Comparison: Best Cheap Metal Colander (Updated | Nov 10th)
Looking for a reliable metal colander without breaking the bank? We’ve sifted through the options so you don’t have to. From rust-resistant stainless steel to clever designs that maximize drainage, the **best cheap metal colander**s prove affordability doesn’t mean sacrificing quality. Whether you’re rinsing pasta, washing veggies, or straining beans, the right colander makes meal prep easier and faster. Join us as we compare top picks that deliver durability, functionality, and value—all under a tight budget. Your kitchen deserves better, and we’ve found the standouts that won’t disappoint.
Editor’s Choice
Best for a specific purpose
- Best for footed drainage pro: Gulex Colander Stainless Steel 3-Quart
- Best for green capacity king: HiramWare Stainless Steel Colander With Handle and Legs
- Best for versatile size set: E-far Stainless Steel Colander Set of 3 (1-3-5Quart)
- Best for professional steel strainer: Bellemain 3 Qt Metal Colander with Handle | Pasta
- Best for dual-handle precision: P&P CHEF Colander Strainer Stainless Steel 3 Quart
- Best for balanced trio set: TeamFar Colander Set of 3
- Best for stable feet drainer: GREATLINK Food Pasta Colanders and Strainers for Kitchen Stainless Steel Collander
- Best for heavy-duty 5qt: TeamFar Stainless Steel Colander
- Best for nestable mesh set: 4 Pack Stainless Steel Colander Strainer Set Metal Colander with Handle
- Best for square base pro: E-far 3 Pack Colander for Kitchen
Product Comparison: Best Cheap Metal Colander
Footed Drainage Pro
Gulex Colander Stainless Steel 3-Quart, Metal Strainer with Base, Strainer for Kitchen Food, Dishwasher Safe
Gulex
- 【DESIGN】Tiny and closely spaced holes mean your food drains fast, the mesh is sturdy and will not warp, stretch, or snag even under heavy foods(In particular, spaghetti won’t fall through the holes); Footed design facilitates fast, easy drainage, The sturdy one-piece base prevents the sieve from tipping over.
- 【USING】It can get rid from the frill water and oils of your pasta in a few seconds or clean your potatoes, tomatoes, berries, and every other vegetable and fruit effortlessly. We can use it in family gatherings, outings, and picnics, also a perfect idea kitchen decorations.
- 【MATERIAL】Made of professional-grade 18/10, 304 stainless steel, it is rust and will never affect the taste of your food!
- 【DIMENSION】The maximum diameter of the colander is 8.8″, the longest length including the handle is 11″, and the whole height is 3.9″. The 3-quart capacity makes this attractive even for small restaurants and food trucks.
- 【AFTER SALE SERVICE】We are committed to providing each customer with the highest standard of customer service and top-quality goods, if you are not satisfied with our product or service for any reason, please contact us and we will provide the best solution for every dear customer!
Green Capacity King
HiramWare Stainless Steel Colander With Handle and Legs, Large Metal Green Strainer for Pasta, Spaghetti, Berry, Veggies, Fruits, Noodles, Salads, 5-quart 10.5” Kitchen Mesh Colander, Dishwasher Safe
HiramWare
- ★ MADE OF HIGH QUALITY STAINLESS STEEL: This heavy duty colander, which will last for decades, is made of solid, high quality stainless steel, and ergonomically designed. It will never rust. It’ll be your favorable kitchen gadget.
- ★ ERGONOMIC AND STURDY HANDLE: Easy and comfortable to grip.
- ★ DRAINS FAST: The right size of holes is small enough so that food won’t fall through, and the density of holes makes draining fast. It’s gonna be a lifelong investment for your household.
- ★ FASHIONABLE & BEAUTIFUL: A perfect idea for gifts and kitchen decoration.
- ★ LARGE CAPACITY & VERSATILE: 5-quart capacity to hold and drain everything from pasta, spaghetti, noodles, berry, all kinds of veggies like spinach carrots broccoli, fruits, to salads. Its diameter is 10.5”, height is 4.1”.
Versatile Size Set
E-far Stainless Steel Colander Set of 3 (1-3-5Quart), Micro-Perforated Metal Colander Strainer with Handle for Kitchen/Draining Pasta/Rinsing Vegetables Fruits, Heavy Duty & Dishwasher Safe
E-far
- PREMIUM STAINLESS STEEL – E-far 3-piece metal colander set is made entirely of food grade stainless steel, Non-toxic & Rust proof, Sturdy build construction will not bent, stretch or snag even under heavy foods, Stain, odor and heat resistant compared to plastic colander, Healthy and durable for everyday kitchen use
- PERFORATED HOLES – 2.5 mm holes covering its bottom and sides for quick and through drainage while prevent small foods falling through, No food particles will get stuck anywhere unlike Mesh, Smooth matte finish prevent tarnishing, Easy to clean and Dishwasher safe
- HEAVY HANDLES – D-shaped handles are solidly welded for easy lifting and transportation, Allow you to place this colander in a mixing bowl for draining, Also can be used as hooks for hanging during storage, which will help save space and declutter your kitchen counters
- 3 SMALL FEET – Triple 0.4-inch feet keep this colander steady and allow all water to drain away from your pasta or veggies when placed in the sink, Added height of the feet also improves sanitation when preparing or serving, Lightweight for easy to use and storage
- MULTIPURPOSE – 1-3-5 Quart is available in 3 sizes., Perfect for those who are cooking for 2-3 people, Ideal for rinsing small amounts of fruits and vegetables, straining pasta and potatoes, washing rice, quinoa and other grain, Also can be used as a steamer for pot
Professional Steel Strainer
Bellemain 3 Qt Metal Colander with Handle | Pasta, Spaghetti, Berry, Fruit, Vegetable, Kitchen Food Strainer Basket | 18/8 Stainless Steel Colander Bowl | Pot Drainer for Cooking, Sifter Strainer
Bellemain
- RICE AND SPAGHETTI WON’T FALL THROUGH THE HOLES: A big improvement over both old-fashioned colanders with gaping holes and mesh colanders. They drain fast and won’t clog up with food.
- QUICK DRAINING MICRO-PERFORATIONS: Tiny, closely spaced holes mean your food drains fast without having to tilt the bowl. The stable draining ring base won’t tip over and won’t leave your food sitting in a puddle.
- RUST-PROOF DISHWASHER SAFE 18/8 STAINLESS STEEL: You’ll be impressed with the quality of the heavy duty steel with riveted handles. Designed to stand up to the rigors of a professional kitchen.
- STRAIN EVEN TINY GRAINS AND PASTAS: The holes in this colander are small enough that you can strain most beans, pastas, and grains as well as fruits and vegetables without any worries.
- HEAVY DUTY STEEL TO LAST A LIFETIME: High quality steel for a colander that is thicker and more durable than any colander you’ve ever had. Easy cleanup – just run it through the dishwasher.
Dual-Handle Precision
P&P CHEF Colander Strainer Stainless Steel 3 Quart, Metal Micro-Perforated Colander for Kitchen Food, Ideal for Rinsing Washing Draining, Dishwasher Safe, Shiny Silver, 1PC
P&P CHEF
- 【Healthy & Food-grade】 P&P CHEF colander is constructed by premium stainless steel, No any toxic substances or coatings leaching into food, Odourless and rust proof, Not react with your food, Sturdy materials and reinforced construction ensures its durability and be unbreakable, rather than the silicone or plastic bowl, Healthy for long-term use
- 【Micro-Perforated】 Small and close holes are evenly distributed throughout the colander, Prevent small food falling through and achieve fast drainage, Heat-proof stainless steel construction allows it draining hot food without warping, Saving much time on food preparation
- 【Superior Design】 Double handles are firmly welded the wide edge of the top, For a balanced and comfortable grip, Triple feet keep the colander stably without tipping over, Lifting it up about 0.4-inch height, Add one more sides to drain water for fast drainage when the bowl sitting, Won’t leave your food sitting in a puddle, To free your hand
- 【Multipurpose】This colander is great for washing, rinsing, draining, Greatly used for pasta, spaghetti, vegetable, fruit, meat, seafood, Also can be used as fruit container and salad mixing bowl, The 3 quart capacity is suitable for 1-2 people use in small kitchen, It would be a necessity and great helper if you need to cook
- 【Easy to Use & Clean】Whether grip strainer up from water or wash food under water, Choose your preferred usage, It is a great alternative to handheld spider strainer, U-handles could hang on the hook to save your storage space, Mirror finished surface made the bowl release food easily, Easy to clean in a breeze, Also dishwasher safe to save your time
Balanced Trio Set
TeamFar Colander Set of 3, Stainless Steel Perforated Metal Colander Strainer with Handles for Spaghetti, Pasta, Berry, Rust Free & Dishwasher Safe – 1/3/5-quart
TeamFar
- RUST PROOF – TeamFar colander is made of high quality pure stainless steel, Rust free for serving many years, Solid and unbreakable construction, Not as the plastic one
- MICRO-PERFORATED – The small and close holes helps draining fast, Not lose food out, The bottom also perforated for not water trapped, No need to tilt the bowl
- BALANCED – The double handles welded firmly to the bowl, For balanced and comfortable grip, Triple feet for stably staying, Not tip over when holding heavy food
- EASY CLEAN – Smooth mirror finish easily pouring the food, Effortless clean by hand washing, Or just run the metal colander through the dishwasher to save your labor
- MULTI SIZE – 1 / 3 / 5-quart, 3 sizes perfect for various food preparations, Such as draining large or small amount of spaghetti, veg, blueberries, even steaming
Stable Feet Drainer
GREATLINK Food Pasta Colanders and Strainers for Kitchen Stainless Steel Collander, Kitchen Mesh Colander Large Metal Strainer for Pasta, Spaghetti, Berry, Veggies, Fruits, Noodles, Rice,Salads
GREATLINK
- PREMIUM STAINLESS STEEL – The metal colander is made of pure stainless steel without any coating, No toxic and harmful substance leaching into food, Premium material for no easily rusting, Heat resistant to hold hot food and better than plastic colanders
- STABLE FEET – 3 raised feet help the food strainer stand stably on the flat surface and no worry about tipping, 0.4 inch height helps drain all water away from your spaghetti or veggies but won’t touch to the sink
- QUICK DRAINING – The Food Colander Closely spaced holes on the whole surface for draining water faster and without tilting the metal strainer to avoid the food flowing out, Tiny holes for no worry about small foods(nuts, spaghetti, noodles) slipping through
- USING – can get rid from the frill water and oils of your pasta in a few seconds or clean your potatoes, tomatoes, berries, and every other vegetable and fruit effortlessly. We can use it in family gatherings, outings, and picnics.
- WIDE USES – Perfectly used as normal kitchen colander for draining pasta, rinsing fruits, veggies and more, Also can be used as a fruit or vegetable container and a steamer for pot, A great addition in your kitchen
Heavy-Duty 5QT
TeamFar Stainless Steel Colander, 5QT Micro-Perforated Metal Colander Food Strainer with Handles, for Draining Washing Rinsing Steaming, Non Toxic & Dishwasher Safe, Solid Construction & 3 Stable Feet
TeamFar
- PREMIUM STAINLESS STEEL – TeamFar 5 qt metal colander is made of pure stainless steel without any coating, No toxic and harmful substance leaching into food, Premium material for no easily rusting, Heat resistant to hold hot food and better than plastic colanders
- QUICK DRAINING – Closely spaced holes on the whole surface for draining water faster and without tilting the metal strainer to avoid the food flowing out, Tiny holes for no worry about small foods(nuts, spaghetti, noodles) slipping through
- STURDY HANDLES – 2 solid handles are welded firmly for balanced and comfortable grip, No worry about coming off, Easy to hang on the kitchen hook to save space, Smooth edge and surface without any sharp spurs to prevent hurting
- STABLE FEET – 3 raised feet help the food strainer stand stably on the flat surface and no worry about tipping, 0.4 inch height helps drain all water away from your spaghetti or veggies but won’t touch to the sink
- WIDE USES – Perfectly used as normal kitchen colander for draining pasta, rinsing fruits, veggies and more, Also can be used as a fruit or vegetable container and a steamer for pot, A great addition in your kitchen
Nestable Mesh Set
4 Pack Stainless Steel Colander Strainer Set Metal Colander with Handle, Mesh Strainer Net Baskets Dishwasher Safe for Kitchen Strain, Drain, Rinse or Steam Draining Pasta Rinsing Vegetables Fruits
Vin Beauty
- Reliable materials: Our stainless steel colander set is crafted from high-quality, food-grade stainless steel, ensuring durability and resistance to rust. Perfect for everyday kitchen use, these colanders are designed to withstand the rigors of daily cooking
- Practical design: Each metal colander strainer with handle features a sturdy handle, providing a secure grip for easy lifting and transportation. Ideal for draining pasta, rinsing vegetables, and straining grains, these colanders are a versatile addition to any kitchen
- Efficient drainage: The mesh strainer net baskets are designed with precision perforations, allowing for quick and thorough drainage while preventing small food particles from slipping through. Perfect for both wet and dry ingredients
- Space-saving: Our colanders are designed to nest together, saving valuable storage space in your kitchen. The compact design ensures that you can easily store them in your cabinets without cluttering your kitchen
- Easy to use: Cleaning up after cooking is a breeze with our dishwasher-safe metal strainer. Simply place the colanders in the dishwasher for a quick and hygienic clean, or rinse them under running water for immediate reuse
Square Base Pro
E-far 3 Pack Colander for Kitchen, Square Stainless Steel Metal Strainer Colander with Handle for Draining Food Pasta Vegetable, Micro-Perforated & Elevated Feet, Dishwasher Safe(2.4/4/6QT)
E-far
- PREMIUM STAINLESS STEEL COLANDER: Crafted with food-grade stainless steel, Rust-resistant colander set ensures safe food draining and rinsing- eliminating plastic toxins, A reinforced thick frame maintains shape under heavy loads, Built for lasting kitchen durability
- POOL-PROOF BASE & QUICK DRAINING- Tiny micro-perforations on a flat square base ensure rapid, even drainage while securing ingredients without loss, No more spills or soggy residue, 4 integrated feet create hygienic air gap to prevent tipping, Hands-free drying without contact with countertop or sinks
- SPACE-SAVING & HANGING GRIP: 3 strainers nest seamlessly for space-saving storage, Dual D-shaped handles stays cool to touch and provides slip-resistant even filled with boiling pasta, While lightweight frame eases lifting, Effortlessly hang or stack to banish cabinet clutter
- EASY CLEAN & MAINTAIN: Smooth interior with squared polished corners resist dirt buildup and allow quick, effortless cleaning without scrubbing, Dishwasher-safe for daily use, Freezer-to-oven compatible for added kitchen flexibility, Maintains a like-new finish over time
- 3 VERSATILE SIZES: Available in 3 sizes(2.4, 4, 6 Quarts)-Small, Medium, Large colander handle tasks from small rinsing jobs to large batches, Ideal for washing vegetables/fruits, straining beans/grains, draining pasta/noodles, or even for garden use
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Buying Guide
FAQs
What stainless‑steel grade should I look for in a cheap metal colander?
Most budget colanders use 18/8 or 18/10 (304) stainless steel, which resists rust and won’t leach flavors. The higher the nickel content (18/10), the more corrosion‑resistant the metal, but 18/8 is usually sufficient for home use. Look for product listings that explicitly mention the grade to ensure durability.
How important are micro‑perforated holes versus larger mesh openings?
Micro‑perforated holes drain faster and prevent small foods like rice, quinoa, or baby carrots from slipping through, which is a common complaint with wide‑mesh colanders. They also reduce the need to tilt the bowl, keeping the strainer stable. However, very fine holes can clog if you’re draining chunky pasta, so a balance of size and spacing is ideal.
Is a footed or base‑raised design worth the extra cost?
Footed colanders lift the bowl off the sink surface, allowing water to flow away completely and preventing the strainer from tipping. This feature is especially helpful when draining hot pasta or large batches of vegetables. Models like the Gulex and TeamFar include feet and are only a few dollars more than non‑footed versions.
What capacity should I choose for a small kitchen versus a family setting?
A 3‑quart colander fits comfortably on most countertops and is perfect for one‑to‑two‑person meals, while a 5‑quart version handles larger pots of pasta or bulk vegetable prep for families. If you often cook for guests or run a small food‑service operation, the extra capacity justifies the modest price increase. Many brands offer sets of multiple sizes, giving flexibility without buying separate units.
Do double handles improve usability compared to a single handle?
Double handles provide a balanced grip and make it easier to lift heavy, water‑filled colanders without straining one hand. They also allow you to hang the colander on a kitchen hook for storage, saving cabinet space. If you frequently drain hot foods, a sturdy double‑handle design is a practical upgrade.
How does dishwasher safety affect long‑term value?
Dishwasher‑safe stainless steel colanders save time and keep the finish free of rust spots that can develop with hand washing. Look for a mirror‑finished surface, as it resists staining and is easier to clean. Even the cheapest models usually meet dishwasher standards, so this feature rarely adds extra cost.
Are there noticeable price differences between brands with similar features?
Brands like Bellemain, TeamFar, and E‑far all offer micro‑perforated, footed designs in the 3‑quart range, and their prices typically vary by $2‑$5. The price gap often reflects packaging, brand reputation, or included accessories such as extra handles. For most shoppers, the cheapest option that meets the essential criteria (stainless steel grade, footed base, and micro‑perforations) provides the best value.
What should I consider regarding the aesthetic and color options?
While functionality is paramount, a colander’s finish can complement kitchen décor; brushed stainless steel hides fingerprints better than a high‑gloss mirror finish. Some models, like the HiramWare, offer colored finishes that double as decorative pieces. Choose a style that matches your kitchen’s look without sacrificing the practical features you need.