IKEA KLOCKREN Bamboo Steamer Review: Is This Budget Steamer Worth It?

IKEA KLOCKREN bamboo steamer review Key Takeaways

If you’ve been curious about steaming veggies, dumplings, or fish without spending a fortune, the IKEA KLOCKREN bamboo steamer review tells you exactly what this $7.

• The IKEA KLOCKREN bamboo steamer review confirms it’s one of the most affordable bamboo steamers on the market, ideal for occasional steaming.
• Durability is average — expect minor splitting after repeated use, but it holds up well for the price.
• Performance is solid for small batches, though it lacks a snug lid and may not fit all pot sizes perfectly.

What Makes the IKEA KLOCKREN Bamboo Steamer Stand Out?

I’ve been testing the IKEA KLOCKREN bamboo steamer for a few weeks now, and it’s one of those products that makes you wonder why all kitchen tools can’t cost less. At under eight bucks, it’s almost an impulse buy — but is it actually useful? Let me walk you through what I found.

The steamer is made entirely from untreated bamboo, which means it’s natural and biodegradable. It comes in two tiers: a solid base and a slotted top layer that lets steam flow through. You can stack them, use just one, or even flip the lid to create a shallow steaming surface. The craftsmanship is simple — bamboo strips held together with small bamboo pins. No glue, no varnish, just raw bamboo. For a related guide, see MacaRio Bamboo Steamer Basket Set Review: 5 Handmade Quality Checks.

It measures about 10 inches in diameter, which is standard for most bamboo steamers. That size fits well over a 10- to 12-inch wok or wide pot, but it won’t work with every saucepan. The bamboo absorbs moisture as it steams, which actually helps distribute heat evenly and prevents condensation from dripping back onto your food — a nice bonus you don’t get with metal steamers. For a related guide, see Joyce Chen 2-Tier Bamboo Steamer (10-Inch): Essential for Perfect Indonesian Cakes.

Pros and Cons of the IKEA KLOCKREN Bamboo Steamer: A Personal Test

After steaming dumplings, broccoli, fish fillets, and even bao buns, I’ve got a pretty clear picture. Here’s the breakdown based on real use.

Pros: Why I’d Recommend It

• Price is unbeatable. At $7.99, it’s cheaper than most takeout meals. You can’t find a functional bamboo steamer for less unless you buy used.
• Lightweight and easy to store. The whole thing weighs maybe half a pound. It slides into a cabinet or drawer without taking up much space.
• Natural material feels right. No plastic touching your food, no metal reactions with acidic ingredients. Just clean steam.
• Surprisingly good steam circulation. The slotted top lets steam rise evenly, and the bamboo absorbs excess moisture so your dumplings don’t get soggy bottoms.

Cons: Where It Falls Short

• Lid doesn’t fit snugly. The top piece sits on the base but isn’t airtight. Some steam escapes around the edges, which can lengthen cooking time slightly.
• Bamboo can split over time. After about six uses, I noticed a small hairline crack along one strip. It still works, but it’s not built for years of daily use.
• Limited size options. It only comes in one diameter. If you have a smaller or larger pot, it won’t sit securely.
• Needs seasoning before first use. Like any bamboo steamer, you have to soak it or steam it empty first to prevent it from absorbing your food’s moisture and flavor. It’s a small step, but some people skip it and wonder why their food tastes like bamboo.

How Does the IKEA KLOCKREN Compare to Other Budget Bamboo Steamers?

To give you a fair comparison, I looked at two other popular budget options: the Helen’s Asian Kitchen bamboo steamer and a generic unbranded steamer from a local Asian market. Here’s how they stack up.

As you can see, the IKEA KLOCKREN bamboo steamer is the real deal when it comes to affordability. The Helen’s Asian Kitchen model costs almost double but offers better construction and a snugger lid. If you steam once a week or less, the IKEA version is plenty. If you plan to use it daily, spend the extra five bucks.

Who Should Buy the IKEA KLOCKREN Bamboo Steamer?

This steamer is perfect for beginners who want to try steaming without a big investment. It’s also great for small households — think one or two people — because the 10-inch size handles about four dumplings or a small fillet of fish at a time.

I wouldn’t recommend it for high-volume cooking or for anyone who needs a steamer that lasts years. The bamboo is thin, and the lid’s loose fit can be frustrating if you’re a perfectionist about steam retention. But for casual use, it’s hard to beat.

Pro Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your IKEA KLOCKREN Steamer

• Soak the steamer in warm water for 15 minutes before first use. This prevents it from cracking and helps it hold steam better.
• Line the bottom with cabbage leaves or parchment paper. This stops food from sticking and makes cleanup easier.
• Don’t let the steamer touch the water. Place it in a wok or pot with about an inch of water below. If the bamboo sits in water, it will get mushy and develop mold.
• Air-dry it completely after each use. Stand it upright or lay it flat in a dry spot. Never store it wet or sealed in a plastic bag.
• Use a tight-fitting pot lid on top of the steamer. Since the IKEA lid is loose, covering the whole setup with a pot lid traps steam and speeds up cooking.

Final Verdict: Is the IKEA KLOCKREN Bamboo Steamer Worth It?

After spending real time with this steamer, I can confidently say yes — with a few caveats. The IKEA KLOCKREN bamboo steamer review comes down to this: if you want a cheap, functional steamer for occasional use, it’s a fantastic buy. It does the job, it’s eco-friendly, and you can’t beat the price.

But if you’re looking for a steamer that feels sturdy, seals well, and will last through years of weekly dumpling-making, you’d be happier spending a bit more on a brand like Helen’s Asian Kitchen or even a stainless steel steamer. The IKEA model is a budget tool — and for a budget tool, it performs admirably.

Useful Resources

For more details on how bamboo steamers compare to metal ones, check out this guide from Serious Eats.

If you’re looking for IKEA-specific kitchen hacks, IKEA’s official kitchen hacks page has ideas for repurposing their products.

Frequently Asked Questions About IKEA KLOCKREN bamboo steamer review

What is the IKEA KLOCKREN bamboo steamer made of?

It’s made entirely from untreated bamboo, held together with small bamboo pins. No glue, varnish, or synthetic materials are used.

How big is the IKEA KLOCKREN bamboo steamer ?

It measures about 10 inches (25 cm) in diameter. The base and lid are each about 2 inches deep, so the total height when stacked is around 4 inches.

Can I use the IKEA KLOCKREN bamboo steamer on any pot?

It works best on a wok or wide pot between 10 and 12 inches in diameter. Narrower pots won’t support the steamer securely, and wider pots may let it sink in.

Does the IKEA KLOCKREN bamboo steamer come with instructions?

IKEA includes a small leaflet with basic care instructions and a simple steaming guide. It’s not a full recipe book, but it covers seasoning and use.

Is the IKEA KLOCKREN dishwasher safe?

No. The bamboo can warp, crack, or absorb detergent if placed in the dishwasher. Hand wash with mild soap and water, then air dry completely.

How long does the IKEA KLOCKREN bamboo steamer last?

With proper care — soaking before first use and drying after each session — it can last 6 to 12 months with moderate use. Heavy daily use may cause cracking sooner.

Can I stack two IKEA KLOCKREN steamers?

Yes, the design allows you to stack two tiers. The base and lid are interchangeable, so you can steam two different foods at once.

Does the IKEA KLOCKREN bamboo steamer have a strong odor?

Fresh bamboo has a mild, natural woody scent. After seasoning and a few uses, the smell fades. If you notice a musty odor, your steamer may not be drying fully.

Is the IKEA KLOCKREN bamboo steamer safe for food?

Yes. The untreated bamboo is food-safe as long as you don’t add any chemicals or sealants. IKEA does not treat it with any preservatives.

Can I use the IKEA KLOCKREN steamer in a microwave?

No. Bamboo can catch fire or char in a microwave. Stick to stovetop use with a wok or pot of boiling water.

Does the IKEA KLOCKREN bamboo steamer work for frozen dumplings?

Yes, it works well. Just add 2-3 minutes to the cooking time compared to fresh dumplings, and make sure the water is at a rolling boil before you start.

How do I season the IKEA KLOCKREN steamer?

Soak the steamer in warm water for 15 minutes, then steam it empty over boiling water for 5 minutes. This opens the bamboo pores and prevents it from absorbing your food’s moisture.

Can I use the IKEA KLOCKREN steamer without a wok?

Yes. You can place it in any pot or pan that’s at least 10 inches wide. Some people even use it inside a large skillet with a dome lid.

Does the IKEA KLOCKREN bamboo steamer come with a lid?

Yes, it comes with a bamboo lid that fits on top of the base. The lid has a slight gap, so some steam escapes — that’s normal for bamboo steamers.

Is the IKEA KLOCKREN bamboo steamer eco-friendly?

Bamboo is a renewable resource, and the steamer is biodegradable. It’s a more sustainable choice than plastic or aluminum steamers.

Can the IKEA KLOCKREN steamer be repaired if it cracks?

Small cracks can be glued with food-safe wood glue, but once the bamboo splits significantly, it’s safer to replace it. The low price makes replacement practical.

Does IKEA sell replacement lids for the KLOCKREN steamer?

IKEA does not sell replacement parts separately. If you need a new lid, you’ll likely have to buy the whole steamer again.

What foods steam best in the IKEA KLOCKREN bamboo steamer ?

Dumplings, bao buns, fish fillets, broccoli, carrots, and dim sum all work great. The bamboo’s moisture absorption helps keep skins tender and not soggy.

Can I leave the IKEA KLOCKREN steamer on the stove unattended?

It’s not recommended. The water can boil dry, causing the steamer to scorch or catch fire. Stay nearby and check water levels every 5-10 minutes.

Where is the IKEA KLOCKREN bamboo steamer made?

IKEA sources bamboo products from various suppliers, primarily in China and Southeast Asia. The exact origin may vary by batch.