Best Small Colanders of 2026

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

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Small colanders are a must-have kitchen tool for anyone who enjoys cooking. These handy little strainers are perfect for rinsing fruits and vegetables, draining pasta, and even sifting flour. Made from durable materials like stainless steel or silicone, small colanders come in a variety of sizes and colors to suit any kitchen decor. Whether you're a professional chef or just a home cook, a small colander is a versatile and essential tool that will make your kitchen tasks easier and more efficient. Plus, their compact size makes them easy to store in any kitchen drawer or cabinet.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

U.S. Kitchen Supply Oval Colander Cover #TOP 1
U.S. Kitchen Supply Oval Colander
ftb score rating icon 9.8
DOPMEP Rice Washer Strainer Bowl Cover #TOP 2
DOPMEP Rice Washer Strainer Bowl
ftb score rating icon 9.7
OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel Colander Cover #TOP 3
OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel Colander
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Small Colanders

U.S. Kitchen Supply Oval Colander

SS-B175
Stainless Steel
U.S. Kitchen Supply Oval Colander Cover
U.S. Kitchen Supply Stainless Steel Colander Strainer - 6-Quart Collapsible Colander with Expandable Rubber Handles - Rectangular Sieve, Fine Mesh Stainless Steel Strainers and Colanders for Kitchen

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
Expandable, adjustable handles
Fits most sinks
Large capacity
Sturdy stainless steel build
Easy to clean

DOPMEP Rice Washer Strainer Bowl

DOPMEP
RC-01
Rice Colander
DOPMEP Rice Washer Strainer Bowl Cover
Rice Washer Strainer Bowl - 4-in-1 Washing Bowl for Quinoa, Stainless Steel Rinser With Side Drainers Small Colander for Cleaning Fruits, Vegetables, and Beans - Versatile Kitchen Tool

The DOPMEP Strainer Bowl is an essential kitchen tool made from high-quality, food-grade stainless steel, ensuring it is safe and durable for all your cooking needs. Its versatile design allows you to easily wash and drain a variety of foods, from rice to pasta and even fruits and vegetables. The efficient drainage system, with strategically placed holes, lets you quickly remove excess water while keeping your food intact. Plus, the unique slanted bottom helps liquids flow out effortlessly, making your cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

What We Like
Durable stainless steel construction
Versatile 4-in-1 functionality
Easy to clean, dishwasher safe
Efficient rice and grain rinsing
Large capacity bowl

OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel Colander

OXO
11330900
Stainless Steel
5 Qt
OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel Colander Cover
OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel Colander, 5 qt. Capacity, Strainer with Non-Slip Handles, Kitchen Colander for Pasta and Vegetables, Nesting Stainless Steel Strainer and Sieve

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
Comfortable rubber handles
Stable non-slip feet
Quick and efficient drainage
Easy to clean
#TOP 4

Bellemain Metal Colander with Handle

2724634223335
Silver
5 Quart
Bellemain Metal Colander with Handle Cover
Bellemain Colander for Kitchen – 5 Qt Stainless Steel Strainer with Handle - 18/8 Pasta Strainer Bowl for Pasta, Spaghetti, Vegetables, Fruit, and Pot Draining - Stainless Steel Colander

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 stainless steel construction
Small holes prevent food slipping
Easy to clean
Perfect size for most uses
Great value for price

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
Sturdy stainless steel construction
Three versatile sizes
Easy to clean
Nests for compact storage
Fast and efficient draining

Gevoli Collapsible Colanders 3-Pack Set

Gevoli
SDC0353
White
Gevoli Collapsible Colanders 3-Pack Set Cover
Gevoli Collapsible Colanders (3 Pack Set) Food Strainers with Over-Sink Water Draining Base for Pasta Fruits and Vegetables (Patent Pending) White (3 Sizes, 3QT, 4QT and 5 Quart)

The Gevoli Collapsible Colanders offer a handy set of three differently sized strainers that make food prep easier. Each colander has a unique draining base that lets water flow directly into your sink, keeping your counters dry and clean. This feature is perfect when your sink is full of dishes but you still need to drain pasta or rinse fruits and veggies. The set includes three sizes, so you can pick the right one for any task. Plus, these colanders collapse flat to save space, making storage simple and efficient in your kitchen cabinets or drawers. Their design fits most sinks, helping you drain without spills or messes.

What We Like
Space-saving collapsible design
Multiple sizes for versatility
Easy to clean and dishwasher-safe
Sturdy self-draining base
Bright, easy-to-identify colors
#TOP 7

OXO Good Grips Rice & Small Grains Colander

OXO
11166900
Clear
OXO Good Grips Rice & Small Grains Colander Cover
OXO Good Grips Rice & Small Grains Washing Colander

The OXO Good Grips Colander is designed to help you wash rice and small grains efficiently. It drains water at just the right speed to wash away dirt and impurities without losing grains. The water collects inside before draining, so you can easily see when your grains are fully clean. Its pour spout has extra holes that quickly remove extra water, making it easier to drain without spills. Plus, the comfortable, non-slip handles give you a secure grip, so shaking and pouring your grains feels safe and simple every time.

What We Like
Optimal drainage speed
Visible water pooling
Extra drain holes
Non-slip handles

Gulex Colander Stainless Steel 3-Quart

colander
Gulex Colander Stainless Steel 3-Quart Cover
Gulex Colander Stainless Steel 3-Quart, Strainer for Kitchen Food, Dishwasher Safe

The Gulex Stainless Steel Colander is a versatile kitchen tool that is perfect for draining water and oils from pasta, as well as cleaning vegetables and fruits. With its tiny and closely spaced holes, food drains quickly and efficiently, while the sturdy mesh ensures it won't warp or snag, even with heavy foods. The footed design facilitates fast and easy drainage, and the solid ring base keeps the colander from tipping over. Made of professional-grade 18/10, 304 stainless steel, this colander is rust-free and will never affect the taste of your food. The 3-quart capacity makes it suitable for small restaurants and food trucks. Overall, the Gulex Stainless Steel Colander is a durable and reliable kitchen tool that will make your food preparation tasks a breeze.

What We Like
Sturdy stainless steel construction
Small holes for rice and pasta
Lightweight and easy to handle
Stable base and strong handles
Ideal midsize for daily use

BLUE GINKGO Over the Sink Colander

SC-2020
Gray
14.2 X 7.8 X 2.75"
BLUE GINKGO Over the Sink Colander Cover
BLUE GINKGO Over the Sink Colander Strainer Basket - Wash Vegetables and Fruits, Drain Cooked Pasta and Dry Dishes - Extendable - New Home Kitchen Essentials (7.9W x 14-19L x 2.75H) - Gray

The BLUE GINKGO Over the Sink Colander is a versatile kitchen tool, which can be used for rinsing vegetables, draining pasta, thawing frozen food, and drying dishes. With adjustable design and evenly spaced holes on the bottom, it is easy to use and saves space when not in use. This plastic colander is BPA-free, highly durable, sturdy, and heat-resistant up to 212 degrees Fahrenheit. It's also dishwasher safe and won't rust.

What We Like
Versatile and easy to use
Adjustable design saves space
BPA-free and highly durable

Kitchen Gizmo Snap N Strain Pot Strainer - Adjustable Silicone Clip On Strainer

Kitchen Gizmo
Lime Green
Lime Green
Kitchen Gizmo Snap N Strain Pot Strainer - Adjustable Silicone Clip On Strainer Cover
Kitchen Gizmo Snap N' Strain Clip On Strainer for Pots and Pans - Collapsible Silicone Pasta Strainer and Kitchen Gadget for Cooking - Easy to Use, Heat Resistant and Space Saving Colander - Green

The Kitchen Gizmo Snap N Strain Pot Strainer is a versatile and space-saving kitchen accessory that easily snaps onto round pots, pans, and bowls of all sizes. It features a fine mesh strainer that allows you to strain your food while it stays in the pot, saving you time and hassle. This compact strainer is a must-have for any kitchen with limited counter space. The package includes one Snap N' Strain strainer in Lime Green, designed and manufactured by Kitchen Gizmo.

What We Like
Easy to use and store in a quarter of the size of traditional colanders or sieves
Universal design fits pots, pans, and bowls of all sizes
Food stays in the pot, saving time and hassle
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What sizes do colanders come in?

Though there seems to be one standard size, about 23 to 25 cm wide at the top (about 9 to 10 inches), you can get ones smaller and far larger than that. Larger ones may be used by professional cooks and home canners. Some colanders have feet right underneath of them coming out of the bottom of the bowl.

2. What is a small strainer called?

We commonly refer to both colanders and sieves as “strainers,” although technically we use a colander to drain (discarding liquids like pasta water) and a sieve to strain (saving liquids like broth for stock).

3. Are colanders and strainers the same thing?

Size and shape: Colanders are typically larger than strainers and feature a base to stand independently. Filtration level: Colanders usually have bigger holes throughout, providing a moderate level of filtration (some modern colanders have borrowed the stainless steel mesh of strainers).

Editor's Notes

During our small colander research, we found 24 small colander products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 387,450 customer reviews through our big data system to write the small colanders list. We found that most customers choose small colanders with an average price of $17.26.

The small colanders are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of small colanders, including U.S. Kitchen Supply, DOPMEP, OXO, Bellemain, Tiawudi. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 6,473 consumers with an average rating of 4.8.

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.