Colander Styles

Rinse, strain and drain

Not only are colanders ideal for draining pasta and other cooked foods, they come in handy for rinsing fruits and vegetables and straining gravy. Many colanders with efficient designs are versatile enough to strain and drain a variety of foods. Other colanders are task specific.

Stainless, plastic and mesh

Colanders made from stainless steel, plastic and mesh, each have distinct advantages. Because of their constant contact with water, colanders made out of stainless steel are exceedingly useful and long lasting. Plastic colanders are tough, versatile and long lasting combining quality with affordability. Because the holes in a mesh colander are small, they are task specific--particularly useful in draining small foods such as peas, carrots and rice.

Versatility is key

If versatility is important, look for a colander with bigger holes on the top and smaller holes on the bottom. This efficient design will promote quick draining for any type of food. There are a variety of colander styles with other useful design features:

Loop handles. A stainless colander with loop handles is handy for straining a variety of foods. The heavy loop handles can be placed over a larger pan to drain, so you don't have to worry about losing any food while draining the liquid.

Non -slip handles. Some plastic colanders have broad handles that provide a firm, comfortable non-slip grip. Especially useful when you pour or shake the colander to drain water.

Convertible colander. The extra large convertible colander fits right over the sink, thanks to folding arms that extend the frame's width. The non-slip arms won't shift in place, allowing you to leave the food to drain and finish other cooking.

Basket mesh colander. The basket mesh colander also straddles your sink for easy rinsing and draining. The small holes in a mesh basket are particularly useful in draining small food items.

Pedestal base. A pedestal base keeps the colander stable, great for rinsing and draining heavy fruits and vegetables.

Tall colander. The tall colander is ideal for rinsing asparagus, leeks, carrots or corn. The cone shape speeds draining after washing or blanching.

If you stock your kitchen with colanders in several sizes, you'll always have the right one to use no matter what the task at hand!

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