If you're serious about growing mushrooms, investing in a good pressure cooker isn’t optional it’s essential. A pressure sterilizer lets you sterilize your grain spawn and substrate thoroughly, giving your mycelium a clean slate to colonize. Without that sterile environment, contamination can creep in and wipe out your whole batch. Believe me, it’s frustrating.
Over time, I’ve learned what really matters when choosing a pressure cooker for mycology: size (you’ll want room for jars or bags), durable materials, and the ability to hit 15 PSI for proper sterilization. Get that right, and you're already halfway to a successful grow.
So, what pressure cookers actually work best for mushroom growing? I’ve tested a handful and taken a close look at what’s currently on the market to put this list together. Below are my top picks for the best pressure cookers for mushroom cultivation, whether you’re just getting started or scaling up your grow.
Our Top Picks – At A Glance
⭐ Presto 23-Quart Pressure Cooker – Best Overall
This is hands-down the best all-rounder for mushroom cultivation. It can sterilize up to 26 Half-Pint jars, it doesnt cost an arm and a leg making it perfect for mid-to-large scale home growers. Reliable, durable, and fairly priced it’s a solid investment that won’t let you down.
🚜 All-American 925 – Best for Aspiring Farmers
This isn’t just a pressure cookers it’s a professional-grade autoclave. With its metal-on-metal seal (no rubber gaskets!) and massive capacity, it’s perfect for bulk sterilization. Easily fits 26+ jars and will last a lifetime. Great for anyone producing spawn or cultures for trade or sale.
🛡️ Presto 02152 Digital Pressure Canner – Best Safety Option
Ideal for those who prioritize safety in their setup. This electric model automates the entire process no flame, no hovering. Just set it, and it maintains precise pressure and temperature. A safer, hands-off sterilization solution for small-scale or hobbyist growers.
💸 Presto 16-Quart Pressure Cooker – Best Budget Option
A scaled-down version of the 23 Qt Presto, but still hits 15 PSI and gets the job done. It’s affordable, reliable, and ideal if you're growing in smaller volumes or just testing the waters.
🧪 Instant Pot 8 Quart – Best for Beginners
If you're new to mushroom growing, this electric pressure cooker is a great place to start. It has built-in temperature control, a shut-off timer, and is super user-friendly. It’s perfect for people who want to dip their toes in but aren’t quite sure yet. You can use it to pasteurize substrate and make small batches of grain spawn read more about that here. I actually use mine daily for making chicken broth, so even if you decide mushroom growing isn’t for you, you definitely won’t regret the purchase.
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Comparing Pressure Cookers for Mycology and Mushroom Cultivation.
In this section, I have examined and handpicked a selection of pressure cookers and sterilizers tailored for mycology. Below, we focused on key attributes for spawn sterilization, such as jar capacity, user-friendliness, weight, and availability, among others.
Large options (20-23 Quarts)
Every choice in this section comes with my highest recommendation, garnering a 5★ rating. Each of these options offers ample space for a substantial amount of mushroom spawn, and their capacity and performance ensure they'll serve you well in the long run, regardless of how your needs may evolve.
Material: Aluminium.
Size: Large. 14.8 inches Height, 15.1 inches Diameter, 22 Litres
Weight: 5.6kg
Racks included: 1 (recommended to buy a second one here).
Hob Type: Electric, Gas, Smooth top, Induction.
Available Location: USA, UK (Find it on eBay).
Full pressure time: 10 minutes.
Warranty: 12-year limited warranty.
Capacity: 9 x 1000ml jars, 26 x 1/2 pint jars
We checked the capacity using a rack that was provided by the manufacturer and a second rack which can be purchased here.
Here is a picture of me stacking 10 x 1 litre jars inside the 23 quart presto.
My Thoughts.
Most serious mushroom cultivators purchase a 23 Quart Presto as they are reliable, huge and hold a lot of substrate.
This whopping pressure cooker should hold at least 20 half-pint jars meaning you can create a whole lot of spawn in one go.
If space isn’t an issue I would recommend this cooker.
The Presto 01781 23-Quart is 23 cm tall and 32cm in diameter. It has been manufactured using extra strong aluminum and weighs 5.6kg.
It is important to check you are going to be able to store this unit before buying it.
You will need a space with 42cm width and 37 cm of height to comfortably get it in and out of a cupboard.
To do this I turn the lid upside down to avoid damaging the pressure dial and make it fit as shown in the images below.
Once it is filled with gain jars and water it definitely becomes more difficult to handle; make sure you are prepared to lift and move it around the stove (while full) when you use it.
I usually place the cooker on top of my stove, then fill it with contents to avoid heavy carrying, however, there are still instances where you may need to shift it on the stove.
The Presto 01781 includes three main parts, these are:
The Pressure Gauge can help you ensure that you are sterilizing your mushroom substrate over 15 psi. 
The Vent Pipe, this is a pressure release valve that will release pressure in excess of 15 pounds. The pressure regulator sits on top of the vent pipe.
The Pressure Regulator, which is basically a small weight that prevents the pressure cooker from exceeding 15psi.
Sometimes mycologists will place a few coins (quarters) on top of this to allow it to exceed and remain over 15psi for extended periods, however I have found this necessary.
The original pressure regulator does rattle a lot when you get up to the top temperatures and some feel the need to upgrade it to a non rattle regulator.
Air Vent Lock, this is a lock which will pop up when pressure inside the cooker has built beyond a certain point. Once the Air Vent lock pops up the pressure regulator will begin moving upward.
The prices for Presto canners can vary a lot. Even on Amazon, you’ll find different sellers selling the same model for very different prices. It’s worth shopping around the cooker often goes on sale for a cheaper price so look out for it around the sale periods.
What We Like
- Ample Capacity: Its size allows for the production of a significant amount of grain spawn in one go.
- Value for Money: The product is priced reasonably, especially considering its size.
- Efficient Pressure Build-up: Achieves the desired pressure quickly.
- Reliable Warranty: The product comes with an outstanding warranty.
- Pressure Gauge: Provides visibility, ensuring that sterilization levels are achieved.
What We Don’t Like.
- Noisy Regulator: If the temperatures aren’t exactly at 15psi, the pressure cooker regulator can become quite noisy, rattling intensely.
- Manual Pressure Regulator: The Presto utilizes a manual regulator. This might be challenging for beginners due to its multiple moving parts.
- One rack: but you can get a second one here.
- Requires monitoring: While in use this system should be monitored, unlike something like an instant pot.
Material: Aluminium.
Size: Large. 18.5 inches Tall, 16.1417 Inches Diameter, 23.6 Litres
Weight: 6.7kg
Racks included: 2
Hob Type: Gas
Available Location: USA, UK (eBay only).
Full pressure time: 10 minutes.
Warranty: 10-year limited warranty.
Capacity: 19 x pint jars, 38 x 1/2 pint jars
The All American 925 isn’t just another pressure cooker on the market; it’s a genuine autoclave, akin to what you’d find in professional lab environments tailored for sterilization. Given its unique utility, it naturally warranted a spot on our list.
This unit shines with unparalleled craftsmanship. Eschewing the common rubber seal, it’s ingeniously designed with a metal-on-metal seal for the lid. Such a design eliminates the typical wear and tear issues associated with rubber components, promising longevity. If you’re aiming for an investment that lasts, the All American 925 won’t disappoint.
Equipped with two racks, it allows for efficient double stacking of jars. You can easily accommodate a minimum of 26 jars without incurring additional costs for extra racks. Those looking to embark on producing spore syringes, liquid cultures, grain spawn, or agar plates for trading or selling, this is your go-to equipment.
Yes, at first glance, it might seem formidable, but it promises foolproof sterilization for all mycological needs for years to come. Just a word of advice: familiarize yourself with its operation by perusing the manual and viewing instructional videos as it has an interesting locking system.
Basic Operating Instructions:
- Add 2-3 inches of water (note: it’s more water-efficient than other units).
- Lightly lubricate the metal-on-metal seal using a Q-tip dipped in olive oil.
- Securely fasten the cover with the six sealing screws. For even pressure, alternate between tightening opposite screws.
- Position the autoclave on a burner and set it to high heat.
- Set the regulator weight to the 15psi mark.
- Be vigilant for any leaks during operation.
- Once at the desired pressure, the regulator weight will start to jiggle. At this point, monitor the PSI gauge closely.
What We Like.
- Professional-Grade Sterilization: Designed as a true autoclave, offering lab-grade sterilization at home.
- Superior Craftsmanship: Metal-on-metal seal eradicates the typical issues associated with rubber seals, ensuring longevity.
- Ample Capacity: Comes with two racks, allowing for double-stacked jars, and can accommodate a minimum of 26 jars without additional racks.
- Long-Term Investment: Designed to stand the test of time, especially due to the absence of easily perishable rubber components.
- Efficient Water Usage: Requires only 2-3 inches of water for operations, making it more water-efficient than many counterparts.
What We Don’t Like.
- Intimidating for Beginners: Its professional design might seem daunting for those new to sterilization processes.
- Manual Familiarization Required: The necessity to read the manual and watch instructional videos to fully grasp its operations.
- Physical Bulk: Given its robustness and capacity, it might be heavy and cumbersome for some users.
- Monitoring Required: Close attention needed, especially during the initial uses, to ensure there are no leaks and pressure is consistent.
Your mushroom cultivation projects deserve the best, and the All American 925 might just be the partner you need.
Medium options (10-18 Quart)
These choices are ideal for beginners on a budget who are willing to invest a bit more because of their dedication to the hobby.
Material: Aluminium.
Size: Large. 17 inches Tall, 11 Inches Diameter, 15 Litres
Weight: 4.5kg
Racks included: 1
Hob Type: Electric, Gas, Smooth top, Induction.
Available Location: US, UK (eBay only).
Full pressure time: 10 minutes.
Warranty: 12 Year limited warranty.
Capacity: 14 x 1/2 pint jars, 10 x pint jars.
You can’t double stack in this pressure cooker, however it is possible to create a base layer then place a few jars on top on their sides, as show in the picture we took during our testing below.
The Presto 16 qt pressure cooker strikes a perfect balance for those just delving into mushroom cultivation.
Its size is thoughtfully designed: substantial enough to produce a commendable batch of grain spawn in one go, yet compact enough to ensure easy storage and maneuverability.
Equipped with both a pressure gauge and a regulator, it reliably hits the 15 PSI mark — a crucial feature for mycological practices.
Presto’s sterling reputation in the mycologist community speaks volumes. In fact, it’s frequently hailed as the premier pressure cooker for beginners.
For many, an investment in this model proves to be enduring; they find that they never need to upgrade, reflecting their unwavering satisfaction with its performance.
What We Like.
- Affordable: Priced accessibly for its features.
- Quick Pressure Buildup: Achieves 15 PSI efficiently.
- Reliable Warranty: Offers a comprehensive guarantee.
- Clear Sterilization Indicator: The pressure gauge clearly signifies when sterilization levels are reached.
What We Don’t Like
- Noise Concerns: If temperatures aren’t optimized at 15 PSI, the regulator can become noticeably noisy.
- Limited Capacity: Accommodates only one stack of jars.
- Requires Constant Supervision: Contrary to some electric counterparts, this model demands ongoing monitoring during operation.
Electric Pressure Cookers.
Electric pressure cookers have come a long way, evolving significantly year by year. After recently acquiring an Instant Pot, I've discovered its immense potential as an indispensable tool in mushroom cultivation.
It's worth noting that most electric pressure cookers on the market currently don't sustain a true 15 psi, typically hovering around 12 psi. But this shouldn't deter mycology enthusiasts. By simply extending the mushroom spawn sterilization cycle, one can achieve remarkably consistent results, plus because it electric it doesn't need monitoring while running.
What sets electric pressure cookers apart is their inherent safety and ease of use. Compared to their stovetop counterparts, they demand far less hands-on monitoring, making the cultivation process less cumbersome and hands-off for a hobby grower.
Material: Stainless steel and plastic.
Size: Extra tall. 18 inches tall, 17.25 inches wide, 14.5 inches deep.
Weight: 11 kg (24.27 lbs).
Racks included: 1 stainless steel canning rack.
Hob Type: None (electric plug-in).
Available Location: USA.
Full pressure time: Automated; no manual adjustments needed.
Warranty: 1-year limited warranty.
Capacity: Holds up to 5 quart jars, 8 pint jars, or 19 half-pint jars (double-stacked) for pressure canning.
The Presto 02152 Digital Pressure Canner offers a fully automated pressure sterilization experience, originally designed to meet USDA guidelines for safely processing low-acid foods like meats, poultry, and vegetables.
If it’s capable of safely sterilizing food for human consumption, it’s more than equipped for preparing substrates and grain jars for mushroom cultivation.
The built-in sensor maintains exact temperature and pressure even at higher altitudes while the digital display walks you through each step. It also doubles as a boiling water canner and features a nonstick, removable pot for easy cleanup.
What We Like.
- Automated Operation: Maintains precise temperature and pressure automatically.
- User-Friendly: Straightforward and simple to use.
- Hassle-Free Cleaning: Features a detachable pot for easy cleanup.
What We Don’t Like.
- Size: Larger footprint may require extra storage space.
- Availability: Currently only available in the USA.
Material: Aluminium.
Size: Large. 14.8 inches Tall, 13.3 Inches Diameter, 36 Height
Weight: 7.2kg
Racks included: 1 pot
Hob Type: None (electric plug in).
Available Location: Globally.
Full pressure time: 15 minutes.
Warranty: 1 year warranty.
Capacity: 7 x 330ml jars, 2 x 500ml jars
Looking back on my journey in mushroom cultivation, if I had to choose a first pressure cooker again, the Instant Pot 8Qt would undoubtedly be my pick.
- Sterilizing Grain Spawn? While it might take longer than a standard 15 psi pressure cooker, the Instant Pot offers a more relaxed and nearly hands-off approach.
- Pasteurizing Substrate? Simply set it to the sous-vide function within the pasteurization range, add your substrate, and return three hours later to find the job perfectly done.
- Need to Keep Agar Warm? This unit has got you covered.
- Sterilizing Utensils? Check that off your list with ease using the Instant Pot.
The Instant Pot 8Qt feels like a comprehensive solution tailored for the home-based mushroom cultivator. While it might not be the first choice for commercial setups or expansive farms, for hobbyists and enthusiasts, it’s a near-perfect blend of versatility and convenience.
What We Like.
- Versatility: The Instant Pot serves multiple purposes, from pasteurization and sterilization to maintaining agar at the right temperature.
- Safety: Its design prioritizes user safety, reducing risks associated with pressure cooking.
- Stove-Free Operation: No need for an additional stove, offering greater flexibility in where it’s used.
- Hands-Off Approach: Designed for a “set-and-forget” experience, requiring minimal supervision.
What We Don’t Like.
- Limited Capacity: Its ability to accommodate jars is somewhat limited.
- Size to Capacity Ratio: The physical size of the unit seems somewhat disproportionate to its internal holding capacity.
- Pressure Limitations: It doesn’t consistently maintain the ideal 15 psi.
Further reading:
Small options (6 – 8 Quart)
Several pressure cookers on the market cater specifically to newcomers. While they aren't expansive units, they're ideally suited for those keen to experiment with the PF-Tek method or craft a modest batch of grain jars.
Take, for example, my 7L Tower pressure cooker: it comfortably houses 3 x 1L grain jars or 8 of the smaller jars. Such a capacity is likely a perfect fit for hobbyists taking their initial steps into mushroom cultivation. Plus, the compact design of these models makes storage a breeze compared to their bulkier counterparts.
Material: Stainless Steel with aluminium base.
Size: Large. 8 inches Tall, 8.5 Inches Diameter, 15 Litres
Weight: 1.7kg
Racks included: 1
Hob Type: Electric, Gas, Smooth top, Induction.
Available Location: US.
Full pressure time: 10 minutes.
Warranty: Lifetime warranty.
Capacity: 7 x 330ml jars, 2 x 500ml jars
The Cuisinart CPC22-8 stands out as an 8-quart pressure cooker, equipped with a lid design akin to the Zavor EZlock, echoing its high standard of safety. This feature marks it as a prime choice for budding mycologists apprehensive about the inherent risks of pressure cooking.
This model is particularly budget-friendly, making it a perfect fit for individuals exploring mycology as a potential hobby, allowing them to experience the craft without a significant financial investment.
Reaching 15psi, it possesses the capability to sterilize grain jars effectively. However, its relatively compact size means it’s more suited to producing smaller batches at a time.
Its compactness not only relates to its usage but also its storage, being a convenient option for those with limited storage space, and perhaps envisioning its use on a more sporadic basis throughout the year.
While it may not align with the needs of someone establishing a mushroom farm, it holds significant appeal for hobbyists seeking a versatile, user-friendly introduction to the world of mycology.
What We Like.
- Enhanced safety features.
- Unique lid design.
- Generous warranty coverage.
- Affordable price point.
What We Don’t Like.
- Limited capacity.
- Disproportionate unit size relative to jar accommodation.
Material: Aluminium.
Size: Large. 7 inches Tall, 9.5 Inches Diameter, 15 Litres
Weight: 2.2kg
Racks included: 1
Hob Type: Electric, Gas, Smooth top, Induction.
Available Location: US.
Full pressure time: 10 minutes.
Warranty: 1 year warranty.
Capacity: 6 x 1/2 jars, 2 x 500ml
The Presto 8 qt stands out as one of the most affordably priced yet dependable pressure cookers available. It’s an ideal choice for those on a tight budget or newcomers to mycology who are hesitant to invest heavily.
What We Like.
- Exceptionally affordable.
- Presto’s renowned quality.
- Achieves 15 psi.
- User-friendly handle and lid mechanism.
What We Don’t Like.
- Limited capacity – not ideal for large batches of spawn.
- Shorter warranty than typical Presto models.
Pressure Cookers For UK Mushroom Growers?
It is possible to import the Presto 23 quart to the UK I got mine on ebay (find it on eBay here), the price to import it was a lot more than the RRP in USA but I definitely don't regret it.
Small
Tower T920004S7L Express 7 Litre Pressure Cooker
This is the size pressure cooker I started out with its cheap and can hold about 8 half pint jars. This is a well built system and are designed to ensure safety as a priority, this can be a huge benefit to people new to the sterilization process. However, if I could go back I would have started with an Instant Pot 8Qt as it can be used for more than just sterilization.
On this type of pressure cooker the design is more simple and “safe” with a pressure locker and a release valve which cannot be blocked.
This system build pressure and slowly releases it from the valve so it is important to fill the unit to the correct water levels.
Do you need a Pressure Cooker for growing mushrooms?
Technically no, I have a full post on how to grow mushroom without a pressure cooker. Here you will learn the various work around if you don't want to buy a pressure cooker.
If you want more consistent results and to grow an array of different strains, using all the methods available it is always recommended to use a pressure cooker.
What size Pressure Cooker Is needed for Growing mushrooms?
The minimum size pressure cooker needed for mushroom growing is 6 Quart, this will allow you to get 6 half-pint Jars sterilized at one time.
What to look for in a Pressure Cooker for growing mushrooms?
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Capacity: Gauge the size of the pressure cooker based on the number of mason jars it can accommodate. The larger its capacity, the more spawn jars you can sterilize at once, leading to a more efficient mushroom cultivation process.
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Pressure Capabilities: A critical feature to look for is the ability to achieve 15 PSI, the necessary pressure level to elevate the internal temperature enough to sterilize the substrate. While many European models might hover around 14 PSI, they can still be effective if you extend the sterilization time slightly. You can definitely a 10 or 12 psi pressure cooker but the sterilization time will be longer. Something to think about, you can leave a 12psi Instant pot on for 4 hours without having to monitor it at all, but you're unlikely to be able to leave a 12psi stovetop pressure cooker on the hob for that long.
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Compatibility with Your Stovetop: Confirm that the pressure cooker is compatible with the type of stovetop or hob you use at home. While numerous models are designed for universal use, some may not be suitable for specific stovetops, so it's vital to double-check.
Why is a Pressure Cooker important in mushroom cultivation?
Pressure cookers sterilize the substrate destroying harmful contaminants which could compete with your mycelium.
Pressure cookers are important when growing mushrooms as they sterilize the different substrates which the Mycelium is going to eat. Contaminant such as mold spores, bacteria and other fungi spores are everywhere and the substrates we use during mycology are the perfect nutritional meal for them. When the correct moisture and nutritional conditions are met (after we soak the substrates) the spores and bacteria germinate and multiply, taking over your substrate.
By heating our substrates to a high temperature in the pressure cooker we are destroying the spores and bacteria which may have been present on the substrate. This will give the mycelium you introduced into the substrate a head start to establish itself before reintroducing the substrate to the contaminated open air again.
Conclusion.
Hopefully this was helpful if you made it this far then you must be really motivated to start growing mushrooms!
Checkout our recommended equipment section.
2 thoughts on “Best Pressure Cookers For Mushroom Cultivation [Updated 2025].”
great review i just love it
I am trying to buy a pressure cooker but am severely limited by funds, being on a low, fixed income. So I am looking at used or cheap models. The sticking point seems to be pressure and with some of the cheaper ones I cannot find their operating pressures. Is there any disadvantage in using a cooker which will not reach 15 psi, even if cooking for a longer time, or is the absolute temperature reached the critical point ? Appreciate any advice.