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Le Creuset Toughened Non-Stick Milk Pan 16cm / 1.6L
The Le Creuset Toughened Non-Stick Milk Pan combines generous 1.6L capacity with the compact footprint of a 16cm diameter base, making it ideal for preparing small to medium portions without occupying excessive hob space. The reinforced non-stick coating releases food easily and withstands more robust use than standard non-stick surfaces, whilst remaining PFOA-free for safer cooking.
Dual pouring lips positioned on opposite sides accommodate both left and right-handed users, eliminating the awkward wrist angles required when pouring from a pan designed for one hand preference. The pan excels at tasks requiring constant stirring or whisking—scrambled eggs, custard, béchamel sauce, porridge, and small soup portions—where the non-stick surface prevents sticking and simplifies cleanup.
Key features:
- Generous capacity: 1.6L volume suits 2-3 portions of porridge, soup, or sauce, or individual servings of scrambled eggs
- Reinforced non-stick coating: More durable than standard non-stick, resists scratching and tolerates brief exposure to higher heat, PFOA-free formulation
- Dual pouring lips: Positioned on both sides for comfortable pouring regardless of hand preference, reduces drips and spills
- Even heat distribution: Base design conducts heat uniformly, preventing hot spots that cause sticking or scorching
- All hob compatibility: Suitable for gas, electric, ceramic, halogen, and induction hobs
- Oven and dishwasher safe: Versatile enough for oven finishing and convenient cleanup
- Lifetime guarantee: Le Creuset backs this pan with their lifetime warranty covering manufacturing defects
This milk pan suits households seeking a versatile small saucepan for daily use—from morning porridge and scrambled eggs to evening sauces and reheating small portions—with the convenience of non-stick cooking and easy cleanup.
What Customers Ask About Le Creuset Milk Pan
What makes this a "milk pan" rather than just a small saucepan?
Milk pans traditionally feature a pouring lip for transferring heated milk without spills—essential when milk was delivered daily and required heating before use. Modern milk pans retain this design but serve broader purposes. This Le Creuset version includes dual pouring lips on opposite sides, making it equally useful for sauces, custard, scrambled eggs, porridge, and any task requiring frequent stirring in a small pan with easy pouring.
Is 1.6L capacity large enough for everyday use?
The 1.6L capacity suits 2-3 portions of porridge or soup, individual servings of scrambled eggs (2-4 eggs), small to medium sauce batches, or reheating single portions. It's ideal as a secondary pan alongside larger saucepans, handling tasks where a 2L or 3L pan would be unnecessarily large. For families cooking larger portions, this works best for specific tasks rather than as a primary saucepan.
How does the reinforced coating compare to standard non-stick?
Le Creuset's toughened coating resists scratching better than basic non-stick surfaces and tolerates brief exposure to higher temperatures without immediate degradation. It should last several years with proper care—avoiding metal utensils, excessive heat, and abrasive cleaning—rather than the months or single year typical of budget non-stick pans. The PFOA-free formulation addresses health concerns associated with older non-stick coatings.
Why does this have two pouring lips?
The dual lips accommodate both left and right-handed users, eliminating the awkward wrist angle required when a right-handed person pours from a left-lipped pan (or vice versa). This design improves control when pouring hot liquids, reduces spills, and makes the pan more versatile—you can pour from either side depending on your position at the hob.
Can I make custard without it sticking?
Yes, the non-stick coating significantly reduces the risk of custard or other egg-based mixtures sticking and scorching. Use low to medium heat, stir constantly, and the coating releases the custard cleanly. The even heat distribution also helps prevent hot spots that cause scorching. However, no pan completely eliminates the need for attention when cooking delicate mixtures like custard.
What Our Customers Tell Us
Customer reviews consistently emphasise the quality of construction and heating performance. One user notes "very even heating" alongside "high quality" non-stick performance. This even heating proves particularly important in milk pans, where hot spots cause milk to scorch or custard to curdle—issues that frustrate cooks using inferior pans.
The brand reputation features prominently in feedback, with one customer simply stating "It's a Le Creuset. Say no more"—reflecting the confidence customers place in the brand's quality standards. Another declares "ONLY THE BEST WILL DO," suggesting that buyers view this pan as a long-term investment rather than a disposable item.
Customers appreciate the straightforward functionality. Reviews describe the pan as "nice to use" and "excellent," without elaborate explanations—suggesting the pan performs its intended tasks without quirks or complications that require explanation or adaptation.
In our 52 years selling cookware, we've observed that milk pans often become the most-used item in a kitchen. Their compact size and non-stick surface make them ideal for quick tasks—reheating soup, cooking a single portion of vegetables, melting butter, making a small batch of sauce. Customers who initially purchase a milk pan for a specific purpose often discover they reach for it daily for tasks they hadn't anticipated.
Specifications
Care & Use Instructions
Before first use: Wash with warm soapy water, rinse thoroughly, and dry. Lightly oil the non-stick surface with a paper towel and cooking oil before first use to season the coating.
Daily cleaning: Allow the pan to cool before washing—thermal shock can damage non-stick coatings. Hand wash with warm soapy water and a soft sponge or cloth. The non-stick surface releases food easily, so vigorous scrubbing is unnecessary. Dry thoroughly before storing.
Dishwasher use: Whilst dishwasher safe, hand washing extends the non-stick coating's lifespan. Dishwasher detergents can gradually reduce non-stick effectiveness over time. If using a dishwasher, place the pan where it won't knock against other items.
Heat settings: Use low to medium heat for most tasks. Milk pans work particularly well at lower temperatures for gentle heating and simmering. High heat is rarely necessary and can damage the non-stick coating. Never heat an empty non-stick pan—always add liquid or food before heating.
Utensils: Use wooden, silicone, or plastic utensils. Avoid metal utensils which can scratch even reinforced non-stick coatings. When whisking custard or sauces, silicone-coated whisks protect the coating better than metal whisks.
Preventing milk from boiling over: When heating milk, watch carefully and reduce heat once it begins to steam. Milk boils over quickly, and the dual pouring lips are designed to help manage this—pour a small amount out if the milk threatens to overflow, then reduce heat immediately.
Cooking spray: Avoid aerosol cooking sprays which can leave residue that builds up on non-stick surfaces. Use a small amount of butter, oil, or solid fat instead.
Storage: Store with a pan protector or soft cloth between it and other cookware to prevent scratching. The compact size makes this pan easy to store, but avoid stacking heavy items on top.
Pouring lip maintenance: Ensure the pouring lips remain clean, as dried-on residue can cause drips when pouring. Wipe the lips after each use whilst the pan is still slightly warm (but not hot) to prevent buildup.
Restoring non-stick performance: If food begins sticking, wash the pan thoroughly, dry it, then lightly oil the surface with a paper towel. Heat on low for 1-2 minutes, allow to cool, then wipe away excess oil. This can rejuvenate the non-stick properties.
Why Buy From Art of Living?
Founded in Reigate in 1972, we've spent over five decades helping customers select quality cookware. We've been twice nominated for the Excellence in Housewares award for customer care, and we stock Le Creuset because their combination of French design heritage and durable construction aligns with our standards for cookware that serves you for years.
Our Guarantees to You
- ✓ No Quibble Returns - Even Used Items
- ✓ Half-Price Accidental Damage Replacement (2 Years)
- ✓ Price Match Guarantee
Read our full guarantee policy →
Questions? Visit our contact page
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I've used the pan and don't like it?
Return it anyway. Our no quibble guarantee covers used items - if it doesn't perform as you hoped or doesn't suit your cooking needs, we'll refund you. This applies even after you've cooked multiple meals. We've offered this guarantee since 1972 because we believe customers shouldn't take a risk when purchasing cookware.
How does the Half-Price Replacement guarantee work?
Valid for 2 years from purchase date. If you accidentally damage the pan (for example, dropping and denting it, or damaging the non-stick coating through misuse), we'll replace it at half the current retail price with proof of purchase and evidence of damage. Photos are acceptable.
How long does delivery take?
Standard delivery to mainland UK addresses can take up to 7 working days, but is usually 3-4, and is free for orders over £49. Next day delivery may be available for £9.95 on orders placed before 1pm Monday to Thursday, depending on your location and our stock levels. You can also collect from our shops in Cobham or Reigate, or our warehouse in Redhill.
What does the Lifetime Guarantee cover?
Le Creuset's Lifetime Guarantee covers manufacturing defects in materials and workmanship. It doesn't cover damage from misuse, accidents, or normal wear including gradual degradation of the non-stick coating over time. The guarantee reflects Le Creuset's confidence in their construction quality. Our own guarantees (no quibble returns and half-price replacement) complement the manufacturer's warranty.
How long will the non-stick coating last?
With proper care—using appropriate heat levels, wooden or silicone utensils, and gentle cleaning—the coating should last several years of regular use. Le Creuset's reinforced coating lasts significantly longer than budget non-stick pans. Factors affecting lifespan include heat exposure, utensil choice, cleaning methods, and cooking frequency.
Can I use this for porridge every morning?
Yes, this pan excels at cooking porridge. The 1.6L capacity suits 2-3 servings, the non-stick coating prevents sticking and simplifies cleanup, and the even heat distribution ensures uniform cooking without hot spots that cause scorching. Use low to medium heat and stir occasionally. The dual pouring lips make serving into bowls easy and mess-free.
Is this suitable for making baby food?
Yes, the compact size and non-stick surface make this pan convenient for preparing small portions of baby food. The PFOA-free coating addresses health concerns, and the easy cleanup is valuable when preparing frequent small batches. The even heating prevents hot spots that might scorch delicate purées.
Can I melt chocolate in this pan?
Yes, though use very low heat to prevent scorching. The non-stick coating releases melted chocolate easily, and the dual pouring lips help when transferring melted chocolate to moulds or other containers. Alternatively, use this pan as the bottom of a makeshift double boiler by placing a heatproof bowl on top.
Will this work for a single person living alone?
Absolutely. The 1.6L capacity suits individual or two-person portions perfectly, making it ideal for singles or couples. The compact size doesn't take up much hob or storage space, and the versatility means it can handle most small-batch cooking tasks—from scrambled eggs to soup to reheating leftovers.
How does this compare to a 14cm milk pan?
The 16cm diameter provides noticeably more cooking surface and capacity than 14cm pans, typically around 40-50% more volume. If you're choosing between sizes, consider how many people you typically cook for—14cm suits strict single portions, whilst 16cm accommodates 1-2 people more comfortably with room for generous portions or small amounts for 3 people.
