The best collapsible colander is a must-have for any kitchen. However, it’s one of those kitchen necessities that we don’t realize we need until we’re faced with a pot of spaghetti that needs draining and no way to drain it! One difficulty that many of us have with colanders is that they take up a lot of space in the kitchen cabinet, which isn’t ideal for smaller kitchens. To avoid this, we discovered some truly incredible folding colanders that do the job while taking up very little room.
Which collapsible colanders are the best? The best ones are those that fold up small enough to be readily stored while still working as a standard colander and properly filtering water from meals. To guarantee that your collapsible colander lasts a long time in the kitchen, consider one made of robust materials like silicone.
Continue reading to learn how to choose the best collapsible colander for your kitchen and which ones are currently our top picks on the market!
Contents
How to Use Collapsible Metal Colander?
The operation of them is fairly easy, as you would expect from any other kitchen item. And because the only thing that distinguishes these from conventional ones is the folding mechanism in the middle, the method is somewhat similar. As a result, the first thing you should do is carefully unfold it. You must extend a telescoping handle and place it on the sink if you have one. After that, you can drain or wash your chosen food. When you’re finished using it, fold it back and store it.
Did You Know? Colanders have been used for thousands of years, and specimens have been found that date back to at least 1300 BC. You can refer to The History of the Colander to know more.
Types of Collapsible Colander
Almost every colander on the market has the same purpose: to drain excess water from food. However, when it comes to the material, there are three distinct types. The following are those types:
Stainless Steel Collapsible Colander
These will be made entirely of stainless steel. As a result, among all the other varieties, these would be the most durable. The collapsible mechanism, on the other hand, will not be as smooth as the others.
Silicone Colander
These will have a silicon construction, as the name implies. The silicone used by the majority of manufacturers will be BPA-free and environmentally friendly. As a result, the meals and fruits that you will prepare with it will not have any off-taste.
Rubber and Plastic
Aside from the two, we’ve already discussed, some of the brands will make things out of rubber and plastic. The rubber that you’ll find here will also be non-toxic. These, however, may not be as long-lasting as the silicone ones.
Did You Know? ‘Colander’ comes from the word ‘colum’, which means ‘strainer’ or ‘sieve’ in Latin, and they are also known as ‘kitchen sieves’, ‘strainers’, and ‘pasta strainers’.
Buyer’s Guide – Collapsible Colanders
When choosing the best collapsible colander for your kitchen, there are a few things to keep in mind. By checking all of the categories below, you’ll be able to find a collapsible colander that fits your needs and lasts a long time!
Material
To be easily stored, a collapsible colander must be made of a material that allows it to fold down compactly. Silicone is the greatest solution for this because it is flexible while yet being suitable for use in the kitchen. Silicone, BPA-free plastic, or even stainless steel can be used for the colander’s draining part. The most sturdy and long-lasting option is stainless steel, but plastic ones are also good. You should have no issues as long as the material is food-grade and long-lasting. You can take a look at our expert listing of the best plastic colanders if you are looking to buy one.
Size
You should also think about the size of the colander you’ll need in your kitchen. A larger colander would be better for larger households, as you will be straining and draining more food at once. If you’re only cooking for yourself or one other person, a smaller colander will suffice.
You don’t want to have to dig out a large colander every time you want to drain a single serving of pasta, or you don’t want to have to drain pasta in batches because your colander is too small. Consider whether you frequently host at home. If that’s the case, even if you only serve a few people each night, keep a larger colander on hand. You may always keep a few different-sized collapsible colanders at home if you’re not sure what size to buy. They don’t take up much space because they fold up flat.
Uses
Another thing to consider is how often you’ll be using the colander and for what purpose. If you want to use it to drain vegetables and wash fruit, larger colander holes are preferable because they allow dirt to wash through while allowing water to drain fast. If you frequently cook rice, quinoa, or small pasta and need to drain it, you’ll want to use a colander with smaller pores so that your rice doesn’t wash away with the water. Don’t worry, we have collated a list of the best colanders for rice just for you.
Storage Space
If you’re short on space in your kitchen, a collapsible colander that folds up small is the way to go. Some fold flat, which is handy for putting it down and piling items on top of it. When deciding on the type and size of colander you’ll need at home, keep your storage space constraints in mind.
Easy Cleaning
Choosing a dishwasher-safe colander is really beneficial. Once dinner is finished, you can easily pop the colander in the dishwasher to clean it without risking it of getting damaged.
Best Collapsible Colander- A summary list
#1 OXO Good Grips Collapsible Silicone Colander – This product from OXO is an excellent option for your list because it is among the most top-rated and best collapsible colanders on the market.
#2 Collapsible Silicone Colander Pasta Strainer with Stainless Steel Base – This collapsible colander from Good Cooking combines practicality with a sleek, modern design that people adore.
#3 Squish 5 Quart Square Collapsible Colander – The Squish colander is a terrific option to consider if you’re seeking the best collapsible colander.
#4 Comfify Collapsible-Green & Grey - Over The Sink Colander with Handles – This Comfify Over the Sink Collapsible Colander is a wonderful choice if you’re looking for the best collapsible colander.
#5 – The Learja collapsible colander is one of our top picks for the best collapsible colander on the market.
List of top 5 Collapsible Colanders
#1 OXO Good Grips Collapsible Silicone Colander
This colander has small holes to keep your pasta intact while still allowing for quick draining. It’s made of flexible silicone that opens up effortlessly and folds flat. It is more heat resistant due to the nylon and silicone structure.
It’s simple to clean by hand and dishwasher safe as well. This 3.5-quart capacity colander also features two non-slip handles for squeezing out every last drop of water and simple carrying.
Nothing will fall through the little holes, and the long, soft-grip handle makes shaking off extra moisture a breeze. When expanded, this colander stands up so you can strain it in the sink without it falling over or rolling about, and it also goes in the dishwasher for quick cleanup. It squishes down from 8cm to just 2cm deep, making it excellent for kitchens with little storage space, as well as RVs and camper vans. You can also take a wok along with your RV trips for authentic cooking. Here’s a list of best woks for RV to help you out.
User Experience
Users who bought this were happy with their purchase. They commented that it’s super easy to clean and despite the handle, it doesn’t take up any room, plus it stores flat. Users have observed that the water does not drain well from the bottom. Others have commented on how little the holes are.
Pros
- Flexible silicone
- Compact for storage
- Easy to clean
- Dishwasher safe
- Non-slip
Cons
- Doesn’t drain well
- Holes are too small
My Verdict: This silicone colander is easy to use and is dishwasher safe. The silicon and nylon construction makes the calendar heat resistant. Making it a great product!
If you have a small kitchen, you would be looking for a lovely tea kettle for making fresh tea every day. We have collated the list of the best 3 quart tea kettles just for you.
#2 Collapsible Silicone Colander Pasta Strainer with Stainless Steel Base
This odorless food-grade silicone and stainless steel collapsible colander is one of the best on the market and safe for any food. It fits easily in your cupboards and drawers, making storing a breeze. It keeps its shape while in use and is designed to drain pasta, fruits, vegetables, and other foods efficiently.
This colander is made of BPA-free materials and is dishwasher safe. This colander is exceptionally durable and sturdy due to the stainless steel base and rim. It is popular among home cooks because of its sleek and modern style.
This is exactly what you would need for your camping trips. It’s light, compact, and very sturdy once open.
User Experience
It had a really good rating on Amazon. Users said that It’s light, compact, and very sturdy once open. One of the users comments that she would definitely recommend this to use at home, or on camping trips. The colander is smaller than expected, according to several users. It also doesn’t last very long, and after a few usages, it splits.
Pros
- Made with food-grade silicone
- Good storage
- 100% BPA free
- Dishwasher safe
- Sleek design
Cons
- Smaller than expected
- Splits and doesn’t last long
My Verdict: This collapsible colander is very easy to store and it fits even in your small cabinets and drawers. It is dishwasher safe and BPA free making it a good option.
For more options like this, check out the best colander for pasta.
#3 Squish 5 Quart Square Collapsible Colander
Regular colanders take up a lot of room to keep, but this one from Squish collapses to just 1 1/2 inches tall, making it ideal for storing in a cupboard or drawer. Squish 5 Quart Collapsible Colander is made of silicone and is heat resistant, making it ideal for draining hot dishes. It’s easy to clean and dishwasher safe. Other sizes of this strainer are also available.
It features a non-slip base and can hold up to four quarts, so it stays stable while you pour. The handles are very easy to grasp, and the colander’s medium-sized holes allow liquids to drain easily while keeping larger bits in place. This is definitely a quality strainer. But be aware – it is quite large.
User Experience
Though it has few reviews currently, but most of them are positive. Users were commenting that its just the right size not too small not too big. They also love how sturdy it is and how easy it is to clean. According to some customers, the colander is too small and the water does not drain properly.
Pros
- Silicone
- Heat-resistant
- Dishwasher ready
- Compact
Cons
- Too small
- Water does not drain well
My Verdict: This Squish colander features easy-to-grip handles and quick train which helps a lot in the kitchen. On top of this, it is dishwasher safe making cleaning a breeze.
Also read: Best Ladle – List of Top 5 (Updated Price and Reviews)
#4 Comfify Collapsible-Green & Grey - Over The Sink Colander with Handles
The colander’s adjustable arms make it easy to fit it into bigger sinks. The product itself has a high capacity and can drain a pound of pasta, but it can also be stored flat thanks to its foldable design. It can also be used to rinse fruits, vegetables, and other foods. Because this colander can withstand temperatures of up to 176 degrees Fahrenheit, you may drain your boiling pasta right from the burner. Simply rinse or place in the dishwasher when you’re finished and sit back and relax.
The non-slip handles expand to nearly 26″, and the colander can hold up to 6 quarts of your favorite food, yet the space-saving design makes it simple to fold and store in your already crowded cupboard. It has non-slip handles and can be washed in the dishwasher. It’s heat-resistant, BPA-free, and built to last.
This adjustable colander is large but compact and foldable, making it great for small kitchens, RVs, and camping vacations. It fits most sink shapes and sizes, so purchase one for each of your friends at the housewarming party.
User Experience
Most of the users said that it is easy to clean and easy to fold. They also said that it is easy to use when expanded and then easy to store when closed. One of the customers commented that the arms extend far enough for even a farmhouse sink and are strong enough to hold a pot of potatoes. The majority of consumers complained that the handles are uncomfortable and that the silicone surface is difficult to clean.
Pros
- Large capacity
- Fits most sink
- Easy to use
- Non-slip handles
- Heat-resistant
- BPA-free
Cons
- Awkward handles
- Silicone coating difficult to clean
My Verdict: This collapsible calendar is perfect for rinsing fruit and vegetables draining pasta and noodles with its non-slip handles.
Cutting vegetables for your meal can be made easier with a cutting board. Here’s a list of top cutting boards reviewed by our experts that are available in the market.
#5
The bright-colored foldable strainer looks fantastic in any kitchen and will make a wonderful home gift for housewarming gatherings. The foldable colander set has diameters of 8 and 9.5 inches, allowing you to prepare two foods at once and also use it on various pot sizes. This colander has two clear hooks on the back so it may be hung on the wall.
It’s BPA-free and heat-resistant. The pasta filter is constructed of silica gel and can be washed in a dishwasher. It has a small and functional design that makes it easy to store and organize your kitchen.
The colander comes with ergonomic and comfy handles and fits most sink sizes and shapes. The raised bottom allows water to drain quickly and easily, allowing you to spend more time doing what you want. It can also be used in the sink or as a standalone item on the counter. It also comes with a money-back guarantee.
User Experience
Users absolutely loved this colander because according to them, it is so easy to store, clean, and use. They also appreciated the looks of the product and were delighted by the bright colors, the durable material besides its ability to say firmly when fully expanded. One of the buyers immensely admired the fact that it folds up very small and takes up less room in her kitchen. Some users commented on how solid it appears and feels. On the other hand, it disintegrated in the hot water of a sink. Moreover, the holes appear to be too small.
Pros
- Transparent hooks
- BPA-free
- Heat-resistant
- Dishwasher safe
- Compact
- Ergonomic handles
Cons
- Fell apart in hot sink water
- Holes too small
My Verdict: The Learja Collapsible calendar is a very versatile tool for your kitchen. It fits most sink shapes and sizes and with comfortable handles, it will give you a good grip.
Also read: Best Cookie Press – The List Of Top 9 (Updated)
FAQ
1. Are collapsible colanders good?
Collapsible colanders can be used in the same way as regular colanders, but they take up less room. Simply select a collapsible colander made of robust materials and capable of draining and straining foods quickly.
2. Which is the best material for a colander – metal or plastic best?
A metal colander will be superior for durability, strength, and dealing with hot meals and liquids, but it does not rule out the use of a good-quality plastic colander. Plastic colanders are less expensive and can be used in the kitchen just as well, though they may not last as long.
3. Is a plastic colander safe?
Plastic colanders are safe, but check for heat resistance and only use a plastic colander made of food-safe materials.
Here’s a video that will tell you more about a colander:
Conclusion
Colanders are a kitchen workhorse, especially if you prepare pasta dishes on a regular basis. As a result, you must invest in the best collapsible colander. One that not only performs well but also makes cooking a lot easier. You should have a good notion of the market’s several options now that you’ve seen our list of the best collapsible colander. So, before you go out and buy something, take a look at our list to make sure you get the best one for your kitchen. You can also take a look at the best colanders in the market and pick the one which best suits your needs.
To those who want to read honest reviews and make a solid decision which they will not regret later. Ritik is an enthusiastic writer and what makes him stand out is his extensive knowledge in the field of kitchen gadgets and appliances. Seeing his mom using different gadgets and appliances at home fascinated him more in this niche since the childhood. He loves to share his research and knowledge about all the latest kitchen gadgets and appliances being released in the market and provide his reviews along. He helps his audience decide what will fit the best in their kitchen and what not.
