Colander

Colander is a bowl-shaped kitchen utensil with numerous perforations, designed to drain liquids from foods while retaining the solid components. Most colanders are round with a wide rim, two handles, and a base or feet to elevate the bowl above a surface; they range from small to large, with hole sizes optimized for different tasks. Materials vary widely, including stainless steel, aluminum, plastic, silicone, ceramic, and combinations. Stainless steel is durable and dishwasher-safe; plastic and silicone variants are lighter and may feature collapsible designs for compact storage, but can stain or warp over time. Ceramic or enameled metal colanders resist staining but may be heavier and breakable.

Uses: primary purpose is drainage—rinsing fruits and vegetables, washing grains and legumes, and draining cooked pasta or blanched vegetables. Because hole size matters, pasta colanders typically have larger holes, while finer strains are better served by sieves.

Care: to extend life, rinse thoroughly after use, hand wash if required by material, dry to prevent rust or odor retention. Some plastics can absorb odors; metal colanders may require occasional polishing to remove mineral deposits.

History: while sieves have ancient origins, perforated colanders became common in European kitchens in the 19th and 20th centuries with the mass production of metal cookware; modern plastic and silicone variants broaden use and storage options.

Variations: collapsible silicone colanders, footed metal colanders, and stackable or over-sink designs.

See also: Sieve; Strainer; Drain rack.