Comparison of Water and Steam Autoclaving Modes

Steam / Water?
Autoclaving Methods

Products for autoclave cooking:

Autoclave "A16 electro" (Universal)

11300 UAH

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Steam valve

600 UAH

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Autoclave Twist-Off Lid

420 UAH

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Seaming lid SKO 82 mm (50 pcs)

300 UAH

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Partitions for jars and retort pouches

500 UAH

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Clamps for SKO lids "for steam" 10 pcs

400 UAH

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Steam or Water: Which Autoclaving Method Is Better?

Which is better: classic autoclaving in water or sterilization in steam mode? Both methods have their advantages, but it is important to understand their differences to choose the best option for you.

Autoclave Configuration

The standard UTEHO autoclave kit includes everything needed to operate in the classic water mode. But if you want to cook with steam, the autoclave must be additionally equipped with a special steam valve. It is easy to install in place of the nipple — it fits all models with a ball valve. This valve can be purchased separately in our store.

Water Volume in Different Modes

The water mode requires a large amount of water — the jars must be completely submerged. But for steam cooking, only 8–10 cm of water from the bottom is enough. This means faster heating and cooling, reducing the overall autoclaving time. Here, the steam autoclave has the advantage.

Working Temperature and Pressure

In water mode, the sterilization temperature reaches 120°C, and the pressure in the chamber can reach up to 4.5 atm (especially when using jars with SKO lids and pumping start pressure). This creates significant load on the autoclave. In contrast, the steam autoclave has much lower pressure — just over 1 atm, but the temperature remains the same — 120 degrees. This allows achieving the same level of sterilization as in water, but with less wear on the equipment.

Finished Product Quality

The advantage of steam mode is better preservation of the appearance, shape, color, and texture of the products. This is especially important for vegetables, fruits, compotes, salads, and berries.

What Containers Can Be Used?

This is a key difference. In water mode, almost any container can be used:

glass jars with SKO or twist-off lids;
tin cans;
retort pouches.

But the steam autoclave has limitations:

only glass jars with twist-off lids can be used;
retort pouches — not suitable;
SKO lids can be used only with additional clamps.

Which Mode to Choose?

The classic water autoclaving method is universal, reliable, and compatible with any container. It does not require additional equipment, is suitable for all types of products, and remains the most popular preservation method.

But the steam autoclave is a modern alternative with lower pressure, better product quality preservation, and a faster process. If you want to reduce the load on the autoclave and are ready to experiment with new approaches — try steam cooking.

UTEHO offers autoclaves that support both water and steam modes. Our store sells not only autoclaves but also everything needed for convenient preservation: tongs, steam valves, clamps, jar dividers, and recipe collections.

Cook safely, quickly, and conveniently — together with UTEHO!

31.07.2025

Author: UTEHO Editorial Team
Reviewed by: UTEHO Technical Department Specialists

UTEHO Expert Editorial Team

The UTEHO team develops autoclaves and accessories for home food preservation. All informational articles, guides, and recommendations are tested in real UTEHO autoclaves before publication.

Our content is based on practical experience, technical expertise, recommendations from UTEHO engineers and technologists, as well as feedback from our customers.

Practically tested in UTEHO autoclaves

Reviewed before publication

Content is regularly updated