Ever feel like your colander just doesn’t get the job done? Maybe it’s too small, too flimsy, or drains water slower than molasses. You’re not alone! Choosing the right colander can be surprisingly tricky, with so many styles and materials out there. It’s easy to end up with one that makes washing pasta or rinsing veggies a frustrating chore instead of a simple step.
But what if you could finally find a colander that makes kitchen tasks easier and more efficient? What if you could be sure you’re getting a tool that will last and perform beautifully, every single time? That’s exactly what we’re diving into today. We’ll explore what makes a colander truly great, based on the rigorous testing and trusted recommendations from America’s Test Kitchen.
By the end of this post, you’ll have a clear understanding of what to look for and which colanders rise to the top. Get ready to say goodbye to kitchen frustrations and hello to a colander that truly works for you. Let’s find the perfect draining partner!
Our Top 5 Colander America’S Test Kitchen Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Colander America’S Test Kitchen Detailed Reviews
1. U.S. Kitchen Supply Stainless Steel Colander Strainer – 6-Quart Collapsible Colander with Expandable Rubber Handles – Rectangular Sieve
Rating: 9.5/10
The U.S. Kitchen Supply Stainless Steel Colander Strainer is a versatile kitchen tool designed to make food prep a breeze. This large, 6-quart capacity colander features a fine mesh stainless steel basket and expandable rubber handles, making it perfect for a variety of tasks.
What We Like:
- The professional-grade fine mesh strainer basket is perfect for catching even small ingredients.
- Expandable rubber handles stretch from 14″ to 21″, fitting over or in most sinks, freeing up your hands.
- Its large 13″ by 9″ size and 6-quart capacity handle big batches of food with ease.
- The resting feet allow it to sit on the counter as a handy fruit and vegetable basket.
- This colander is incredibly versatile, great for rinsing, draining, sifting, and straining many different foods.
- It’s easy to clean and dishwasher safe, saving you time and effort.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the mesh is fine, some very tiny grains might still pass through.
- The rectangular shape, though functional, might not be ideal for every sink space.
This colander is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, offering convenience and efficiency for all your straining and rinsing needs. It’s built to last and makes cooking a more enjoyable experience.
2. U.S. Kitchen Supply Set of 3 Stainless Steel Colander Strainers Net Baskets – 11″
Rating: 9.2/10
Upgrade your kitchen game with the U.S. Kitchen Supply Set of 3 Stainless Steel Colander Strainers. This set includes three sturdy stainless steel colanders in 11-inch, 9.5-inch, and 8.5-inch sizes. They are designed with comfortable handles and a stable resting base, making them perfect for all your straining and sifting needs. These colanders are built to be a reliable helper in your kitchen for years to come.
What We Like:
- You get three professional-grade stainless steel mesh colanders in popular sizes.
- The wide, mirror-finished rim and sturdy wire framing keep the baskets strong.
- They have handles and a resting base, so you can set them in a pot, sink, or on the counter, freeing up your hands.
- Nesting them together saves space in your kitchen cabinets.
- These colanders are easy to clean and are dishwasher safe.
- They are incredibly versatile for sifting, straining, rinsing, steaming, and cooking.
- The concave mesh catches small ingredients easily.
- You can use them for a wide range of tasks, like sifting flour, washing produce, straining sauces, and even frying foods.
- The stainless steel construction ensures they are rust-proof and built to last.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the mesh is great for most tasks, very fine powders might pass through.
This set offers exceptional value and functionality for any home cook. You’ll find yourself reaching for these reliable colanders for countless kitchen tasks.
3. SIFTR (BLUE) Nesting Can Strainer Mini Colander Set – Space Saving Small Colanders and Strainers – Multi Use Kitchen Gadget – Silicone Can Strainer
Rating: 9.3/10
Tired of wrestling with bulky colanders for simple tasks? The SIFTR (BLUE) Nesting Can Strainer Mini Colander Set is your new kitchen superhero! This clever set of three flexible silicone strainers is designed to fit snugly on cans of all sizes, making draining beans, fruits, and veggies a breeze. No more messy residue left behind – just clean food, every time.
What We Like:
- Effortlessly strains cans: SIFTR easily removes liquid and residue from canned goods.
- Versatile uses: It works as a tea infuser, herb strainer, cocktail shaker, and even helps open stubborn jars!
- Space-saving design: These mini colanders nest together, taking up minimal cupboard space.
- Perfect for citrus: Squeeze lemons or limes directly into the SIFTR to catch seeds.
- Comes in a set of three: You get different sizes to fit all your cans.
- Great gift idea: It’s a thoughtful present for new homeowners, students, or anyone who loves to cook.
What Could Be Improved:
- May be too small for very large kitchen tasks: While great for cans, it’s not a replacement for a full-size colander for large batches of pasta.
The SIFTR set is a brilliant solution for small kitchens and everyday convenience. It proves that sometimes, the smallest gadgets make the biggest difference.
4. HiramWare Stainless Steel Colander With Handle and Legs
Rating: 8.9/10
Meet the HiramWare Stainless Steel Colander, your new best friend in the kitchen! This large, green metal strainer is built to handle all your draining needs, from pasta and berries to fresh veggies and salads. Its stylish design and sturdy construction make it a joy to use and a beautiful addition to any kitchen.
What We Like:
- Built to Last: Made from high-quality, heavy-duty stainless steel, this colander won’t rust and is designed to be a kitchen staple for years to come.
- Comfortable to Hold: The ergonomic handle is easy and comfortable to grip, making it simple to maneuver even when full.
- Super Fast Draining: The perfectly sized holes drain water quickly and efficiently, while also keeping your food safely inside.
- Looks Great: This colander is not only functional but also fashionable, making it a wonderful gift idea or a lovely piece of kitchen decor.
- Plenty of Room: With a 5-quart capacity and a 10.5-inch diameter, it’s big enough to handle large batches of pasta, a bounty of berries, or a big salad.
- Easy Cleanup: It’s dishwasher safe, which means cleaning up after cooking is a breeze.
What Could Be Improved:
- Leg Stability: While the legs provide elevation, they might feel a little less sturdy on some surfaces compared to a solid base.
- Handle Attachment: The handle is comfortable, but ensuring its long-term attachment strength with very heavy loads might be a slight concern for some users.
This HiramWare colander offers a fantastic blend of durability, functionality, and style. It’s a smart investment for any home cook looking for a reliable and attractive kitchen tool.
5. PriorityChef Premium 4 Qrt Stainless Steel Colander for Kitchen
Rating: 8.9/10
The PriorityChef Premium 4 Qrt Stainless Steel Colander is a kitchen workhorse. It’s designed to make draining and rinsing your food quick and easy. This sturdy strainer is built to handle all your everyday cooking needs, from pasta to vegetables.
What We Like:
- Fast Draining Micro-Perforations: The small holes let water escape quickly, so your food drains fast without getting lost.
- Versatile Use: It’s great for draining rice, pasta, and rinsing fruits and vegetables.
- Raised Base: This clever design keeps the colander elevated, preventing water from pooling and keeping your counters dry.
- Strong Stainless Steel: Made from durable stainless steel, it won’t bend or rust, meaning it will last for years.
- Easy-Grip Handles: The large, comfortable handles make it easy to hold and maneuver, even when full.
- Dishwasher Safe: Cleanup is a breeze because you can just toss it in the dishwasher.
What Could Be Improved:
- Not for Super-Fine Grains: The micro-perforations are great for most things, but they aren’t small enough for very fine grains like quinoa or couscous.
Overall, the PriorityChef colander is a reliable and efficient tool for any kitchen. It simplifies draining and rinsing, making meal prep a little easier.
Choosing the Best Colander: A Guide for Every Kitchen
A good colander is a kitchen essential. It helps you drain pasta, rinse vegetables, and wash berries. But with so many options, how do you pick the right one? America’s Test Kitchen has tested many colanders to find the best ones. This guide will help you choose a colander that works great for you.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for a colander, keep these important features in mind:
- Size: Think about how much food you usually cook. A small colander is good for rinsing a single handful of berries. A larger one is better for draining a big pot of pasta.
- Stability: You want a colander that sits firmly on your sink. Look for colanders with sturdy bases or feet. This prevents it from tipping over.
- Drainage: The holes are very important. They should be big enough to let water drain quickly. They also shouldn’t be so big that small foods fall through.
- Handles: Comfortable handles make it easy to hold the colander, especially when it’s full and hot. Some colanders have two small handles, while others have one long one.
- Ease of Cleaning: A colander with a smooth surface and simple design is easiest to wash.
Important Materials
Colanders come in different materials. Each has its pros and cons:
- Stainless Steel: This is a popular choice. Stainless steel is strong, durable, and won’t rust. It’s also easy to clean and looks good in the kitchen.
- Plastic: Plastic colanders are usually lighter and less expensive. Some are made from BPA-free plastic, which is safer. However, plastic can sometimes stain or warp with heat.
- Silicone: Silicone colanders are flexible and can often be folded for easy storage. They are heat-resistant and dishwasher safe.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes a colander great?
- Good Drainage Holes: Well-placed and sized holes are key. They allow water to escape fast. This stops your food from getting soggy.
- Solid Construction: A colander built with strong materials will last longer. It won’t bend or break easily.
- Non-Slip Base: A base that grips the sink prevents accidents. This is especially important when you’re draining hot liquids.
What can make a colander less good?
- Flimsy Material: Thin plastic or metal can bend. This makes it hard to use.
- Poorly Placed Holes: Holes that are too small or too close together will make draining slow.
- Unstable Design: A colander that wobbles is a safety risk.
User Experience and Use Cases
Using a colander should be simple and effective.
- Draining Pasta: This is the most common use. A good colander drains pasta quickly, so it’s ready to be sauced.
- Rinsing Grains: You can rinse rice or quinoa to remove excess starch.
- Washing Produce: Wash fruits and vegetables under running water. The colander lets the water drain away.
- Draining Canned Goods: Rinse beans or tuna before using them.
America’s Test Kitchen often looks for colanders that are easy to handle, drain well, and are built to last. They favor stainless steel for its durability and ease of cleaning. They also like designs that offer stability in the sink.
Frequently Asked Questions About Colanders
Q: What is the best material for a colander?
A: Stainless steel is often considered the best. It is strong, lasts a long time, and is easy to clean. Plastic and silicone are also good options, but they might not be as durable.
Q: How do I know if a colander is a good size?
A: Think about how much food you usually prepare. A 3-quart colander is good for one or two people. A 5-quart or larger colander is better for families or when cooking for a crowd.
Q: Are colanders with feet better than those without?
A: Colanders with feet or a stable base are generally better. They sit more securely in the sink and are less likely to tip over.
Q: What makes colander holes effective?
A: Effective holes are not too small, so water drains quickly. They are also not too large, so food doesn’t fall through. A good pattern of holes helps with drainage.
Q: Can plastic colanders be used for hot foods?
A: Some plastic colanders are heat-resistant, but not all. Always check the product label. Stainless steel is a safer choice for draining very hot foods.
Q: How often should I clean my colander?
A: You should wash your colander after every use. This keeps it clean and prevents food bits from sticking.
Q: Are foldable colanders a good idea?
A: Foldable colanders, often made of silicone, save space. They are great for small kitchens. They can be very convenient for storage.
Q: What is the difference between a colander and a sieve?
A: A colander has larger holes and is used for draining things like pasta or rinsing vegetables. A sieve has much finer holes and is used for sifting flour or straining small seeds.
Q: How can I make sure my colander is stable in the sink?
A: Look for colanders with wide, flat bases or sturdy feet. Place the colander firmly in the sink before adding food.
Q: Where can I find colanders that America’s Test Kitchen recommends?
A: America’s Test Kitchen often features their top picks on their website and in their publications. You can search their reviews for “best colander.”
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Scott Fischer, the voice behind SliceItRight. My passion for food started in my grandmother’s kitchen, where I learned the art of slicing, dicing, and creating delicious meals. Over the years, I’ve explored everything from the perfect kitchen gadgets to mastering culinary techniques, and I’m here to share all of it with you. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced home chef, my goal is to make cooking easier, more enjoyable, and a lot more fun. So, let’s slice it right and cook up something amazing together!