Best Bar Strainers of 2026

Rebecca Cantu Avatar
Rebecca Cantu
Last Updated: Jan 14, 2026

* We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

A bar strainer is an essential tool for any bartender. It is used to strain ice and other ingredients from a cocktail while pouring it into a glass. There are various types of bar strainers available in the market, each with their own unique features. The most common type is the Hawthorne strainer, which fits snugly on top of a shaker or mixing glass and has a spring coil that strains out any solid ingredients. Another type is the Julep strainer, which is a perforated spoon-like tool used to strain cocktails that are stirred in a mixing glass. Bar strainers come in different materials like stainless steel, copper, and gold-plated, making them not only functional but also stylish.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

OXO Cocktail Strainer Cover #TOP 1
OXO Cocktail Strainer
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Patelai Tea Strainer Set Cover #TOP 2
Patelai Tea Strainer Set
ftb score rating icon 9.7
A Bar Above Cocktail Strainer Cover #TOP 3
A Bar Above Cocktail Strainer
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Bar Strainers

#TOP 1

OXO Cocktail Strainer

OXO
1058016
Steel
Set of 1
OXO Cocktail Strainer Cover
OXO SteeL Cocktail Strainer

The OXO Cocktail Strainer is a durable stainless steel bar strainer that efficiently strains ice and fruit from drinks for smooth cocktails. Its non-slip finger rest and comfortable handle make for a natural pour, while a raised lip prevents liquids from dripping. With a shorter handle, it can be easily stored. It is also dishwasher safe.

What We Like
Durable construction
Comfortable rubberized grip
Fits shakers and mixing glasses
Easy to clean
Strains effectively
What We Don't Like
Finger may touch cocktail
May require two hands for small hands
#TOP 2

Patelai Tea Strainer Set

Silver
3.3 Inches
Patelai Tea Strainer Set Cover
Patelai 3 Pieces Tea Strainers Cocktail Strainer Stainless Steel Fine Mesh Strainer Colander Conical Food Loose Tea Filter Practical Bar Colander Tool

Patelai Strainer Set includes three stainless steel strainers that can be used as cocktail strainers, tea strainers, and food colanders. The strainers are made of durable and anti-corrosive stainless steel and measure 8.6 inches in length, 3.3 inches in width, and 1.5 inches in height. The appropriate size can hold various ingredients, and the silver color is available for your choice. The set is easy to clean, either by hand or in the dishwasher, and is hygienic and built to last. With the Patelai Strainer Set, you can easily create delicious cocktails and prepare the perfect cup of tea. It is suitable for both amateur and professional users and can be used for loose tea leaves, cocktail and pulp, coffee grounds, wheat flour, and more.

What We Like
Rust-resistant stainless steel
Fine mesh filtration
Easy to clean
Versatile for tea and cocktails
Sturdy and durable
What We Don't Like
No counterbalance for resting
#TOP 3

A Bar Above Cocktail Strainer

STRN-HAWTH-PRONG-SS
Stainless Steel
Regular
A Bar Above Cocktail Strainer Cover
A Bar Above Cocktail Strainer, 4-Prong Bar Strainer with High Density Spring for Smooth Pouring, Fits Boston Shaker Tins and Mixing Glasses, Bar Essentials for Home Bartenders and Pros, Silver Finish

The A Bar Above Strainer is designed to give you a smooth, controlled pour every time. Its high-tension spring filters out ice shards and fruit bits, so your cocktails come out clear and crisp. Made from durable stainless steel, it’s built to last and keeps its polished look even with regular use. This strainer fits most standard shakers and mixing glasses snugly, preventing spills or awkward gaps. Plus, its ergonomic handle and finger rest make it comfortable to hold, giving you better control and less effort, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned home bartender. This tool helps you pour quickly and confidently with ease.

What We Like
Smooth, controlled pouring
Durable stainless steel
Fits standard shakers
Ergonomic handle design
What We Don't Like
Metal slightly thin
Shows fingerprint smudges
#TOP 4

A Bar Above Hawthorne Strainer

Y3-CN18-S8E1
Stainless Steel
1 Strainer
A Bar Above Hawthorne Strainer Cover
A Bar Above Hawthorne Strainer for Cocktails, Bar Strainer Cocktail, with High-Density Spring, Mirrored Stainless Steel Finish, Drink Strainer, Cocktail Strainer, for Boston Shakers and Mixing Glasses

A Bar Above Strainer is a professional-grade cocktail strainer made of stainless steel 304. It has an ergonomic design for comfort and speed. The strainer comes with a high-density spring that helps to keep fruit pulp and ice shards out of your cocktails. This steel-finished stainless strainer fits most cocktail shakers and mixing glasses. Its patented cut-away design reduces abrasion against the side of your hand. The finger grip is closer to the spring to reduce cramping or fatigue. With some practice, you can even strain into two different glasses at the same time. This strainer is built to last a lifetime, and it is the perfect accessory for any bar.

What We Like
Excellent straining performance
Tight and secure spring
Durable, high-quality build
Fits standard shaker tins
Comfortable to hold
What We Don't Like
Slightly difficult to clean
Price a bit high
#TOP 5

Winco Stainless Steel Bar Strainer

BST-4P
Stainless Steel
Winco Stainless Steel Bar Strainer Cover
Winco Stainless Steel 4-Prong Bar Strainer

The Winco Bar Strainer is an essential tool for any home bartender or cocktail enthusiast. Its wire spring design ensures that you can easily filter out unwanted solids while pouring your drinks. The four prongs provide added stability, making it easier to hold the strainer in place as you pour. Made from durable stainless steel, this strainer is not only stylish but also built to last. Plus, it's dishwasher safe, so you can spend less time cleaning and more time enjoying your favorite beverages.

What We Like
Easy to use
Fits most shakers and glasses
Durable metal construction
Great value for price
Efficient drink straining
What We Don't Like
Edges slightly sharp
Uncertain stainless material
#TOP 6

Barfly Fine Mesh Cocktail Strainer

M37025
Stainless
Barfly Fine Mesh Cocktail Strainer Cover
Barfly Fine Mesh Cocktail Strainer, Stainless

Barfly Mesh Strainer is a top-quality stainless steel strainer with a comfortable handle for easy one-handed operation. It efficiently removes pulp, herbs, and ice from drinks, ensuring a smooth texture. The 3 1/2" bowl allows straining a single drink in one pour, saving time and effort. This strainer is easy to clean by hand washing or dishwasher, enhancing its longevity. Whether you're a professional bartender or a home enthusiast, Barfly Mesh Strainer is an essential tool to craft the perfect cocktail.

What We Like
Durable construction
Excellent fine mesh
Attractive appearance
Easy to clean
Great for double straining
What We Don't Like
Occasional shipping dents
Handle slightly long
#TOP 7

TheBarsentials Cocktail Strainer Set with Stirring Spoon

TheBarsentials Cocktail Strainer Set with Stirring Spoon Cover
TheBarsentials Cocktail Strainer Set Stainless Steel Bar Tools with Stirring Spoon - Hawthorne, Julep, & Fine-Mesh Sifter for Drinks

TheBarsentials Cocktail Strainer Set with Stirring Spoon includes three essential strainers that are perfect for filtering out ice, fruit, herbs, and other pieces from your favorite drinks. The set also comes with a cocktail stirring spoon that has a twisted long handle for great control and grip. Made with durable 304 stainless steel, these strainers and spoon are resistant to corrosion and rust, won't bend or break, and are dishwasher safe. The set is a great addition to any home or professional bar, and it makes for a perfect gift for aspiring or seasoned bartenders.

What We Like
Sturdy stainless steel construction
Good value for price
Includes Hawthorne and julep strainers
Essential home bar tools
Attractive gift packaging
What We Don't Like
Occasional shipping damage
Shaker tin not included
#TOP 8

A Bar Above Julep Strainer

SE-NO4W-Q4UB
Stainless Steel
Julep Strainer
A Bar Above Julep Strainer Cover
A Bar Above Stainless Steel Julep Strainer, 304 Metal Cocktail Sieve for Spirit-Forward Drinks, Rounded Handle Bartender Tool for Mixing Glasses and Shakers, Professional-Grade Drink Strainer

A Bar Above Strainer is a top choice for craft bars and home cocktail enthusiasts. Made from sturdy SS304, it is built to last even in busy bars. Its rounded handle is comfortable to hold and beautifully styled. The oval shape is perfect for fitting any standard mixing glass, cocktail shaker, or pint glass. It allows for quick pouring while filtering out ice particles, creating a smooth and delicious drink. This strainer is versatile, ergonomic, and durable, making it an essential tool for any commercial or home bar.

What We Like
High quality materials
Easy to clean
Works well with mixing glass
Durable construction
Attractive appearance
What We Don't Like
Preference for Hawthorn strainer
#TOP 9

A Bar Above Stainless Steel Fine Mesh Cocktail Strainer

Fine Strainer
Stainless Steel
Regular
A Bar Above Stainless Steel Fine Mesh Cocktail Strainer Cover
A Bar Above Stainless Steel Fine Mesh Cocktail Strainer, 304 Conical Sieve with Ergonomic Handle, Rustproof Bartender Tool for Double-Straining Tea, Coffee, Kombucha, and Culinary Prep

The A Bar Above Cocktail Strainer is designed to give you reliable and professional-level performance in your drink and culinary prep. Its polished stainless steel finish not only looks great but also makes it easy to filter out seeds, pulp, and herbs for smooth pours. Made from durable, rust-resistant 304 stainless steel with strong welds, this strainer stands up to heavy use and is dishwasher safe for easy cleaning. The ergonomic handle offers a comfortable grip during long prep sessions, and the built-in hanging loop keeps it handy and organized in your kitchen or bar. This tool helps you work efficiently with less mess and more precision.

What We Like
Solid construction
Comfortable solid handle
Versatile use
Easy to clean
Elegant design
#TOP 10

The Art of Craft Hawthorne Strainer

SSHS02
Silver
The Art of Craft Hawthorne Strainer Cover
The Art of Craft Hawthorne Strainer: Stainless Steel Cocktail Strainer for Home Bar and Professional Bartenders 5.75" x 3.87" x 1.25”

The Art of Craft Hawthorne Strainer is a durable and dependable bar strainer made from 304 stainless steel. It features a high density coil that can fine strain your cocktails, filtering out ice shards and fruit pulp. The added finger stop design provides you with a controlled pour and comfortable use. This strainer fits most industry standard shaker tins and mixing glasses, and is dishwasher safe for easy cleaning.

What We Like
Dense spring for fine straining
Solid and well-made build
Fits shaker and mixing glass
One-handed straining capability
Good weight and balance
What We Don't Like
Not stamped 304 stainless steel
Pouring speed slightly slower
Buying Guide Image

Everything You Need to Know About Buying Bar Strainers

Introduction to Bar Strainers

A bar strainer is an essential tool for any mixologist or home bartender. It is used to strain cocktails and other mixed drinks, ensuring that any unwanted bits of ice or fruit are removed before serving. Choosing the right bar strainer can be a daunting task, as there are many different types and styles available on the market. In this article, we will explore the different factors to consider when choosing a bar strainer, including size, material, and design.

Size Matters

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a bar strainer is the size. A strainer that is too small may not be able to adequately strain your cocktails, resulting in a messy and unappealing drink. On the other hand, a strainer that is too large may be difficult to maneuver and could spill your drink. To determine the right size for your needs, consider the size of your mixing glass or shaker. A strainer that is slightly smaller than the opening of your mixing glass or shaker will work well.

Material Matters

Another factor to consider when choosing a bar strainer is the material. Bar strainers are typically made from stainless steel, brass, or copper. Stainless steel is the most common and affordable option, and it is also durable and easy to clean. Brass and copper are more expensive, but they have a more elegant and polished appearance. If you are looking for a strainer that will make a statement, a brass or copper strainer may be the right choice for you.

Design Matters

In addition to size and material, the design of the bar strainer is also important. There are two main types of strainers: the Hawthorne strainer and the julep strainer. The Hawthorne strainer has a spring-loaded center that allows it to fit snugly onto the rim of a mixing glass or shaker. This type of strainer is best for cocktails that are shaken, as it allows for easy straining while keeping the ice in the mixing glass or shaker. The julep strainer, on the other hand, is a flat, perforated strainer that is best for cocktails that are stirred. It is typically used with a mixing glass and is perfect for straining out bits of fruit or herbs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing the right bar strainer is an important decision for any mixologist or home bartender. The size, material, and design of the strainer should all be considered to ensure that you have the right tool for the job. By considering these factors, you can choose a bar strainer that will make your cocktails look and taste their best.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is a bar strainer called?

Also known as a bar strainer, the cocktail strainer is typically used after a drink has been shaken or stirred to remove the ice, fruit or other solids that shouldn't find their way into the resulting cocktail.

2. What are bar strainers used for?

A cocktail strainer is a metal bar accessory used to remove ice from a mixed drink as it is poured into the serving glass. A type of sieve, the strainer is placed over the mouth of the glass or shaker in which the beverage was prepared; small holes in the device allow only liquids to pass as the beverage is poured.

3. How many types of strainers are there in bar?

There are 3 different strainers: the Hawthorne, the Julep, and a fine mesh strainer. The Hawthorne is the most common strainer you'll see behind the bar.

4. How does a Hawthorne strainer work?

Mercer Barfly Fine Mesh StrainerTrue Cocktail Strainer, Stainless SteelOXO SteeL Fine Mesh Cocktail StrainerViski Julep StrainerHawthorne Cocktail STRAINER - Stainless Steel STRAINER for Professional Bartenders and MixologistsUrban Bar Hawthorn StrainerCrafthouse by Fortessa Hawthorne StrainerFranmara Cocktail Strainer 2 ProngOenophilia Cocktail StrainerBarConic Hawthorne Strainer – Silver GlitterPaderno Colino CocktailBar Lux Stainless Steel Julep StrainerProject 62 Stainless Steel Cocktail Strainer GoldBarcraft Stainless Steel Lux Cocktail STRAINERHIC StrainerTezzorio Stainless Steel Hawthorne StrainerVking Hawthorn Cocktail STRAINER Stainless Steel Bar STRAINER Professional 4 Prong STRAINER with 100 Wire SpringStainless Steel Cocktail StrainerRobbe & Berking Cocktail Strainer

Editor's Notes

During our bar strainer research, we found 24 bar strainer products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 59,401 customer reviews through our big data system to write the bar strainers list. We found that most customers choose bar strainers with an average price of $16.88.

The bar strainers are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of bar strainers, including OXO, Patelai, A Bar Above, Winco, Barfly. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Rebecca Cantu Avatar

Rebecca Cantu grew up in a family-owned retail store for home and kitchen products. She worked online and gave assistance to people to buy ideal products for their sweet home after graduating from Northwestern University with a marketing degree. She has been writing content for online shopping guides since 2011 with her professional knowledge and natural sensitivity of appliances.

Bar Strainers Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand OXO Patelai A Bar Above A Bar Above Winco Barfly TheBarsentials A Bar Above A Bar Above THE ART OF CRAFT
Material Stainless Steel Stainless Steel Stainless Steel Metal Stainless Steel Stainless Steel Stainless Steel Metal Stainless Steel Stainless Steel
Color Steel Silver Stainless Steel Stainless Steel Stainless Steel Stainless Silver Stainless Steel Stainless Steel Silver
Item Weight 0.07 Kilograms 3.17 Ounces 4.2 ounces 3.52 ounces 0.2 Ounces 100 Grams 9.2 ounces 0.2 Pounds 5.3 Ounces 0.24 Pounds
Style Strainer Tool Stainless Steel Mirrored stainless steel, ergonomic design Round, Wire Mesh, Reinforced Rim Conical Strainer - Casual Stainless Steel Mesh,Mesh Strainers Modern
Is Dishwasher Safe -
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.7
ftb score rating icon 8.5
Where to Buy