Appliance focus: How health-conscious consumers are driving sales of combi-steam ovens

Ovens that combine full steam cooking, dry heat convection and pre-set programming offer consumers the professional results they'd love to achieve in their own kitchens – Sally Smith finds out more.

Combi-steam ovens – with their advanced systems automatically adjusting temperature, humidity and cooking time – are fast becoming a mainstream appliance in premium kitchen design. Consumers are increasingly looking to invest in stylish multifunctional high end steam ovens.

"We’re seeing growing consumer awareness around healthier cooking and food quality which is driving an increased interest in steam-assisted technology. Consumers are demanding appliances that do more, last longer and support modern lifestyles, particularly those who enjoy cooking from scratch or entertaining. As kitchens continue to evolve into lifestyle spaces rather than purely functional rooms, premium multifunction appliances such as combi steam ovens are becoming a natural upgrade choice," explains Chris Gallagher, sales director at Franke.

Dan Young, category lead for kitchens at Miele GB, adds: "We’re seeing combination steam ovens move from niche to mainstream in premium kitchens. Designers and developers are specifying them more often because they deliver genuine functionality rather than just a feature upgrade."

Combination steam ovens give consumers control over moisture as well as temperature, which is what fundamentally sets them apart from a traditional oven. Young adds: "By combining dry heat with precisely timed steam, these ovens deliver better texture, improved flavour and more consistent results across a wide range of dishes. Food stays juicier, colours are brighter and cooking is more forgiving, particularly for meat, fish and baking."

Jag Sandhu, national account manager at Asko, has also seen combination steam ovens evolving into a core kitchen appliance in this sector of the market. "Consumers are increasingly seeking appliances that balance versatility with ease of use with a desire to explore more advanced cooking techniques while still relying on intuitive, automated support. The combination steam oven can replace multiple standalone appliances, something that is resonating with consumers, making them a natural choice for modern, high-performance kitchens."

Andy Cummings, Bora country manager UK, has seen a clear shift towards appliances that combine advanced cooking technology. "Features such as automatic steam extraction and air filtration are becoming key differentiators, as they address everyday functionality rather than cooking performance alone, offering improved usability, particularly in open-plan living spaces where steam, heat and odours are more noticeable. As expectations rise, ovens that offer both advanced climate control and a cleaner kitchen environment are likely to define the next stage of the premium market."

Simon Plumbridge, director of Gaggenau, agrees: "Demand for combi-steam ovens will only grow as consumers are increasingly opting for appliances that offer greater health benefits like steam cooking. Combi-steam ovens have gained higher visibility across mainstream brands, which has led to more people discovering the advantages of owning one."

Craig Davies, MD of Sub-Zero & Wolf UK, has seen a move away from trend-led kitchens. "Homeowners are far more informed nowadays and are more performance driven and are looking to invest in appliances that genuinely improve how they cook day-to-day. When you factor in build quality, durability and performance over time, the higher price point becomes a long-term investment rather than an upfront cost."

Design integration is another important driver in the increase in demand for combi-steam ovens. "The availability of co-ordinated 45cm and 60cm formats within our matching aesthetic ranges allows combi-steam ovens to be specified as part of a cohesive kitchen design. Whether as a primary oven or as a complementary appliance in higher-end projects. As a result, combi-steam ovens are increasingly moving from an optional upgrade to a core specification in luxury and bespoke kitchens," says Richard Mackey, Smeg products manager.

Although many models are available with an integrated water tank, some combi-steam ovens require a permanent water supply and drainage connection that will need to be incorporated into the kitchen design at an early stage.