The best egg poachers for easy and delicious brunches 2024

Keen to up your brunch game? Or fancy adding a tasty topping to a bowl of noodles? A poached egg is a versatile addition to mealtimes. What’s more, eggs are an affordable way of adding vitamin D, B6, B12 and minerals such as zinc, iron and copper to your family’s diet, so, although a beautifully poached egg can feel indulgent, it’s actually incredibly healthy. 

The trouble is, perfecting a poached egg isn’t as straightforward as it may seem. Should you swirl the water in your saucepan before cracking in the egg? Do you need to add white vinegar to the mix? How long should you cook them for? It can feel like a culinary minefield. 

Luckily, there are plenty of gadgets on the market to help you create perfectly poached eggs. We’ve called on the collective wisdom of Mumsnetters for their tried-and-tested egg poachers, seeking out products that they rate and would recommend to others. We then explored food industry experts’ opinions and wider consumer feedback to narrow down our list to the very best egg poachers on the market today. 

Plus, for more efficient kitchen tools rated by Mumsnetters, we’ve also rounded up the best chopping boards and easiest-to-use can openers.

Best egg poacher 2024: at a glance

• Best overall: OXO Good Grips Egg Poacher, £14

• Best budget: Poachies Egg Poaching Pouches, £2

• Best for the microwave: Eddingtons Set of 2 Microwave Egg Poachers, £8

• Best for easy storage: Poachpod Silicone Egg Poaching Pods, £12

• Best poacher pan for families: Lakeland Induction Safe Egg Poaching Pan, £37

• Best two-egg poacher pan: KitchenCraft 2 Egg Poacher Pan, £25

• Best electric egg poacher: Neo® 3 in 1 Egg Cooker, £16

1. Best overall egg poacher: OXO Good Grips Egg Poacher

Price on writing: £14 | Buy now from Amazon

Key specs

Type: Cup | Capacity: Two (one per cup)

What we like

• Made from BPA-free silicone 

• Dishwasher safe

• Hole pattern increases airflow around the egg

• Fill lines to ensure the correct amount of water 

• Collapsable for simple storage 

What we don’t like 

• Quite large, so you can’t use both at the same time unless you have a very large pan

What Mumsnet users say

“We make eggs poached using OXO egg poachers.” (Recommended by Mumsnet user Caspianberg)

Our verdict

These clever silicone egg poachers mimic the traditional ‘water bath’ method of poaching eggs but without any of the faff. With an innovative hourglass design, they gently cradle the egg as you lower it into the pan, whilst the funnel guides it through into the simmering water without needing to swirl or risk breaking the yolk. 

Thanks to the small holes across the base, you’ll find good airflow around your egg, which ensures it cooks evenly throughout. Once it’s ready, the handy tab on the top makes it really easy to remove without burning your fingers in the process.

It’s worth noting that these poachers are generously sized, so although there are two in the set, poaching two eggs at the same time would require a very large saucepan. Despite this, they can be collapsed and stacked after use for simple storage, making them a practical and convenient choice. OXO is repeatedly recommended on our forums, too - from their kitchen scales to their mandoline slicers, Mumsnetters can’t get enough of the brand.

2. Best budget egg poacher: Poachies Egg Poaching Pouches

Price on writing: £2 | Buy now from Amazon

Key specs

Type: Disposable pouches | Capacity: One egg per bag (20 Poachies included in pack)

What we like

• Simple to use 

• A budget-friendly option for occasional use

• Can poach multiple eggs in one pan (using one Poachie for each egg)

What we don’t like 

• Due to its disposable nature, less cost-effective for regular use

What Mumsnet users say

“They’re like tea bags that you crack the egg into. Five minutes in simmering water, and the egg is perfect every time.” (Recommended by Mumsnet user magicstar1)

“Another fan of Poachies here. I never had any success with poaching eggs before but since I started using them, they always turn out well.” (Rated by Mumsnet user ScarlettSunset)

Our verdict

If you’re looking for the ideal combination of convenience and low cost, Mumsnet users couldn’t speak more highly of Poachies as a budget-friendly egg-poaching tool for occasional use. These nifty poaching bags self-seal when submersed in bubbling hot water, allowing the the egg to cook perfectly without leakage.

They’re super easy to use with no need for butter or oil, making it a healthy option, too. If you’re whipping up breakfast for the whole family, you can also pop multiple Poachies all in one pan.

Whilst single-use only, these pouches are biodegradable and recyclable. However, the fact they’re disposable means they’re not the most cost-effective option for more regular use. 

Related: The best frying pans and woks, as tried and tested by Mumsnet users

3. Best microwave egg poacher: Eddingtons Set of 2 Microwave Egg Poachers 

Price on writing: £8 | Buy now from Amazon

Key specs

Type: Cup | Capacity: Eight (four per cup) 

What we like

• A fast and efficient way to make poached eggs using the microwave 

• Can cook up to four eggs at a time 

• Dishwasher safe

What we don’t like 

• May involve some trial and error to find the perfect timing

What Mumsnet users say

“Gave up on the hob. Use Eddington’s Microwave Egg Poachers regularly and they're a wonder.” (Tried and tested by Mumsnet user MrsColinRobinson)

Our verdict

For poached eggs in a jiffy, this BPA-free microwave poacher is just the thing. Simply crack eggs into the trays, add cold water, attach the lid and pop into the microwave. 

A convenient option for families in a hurry, the tray can cook four eggs at a time and is dishwasher safe. Just know that it can take a bit of experimenting with timings, as getting the perfect yolk will all depend on the egg size and the power settings on your microwave.

4. Best egg poacher for easy storage: Poachpod Silicone Egg Poaching Pods

Price on writing: £6 | Buy now from Lakeland

Key specs

Type: Cup | Capacity: Two (one per cup) 

What we like

• Pack of two

• Can add both pods to the pan at the same time

• Easy to release once cooked

• Budget-friendly

What we don’t like 

• Need to remember to put the lid back on the pan or the cooking time will take much longer 

What Mumsnet users say

“I have had these for years, great results but only recently realised that you don't need to loosen them with a knife, then lift them out with a spoon… You just turn them upside down and pop them out, they sit like little domes on your toast!” (Recommended by Mumsnet user ItsnotaHenryMoore)

Our verdict 

These versatile egg poachers can be used both in the microwave and on your stovetop, helping you take your pick when prepping your eggs benedict in the morning.  Big enough to fit large eggs in, the sturdy silicone pod has four vents in the base to ensure stability and even cooking. 

Simply coat lightly with butter or oil, crack the egg inside, float in the boiling water and cover the pan with the lid. We love the integrated handles - a welcome feature when moving the poachers in and out of boiling water, before flipping it inside out to release your egg. 

As a bonus, they also make great jelly moulds for parties and sweet treats. 

Related: Discover the best knife sharpener according to Mumsnetters

6. Best egg poacher pan for families: Lakeland Induction Safe Egg Poaching Pan

Price on writing: £37 | Buy now from Amazon

Key specs

Type: Pan | Capacity: Four 

What we like

• A quick way to prepare four poached eggs simultaneously 

• Easy to clean non-stick coating 

• Glass lid so you can visually track progress

• Can be used as a small frying pan 

• Suitable for gas and induction hobs

What we don’t like 

• Costly

• Takes up more storage space than pods and cups 

What Mumsnet users say

“I use an egg poaching pan. It can poach four eggs at a time, I had it for about 10 years, and it’s idiotproof.” (Method rated by Mumsnet user BethDutton)

Our verdict 

This four-cup poaching pan from Lakeland may feel a bit extravagant compared to other eggs poachers on our list, but it’s worth mentioning that once you remove the poaching cups, this pan can also double up as a small non-stick frying pan, making it a versatile addition to your kitchen. With a three-year guarantee, it’s also a hardwearing and high-quality product that can be used for many years to come. 

Poaching up to four eggs simultaneously, we love the well-fitting glass lid that allows you to keep a visual check on your eggs whilst they cook. Despite the non-stick coating, reviewers state that oiling the cups before use helps the eggs slide out more easily. A few also found that the egg cup handles get quite hot, so you will need to be careful when removing them.

6. Best two-egg poacher pan: KitchenCraft 2 Egg Poacher Pan

Price on writing: £25 | Buy now from Amazon

Key specs

Type: Pan | Capacity: Two

What we like

• Deep pan ideal for poaching and sautéing 

• Robust stainless steel

• Suitable for all hob types including induction 

• Dishwasher safe

• Glass lid for visual tracking 

What we don’t like 

• Harder to store than pods and cups 

• Greasing is still recommended 

What Mumsnet users say

“You need one of these - water in the bottom, egg in each section.” (Brand recommended by Mumsnet user PattyMelt)

Our verdict

If you’re looking for a multi-function poaching pan but want to save valuable cupboard space, this two-cup pan is a good alternative to the Lakeland option. It may just look like a traditional saucepan, but pop in the tray insert containing two non-stick poaching cups and you can cook a poached egg in minutes. 

This sturdy stainless steel tool also doubles up as a handy sauté pan, working well on both induction and gas hobs. Relatively deep when compared to traditional pans, there’s less risk of the water running dry during cooking.

The non-stick egg cups are relatively easy to clean, as long as you remember to grease them ahead of use, whilst the cool-touch knobs make it quick and easy to lift your eggs out of the water once they’re ready to enjoy. Then, just season using the best salt and pepper grinder and voila, your perfect brunch is ready.

7. Best electric egg poacher: Neo® 3 in 1 Durable Stainless Steel Electric Egg Cooker

Price on writing: £16 | Buy now from Amazon

Key specs

Type: Electric egg cooker | Capacity: Two if poaching (seven if boiling)

What we like

• Multi-use gadget for poaching, boiling and making omelettes 

• Easy to clean

• Surprisingly affordable 

What we don’t like 

• May take some practice to find your ideal yolk softness  

• Takes up counter space 

What Mumsnet users say

“Don’t let anyone tell you they are a useless gadget - they are fabulous.” (Type of method recommended by CarolBornAMan)

Our verdict

This countertop cooker is a handy gadget for egg enthusiasts. Not only does it poach eggs, two at a time, but it can also boil them and help whip up a delicious omelette in minutes. 

For poaching, eggs are cracked either straight into the steamer tray or poacher attachments. Simply close the lid, switch on the power and a buzzer sounds when the eggs are ready to eat.

It can take a bit of experimenting with water levels, depending on how soft you like your yolk, but once you find the perfect level, you’ll find yourself singing ‘Chick Chick Chicken’ and craving another one for your tea. 

Related: The best cutlery sets to add to your home

Are egg poachers worth it?

If you’re a dab hand at preparing perfectly poached eggs using the traditional ‘water bath’ method, maybe not. For the rest of us, egg poachers are a helpful kitchen addition. The question is: what type of poacher to buy? Disposable pouches offer an easy, space-efficient solution for occasional use. If poached eggs are a more regular menu item, it might be worth investing in a reusable poacher. 

How long does it take to poach an egg?

It all depends on the size of the egg and how runny you like your yolk. In gently boiling water on the stovetop, poaching an egg normally takes around three to four minutes. In a microwave, it can take as little as 60 seconds.

What are the different types of egg poachers?

• Disposable bags: Whilst they are recyclable and relatively cheap to buy, one single-use bag is required per egg, which makes them less cost-effective if you’re eating poached eggs on a more regular basis. 

• Pods/cups: With the egg fully supported whilst sitting in the cup, the entire pod or cup is lowered into the simmering water before being carefully lifted out once the eggs are ready. Generally easy to use, the pods and cups can generally be used with more than one in a pan and are convenient to store, but less efficient for poaching more than two or three at a time. 

• Microwave poaching pods: Without needing to use a hob, these microwaveable poaching pods can cook a small number of eggs in seconds - although results may vary depending on the size of your eggs. A high-speed option for those a little limited on time, but not necessarily the best result for those who are picky about their yolk consistency. 

• Egg poaching pans: Most poaching pans can be used on a variety of hobs (including induction) and allow simultaneous poaching of between two and four eggs. Some double up as handy sauté pans for a versatile kitchen tool, however, they are harder to store for those more limited on space.

• Electric egg poachers: If you can’t get enough of your eggs and are planning to eat them regularly, an electric egg poacher can certainly take the hard work out of poaching, with the ability to also boil eggs, too. They do require fairly significant storage space, so they’re less suited to those who have eggs once in a blue moon or people struggling for cupboard space alongside their baking trays and cake tins. 

How to choose the best egg poacher

Here are some things to consider when choosing the right egg poacher for you and your family:

• Frequency: How often do you intend to make poached eggs? Will you only be making them on special occasions or the odd anniversary breakfast in bed, or are you hoping to integrate some healthy egg options into your daily routine? For more frequent use, options such as poaching pans may be the best choice, whereas disposable poaching bags and pods are perfectly adequate for an occasional poaching aid.

• How many do you want to cook?: Are you serving up eggs for one as a quick and healthy snack, or do you want to cook several eggs all at the same time? Using pods and pouches, you can generally only cook as many as your saucepan can accommodate, and this will depend upon the size of the product. For four or more eggs, you may need to opt for a poaching pan. 

• Storage space: Do you have a large kitchen with plenty of storage space, or is your bijou kitchen a little more limited? Pods and pouches are obviously much easier to store, with a smaller size that can often be compressed or taken apart and stacked for simple storage. Poaching pans (whilst often multi-purpose) can require more room in your cupboards. 

What is the best egg poacher to buy? 

The OXO Good Grips Egg Poacher is an excellent all-rounder. It’s a good price, doesn’t take up too much space, and its smart design will prove popular with traditionalists who want to know if their egg has been poached rather than steamed. 

How we chose our recommendations

Because we know that there’s nothing like a real recommendation, we first headed to the Mumsnet forums to find out what egg poachers our users had tried, tested and rated after extensive use.

We then did some research across the wider web, looking at which egg poachers had won accolades or been featured in ‘best buy’ lists across websites, and what verified and independent customer reviews said about them. Having collated all that information, we then narrowed our list down to bring you only the very best.

About the author 

Lucy Cotterill is a mum of two and a Content Writer at Mumsnet, specialising in parenting and lifestyle product reviews and round-ups. Having written reviews on her own blog, Real Mum Reviews since 2012, Lucy loves to research and explore the pros and cons of products, scrutinising expert and consumer feedback to help parents make confident purchases that benefit their families.  

Lucy loves to cook in the kitchen for her family but is often limited on time, so if there’s a gadget that can make it quicker and more efficient, she’s always willing to put it through its paces. 

Why you should trust us

We work hard to provide unbiased, independent advice you can trust. We do sometimes earn revenue through affiliate (click-to-buy) links in our articles. This helps us fund more helpful articles like this one.

Read next: The best cast iron skillets