Best Colanders of 2025

Rebecca Cantu Avatar
Rebecca Cantu
Last Updated: Jan 13, 2025

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

Colanders are essential kitchen tools for straining pasta, vegetables, and fruits. They come in a variety of sizes, materials, and designs to fit any kitchen style. Some have handles for easy lifting and pouring, while others have feet to keep them stable in the sink. Stainless steel colanders are durable and easy to clean, while silicone colanders are flexible and space-saving. Some colanders even come with interchangeable strainer plates for different types of food. Whether you're a professional chef or a home cook, a colander is a must-have tool in your kitchen.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

ExcelSteel 5 Qt Stainless Steel Colander Cover #TOP 1
ExcelSteel 5 Qt Stainless Steel Colander
ftb score rating icon 9.8
OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel Colander Cover #TOP 2
OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel Colander
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ExcelSteel Stainless Steel Colander Set Cover #TOP 3
ExcelSteel Stainless Steel Colander Set
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Colanders

ExcelSteel 5 Qt Stainless Steel Colander

Stainless
5 Qt (Pack of 1)
ExcelSteel 5 Qt Stainless Steel Colander Cover
ExcelSteel Heavy Duty Handles and Self-draining Solid Ring Base Stainless Steel Colander, 5 Qt, Stainless (Pack of 1)

The ExcelSteel 5 Qt Stainless Steel Colander offers easy grip handles, durable construction, dishwasher safe material, a high shine mirror polished finish, and lightweight stainless steel for easy handling. The easy grip handles make it convenient for you to lift and pour, while the durable stainless steel construction ensures long-lasting use. The dishwasher safe material allows for easy cleaning, while the high shine mirror polished finish gives this colander an elegant appearance. The lightweight stainless steel makes it easy to handle and maneuver while draining pasta or washing vegetables.

What We Like
Easy to clean
Sturdy and durable
Good price
Excellent design
Lightweight
What We Don't Like
A bit bulky
Potential shelf space issue
#TOP 2

OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel Colander

OXO
11330900
Stainless Steel
OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel Colander Cover
OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel 5 qt./ 4.7 L Colander

The OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel Colander has elevated, non-slip handles for a comfortable grip and a perforated design for fast and thorough straining. It can be nested in mixing bowls for easy straining and storage, and has five feet for stability in the sink and on the countertop. It comes in 3 qt and 5 qt capacities.

What We Like
Sturdy stainless steel construction
Easy to clean and maintain
Stable design with wide feet
Perfect hole size for draining
Comfortable ergonomic handles
What We Don't Like
Sticker residue removal issues
#TOP 3

ExcelSteel Stainless Steel Colander Set

Stainless Steel
1 QT/2.5 QT/4 QT
ExcelSteel Stainless Steel Colander Set Cover
ExcelSteel Colander set, Stainless steel, Colanders , 3 Count ( Pack of 1)

The ExcelSteel Colander Set includes 1-Quart, 2.5-Quart, and 4-Quart sizes, made of high-quality lightweight stainless steel with a mirror polished interior and exterior. The sturdy base allows for easy placement on any countertop or sink, and the oversized handles provide comfortable food handling. Additionally, each colander nests for convenient storage.

What We Like
Multiple size options
Sturdy and well-made
Lightweight design
Easy to clean
Good price value
What We Don't Like
Water retention around drainage holes
Feels somewhat plastic

OXO 3 QT Plastic Colander

OXO
11331000
White
3 QT
OXO 3 QT Plastic Colander Cover
OXO Good Grips 3 QT Plastic Colander, White

The OXO Plastic Colander is a versatile kitchen tool that makes draining and straining a breeze. Its elongated holes allow for fast water flow and efficient draining, ensuring that your food is perfectly drained every time. The non-slip handles provide a secure and comfortable grip, even when your hands are wet, making it easy to handle and pour out the contents. With contoured feet, this colander stays stable in the sink, even when straining heavy food. The colander's height and 3-qt capacity prevent water from pooling, ensuring that your food stays dry. Plus, it is dishwasher safe, making cleanup a breeze. Whether you're rinsing fruits and vegetables or straining pasta, the OXO Plastic Colander is a must-have in any kitchen.

What We Like
Sturdy construction
Good size for various tasks
Easy to clean
Non-slip grips
Compact storage
What We Don't Like
Silicone handles may wear
Plastic material feels slightly overpriced

U.S. Kitchen Supply Oval Colander

SS-B175
Stainless Steel
U.S. Kitchen Supply Oval Colander Cover
U.S. Kitchen Supply - Premium Quality Over The Sink Stainless Steel Oval Colander with Fine Mesh 6 Quart Strainer Basket & Expandable Rubber Grip Handles - Strain, Drain, Rinse Fruits, Vegetables

The U.S. Kitchen Supply Oval Colander is a professional-grade, over-the-sink, stainless steel colander with a fine mesh net strainer basket and expandable rubber grip handles. It is easy to use and clean, with the ability to sift, strain, drain, and rinse small and large ingredients. The colander can be used to hold fruits and vegetables, making it a versatile kitchen tool.

What We Like
Non-slip grips for safety
Adjustable size fits various sinks
Sturdy construction and quality materials
Easy to clean and maintain
Versatile for multiple kitchen tasks
What We Don't Like
Sharp edges may cause cuts
Quality concerns with some units

Bellemain Metal Colander with Handle

2724634223335
Silver
5 Quart
Bellemain Metal Colander with Handle Cover
Bellemain 5 Qt Metal Colander with Handle | Pasta, Spaghetti, Berry, Fruit, Vegetable, Kitchen Food Strainer Basket | 18/8 Stainless Steel Colander Bowl | Pot Drainer for Cooking, Sifter Strainer

The Bellemain Metal Colander with Handle is a 5 Qt kitchen food strainer basket made of rust-proof dishwasher safe 18/8 stainless steel. The colander has quick draining micro-perforations that drain fast without having to tilt the bowl, and the stable draining ring base won't tip over and won't leave your food sitting in a puddle. The holes are small enough that you can strain most beans, pastas, and grains as well as fruits and vegetables without any worries.

What We Like
Sturdy commercial-grade construction
Easy to clean in dishwasher
Perfect hole size for drainage
One-handed operation capability
Generously sized for large portions
What We Don't Like
Product may rust after washing
Slightly smaller than expected

Qimh Collapsible Colander Set

8541962353
green,blue, purple
11.5 x 9.3 x 2.5
Qimh Collapsible Colander Set Cover
Qimh Collapsible Colander Set of 3 Round Silicone Kitchen Strainer Set - 2 pcs 4 Quart and 1 pcs 2 Quart- Perfect for Draining Pasta, Vegetable and fruit (green,blue, purple)

The Qimh Collapsible Colander Set is a versatile kitchen tool that comes in a set of 3 round silicone strainers, including 2 pieces of 4-quart and 1 piece of 2-quart. With its foldable and space-saving design, these strainers are easy to use and store, making them the perfect addition to any kitchen. You can use them to drain pasta, vegetables, fruits, and salad leaves. Made of environmentally friendly rubber and plastic materials, this colander set is safe and odor-free. You can use it over a sink or on a counter or table. Plus, Qimh provides excellent customer service, promising to help solve any problems within 24 hours.

What We Like
Three different sizes
Space-saving design
Easy to clean
Lightweight yet sturdy
Great value for price
What We Don't Like
Material quality is average
Collapsibility can be difficult

3 Pack Stainless Steel Colander Sieves

KC07903
Silver
3 Pack Stainless Steel Colander Sieves Cover
3 Pack 18/8 Stainless Steel Colander Sieves(5-Quart, 4-Quart and 3-Quart), Mesh Strainer Net Baskets with Handles & Resting Base for Strain, Drain, Rinse or Steam

If you are tired of replacing your rusty and hard-to-clean food strainer, try Tiawudi's 3 Pack Stainless Steel Colander Sieves. These kitchen strainers are made of 18/8 stainless steel that is BPA, Lead, and Cadmium-free. They come in three different sizes and feature sturdy outer mirror finished wide rimmed framework design, rust-proof firm mesh netting, and riveted premium handles. These colanders are versatile and perfect for sifting, filtering, and straining both wet and dry ingredients. They are easy to clean and dishwasher safe. Plus, they come with a lifetime guarantee.

What We Like
Durable stainless steel construction
Various sizes for versatility
Lightweight and easy to clean
Stable base design
Dishwasher safe for convenience
What We Don't Like
May dent over time
A bit pricey for standard sifters
#TOP 9

QiMH Collapsible Colander and Strainer

Light Grey
5 quart
QiMH Collapsible Colander and Strainer Cover
QiMH Collapsible Colander and Strainer, 5 Quart(1.25 gal), Heavey Duty Kitchen Drainer Basket for Pasta, Veggies and Fruits, New Home Apartment Essentials

The QiMH Collapsible Colander and Strainer has a foldable design for easy storage, is easy to use, made of environmentally friendly materials, and has multiple uses. It is perfect for draining most foods, rinsing salad greens, and fresh vegetables. You can use it in or over a sink and freestanding on a counter or table. In case of any dissatisfaction, the company promises to help solve any problems within 24 hours.

What We Like
Sturdy construction
Lightweight and collapsible
Easy to clean
Perfect size for pasta
Cute color
What We Don't Like
Cracked after three years
Not as durable as hoped
#TOP 10

All-Clad Stainless Steel Colander, 3-Quart

11644560362
Silver
3-Quart
All-Clad Stainless Steel Colander, 3-Quart Cover
All-Clad Tools and Accessories Stainless Steel Colander 3 Quart Strainer, Pasta Strainer with Handle, Pots and Pans Silver

The All-Clad Stainless Steel Colander is a top-quality kitchen accessory made of 18/10 stainless steel. Featuring graduated holes, it ensures quick drainage and efficient air circulation. The pedestal base provides excellent stability, while the large riveted handles offer a firm grip for easy lifting. Its brushed stainless steel interior and polished exterior make it an elegant addition to your kitchen. Dishwasher safe and backed by a lifetime warranty, this colander is a must-have for any chef.

What We Like
Solid construction
Good size for various uses
Shiny and spot-free after washing
Excellent drainage performance
Durable stainless steel
What We Don't Like
Minor manufacturing imperfection
Somewhat overpriced
Buying Guide Image

Choosing the Best Colanders to Build Your Dream Home

Consider the Material

When choosing a colander, one of the first things to consider is the material it is made of. Colanders can be made of a variety of materials, including plastic, stainless steel, and silicone. Each material has its own pros and cons, so it's important to choose the one that best fits your needs.

Plastic colanders are generally the most affordable option and are lightweight, making them easy to handle and store. However, they are not as durable as other materials and can become brittle over time, especially if they are exposed to high heat.

Stainless steel colanders are more durable and can withstand high temperatures, making them ideal for use in boiling water. They are also dishwasher safe and resistant to rust and corrosion. However, they are generally heavier and more expensive than plastic colanders.

Silicone colanders are a newer option on the market. They are lightweight and flexible, making them easy to handle and store. They are also heat-resistant and can withstand temperatures up to 600 degrees Fahrenheit. However, they are not as durable as stainless steel colanders and may not last as long.

Consider the Size and Capacity

Another important factor to consider when choosing a colander is the size and capacity. Colanders come in a range of sizes, from small ones that can hold a few cups of food to large ones that can hold several quarts. It's important to choose a colander that is the right size for your needs.

If you are only using the colander for straining small amounts of food, such as a few cups of cooked pasta, a small colander will suffice. However, if you plan on using the colander for larger tasks, such as straining a pot of soup or washing a large batch of vegetables, a larger colander is a better choice.

Consider the Design and Functionality

In addition to material and size, the design and functionality of the colander are also important factors to consider. Colanders can have a variety of features, such as a handle for easy lifting, a non-slip base to keep it in place, and perforated sides or holes for efficient drainage.

It's important to choose a colander that has the features you need and will be easy to use. For example, if you plan on using the colander to strain hot food, a colander with a handle will be easier to use than one without. Similarly, if you plan on using the colander in a sink, a colander with a non-slip base will be more stable and less likely to tip over.

Consider the Brand and Price

Finally, when choosing a colander, it's important to consider the brand and price. Colanders can vary widely in price, from budget-friendly options to more expensive ones. It's important to choose a colander that fits your budget and is from a reputable brand.

When it comes to colanders, it's often worth it to invest in a high-quality, well-made product. A well-made colander will last longer and be more durable, making it a better value in the long run.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are colanders used for?

A colander is a kitchen utensil that is primarily used to rinse vegetables or strain foods such as pasta. The bottom is perforated, which allows for water or liquid to drain through while holding on to the solids inside.

2. What is the difference between colander and strainer?

A strainer is really a catchall name for any type of, well, strainer. It is usually fine mesh and bowl-shaped, good for rinsing a pint of berries or draining pasta. A colander is typically a larger bowl-shaped strainer, often with bigger holes (although that's not always the case).

3. Are mesh colanders good?

Fine mesh colanders are good for rinsing or draining small-grained foods, such as rice, quinoa, or orzo. They're also good for straining solids out of stock or particles out of a liquid, but they can be difficult to clean since the mesh is so fine.

Editor's Notes

During our colander research, we found 24 colander products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 174,159 customer reviews through our big data system to write the colanders list. We found that most customers choose colanders with an average price of $17.87.

The colanders are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of colanders, including EXCELSTEEL, OXO, U.S. Kitchen Supply, Bellemain, QiMH. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 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.

Colanders Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand EXCELSTEEL OXO EXCELSTEEL OXO U.S. Kitchen Supply Bellemain QiMH Tiawudi QiMH All-Clad
Material Stainless Steel Stainless Steel Stainless Steel Plastic Stainless Steel Stainless Steel Silica gel Stainless Steel Plastic, Rubber Stainless Steel
Color Stainless Stainless Steel Stainless Steel White Stainless Steel Silver green,blue, purple Silver Light Grey Silver
Style Heavy Duty Colander original Classic fine No more watching your spaghetti or rice slip through the holes. No slow or incompletely draining water. No worries about warping, scratching, rusting or tipping over. Whether you're boiling pasta, steaming vegetables or washing fruit, the Bellemain Stainless Steel Colander simply makes your life easier. Modern Mesh Strainer Foldable Classic
Item Weight 13.6 ounces 16 ounces 1.7 Pounds - 1.4 Pounds 1 Pounds 50 Grams 1.4 Pounds - 32 Ounces
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 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.0
Where to Buy