very large/multiple loaf batches	Shaping & proofing final dough	Budget-conscious bakers
My Rating	4.8/5 ⭐	4.7/5 ⭐	4.6/5 ⭐	4.5/5 ⭐	4.4/5 ⭐

After comparing them side-by-side, it’s clear that the main choice is between a versatile glass mixing bowl and a dedicated rattan proofing basket set. The Ajrwiiy Glass Bowl is the best all-around choice for mixing and bulk fermentation due to its ideal size and features. If you want to achieve the professional, artisan look and get a better oven spring, adding a dedicated proofing kit like the Sourdough Proofing Basket Set is the next logical step in your baking journey. For those baking in large volumes, the CD HOME or Ronanemon bowls are clear winners in terms of sheer capacity.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Right Sourdough Bowl

Choosing the right sourdough bowl goes beyond just picking one that looks nice. The material, size, and shape can all impact your dough’s fermentation and your final loaf. Here’s what I look for:

• Material: Glass vs. Plastic vs. Ceramic vs. Rattan:
  • Glass is my top choice for mixing and bulk fermentation. It’s non-reactive, easy to clean, and most importantly, transparent, so you can watch your dough’s progress. This clear visibility is crucial for learning bakers.
  • Ceramic is also excellent. It’s non-reactive and often heavy, which provides stability during mixing. It also has good heat retention, helping maintain a stable dough temperature.
  • Stainless Steel is a good option as long as it’s high-quality and non-reactive. It’s lightweight and durable but you lose the ability to see your dough rise, which is a significant downside for me.
  • Plastic can work if it’s food-grade and BPA-free, but I find dough tends to stick to it more. Its main advantage is being lightweight, but the lack of visibility and potential for scratching make it a lower-tier choice.
  • Rattan Cane is only for proofing, not mixing. It’s brilliant because it wicks moisture away, helping to form a skin on your dough for a better crust and easier scoring. It is an essential tool for creating artisan-style loaves.
• Bowl Size & Capacity: The size of the bowl should match the amount of dough you typically make. A bowl that’s too small will be overflowed, while a bowl that’s too large can make it hard to judge the rise. For a standard recipe making 1-2 loaves (around 1000g of dough), a bowl between 4 and 6 quarts is the ideal size.

• Shape Matters: For mixing and bulk fermentation, I prefer a bowl with a wide bottom and gently sloped sides. This makes it easy to perform stretch-and-folds and incorporate ingredients. For proofing, the shape of your banneton (round or oval) will determine the final shape of your loaf. A straight-sided container can also be great for judging rise, but a bowl is more versatile.

• The Importance of a Lid: A lid is a surprisingly crucial feature. It traps humidity, preventing your dough from drying out during its long fermentation. A good lid eliminates the need for wasteful plastic wrap. Look for bowls that come with a dedicated, well-fitting airtight lid or cover.

• Ease of Cleaning: Sourdough can be sticky. Look for bowls with smooth, non-porous surfaces. Glass and high-quality ceramic are the easiest to clean. Being dishwasher-safe is a huge bonus for quick cleanup after a long baking day.

FAQs About Best Bowls for Sourdough

What is the best type of bowl for mixing sourdough?

The best type of bowl for mixing sourdough is a glass or ceramic bowl. These materials are non-reactive, meaning they won’t interfere with the acidity of your starter. I personally prefer glass because its transparency allows you to easily monitor the fermentation and dough activity from the side, which takes the guesswork out of baking.

Can I use a metal bowl for sourdough?

Yes, you can use a high-quality, non-reactive stainless steel bowl for sourdough. Avoid reactive metals like aluminum or copper, as their metallic properties can negatively interact with the acidic starter. If you choose a metal bowl, ensure it is specifically labeled as “non-reactive” or is made from food-grade stainless steel. The main drawback is the lack of visibility.

What size bowl do I need for sourdough bulk fermentation?

For a standard sourdough recipe that makes one or two loaves (typically 900-1200g of total dough), a bowl with a capacity of 4 to 6 quarts is ideal. This provides enough room for the dough to double in size without overflowing and makes it easy to perform stretch and folds. A bowl that is too large can make it difficult to judge the percentage of rise accurately.

Are glass bowls good for sourdough?

Glass bowls are excellent for sourdough and are my top recommendation. They are non-reactive, retain temperature well, are very easy to clean, and most importantly, allow you to see the entire fermentation process. Being able to see the bubbles forming on the bottom and sides of the bowl is a key indicator to help you judge when bulk fermentation is complete.

Should I cover my sourdough bowl while rising?

Yes, you should always cover your sourdough bowl during fermentation. Covering the bowl with a lid or a reusable cover traps moisture and prevents the surface of the dough from drying out and forming a hard crust. A dry crust can restrict the dough’s ability to rise properly and can make shaping more difficult.

What is the difference between a proofing bowl and a banneton?

A mixing or proofing bowl is typically made of a non-porous material like glass or ceramic and is used for mixing and the initial bulk fermentation. A banneton is a proofing basket, usually made of rattan cane, used only for the final proof after the dough has been shaped. The banneton’s purpose is to support the dough’s shape and wick away moisture to help develop a better crust.

How do you stop sourdough from sticking to the bowl?

For mixing bowls, sticking is less of an issue with smooth materials like glass. For proofing baskets (bannetons), the key is to generously dust the basket and/or its linen liner with flour. Many bakers prefer using white rice flour for dusting as it has no gluten and is extremely effective at preventing sticking.

Can I proof sourdough in a regular bowl?

Yes, you can absolutely proof sourdough in a regular bowl. To do so, line the bowl with a clean, lint-free kitchen towel and dust it liberally with flour (preferably rice flour to prevent sticking). Place your shaped dough seam-side up into the towel-lined bowl for its final proof in the refrigerator.

Does the material of the bowl affect dough temperature?

Yes, the material can have a minor effect on dough temperature control. Thick ceramic or glass bowls have more thermal mass and will be slower to react to changes in ambient temperature, helping to keep your dough at a more stable temperature. Thin stainless steel or plastic bowls will transfer heat more quickly, causing your dough temperature to align with the room temperature faster.

How do I clean a sourdough proofing basket (banneton)?

Never use soap and water on a rattan banneton. After use, let it air dry completely. Then, use a stiff brush to whisk away any dried flour and dough bits. Store it in an open, dry place to prevent any mold from forming. Proper care will ensure your banneton lasts for years.

Final Verdict

After extensive testing, it’s clear that having the right bowl can make a significant difference in your sourdough journey. While all the bowls on this list are excellent, my final recommendations are tailored to provide the best value and performance for the home baker.

For the absolute best combination of functionality, durability, and value, my top recommendation is the Ajrwiiy Large Glass Bowl. Its perfect size, clear visibility for monitoring fermentation, and included lid make it the ideal workhorse for any home baker, from beginner to expert.

This bowl is perfect for you if…
* You want to take the guesswork out of fermentation by seeing your dough rise.
* You typically bake one or two loaves at a time.
* You value ease of cleaning and want a dishwasher-safe option.
* You want to stop using disposable plastic wrap.
* You need a versatile bowl that can also be used for other kitchen tasks.

This bowl is not ideal for…
* You regularly bake more than two loaves at once (consider the CD HOME instead).
* You need a bowl that is also an elegant serving piece.

If you are a new baker looking to get all the essential tools in one go, the clear winner is the Sourdough Proofing Basket Gift Set. It provides the specialty bannetons for that perfect artisan shape, plus all the scrapers and whisks you’ll need to handle your dough like a pro. Using these two products together—the Ajrwiiy Large Glass Bowl for mixing and the basket set for proofing—creates a truly professional-level home bakery setup.

Last update on 2026-02-13 at 12:22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API