Best Food Strainers of 2025

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

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Food strainers are an essential tool in any kitchen. They come in a variety of sizes and shapes, including mesh strainers, colanders, and sieves. These strainers are perfect for removing small particles and impurities from liquids, such as broth or juice, or for straining solids like pasta or vegetables. They are also useful for sifting dry ingredients like flour or powdered sugar. Food strainers are made from various materials, including metal, plastic, and mesh, and can be found at most kitchen supply stores. They are a versatile and indispensable tool for any home cook or professional chef.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Cuisinart Set of 3 Fine Mesh Strainers Cover #TOP 1
Cuisinart Set of 3 Fine Mesh Strainers
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Good Cook 6-Inch Strainer Cover #TOP 2
Good Cook 6-Inch Strainer
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Makerstep Fine Mesh Strainers Set of 3 Cover #TOP 3
Makerstep Fine Mesh Strainers Set of 3
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Food Strainers

Cuisinart Set of 3 Fine Mesh Strainers

CTG-00-3MS
Silver
3 Count (Pack of 1)
Cuisinart Set of 3 Fine Mesh Strainers Cover
Cuisinart Mesh Strainers, 3 Count (Pack of 1) Set, CTG-00-3MS Silver

The Cuisinart Set of 3 Fine Mesh Strainers includes 3 different sizes made from durable stainless steel mesh. They are excellent for sifting dry ingredients and easy to use. The strainers are dishwasher safe for easy cleaning, and come with a limited-lifetime warranty. This product is BPA free.

What We Like
High-quality stainless steel
Variety of sizes available
Dishwasher safe
Sturdy ergonomic handles
Effective for various tasks
What We Don't Like
Small items may get trapped
#TOP 2

Good Cook 6-Inch Strainer

24988
Black & Silver
Medium
Good Cook 6-Inch Strainer Cover
Goodcook Good Cook 6-Inch Strainer Aluminum Mesh, Medium, Black & Silver

This 6-inch strainer from Good Cook is made of aluminum with stainless steel wire mesh. The sturdy wire frame has lips to securely sit over containers, and the black handle provides a comfortable grip. Made in the United States, it is perfect for draining pasta or washing fruits and vegetables.

What We Like
Handy for small pasta
Lightweight and durable
Easy to clean
Good size for various uses
What We Don't Like
Small size for some tasks
Wiring may come apart

Makerstep Fine Mesh Strainers Set of 3

21002
Makerstep Fine Mesh Strainers Set of 3 Cover
Makerstep Fine Mesh Strainer Set of 3, Stainless Steel 3.38", 5.5", 7.87" Strainers Wire Sieve Sifter with Insulated Handle Strainers for Kitchen Gadgets Tools

Get the Makerstep Strainer Set, a pack of three premium stainless steel fine mesh strainers of 3 different sizes - 3 3/8", 5 1/2", and 7 7/8". These strainers are made of high-quality stainless steel that will not rust or corrode, and can handle boiling liquids when straining pasta or hot vegetables. The black insulated non-slip handles make it easy to strain hot liquids and foods without burning your hand or fingers, and the loop for hanging built-in to the top of each strainer lets you hang them for easy access and to free up more space in your kitchen cabinets and drawers. These strainers are ideal for straining flour, sugars, coffee, and other dry items, as well as for sifting for baking. They allow you to remove impurities for safer use and improved flavor.

What We Like
Sturdy construction
Various sizes available
Comfortable handles
Dishwasher safe
Good for multiple uses
What We Don't Like
Size not as expected
Initial quality issue
#TOP 4

Walfos Fine Mesh Strainers Set

3pcs fine mesh
Walfos Fine Mesh Strainers Set Cover
Walfos Fine Mesh Strainers Set, Premium Stainless Steel Colanders and Sifters, with Reinforced Frame Sturdy Handle, Perfect for Sift, Strain, Drain Rinse Vegetables, Pastas Tea - 3 Sizes

The Walfos Fine Mesh Strainers Set includes 3 different sizes (2.75", 4.65", and 7.15") of premium stainless steel colanders and sifters with a reinforced frame and sturdy handle. The seal steel ring and long handle protect you from scalding when fishing out pasta noodle from boiling water. The extra fine mesh strainers nets catch and sift, strain, or drain the smallest ingredients without wasting any food. Made of durable 304 stainless steel, these strainers are easy to clean. The product also comes with a 100% money-back guarantee.

What We Like
High-quality stainless steel
Multiple sizes for versatility
Fine mesh for effective straining
Durable and sturdy design
User-friendly handle
What We Don't Like
Handle joints could be improved
#TOP 5

YLYL 3 Pcs Super Wire Extra Fine Mesh Strainer Set

00385
Silver
YLYL 3 Pcs Super Wire Extra Fine Mesh Strainer Set Cover
3 Pcs Super Wire Extra Fine Mesh Strainer with Handle, Small Medium Large Size Sifter Metal, Stainless Steel Sieve Strainers for Kitchen Rice Juice Quinoa Food Flour Baking YLYL

The YLYL 3 Pcs Super Wire Extra Fine Mesh Strainer Set includes three strainers with diameters of 3.15", 5.5", and 7.87". Made of high-quality, food-grade 304 stainless steel, they won't rust or bend and are perfect for sifting and straining wet or dry ingredients like rice, juice, quinoa, food, flour, baking, vegetables, tea, fruits, pasta, salad, gravy, coffee, and more. The strainers are easy to clean and store, thanks to their twill mesh and dishwasher-safe construction, and are backed by a satisfaction guarantee.

What We Like
Sturdy construction
Effective fine mesh
Easy to clean
Versatile sizes
Great value for money
What We Don't Like
Not very deep

Kafoor 9" Fine Mesh Strainer with Rubber Handle

9 Inch Parent
Silver
9 Inches
Kafoor 9" Fine Mesh Strainer with Rubber Handle Cover
Kafoor 9" Large Fine Mesh Strainer with Thermo Plastic Rubber Handle - Sieve Fine Mesh Stainless Steel - Ideal Kitchen Essential to Strain Pasta, Quinoa and Rice

Kafoor 9" Fine Mesh Strainer with Rubber Handle is made of high-grade stainless steel which is durable and rust-resistant. The sieve is perfect for straining pasta, quinoa, rice, fruits, dry baby cereals, tomato sauce, and more. The heat-resistant thermoplastic rubber handle provides an improved grip and protection for your hands from heat. The wide ear hook features come in handy for kitchen arrangement. It is also burr-free and scratch-free, making it safe to use.

What We Like
Sturdy material
Good size for large jobs
Ergonomic and easy to handle
Quick delivery
What We Don't Like
Could be deeper

Zulay Stainless Steel Small Strainer

Cocktail Strainer
Silver
Fine Mesh Strainer
Zulay Stainless Steel Small Strainer Cover
Zulay Kitchen 304 Stainless Steel Fine Mesh Strainer For Kitchen - Sieve Sifters For Food, Tea, Rice, Oil, Noodles, Fruits, Vegetables - Rust-Proof, Easy to Clean Drink Strainer (Silver)

Zulay Cocktail Strainer is a must-have kitchen accessory for those who love to mix and serve cocktails. It is made of premium quality 304 stainless steel, making it durable and rust-resistant. The strainer is ergonomically designed with a 5.1-inch rod handle and front rest loop, providing extra support when placed over a glass or cocktail shaker. Its conical shape and fine mesh make precise straining easy, perfect for straining drinks without causing any spills. This lightweight strainer is not just great for cocktails but also for filtering coffee grounds, sifting flour, or dusting baked goods. It is easy to clean and can be rinsed with water or popped in the dishwasher. With a lifetime guarantee from Zulay, you can strain, pour, and enjoy with confidence.

What We Like
High-quality stainless steel
Easy to clean
Sturdy handle
Versatile usage
Great value for money
What We Don't Like
Can gum up with particulates

9" Large Mesh Strainer, Stainless Steel 18/8 Extra Fine Quinoa Sieve

TIAKC017
Silver
1 Pc. - 9"
9" Large Mesh Strainer, Stainless Steel 18/8 Extra Fine Quinoa Sieve Cover
9" Large Mesh Strainer, Stainless Steel 18/8 Extra Fine Quinoa Sieve, with Solid Sturdy Handle, Flour Filter with Wider Hook

This food strainer is made of food grade stainless steel 18/8 304 construction that is BPA free, Lead and Cadmium free. Its 30 mesh extra fine strainer is great for filtering fine grains like quinoa, flour, rice and sugar. With its riveted and solid stainless steel handle, wider hook, and 9" large capacity, it can collect more food and drain pasta or sift larger quantities. Plus, it comes with a lifetime guarantee.

What We Like
Sturdy construction
Extra fine mesh
Easy to clean
Perfect size
Riveted handles
What We Don't Like
Pricey
Handle discomfort
#TOP 9

OXO Good Grips 8-Inch Double Rod Strainer

OXO
38991
Black
8 Inch Strainer
OXO Good Grips 8-Inch Double Rod Strainer Cover
OXO Good Grips 8-Inch Double Rod Strainer, Black

The OXO Good Grips 8-Inch Double Rod Strainer is a space-efficient food strainer that provides maximum stability with its extra-wide base. Its non-slip ends hold securely onto drawer walls, and it can effortlessly expand from 11 to 17 inches. It features a slim design that allows for easy storage and tool-free installation.

What We Like
Sturdy construction
Dishwasher safe
Versatile usage
Excellent for fine straining
Great size for household tasks
What We Don't Like
Plastic handle concerns
Occasional durability issues
#TOP 10

OXO Good Grips 3-Piece Strainer Set

OXO
11344300
Black
3 Strainer Set
OXO Good Grips 3-Piece Strainer Set Cover
OXO Good Grips 3-Piece Strainer Set, Black

The OXO Good Grips 3-Piece Strainer Set is a versatile set of strainers that can be used to strain citrus juice, rinse berries, drain pasta and more. The set includes 3 different sizes, 3-, 6-, and 8-inch, and features wide plastic rims that keep the strainers stable on pots and bowls. The handles have holes for easy storage and won't slip, even when wet.

What We Like
High-quality construction
Comfortable, ergonomic handles
Multiple sizes for versatility
Easy to clean
Durable and rust-resistant
What We Don't Like
Small lip catches food
Buying Guide Image

How to Choose The Right Food Strainers for Your Home

Introduction

Choosing the right food strainer can be a daunting task. With so many options available, it's important to know what to look for in order to make an informed decision. In this article, we will discuss the various types of food strainers and what to consider when choosing one.

Types of Food Strainers

There are several different types of food strainers available on the market. Some of the most common types include:

  • Mesh strainers: These strainers are made of a fine mesh screen and are typically used for straining liquids or small particles from food. They are often used for sifting flour or straining soup broth.

  • Chinois: A chinois is a conical strainer with a very fine mesh screen. It is used for straining purees and sauces to achieve a smooth consistency.

  • Colanders: Colanders are large, perforated bowls that are used for draining pasta or washing fruits and vegetables.

  • Food mills: Food mills are hand-cranked strainers that are used for pureeing and straining foods. They are often used for making baby food or pureeing tomatoes for sauce.

Factors to Consider

When choosing a food strainer, there are several factors to consider. Here are some things to keep in mind:

  • Material: Food strainers are typically made of stainless steel, plastic, or silicone. Stainless steel is the most durable option, but it can be heavy and difficult to clean. Plastic strainers are lightweight and affordable, but they are not as durable as stainless steel. Silicone strainers are flexible and easy to clean, but they may not be as durable as other materials.

  • Size: The size of the strainer should be appropriate for the task at hand. A small mesh strainer may be sufficient for sifting flour, but a larger colander may be needed for draining a pot of pasta.

  • Sturdiness: The strainer should be sturdy enough to hold up to the task at hand. A flimsy strainer may bend or break under the weight of heavy foods, resulting in a messy kitchen.

  • Ease of use: The strainer should be easy to use and clean. A strainer with a long handle or a comfortable grip can make the task of straining foods much easier.

  • Price: The price of a food strainer can vary greatly, from a few dollars for a basic plastic strainer to several hundred dollars for a high-quality stainless steel chinois. Consider your budget and the frequency of use when deciding how much to spend on a food strainer.

Conclusion

Choosing the right food strainer can make a big difference in the kitchen. By considering the type, material, size, sturdiness, ease of use, and price, you can find the perfect strainer for your needs. With the right strainer, you can easily strain liquids, puree foods, and sift flour, resulting in delicious and well-prepared meals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the different types of food strainers?

There are various types of food strainers available, including fine mesh strainers, slotted strainers, heavy-duty strainers, vibrating strainers, silicone strainers, and stainless steel strainers. These strainers serve different purposes and can be used for various food preparation tasks, such as straining liquids or separating solids from liquids. Some strainers can also be used when drinking milk.

2. How do I choose a strainer?

When choosing a strainer, consider factors such as the type of filter, particle characteristics and size, connection size and type, material, maximum operating flow, operating pressure, pressure drop, and operating costs. These factors will help you select a strainer that is suitable for your specific needs and ensures efficient filtration or straining.

3. How do I know what size strainer I need?

The size of the strainer you need depends on the drain opening and depth of your sink. Typically, sink strainers range from 3-½ inches to 4-½ inches in diameter. It's important to choose the appropriate size to prevent leaks and ensure proper functioning. Consider the depth of your sink, which typically ranges between ⅛ inch to ⅜ inches, when selecting a strainer.

4. Is a basket strainer better than a tee strainer?

Both basket strainers and tee strainers have their advantages. Basket strainers provide a larger screen open area or filtration area, making them suitable for applications where a higher flow rate is required. Tee strainers, on the other hand, cause minimal disruption to the flow of fluid, resulting in a lower pressure drop. The choice between the two depends on the specific needs of your application.

Editor's Notes

During our food strainer research, we found 24 food strainer products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 285,627 customer reviews through our big data system to write the food strainers list. We found that most customers choose food strainers with an average price of $16.73.

The food strainers are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of food strainers, including Cuisinart, GoodCook, Makerstep, Walfos, YLYL. 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.

Food Strainers Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand Cuisinart GoodCook Makerstep Walfos YLYL KAFOOR Zulay Kitchen Tiawudi OXO OXO
Material Stainless Steel Stainless Steel Stainless Steel Stainless Steel Stainless Steel Normal Fine Stainless Steel Stainless Steel Stainless Steel Plastic
Color Silver Black & Silver 3 Set with Insulated Handle 3pcs (2.8", 4.7", 7.87") Strainers Silver Silver Silver Silver Black Black
Style Art Deco ['strainer with handle'] Mesh Strainers 3pcs (2.8", 4.7", 7.87") Strainers Mesh Strainers Kitchen essentials - Fine Strainer Casual Fine - Mesh Strainer
Item Weight 10.72 ounces 4 ounces 11.2 ounces 7.4 Ounces 4.2 ounces 7.4 ounces 1.44 ounces - 195 Grams 1.4 Pounds
Is Dishwasher Safe -
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 8.9
Where to Buy