The OXO Good Grips Strainer is the best colander for most buyers because its stable, easy-to-handle design suits everyday kitchen tasks. It works well for rinsing produce, draining pasta, and straining smaller foods without feeling awkward over a sink or bowl. The comfortable handle gives you better control, while the sturdy base helps keep the strainer steady during use. It is a practical choice for cooks who want one reliable tool instead of several specialized ones.
This guide is for anyone replacing an old drainer, setting up a first kitchen, or choosing a better option for regular meal prep. Pay close attention to size, material, stability, and hole design. A large basket handles pasta and vegetables more easily, while stainless steel usually offers better durability than thin plastic. The 7 picks below are ranked with clear reasons and honest drawbacks for each.
Quick Comparison
| # | Product | Best For | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | OXO Good Grips Strainer | One-Handed Kitchen Straining | ~$32 | View → |
| 2 | Gulex Stainless Steel Colander | Heavy-Duty Pasta Draining | ~$15 | View → |
| 3 | Bellemain Stainless Steel Colander | Everyday Family Meal Prep | ~$39 | View → |
| 4 | 3-Pack Stainless Steel Colander Strainer Baskets | Multiple-Batch Food Preparation | ~$20 | View → |
| 5 | Gevoli Collapsible Colanders, 3-Pack | Compact RV Kitchen Storage | ~$25 | View → |
| 6 | OXO Good Grips Plastic Strainer | Lightweight Fruit Rinsing | ~$15 | View → |
| 7 | EXCELSTEEL Stainless Steel Colander | Budget-Conscious Home Cooks | ~$15 | View → |
7 Colanders Worth Considering
These picks are ranked from seventh place down to the top choice, with key differences in size, material, and design.
7. EXCELSTEEL Stainless Steel Colander
Best for: Home cooks rinsing everyday portions
The EXCELSTEEL colander holds 5 quarts, giving you room to wash pasta, berries, vegetables, and canned beans. Its stainless steel construction should handle regular kitchen use without absorbing food odors or staining easily. The pack includes one colander, and its lightweight build makes it easier to lift over a sink or carry to the counter. Around $15, it offers a practical option for basic rinsing and draining without a large price tag.
Two broad handles provide a steadier grip when the bowl contains water or food. A raised base keeps the colander above the sink surface, allowing liquid to drain from underneath instead of pooling around the food. The mirror-polished exterior has a bright, reflective look, though that finish can show fingerprints and water spots. After cooking, you can place the colander in the dishwasher rather than washing it by hand. The 5-quart size fits everyday portions well, but it may feel limited when preparing food for a large group.
Pros
- Stainless steel construction resists food odors and routine kitchen wear.
- Two grip handles make lifting and pouring more controlled.
- Dishwasher-safe design simplifies cleanup after meals.
Cons
- The 5-quart capacity may be too small for large pasta batches or family-size produce washes.
- A single colander provides no second size for smaller portions or different sink tasks.
6. OXO Good Grips Plastic Strainer
Best for: Rinsing pasta and vegetables
The OXO Good Grips Plastic Strainer holds 3 quarts, giving it enough room for a few servings of pasta, rinsed produce, or canned beans. Its elongated drainage holes let water escape quickly without leaving food sitting in a shallow pool. The white plastic body keeps the weight low, while the raised colander shape leaves space beneath the bowl for better drainage in a sink.
Its handles have a non-slip surface, so they should feel more secure when your hands are wet or covered with cooking residue. Contoured feet help keep the strainer stable in the sink, even with heavier food inside. That matters when you need both hands to move a pot or open a package. Cleanup is simple because the colander is dishwasher safe. At around $15, it offers useful features without moving into premium cookware pricing. The 3-quart size works well for everyday portions, but it may feel limited when preparing food for a larger group.
Pros
- Elongated holes promote faster draining than small, tightly packed openings.
- Non-slip handles provide a steadier grip with wet hands.
- Contoured feet improve sink stability under heavier contents.
Cons
- The 3-quart capacity may be too small for large pasta batches.
- Plastic may not appeal to shoppers seeking a metal strainer with greater heat resistance.
5. Gevoli Collapsible Colanders, 3-Pack
Best for: Small kitchens and busy cooks
The Gevoli set includes three food strainers in 3-quart, 4-quart, and 5-quart sizes. Each one collapses from 3.7 inches tall to about 1.3 inches, so the stack fits in a cabinet or drawer. The large strainer measures 13.5 by 11.5 inches, while the medium measures 11.6 by 9.5 inches and the small measures 9.6 by 8 inches. Food-grade, BPA-free materials make them suitable for pasta, fruit, and vegetables.
The main difference is the over-sink draining design. A grooved, slip-resistant base directs water into the sink, which helps when the counter is crowded or the sink contains dishes. The included draining tray measures 10.4 by 9 inches and adds a useful resting surface. All three pieces are dishwasher safe, and the oval shape should fit many sink styles, including sinks with raised rims. At around $25, this is a practical space-saving set, though the large size may feel bulky in smaller sinks.
Pros
- Three sizes handle small produce, vegetables, and pasta portions.
- Collapsed stack measures only about 1.3 inches high.
- Grooved base directs water into the sink instead of onto the counter.
Cons
- The set may not fit farmhouse sinks with a high raised lip.
- Large 5-quart strainer needs considerable counter or sink space.
4. 3-Pack Stainless Steel Colander Strainer Baskets
Best for: Home cooks needing three sieve sizes
This set includes three stainless steel colanders in 5-quart, 4-quart, and 3-quart sizes. Their listed dimensions are 11 by 4 inches, 9.5 by 3.75 inches, and 8.5 by 3.25 inches. The 18/8 stainless steel construction is BPA-free, lead-free, and cadmium-free. Each basket has a fine mesh body, a wide polished rim, a resting base, and a riveted handle.
The size range covers pasta, rinsed produce, rice, flour, and smaller prep jobs. The baskets can also sit over pots for steaming, although their usefulness will depend on the pot’s width. They nest together for storage and are labeled dishwasher-safe. Around $20, the set offers more flexibility than buying one large colander, but the mesh design may drain more slowly than larger-hole models.
Pros
- Three sizes handle large pasta batches, produce, and small ingredients.
- 18/8 stainless steel resists rust and will not add a metallic taste.
- Riveted handles and bottom rests provide steadier handling over sinks and pots.
Cons
- Fine mesh can trap flour, rice, and food particles, so rinsing takes extra care.
- The handles and base add bulk, which may limit how easily the largest basket fits in crowded sinks.
3. Bellemain Stainless Steel Colander
Best for: Large pasta and rice batches
The Bellemain 5-quart colander is a stainless steel kitchen strainer for draining pasta, rice, quinoa, vegetables, and fruit. Its fine micro-perforations let water pass through without letting small grains escape. The polished surface also rinses clean quickly and is dishwasher safe, which helps after messy prep.
Its strongest feature is the stable design. A solid ring base keeps the bowl upright on the counter, while two riveted handles provide a secure grip during draining. The stainless steel construction resists rust, dents, and warping, so it should handle regular use and contact with boiling water. The 5-quart capacity works well for family-sized pasta portions or large batches of produce. At around $39, it costs more than many basic plastic strainers, but the metal build and odor-resistant surface may appeal to shoppers who want one long-term kitchen tool.
Pros
- Fine holes drain rice, quinoa, and pasta while retaining smaller pieces.
- Solid ring base reduces wobbling when the colander sits on a counter.
- Dishwasher-safe stainless steel resists odors and simplifies cleanup.
Cons
- The 5-quart bowl may take up too much storage space in a small kitchen.
- Around $39, it costs more than simple plastic or lightweight metal colanders.
2. Gulex Stainless Steel Colander
Best for: Small households and pasta prep
The Gulex is a 3-quart stainless steel colander for draining pasta, rinsing produce, and separating excess oil or cooking water. Its 8.8-inch maximum diameter and 11-inch overall length, including the handle, fit typical kitchen prep tasks without taking up the space of a large restaurant strainer. At around $15, it suits shoppers who want a basic metal option instead of a plastic bowl.
Its 18/10, 304 stainless steel construction resists rust and should not transfer flavors to food. Small, closely spaced holes help keep spaghetti and other smaller pieces inside while water passes through. A footed base lifts the bowl for drainage, and the solid ring helps it stay upright instead of tipping. Dishwasher-safe cleanup adds convenience after rinsing potatoes, tomatoes, berries, or other produce. The 3-quart size works for family meals, though not oversized batches.
Pros
- Closely spaced holes help prevent spaghetti and small food pieces from falling through.
- The footed base and solid ring provide stable drainage over a sink or counter.
- 18/10, 304 stainless steel resists rust and is dishwasher safe.
Cons
- The 3-quart capacity may feel small for large pasta portions or batch cooking.
- The metal body can become hot when draining freshly boiled food, so careful handling is needed.
1. OXO Good Grips Strainer
Best for: Family-size pasta and produce rinsing
The OXO Good Grips Strainer is a 5-quart stainless steel colander for pasta, vegetables, fruit, and general meal prep. Its full-perforation design allows water to drain across the bowl instead of collecting in one area. The raised handles stay away from hot water and provide a steadier grip when the strainer is full. OXO also offers a 3-quart version for smaller portions.
Three raised feet keep the bowl upright in a sink or on a counter. That makes it useful for rinsing, draining, or resting food between steps. The bowl nests inside mixing bowls, which helps reduce cabinet clutter. At around $32, it costs more than many basic plastic colanders, but the stainless steel construction should appeal to shoppers who want a durable everyday tool. The 5-quart capacity suits family meals, though smaller kitchens may find it bulky.
Pros
- Five-quart capacity handles large pasta batches and produce.
- Three raised feet keep the colander stable while draining.
- Elevated, non-slip handles provide control with wet hands.
Cons
- The 5-quart bowl takes considerable cabinet or sink space.
- Stainless steel does not collapse, so it stores less compactly than foldable plastic models.
Buying Guide
Choose a colander with enough capacity for your usual batch size. A 5-quart model handles pasta for two to four people without crowding, so water drains more evenly.
- Capacity and diameter: Choose 3 to 5 quarts for everyday cooking, or 6 to 8 quarts for family meals. A diameter near 9 to 12 inches fits most sinks.
- Hole design: Look for many holes measuring about 2 to 4 millimeters across. Smaller holes hold rice and berries better, while larger openings drain pasta faster.
- Material: Stainless steel resists stains, odors, and heat, while BPA-free plastic weighs less and costs less. Avoid thin plastic that flexes under 5 pounds of food.
- Stability and handles: A raised base should sit at least 1 inch above the sink or counter. Long handles help with lifting, while side grips work better for large loads.
- Cleaning and storage: Pick a dishwasher-safe model with smooth seams and no deep crevices. Collapsible silicone versions save about 3 to 5 inches of cabinet space, but rigid bowls usually feel steadier.
If you cannot have every feature, prioritize capacity and a stable base, since cramped, tipping baskets make draining slower and messier.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose the right colander for my kitchen?
Choose a colander with enough capacity for your usual portions, sturdy handles, stable feet, and drainage holes that shed water quickly. For most homes, a 4-quart bowl handles pasta, vegetables, and rinsed beans without crowding. Stainless steel offers long service, while silicone folds flat for smaller cabinets.
What size colander is best for a family?
A 5- to 6-quart colander is the best size for a family of four because it holds a full pound of pasta with room for rinsing. Choose a 9- to 12-inch diameter model if cabinet space allows. Smaller 2-quart strainers suit berries, herbs, and single servings.
Can I put a stainless steel colander in the dishwasher?
Yes, most stainless steel colanders can go in the dishwasher, but check the maker’s care label first. Hot cycles may dull polished surfaces, and rubber or plastic feet can age faster. Place the bowl on the upper rack when possible, then dry it to limit water spots.
Are silicone strainers better than metal colanders?
Silicone strainers are better than metal colanders when storage space and heat flexibility matter, but metal wins for rigid support and long-term durability. A 4-quart silicone basket can fold for a crowded cabinet, while a stainless steel bowl stays firm when draining heavy pasta or potatoes.
Conclusion
The OXO Good Grips Strainer remains the strongest choice for most home cooks who want a sturdy, easy-to-hold option for rinsing produce, draining pasta, and handling everyday portions. If storage space matters more than rigid construction, choose a collapsible colander instead, since it can fold down for a crowded drawer or small kitchen. Before buying, double-check the bowl or sink size you need, confirm the colander fits your sink or cookware, check whether the listing includes one piece or a set, and compare the current price across retailers. A cheaper option may lack the capacity, grip, or drainage pattern that fits your routine, so match the design to your usual meals.