Whether I’m making homemade mac and cheese or classic spaghetti bolognese, my least favorite part of the process has always been straining the pasta — but not anymore. I broke up with my bulky colander years ago for a compact stainless steel strainer tool like the ones in the Boao 2-Piece Pot Strainer Set, and I’ve never looked back.
The set includes two crescent-shaped strainers — one handheld and the other fitting neatly over the edge of a pot. Both make it easier to strain pasta, drain grease, or wash produce. The duo was added to more than 900 carts last month, and they’re just $5 apiece.
Boao 2-Piece Pot Strainer Set
Amazon
Instead of storing a traditional colander, save space with this duo of handheld kitchen gadgets that can lie flat in a drawer. One of the tools has recessed handles on either side, making it a stable option for heavier two-handled pots; the other has just one retractable handle, ideal for handling small saucepans or frying pans. I like that both strainers have holes for hanging on hooks, in case you run out of drawer space.
Reviewers love the ease and convenience of the space-saving tools. “These are so much more convenient than using a colander and having to wash it every time you cook pasta or noodles,” said one shopper who “cannot recommend [them] enough.” You can even pop them in the dishwasher for easy cleanup. According to a second reviewer, the set “makes straining anything easy.”
Making the switch to these stainless steel colanders is also a great way to reduce microplastics in your kitchen. Unlike a plastic strainer, which may leach microplastics into your food, these gadgets are non-toxic. One customer called them a “great plastic alternative.” Another shopper said they are more durable than the plastic colanders they had previously, which broke quickly.
If you’re ready to break up with your bulky plastic colander, this 2-piece set is an excellent alternative. It’s affordable, non-toxic, and high-quality, according to nearly 1,800 five-star ratings. I rounded up more space-saving silicone and stainless steel strainers to help you get dinner on the table faster, make cleanup easier, and reduce kitchen clutter.
Shop More Space-Saving Kitchen Colanders
OXO Good Grips Silicone Collapsible Strainer
Amazon
Kitchen Gizmo Snap N’ Strain
Amazon
Qimh Collapsible Colander
Amazon
Kraus Multipurpose Workstation Sink Roll-Up Rack
Amazon
Ddluck Foldable Silicone Strainer, 2-Pack
Amazon
Auoon Clip-On Strainer
Amazon
At the time of publishing, the price was $10.
