Ever feel like your pasta is fighting back, clinging stubbornly to your colander? Or maybe you’ve ended up with tiny peas escaping through oversized holes? Choosing the right colander can feel like a small kitchen battle, and with so many shapes, sizes, and materials, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. We’ve all been there, staring at a wall of shiny metal and colorful plastic, wondering which one will actually get the job done without causing a culinary catastrophe.
This is where America’s Test Kitchen comes in. They’re known for their rigorous testing and honest reviews, and their insights into everyday kitchen tools are incredibly helpful. When it comes to something as fundamental as a colander, their recommendations can save you time, frustration, and even money. You don’t want a colander that rusts, wobbles, or doesn’t drain fast enough. You want a reliable kitchen companion that makes rinsing veggies and draining pasta a breeze.
In this post, we’re diving deep into what makes a colander truly great, according to the experts at America’s Test Kitchen. We’ll explore their top picks, the features they swear by, and the common pitfalls to avoid. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of which colander will be your new best friend in the kitchen, ready to tackle any draining task with ease. Let’s find the perfect colander together!
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: 8.8/10
Tired of messy kitchen tasks? The U.S. Kitchen Supply Stainless Steel Colander Strainer is here to make your life easier! This 6-quart collapsible colander is designed with a fine mesh stainless steel basket and expandable rubber handles, making it a versatile tool for all your kitchen needs.
What We Like:
- The professional-grade fine mesh stainless steel basket is perfect for straining, rinsing, and sifting.
- Expandable rubber handles stretch from 14″ to 21″, fitting over or in most sinks for hands-free convenience.
- Its large 13″ by 9″ size and 6-quart capacity handle big jobs, from washing berries to draining pasta.
- The built-in resting feet let you use it as a handy basket for fruits and veggies on your countertop.
- It’s super easy to clean and is even dishwasher safe.
- This colander works for both wet and dry ingredients, like sifting flour or straining sauces.
What Could Be Improved:
- The oval shape might be less space-efficient for storage compared to a round colander.
- While sturdy, the expandable handles might require a gentle touch to avoid over-extending.
This colander strainer is a true kitchen helper that simplifies food prep. It’s a fantastic addition for anyone looking to improve their cooking efficiency and results.
2. U.S. Kitchen Supply Set of 3 Stainless Steel Colander Strainers Net Baskets – 11″
Rating: 9.0/10
Tired of flimsy strainers that bend or rust? The U.S. Kitchen Supply Set of 3 Stainless Steel Colander Strainers offers a sturdy and versatile solution for all your kitchen needs. This set includes three different sizes – 11″, 9.5″, and 8.5″ – so you always have the right tool for the job. Made from professional-grade stainless steel, these colanders are built to last and make cooking easier and more efficient.
What We Like:
- You get three different sizes, which is great for various tasks.
- The sturdy stainless steel construction means they won’t bend or rust.
- Handles and a resting base let you set them down easily, freeing up your hands.
- They can be used for so many things: sifting, straining, rinsing, steaming, and even frying.
- Cleaning is a breeze, and they are dishwasher safe.
- They nest together for easy storage, saving you cabinet space.
What Could Be Improved:
- The mesh is fine, but very small ingredients might still slip through.
This set is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, offering durability and versatility for countless cooking tasks. You’ll wonder how you ever managed without them.
3. HiramWare Stainless Steel Colander With Handle and Legs
Rating: 8.9/10
Say hello to your new favorite kitchen tool: the HiramWare Stainless Steel Colander. This large, green strainer is built to handle all your draining needs, from a big pot of pasta to a delicate batch of berries. Its sturdy construction and smart design make kitchen tasks a breeze.
What We Like:
- It’s made of high-quality stainless steel. This means it’s super strong and will last for many, many years. It won’t rust either!
- The handle is designed for comfort. It’s easy to hold, even when the colander is full.
- It drains water really fast. The holes are just the right size to let water escape quickly without letting your food slip through.
- It looks great! The stylish green color adds a nice touch to your kitchen. It makes a wonderful gift, too.
- It’s big enough for almost anything. The 5-quart size holds a lot of food, perfect for family meals. You can drain pasta, berries, vegetables, fruits, and salads with ease.
- Cleaning is simple. It’s dishwasher safe, so you can just pop it in and let the machine do the work.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the stainless steel is great, it can sometimes feel a little heavy when it’s completely full.
- The bright green color, while fashionable, might not match every kitchen’s decor.
This HiramWare colander is a fantastic addition to any kitchen. It’s built to last and makes draining food simple and stylish.
4. SIFTR (BLUE) Nesting Can Strainer Mini Colander Set – Space Saving Small Colanders and Strainers – Multi Use Kitchen Gadget – Silicone Can Strainer
Rating: 9.1/10
Tired of lugging out a giant colander just to rinse a can of beans? The SIFTR (BLUE) Nesting Can Strainer Mini Colander Set is here to save your kitchen space and your sanity. This clever set of three mini silicone strainers is designed to fit snugly on top of cans of all sizes, efficiently draining away liquid and leaving your food clean and ready to use. No more messy drips or food escaping!
What We Like:
- It’s super easy to use. You just pop it on top of the can and squeeze.
- SIFTR is small and nests together. This means it takes up hardly any space in your drawers or cupboards.
- It’s not just for cans! People use it as a tea strainer, a herb infuser, and even to help open stubborn jars.
- It works great for juicing citrus fruits like lemons and limes. It catches all the seeds so you get pure juice.
- The silicone material is flexible and durable. It’s also easy to clean.
- This set makes a thoughtful gift for anyone who loves to cook, students, or new homeowners.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s great for cans, it might not be the best choice for straining very large batches of smaller items like rice or quinoa.
- The bright blue color, while fun, might not match everyone’s kitchen decor.
The SIFTR set offers a smart and simple solution to common kitchen tasks. It’s a must-have gadget for any kitchen looking for efficiency and space-saving solutions.
5. PriorityChef Premium 4 Qrt Stainless Steel Colander for Kitchen
Rating: 9.5/10
The PriorityChef Premium 4 Qrt Stainless Steel Colander is a kitchen workhorse. It makes draining and rinsing food super easy. This strainer is made of strong stainless steel and will last a long time.
What We Like:
- Fast draining micro-perforations let water escape quickly without losing food.
- It works great for rice, pasta, and even small fruits and veggies.
- The raised base keeps your counters dry and food off them.
- It’s made of durable stainless steel that won’t bend or rust.
- The large handles are comfy to hold, making it easy to carry.
- It’s completely dishwasher safe for easy cleaning.
What Could Be Improved:
- It’s not the best choice for super fine grains like quinoa or couscous.
This colander is a fantastic addition to any kitchen. It’s built to handle all your draining needs with ease and convenience.
Choosing the Best Colander: A Guide from America’s Test Kitchen
When you’re draining pasta, rinsing berries, or washing veggies, a good colander is a kitchen essential. America’s Test Kitchen has tested many colanders to find the best ones. This guide will help you pick the perfect colander for your kitchen.
Key Features to Look For
- Sturdy Base: A colander needs a stable base so it doesn’t tip over. This is important when it’s full of hot pasta or water. Look for a colander with feet or a wide, flat bottom.
- Drainage Holes: The size and placement of the holes matter. You want holes large enough to let water drain quickly, but small enough to keep your food from falling out.
- Comfortable Handles: Good handles make it easy to lift and carry the colander, even when it’s heavy. They should be comfortable to grip.
- Durability: You want a colander that will last. It should be made of strong materials that won’t bend or break easily.
- Size: Think about how much food you usually prepare. A colander that’s too small will be annoying, and one that’s too big might be hard to store.
Important Materials
Colanders come in different materials, and each has its pros and cons.
- Stainless Steel: This is a popular choice. Stainless steel is strong, durable, and doesn’t rust. It’s also easy to clean. Many top-rated colanders are made from stainless steel.
- Plastic: Plastic colanders are usually lighter and less expensive. However, some plastics can stain or warp over time. Look for BPA-free plastic for safety.
- Silicone: Silicone colanders are flexible and can often fold for easy storage. They are also heat-resistant, which is a plus.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
The way a colander is made really affects its quality.
- Construction: A well-built colander has smooth edges and strong connections. Cheaply made colanders might have rough spots or handles that feel loose.
- Weight: While you don’t want a colander that’s too heavy, a little weight can be a good sign. It often means the material is thicker and more durable.
- Design: A smart design makes a big difference. For example, colanders with raised bases allow water to drain away better.
User Experience and Use Cases
Using a colander should be easy and efficient.
- Everyday Tasks: A good colander makes quick work of draining pasta. It’s also great for rinsing fruits and vegetables before you eat them.
- Washing Grains: If you cook rice or quinoa, a colander helps you wash away excess starch.
- Draining Canned Goods: Rinsing beans or other canned items is much easier with a colander.
- Storage: Consider how much space you have in your kitchen cabinets. Some colanders are stackable or collapsible, which saves room.
Frequently Asked Questions About Colanders
Q: What is the best material for a colander?
A: Stainless steel is often considered the best material because it’s very durable, doesn’t rust, and is easy to clean. However, good quality plastic and silicone colanders can also work well.
Q: How do I know if a colander is sturdy?
A: Look for a colander with a wide, flat base or sturdy feet. It should feel solid and not wobble when you place it on the counter.
Q: Are plastic colanders safe to use?
A: Yes, if they are made from BPA-free plastic. This means they don’t contain a chemical called BPA, which can be harmful.
Q: What is the ideal size for a colander?
A: The ideal size depends on how much you cook. For most households, a colander that holds about 3-5 quarts is a good all-around size.
Q: How important are the handles on a colander?
A: Handles are very important for comfort and safety. Look for handles that are easy to grip and feel secure, especially when the colander is full and heavy.
Q: Can I put my colander in the dishwasher?
A: Most stainless steel and heat-resistant plastic or silicone colanders are dishwasher safe. Always check the product’s care instructions.
Q: What’s the difference between a colander and a sieve?
A: A colander has larger holes and is used for draining liquids from solid foods like pasta or vegetables. A sieve has very fine mesh and is used for sifting dry ingredients like flour or straining small particles.
Q: My colander has tiny holes. Is that good or bad?
A: For most uses, larger holes are better because they let water drain faster. Very tiny holes are usually found in sieves.
Q: Can I use a colander to wash berries?
A: Yes, a colander is perfect for washing berries and other small fruits. The holes allow water to drain away easily.
Q: How should I store my colander?
A: You can store it in a cabinet or on a shelf. If you have limited space, look for stackable or collapsible colanders that save room.
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 Larry Fish, the mind behind MyGrinderGuide.com.. With a passion for all things kitchen appliances, I created this blog to share my hands-on experience and expert knowledge. Whether it’s helping you choose the right tools for your culinary adventures or offering tips to make your kitchen more efficient, I’m here to guide you. My goal is to make your time in the kitchen not only easier but also enjoyable! Welcome to my world of kitchen mastery!