Making healthy meals with your slow cooker is a fantastic way to save time and effort. But sometimes, the little things can make a big difference in how smoothly your cooking experience goes. That’s where specialized accessories come in! We’ve rounded up some of the best slow cooker healthy living accessories that can help you transport your meals with ease, cook multiple dishes at once, and keep your favorite appliance sparkling clean. Let’s dive in!
Quick Product Comparison
| Product | Image | Check Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Crockpot Lid Lock Strap |  |
Check Price |
| 2. CrockPockets Slow Cooker Dividers |  |
Check Price |
| 3. Silicone Slow Cooker Liners |  |
Check Price |
Our Top 3 Slow Cooker Healthy Living Accessories Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Crockpot Lid Lock Strap
★★★★☆ Rating: 4.4/5
This heat-resistant silicone lid lock strap is a lifesaver for anyone who transports their slow cooker meals. It’s designed to fit most 6, 7, and 8-quart models, securely fastening the lid to prevent spills and messes during transit. It’s a simple yet incredibly effective accessory that offers peace of mind when taking your delicious creations to potlucks or family gatherings.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Perfect Compatibility: Meticulously designed for slow cooker models (6/7/8 Quart), such as 33167, 33172, 33176.
- ✓ Leakproof Security: Reinforced silicone strap acts as a reliable lid lock, tightly securing lids during transport or cooking.
- ✓ Heat-Resistant & Durable: Made from food-grade silicone, it endures high temperatures without tearing or deforming.
- ✓ Easy to Use: Simply wrap the strap around the base and lid, and secure it for a tight fit.
Why We Recommend It
If you’ve ever worried about sloshing soup or sauce on your car seats, this lid lock strap is your answer. It provides a robust and secure seal, making transport worry-free. It’s incredibly durable and made from safe, food-grade silicone, ensuring it lasts for years to come.
Best For
Anyone who frequently transports their slow cooker meals to events, parties, or even just to a friend’s house.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Prevents spills and messes during transport.
- Durable, heat-resistant, food-grade silicone material.
- Fits most 6, 7, and 8-quart slow cookers.
- Simple and easy to use.
Cons:
- May not fit models with very unusual lid shapes.
- Requires careful placement to ensure a tight seal on all models.
Customer Reviews
“The slow cooker I purchased that had the best combination for me of size, features and price was only missing one important thing: a lid that would lock down for transport. I ordered this strap and it does the job perfectly, keeping the lid tight so I can drive the crockpot to whatever function I’m”
– Verified Buyer
“This strap is a game changer for transporting your crockpot! My crockpot doesn’t have latches, making it not ideal to transport. I figured there had to be a solution that wasn’t buying another crockpot and was super pleased to find this. The silicone works great to really grab on to the handles and “
– Sarah K.
2. CrockPockets Slow Cooker Dividers
★★★★☆ Rating: 4.6/5
These innovative CrockPockets allow you to cook two different meals simultaneously in your 6-quart slow cooker. They are made from non-stick, BPA-free silicone, making cleanup a breeze. This is a fantastic solution for busy households or when you need to prepare varied dishes for a gathering without using multiple appliances.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Cook Two Meals: Allows you to craft two different meals or sides in a single 6-quart slow cooker.
- ✓ Non-Stick & Reusable: High-quality silicone is easy to clean and reusable, reducing waste.
- ✓ Leak-Resistant Design: Helps to keep flavors separate between the two sections.
- ✓ BPA-Free Material: Ensures safe and healthy cooking for your family.
Why We Recommend It
The ability to cook two distinct dishes at once is a game-changer for meal prep and entertaining. These dividers are not only functional but also eco-friendly, as they are reusable. They make it easy to save time and energy in the kitchen, perfect for busy weeknights or complex meal plans.
Best For
Families or individuals who want to prepare multiple dishes simultaneously in one slow cooker, or for hosts looking to serve variety at gatherings.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Enables cooking two meals in one slow cooker.
- Easy to clean and dishwasher safe.
- Durable, food-grade silicone construction.
- Reduces the need for multiple appliances or pots.
Cons:
- May be slightly large for some 6-quart models, requiring careful placement.
- The divider, while leak-resistant, isn’t completely impenetrable for very liquidy items.
Customer Reviews
“These are a tad large for my own slow cooker but they are excellent liners. A nice thickness and a good balance between sturdy and flexible. They would clean up very easily. They will be a fantastic option to allow for two things to cook separately in your slow cooker.”
– Happy Cooker
“These are brilliant!!! Perfect for the hot dog bar at the party I’m hosting!”
– Party Planner
3. Silicone Slow Cooker Liners
★★★★☆ Rating: 4.3/5
These reusable silicone slow cooker liners are designed for 6-8 quart crock pots and offer a convenient way to cook two meals separately. They are dishwasher safe and made from high-quality, heat-resistant silicone, making cleanup exceptionally easy and saving you scrubbing time. This is a great, eco-friendly option for everyday cooking.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Cook 2 Meals at Once: Shorten cooking time and prepare two different dishes simultaneously.
- ✓ Easy to Clean & Dishwasher Safe: Non-stick surface makes cleanup a breeze.
- High-quality Silicone Material: Made from food-grade, heat-resistant silicone.
- ✓ Universal Fit: Designed for most 6-8 quart crock pots.
Why We Recommend It
Keeping your slow cooker clean is one of the less glamorous parts of cooking, but these liners solve that problem beautifully. They protect your appliance from sticky residue and make cleanup incredibly fast. Plus, the ability to cook two meals at once is a significant time-saver for anyone looking for healthier, home-cooked meals on a busy schedule.
Best For
Anyone looking to simplify slow cooker cleanup, reduce waste from disposable liners, and explore cooking multiple dishes at once.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely easy cleanup, often just a rinse or a cycle in the dishwasher.
- Protects the slow cooker insert from scratches and stains.
- Allows for cooking two separate meals.
- Environmentally friendly alternative to disposable liners.
Cons:
- May require some adjustment to ensure a snug fit in slightly smaller crock pots.
- The two compartments might not be fully separated for extremely liquidy foods.
Customer Reviews
“Only had them for a week but used them for a potluck at work and was able to take both bbq and bbq chicken, also used them for Thanksgiving and was able to take sweet potatoes and stuffing and keep them both hot and it kept my crockpot clean.Was able to take them out with the leftovers in them and e”
– Potluck Pro
“These are amazing. They allow you to cook/heat & serve two different items. Two sauces, a protein and a sauce. So easy to clean.”
– Kitchen Whiz
Complete Buying Guide for Slow Cooker Healthy Living Accessories
Essential Factors We Consider
When choosing slow cooker healthy living accessories, we focus on a few key elements to ensure they genuinely enhance your cooking experience and support a healthy lifestyle. Durability is paramount; these accessories should withstand regular use and the heat of your slow cooker. Safety is also critical – we look for food-grade, BPA-free materials that won’t leach chemicals into your food. Ease of use and cleaning are equally important, as the goal is to simplify, not complicate, your cooking routine. Finally, compatibility with common slow cooker sizes ensures that the accessory will be a practical addition to most kitchens. For more insights into choosing the right slow cooker, check out our guide on best slow cooker for daily use.
Budget Planning
The accessories we’ve highlighted are designed to be affordable yet impactful. While prices can fluctuate, these items generally fall into a budget-friendly category, offering significant value for their cost. For instance, a simple lid strap or a set of reusable liners can cost significantly less than a new appliance, yet they can solve common slow cooker frustrations. Investing in these small but mighty helpers can save you time and effort, contributing to a more streamlined and healthy cooking habit without breaking the bank. If you’re looking for ways to eat well on a budget, explore our tips on slow cooker for budget meals.
Final Thoughts
Incorporating the right slow cooker healthy living accessories into your kitchen can truly elevate your meal preparation. Whether you’re transporting a dish, cooking multiple items at once, or simply want to make cleanup a breeze, these tools are designed to make your life easier. They empower you to get the most out of your slow cooker, encouraging consistent healthy eating with less hassle. Consider these accessories as smart investments in your kitchen and your well-being.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are silicone slow cooker liners safe to use?
A: Yes, the silicone liners we’ve discussed are made from food-grade, BPA-free silicone. This material is safe for high temperatures and won’t leach harmful chemicals into your food, making them a healthy and safe choice for cooking.
Q: Will a lid lock strap fit any slow cooker?
A: While designs vary, most lid lock straps are designed to be universal for common slow cooker sizes, typically 6 to 8 quarts. Always check the product’s specifications to ensure compatibility with your specific slow cooker model.
Q: Can I really cook two different meals at the same time with dividers?
A: Yes, dividers are specifically designed to create separate compartments within your slow cooker, allowing you to cook two distinct dishes simultaneously. This is ideal for different dietary needs or simply for variety. However, it’s important to note that very thin or liquidy sauces might slightly mingle between compartments.
Q: Are reusable slow cooker liners better than disposable ones?
A: Reusable silicone liners are generally considered better from an environmental and long-term cost perspective. They eliminate waste associated with disposable liners and are more durable, offering a more sustainable and cost-effective solution over time.
Q: How do I clean slow cooker accessories?
A: Most silicone accessories, like liners and lid straps, are dishwasher safe, making cleanup incredibly easy. For any items that aren’t dishwasher safe, a simple wash with soap and warm water is usually sufficient due to their non-stick surfaces.
Investing in the right slow cooker healthy living accessories can transform your cooking experience from a chore into a joy. These simple additions help you save time, reduce waste, and keep your appliance in top condition, making healthy eating more accessible and enjoyable. Ready to streamline your meal prep? Explore these handy accessories and see how they can make a difference in your kitchen!
