How to Choose the Right Pan Lid Size
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A lid that does not fit properly is more than an inconvenience. A lid that is too small allows heat and steam to escape, increasing cooking time and energy use. A lid that is too large sits unstably on the pan and can fall, creating a safety risk.
Choosing the right lid size is straightforward once you know how to measure correctly and what to look for.
How to Measure Your Pan for a Lid
Pan sizes are measured by the internal diameter — the distance across the inside of the pan at the widest point, measured from one inner edge to the other.
To measure your pan:
- Let the pan cool and place it on a stable surface.
- Place a ruler or measuring tape across the centre of the opening.
- Measure from the inside edge on one side to the inside edge on the other side. This measurement in centimetres is your pan size.
Common pan sizes in European kitchens are 16cm, 18cm, 20cm, 22cm, 24cm, 26cm, 28cm, 30cm and 32cm. Cookware is widely sold in these diameters, but sizing and rim shapes can vary between brands.
Why Lids and Pans from Different Brands Often Do Not Match
Even when a lid and a pan are nominally the same size, they may not fit well together. This happens because different manufacturers use slightly different rim profiles, wall angles and tolerances.
A 28cm lid from one brand may sit too loosely or too tightly on a 28cm pan from another brand. This is one of the most common reasons people find themselves with lids that do not fit their cookware.
The Case for Universal Lids
A universal lid is designed with a stepped or graduated rim that fits a range of pan diameters rather than a single fixed size. This lets one lid sit on several pan sizes, although rim profiles still vary between brands.
For households with cookware from different brands or with pans of multiple sizes, a universal lid simplifies the problem of finding the right fit. Instead of maintaining a separate lid for each pan, a small set of universal lids can cover most of the pans you use.
If you are replacing a lost or broken lid rather than choosing a size, our guide to choosing a replacement pan lid covers the other checks: material, handle, care instructions and fit.
Common Pan Sizes and Their Uses
Ø16–20cm: Small saucepans used for sauces, heating milk, boiling eggs and cooking small portions.
Ø22–26cm: Medium saucepans and frying pans used for everyday cooking — pasta, vegetables, omelettes and general frying.
Ø28–32cm: Large frying pans, sauté pans and woks used for cooking larger portions, stir-frying and dishes that require more surface area.
A Practical Solution for Multiple Pan Sizes
Rather than purchasing individual lids for each pan, a set of universal stainless steel lids covering small, medium and large size ranges provides a practical and space-efficient solution.
Our PRO Kitchen Set includes three lids covering Ø16–20cm, Ø22–26cm and Ø28–32cm — from small saucepans to large frying pans. The stepped rim is designed to sit on several pan diameters within each range; because rim profiles vary between brands, check that the lid sits flat on your pan.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know what size lid I need for my pan?
Measure the internal diameter of your pan — the distance across the inside of the pan at the widest point. This measurement in centimetres is your pan size. Choose a lid that matches this size or is designed to fit that size range.
Why does my lid not fit my pan even though they are the same size?
Different manufacturers use slightly different rim profiles and tolerances. A lid and pan that are nominally the same size may not fit well together if they are from different brands. A universal lid with a stepped rim can sit on several diameters, but it is still worth checking the fit on your own pan.
Can I use a larger lid on a smaller pan?
A lid that is significantly larger than the pan will not sit stably and will allow heat and steam to escape around the edges. A universal lid designed to fit a range of sizes is a better solution than using a lid that is clearly too large.
What is the most common pan lid size?
There is no single official figure, but 24cm, 26cm and 28cm are widely sold sizes for everyday frying pans and saucepans.