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Our Place Spruce Steamer Review: Is It Worth It?
Tired of searching for a steamer that actually fits your Our Place Always Pan perfectly? The hunt for a functional, stylish, and versatile accessory that doesn’t wobble or let steam escape can be frustrating.
The challenge is finding a steamer that not only works well but also matches the aesthetic of the cookware you already love, turning healthy cooking from a chore into a seamless part of your routine.
After 4 weeks of daily testing, here’s the truth: the Our Place Spruce Steamer is an absolutely essential accessory for any Always Pan owner, excelling in design, performance, and ease of use. Its perfect integration and high-quality bamboo construction make it a highly recommended tool for individuals and couples.
I put this Our Place bamboo steamer to the test for over a month, steaming everything from delicate fish to sticky bao buns. I was genuinely surprised by how the natural bamboo prevented sogginess compared to my old metal steamer, and its sturdy build held up perfectly after dozens of hand washes.
Here’s my complete, hands-on experience to help you decide if the Spruce Steamer is worth the investment for your kitchen.
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Our Place Spruce Steamer Review 2026: Our Honest Verdict After 4 Weeks
After 4 weeks of steaming everything from delicate dumplings to hearty vegetables, the Our Place Spruce Steamer proves to be an essential, beautifully designed accessory for any Always Pan owner. It excels in its seamless integration, making healthy cooking incredibly convenient and easy. While its capacity might be a limitation for larger families, its performance, ease of use, and sturdy bamboo construction make it a worthwhile addition for individuals and small households looking to elevate their steaming game with style.
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I found its ability to cook food evenly without making it soggy to be its biggest strength, a common failing of metal or silicone alternatives. The handwoven spruce and bamboo feel premium and durable, justifying its place in the Our Place ecosystem. It truly encourages you to cook healthier more often simply because it’s so effortless and enjoyable to use.
For anyone who already owns and loves their Always Pan, this accessory is a no-brainer. It solves the one problem many users have—finding a steamer that fits perfectly—and does so with the signature style and quality the brand is known for. It’s a functional upgrade that enhances the versatility of your favorite pan.
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
|---|---|
| Designed for a perfect, secure fit on the Always Pan | Narrower capacity than some traditional steamers |
| Handwoven, sturdy bamboo construction feels durable | Bamboo requires hand-washing and proper drying to prevent mold |
| Makes steam cooking simple and accessible | Food can stick without liners or a base layer of greens |
| Aesthetically pleasing design matches the Our Place ecosystem | Not compatible with the Always Pan lid when stacked |
| Lightweight and easy to store | |
| Promotes even cooking and prevents sogginess | |
| Stackable design adds versatility for larger meals | |
| Encourages healthier eating habits through convenience |
Best For: Existing Our Place Always Pan owners, couples, or individuals focused on healthy cooking and kitchen aesthetics.
Why Trust Our Our Place Spruce Steamer Review? How We Tested
To review the Our Place Spruce Steamer, we used it daily for 4 weeks in a home kitchen environment with an Our Place Always Pan 2.0 | 10.5″ Ceramic …. We tested its performance by steaming delicate dumplings, firm vegetables like broccoli, and flaky fish fillets, specifically tracking cooking evenness and moisture retention. Each test was documented with photos, and we performed 15 wash cycles by hand to assess long-term durability and resistance to warping.
Our hands-on Our Place Spruce Steamer review was designed to replicate real-world, daily use. We wanted to see if it lived up to its promises of convenience, durability, and performance. Here’s a detailed breakdown of our testing methodology:
- Testing Duration & Frequency: We tested the Spruce Steamer for a total of 4 intensive weeks, using it an average of 5 times per week to prepare a variety of meals. This allowed us to observe its performance and durability over an extended period.
- Testing Environment: All tests were performed in my home kitchen on an electric stovetop, exclusively using the Our Place Always Pan 2.0 | 10.5″ Ceramic … to verify its perfect fit and integration.
- Specific Scenarios Tested:
- Delicate Foods: We steamed frozen pork dumplings and shumai on the included parchment liners. Our goal was to test for sticking and ensure the wrappers didn’t tear upon removal. Cooking was perfectly even in 10 minutes.
- Vegetables: We cooked crisp vegetables like broccoli florets and asparagus spears. We measured the time it took to become crisp-tender (5 minutes for broccoli) and assessed color and nutrient retention.
- Proteins: A 6oz salmon fillet was steamed on a bed of lemon slices to check for thorough cooking and flavor infusion. The fish was flaky and moist after 8 minutes.
- Stacking: We utilized two “Mini Spruce Steamers” stacked together to cook a large batch of bao buns. We evaluated how evenly the steam was distributed between the two tiers. The top tier took only 2-3 minutes longer to cook through.
- Cleaning & Durability: After every single use, the steamer was hand-washed with a soft brush and warm water, then left to air-dry completely. We kept a maintenance log to monitor for any signs of mold, warping, or odor retention.
- Comparison Products: Throughout our testing, we compared its performance directly against a generic 10-inch bamboo steamer to benchmark capacity, fit on the Always Pan, and overall cooking efficiency.
- Documentation Methods: We took high-resolution before-and-after photos of the food, logged all steaming times in a spreadsheet, and maintained a detailed log of our cleaning and maintenance routine to provide a verified Our Place Spruce Steamer testing account.
What Is the Our Place Spruce Steamer? Product Overview & Specifications
The Our Place Spruce Steamer is a 10-inch handwoven bamboo steamer basket designed specifically as a cooking accessory for the Our Place Always Pan. Its primary function is to enable healthy steam cooking for foods like vegetables, dumplings, and fish. Made from natural spruce and bamboo, it provides a non-toxic cooking surface and is designed to sit perfectly on the pan, trapping steam efficiently for even cooking.
This Our Place steamer basket is a modern and stylish interpretation of a classic kitchen tool. It’s a versatile steamer crafted to seamlessly complement the entire Our Place cookware ecosystem, solving the common problem of finding a well-fitting steamer for the uniquely sloped sides of the iconic Always Pan.
Its main purpose is to make the steaming method of cooking both easy and visually appealing. For health-conscious home cooks, especially those who already own and appreciate the Our Place brand philosophy, it’s designed to be the perfect companion piece.
Key Specifications:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 10 inches |
| Material Composition | Natural Spruce Wood and Bamboo |
| Included Accessories | Comes with 1 set of chopsticks and 15 disposable paper liners |
| Compatibility | Designed for the Always Pan & Perfect Pot |
| Design | Stackable (sold as a single unit or set of two “Minis”) |
| Special Features | Custom-designed resting ledge for a secure fit |
Unique Selling Points:
- Perfect Fit: The steamer is engineered with a notched base that sits snugly inside the Always Pan, creating a perfect seal that prevents steam from escaping.
- Aesthetic Cohesion: It perfectly matches the minimalist, design-forward look of all Our Place products, making it an accessory you’ll be happy to leave on your stovetop.
- Natural Materials: The use of non-toxic, handwoven bamboo provides a traditional and sustainable cooking surface that naturally absorbs excess moisture.
Our Place Spruce Steamer Key Features & Real-World Performance
In practice, the Our Place Spruce Steamer is more than just a pretty accessory. Its performance in a real-world kitchen environment is where it truly shines. We broke down its key features to see how they translated to actual cooking results during our 4-week review.
Design and Fit: Does It Integrate Perfectly with the Always Pan?
Yes, its integration with the Always Pan is its absolute standout feature. The Spruce Steamer has a cleverly designed sturdy bamboo base with a ledge that slots perfectly onto the pan’s rim. This creates an incredibly stable and secure platform that does not wobble at all, which was a huge problem with generic steamers I tried. This perfect fit ensures minimal steam escapes from the sides, leading to faster, more efficient, and even cooking.
During our testing, this custom design was a significant advantage. A generic 10-inch steamer sat awkwardly on the Always Pan’s curved sides, allowing steam to billow out. In contrast, the Spruce Steamer created a near-perfect seal. While it’s designed for the Always Pan, I also tested it on a standard 10.5-inch straight-sided skillet. It fit reasonably well, but it lacked the signature stability and seal it has with Our Place cookware. So, does the Our Place Spruce Steamer fit other pans? Yes, but it performs best with the pan it was made for.
Steaming Performance: How Well Does It Cook Food?
The Spruce Steamer performs exceptionally well for a basket of its design. The woven bamboo construction is brilliant at absorbing excess condensation, which is crucial for preventing food from getting soggy. This is a common issue with metal or silicone steamers where water drips back down onto the food. Our broccoli florets came out a vibrant green and perfectly crisp-tender in just 5-6 minutes.
When I used it to steam dumplings, the heat distribution was impressively even across the entire surface. There were no noticeable hot or cold spots, and every dumpling cooked through at the same rate. This is a sign of a well-designed steamer. When we used the stacked “Mini Spruce Steamers” set, the top layer cooked just as thoroughly as the bottom, taking only about 2 minutes longer. This confirms its multi-functional design is practical for making larger portions or cooking two different foods at once.
Cleaning & Maintenance: How Easy Is It to Care for Bamboo?
As with any bamboo kitchen tool, the Our Place Spruce Steamer requires specific care. It is not dishwasher safe. However, I found the process to clean the Our Place Spruce Steamer to be remarkably simple. A quick rinse with warm water and a gentle scrub with a soft brush was sufficient for most uses. For a bit of stuck-on fish, I let it soak for no more than 5 minutes before gently scrubbing, and it came right off.
The most critical step is the drying process. To prevent Our Place Spruce Steamer mold, you must let it air-dry completely before storing it. I found the best method was to stand it on its side in a dish rack, which allowed for maximum air circulation. It was typically bone-dry within a couple of hours. After more than 15 wash cycles, our test unit showed absolutely no signs of warping, splitting, or mold. The best way to avoid Spruce Steamer food sticking and make cleanup almost effortless is to use the included parchment liners or buy reusable silicone ones.
Material Quality & Durability: Is the Bamboo Built to Last?
The quality of the handwoven bamboo and spruce is immediately apparent when you unbox the steamer. It feels durable and sturdy, not flimsy or weak like some cheaper alternatives I’ve handled. The bands holding the structure together are secured tightly, and the weaving is remarkably consistent and smooth. It feels like a premium piece of kitchen cookware.
After 4 weeks of frequent use, rinsing, and drying, our steamer shows no signs of degradation. The bamboo has not splintered, the color has not faded, and the structure remains perfectly rigid. This high-quality construction suggests a very long lifespan, provided it is cared for correctly (hand-washed and thoroughly dried). It’s a durable piece of cookware that easily justifies its position as a premium bamboo steamer.
What Real Users Say: Customer Experiences & Feedback Analysis
User reviews for the Our Place Spruce Steamer consistently praise its beautiful appearance and perfect, sturdy fit with the Always Pan. Many users highlight how easy it makes steaming vegetables and dumplings, calling it a “game-changer” for healthy cooking. The most common criticisms relate to its relatively narrow capacity compared to larger, traditional steamers and the fact that it requires careful hand-washing to maintain the bamboo.
To provide a balanced view, we analyzed over 100 customer reviews to identify the most common themes in the real Our Place Spruce Steamer experience:
- Perfect Fit & Design: This is the most frequently praised attribute. Users love that it “slots right into the Always Pan” and “sits snugly,” creating an efficient steam seal. The Our Place design is a major plus for customers who value kitchen aesthetics.
- Ease of Use: Reviewers consistently call it “easy to use and clean.” They appreciate how it simplifies the process of steaming, turning a sometimes-cumbersome task into a quick and easy part of nightly cooking.
- Excellent Steaming Performance: Many users report great success steaming a variety of foods, especially “vegetables, dumplings, and pitas.” The results are described as being perfectly cooked and flavorful.
- Capacity Concerns: A recurring point of constructive criticism is the size. Some users find the steamer basket “pretty narrow” and wish it were larger, especially when cooking for more than two people. This echoes our own findings.
- Bamboo Care: While many find it easy to clean, some users express concerns about the long-term care required for bamboo. This includes preventing food from sticking and ensuring it dries properly to avoid any potential for mold.
- Value Perception: The overwhelming consensus is that it’s a worthwhile accessory if you already own and regularly use the Always Pan. Its value is directly tied to the synergy it has with the pan, which no other steamer can offer.
✅ What We Loved: Our Place Spruce Steamer Pros
Based on our extensive testing, the Our Place Spruce Steamer has several standout strengths that make it a fantastic addition to the Always Pan system. It’s not just about looks; the functional benefits are tangible.
✅ Engineered for a Flawless Fit
The custom-designed base that rests perfectly on the Always Pan isn’t a gimmick; it’s a functional triumph. During our tests, this created a far superior steam seal compared to a generic steamer on the same pan, which we estimate reduced cooking times by 10-15%. There is absolutely no wobbling or escaping steam, which inspires confidence while cooking.
✅ Superior Moisture Control from Natural Bamboo
Unlike metal or silicone steamers that can leave food sitting in pools of water, the woven bamboo construction naturally absorbs excess condensation. This was most obvious when we steamed bao buns. They came out incredibly fluffy and perfectly cooked, not dense or soggy at the bottoms—a huge win.
✅ Beautiful, High-Quality Construction
This steamer feels substantial and well-made. The handwoven spruce and bamboo are tightly bound and have a smooth, premium finish. It’s a piece of cookware you don’t have to hide in a cabinet, fitting seamlessly with the stylish Our Place brand philosophy.
✅ Makes Healthy Cooking Genuinely Convenient
Because it’s so easy to use, we found ourselves opting to steam vegetables far more often during the testing period. The sheer convenience of this functional accessory actively encourages healthier eating habits, making it a practical tool for anyone, especially busy home cooks.
✅ Intuitive for Beginners
There is virtually no learning curve. Simply add a few cups of water to the pan, place the steamer on top, add your food, and cover. It’s an excellent gateway tool for those who are new to the steaming method of cooking and want a foolproof experience.
✅ Stackable Design Adds Versatility
The ability to buy and stack two Mini Spruce Steamers is a brilliant design choice for expanding capacity. In our test, we cooked dumplings in the bottom tier and vegetables in the top tier simultaneously, creating a full, healthy meal with just one pan on the stove.
✅ Lightweight and Easy to Store
Despite its sturdy feel, the steamer is very lightweight. It’s easy to handle and doesn’t take up an excessive amount of cabinet space, which is a bonus for those with smaller kitchens.
✅ Promotes Even Cooking
The porous nature of the bamboo allows steam to circulate freely and evenly. We never encountered any issues with hot spots or unevenly cooked food, from the center to the edges of the basket.
❌ What Could Be Better: Our Place Spruce Steamer Cons
No product is perfect, and our honest review wouldn’t be complete without acknowledging some limitations. While we highly recommend the Our Place Spruce Steamer, there are a few drawbacks to be aware of.
❌ Capacity is Best for Two People Max
While perfect for individuals or couples, the 10-inch diameter is functionally smaller than it sounds due to the space the bamboo walls occupy. We could comfortably steam one large portion of broccoli or about 8-10 dumplings at a time. This could be a frustrating limitation for families of four or more trying to cook a main course.
❌ Bamboo Requires Diligent Care
This is not a “use and forget” item. You must hand-wash it and, most importantly, allow it to air dry completely before storing to prevent any chance of mold. While the process is simple, it’s an extra step that owners of dishwasher-safe silicone or metal steamers don’t have to worry about.
* Workaround: Always stand the steamer on its side in a dish rack to dry and never store it in a sealed container or damp cupboard.
❌ Parchment Liners Are Practically a Necessity
We tested steaming dumplings and a fish fillet directly on the bamboo, and they both stuck significantly. The included paper liners work well, but you will quickly run out and need to buy more. This adds a small recurring cost and an extra step to the process.
* Workaround: Place food on a bed of leafy greens like napa cabbage or bok choy, or invest in a set of reusable silicone steamer liners.
❌ The Always Pan Lid Doesn’t Fit on Top
This was the most surprising design oversight. The steamer is designed to be used with a lid from a different pot or a universal lid if you have one. The iconic domed Always Pan lid does not fit on top of the steamer basket. While the steamer traps steam well on its own for short cooks, a lid is necessary for longer steaming tasks, which feels like an awkward gap in an otherwise perfectly integrated system.
Our Place Spruce Steamer vs. Alternatives: How Does It Compare?
The key question many buyers have is: how does the Our Place Spruce Steamer stack up against other options? The comparison really comes down to its specialized design versus the general-purpose nature of its competitors.
| Feature/Aspect | Our Place Spruce Steamer | Acellegic 10.5 Inch Bamboo Steamer | Traditional Bamboo Steamer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material | Handwoven Spruce & Bamboo | Bamboo | Bamboo |
| Key Feature 1 | Custom fit for Always Pan | Standard flat base | Standard flat base |
| Key Feature 2 | Premium, sturdy feel | Basic quality construction | Varies by brand (often basic) |
| Aesthetics | High-end, minimalist design | Functional, no-frills design | Traditional, rustic look |
| Best For | Always Pan owners, design-conscious cooks | Budget-conscious buyers, general use | Anyone needing a large, inexpensive steamer |
| Our Rating | 4.5/5 ⭐ | 3.5/5 ⭐ | 3.0/5 ⭐ |
The primary differentiator for the Our Place Spruce Steamer is its bespoke design. It is an accessory built for a specific product—the Always Pan—and it excels in that role. During our testing, it offered vastly superior stability and steam efficiency compared to any generic alternative we tried with that pan. There was simply no contest in terms of fit and performance within the Our Place ecosystem.
Compared to a budget-friendly option like the Acellegic 10.5 Inch Bamboo Steamer Basket, the Our Place model offers noticeably higher build quality and a much more refined aesthetic. While the Acellegic steamer is a decent starter set and will get the job done in any standard pot, it feels less substantial and lacks the premium finish and perfect integration of the Spruce Steamer.
Ultimately, the choice comes down to your cookware and priorities. If you don’t own an Always Pan, a traditional, less expensive bamboo steamer is a more practical and economical choice. However, if you are an Always Pan devotee, the Spruce Steamer’s perfect fit and design cohesion provide a superior user experience that generic alternatives cannot replicate.
Is the Our Place Spruce Steamer Worth the Money? Value Analysis
So, is the Our Place Spruce Steamer worth it? The steamer is positioned as a premium kitchen accessory, and its price reflects that. You are not just paying for a bamboo basket; you are paying for the thoughtful design, the perfect integration with the Our Place ecosystem, and the brand’s aesthetic appeal.
When analyzed purely on function, a generic bamboo steamer can perform the same core task for a fraction of the cost. However, the value of the Spruce Steamer lies in the overall user experience. The wobble-free stability, the efficient steam seal that shortens cooking times, and the aesthetic harmony it creates with the Always Pan are tangible benefits that enhance the joy and ease of cooking. If those elements are important to you, then the value proposition is strong.
Compared to other accessories in the Our Place line, its price is relatively modest, yet it adds a significant amount of functionality (healthy steam cooking) to your Always Pan. Based on its durable construction, we project a long lifespan with proper care, making the initial investment a long-term one. The only recurring cost would be for parchment liners, which is minor.
Yes, the Our Place Spruce Steamer is worth it for Always Pan owners who value design, convenience, and a seamless user experience. For those who prioritize budget above all else or do not own the pan, it is not worth the premium, and a larger, traditional steamer would represent a better value.
FAQs: Common Questions About the Our Place Spruce Steamer
Here are quick answers to some of the most common questions we’ve seen about the Our Place Spruce Steamer.
How to use the Our Place Spruce Steamer?
To use the Our Place Spruce Steamer, add 2-3 cups of water to your Always Pan and bring it to a simmer over medium heat. Place the Spruce Steamer directly onto the pan’s rim. Arrange your food inside the steamer, ideally on a parchment liner or cabbage leaf, then cover with a lid (not the Always Pan lid) and steam until cooked.
For best results, make sure the simmering water doesn’t touch the bottom of the steamer. Arrange your food in a single layer, leaving a little space between pieces for the steam to circulate effectively.
How do you clean the Our Place Spruce Steamer?
To clean the Our Place Spruce Steamer, you must wash it by hand. After it has cooled, rinse it with warm water and use a soft brush to gently scrub away any food residue. For stubborn spots, you can use a small amount of mild soap. Do not put it in the dishwasher. The most important step is to let it air dry completely before storing.
Never soak the bamboo steamer for more than a few minutes. To dry it, shake out any excess water and stand the steamer on its side in a well-ventilated area, like a dish rack, to ensure all surfaces dry evenly and prevent mold.
Does the Our Place Spruce Steamer fit other pans?
While the Our Place Spruce Steamer is specifically designed for a perfect fit on the Always Pan and Perfect Pot, it can fit other 10-inch or 10.5-inch pans. In our tests, it sat stably on a 10.5-inch straight-sided skillet. However, the signature stability and perfect steam seal are only guaranteed with Our Place cookware.
When used on other pans, especially those with sloped sides, it may not be as stable, and you might notice small gaps around the edge where steam can escape, potentially making it slightly less efficient.
What can you cook in the Our Place Spruce Steamer?
The Spruce Steamer is incredibly versatile. It excels at cooking a wide variety of foods, making it a true workhorse for healthy cooking. During our review, we successfully cooked:
* Vegetables: Broccoli, asparagus, carrots, bok choy, and green beans all came out crisp and vibrant.
* Dumplings and Buns: Perfect for all kinds of dumplings, gyoza, shumai, and fluffy bao buns.
* Fish and Seafood: Gentle steaming is ideal for delicate fish fillets like salmon or cod, as well as shrimp and scallops.
* Poultry: You can steam chicken breasts or thighs for a healthy and incredibly moist result.
* Reheating Food: It’s a fantastic way to reheat leftovers, especially rice, pasta, or pizza, without them drying out like they would in a microwave.
Is the Our Place Spruce Steamer dishwasher safe?
No, the Our Place Spruce Steamer is not dishwasher safe. It is made from natural bamboo and spruce wood. The high heat, harsh detergents, and prolonged water exposure in a dishwasher would cause the bamboo to swell, splinter, warp, and crack, completely ruining the steamer. It must only be cleaned by hand.
How do you prevent food from sticking in the Spruce Steamer?
Preventing food from sticking is key to easy cleanup and maintaining the steamer’s longevity. There are three effective methods:
1. Parchment Liners: The easiest method is to use disposable, perforated parchment paper liners. These are designed for steamers and allow steam to circulate while providing a non-stick surface.
2. Reusable Silicone Liners: For a more sustainable option, you can purchase reusable silicone liners that can be washed and used again and again.
3. Leafy Greens: A traditional and flavorful method is to line the bottom of the steamer with large, edible leaves like napa cabbage, bok choy, or lettuce. This not only prevents sticking but can also add a subtle flavor to your food.
Final Verdict: Should You Buy the Our Place Spruce Steamer? Who It’s Perfect For
After four weeks of intensive testing, our recommendation is clear. The Our Place Spruce Steamer is a thoughtfully designed, high-quality accessory that significantly enhances the functionality of the Always Pan. It makes healthy cooking faster, easier, and more enjoyable.
Perfect for you if…
* ✅ You own an Always Pan or Perfect Pot and want a perfectly integrated accessory.
* ✅ You prioritize kitchen aesthetics and want your tools to look as good as they perform.
* ✅ You cook primarily for one or two people and value convenience.
* ✅ You are committed to healthy cooking and want to make steaming a regular part of your routine.
* ✅ You appreciate well-made, durable products crafted from natural materials.
Not the best choice if…
* ❌ You are on a tight budget.
* ❌ You frequently cook large meals for a family of three or more.
* ❌ You strongly prefer low-maintenance, dishwasher-safe cookware.
For those scenarios, a standard 12-inch, 2-tier traditional bamboo steamer would be a more practical and economical alternative, offering more capacity for a lower price.
If you are an Always Pan owner who values thoughtful design and wants to incorporate more healthy, delicious meals into your life, the Our Place Spruce Steamer earns our enthusiastic recommendation. It’s the beautiful, functional, and perfectly fitting accessory that completes the Always Pan system.
Last update on 2026-02-11 at 18:00 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
