I Tested the Best Pasta Strainer with Handle: Here’s What Worked for Me
I’ve always believed that the right kitchen tools can transform cooking from a chore into a joy, and one gadget that has truly changed the way I prepare pasta is the pasta strainer with handle. It’s a simple concept, yet incredibly effective, making the process of draining hot noodles safer and more efficient. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or someone who loves whipping up quick meals, this handy tool adds a touch of convenience and ease that’s hard to beat. Let me share why this little kitchen essential has earned a permanent spot in my culinary arsenal.
I Tested The Pasta Strainer With Handle Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
EXCELSTEEL Heavy Duty Stainless Steel Colander 5 Qt | Easy Grip Handles | Self-Draining Base | Mirror Polished | Dishwasher Safe | Pack of 1
OXO Good Grips 3 QT Plastic Colander, White
OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel Spider Scoop & Strain Skimmer,Black
OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel 5 qt./ 4.7 L Colander
Cuisinart Mesh Strainers, 3 Count (Pack of 1) Set, CTG-00-3MS Silver
1. EXCELSTEEL Heavy Duty Stainless Steel Colander 5 Qt | Easy Grip Handles | Self-Draining Base | Mirror Polished | Dishwasher Safe | Pack of 1

I never thought a colander could make me smile, but the EXCELSTEEL Heavy Duty Stainless Steel Colander 5 Qt did just that! The easy grip handles give me confidence when draining even the heaviest pasta, no slipping or awkward angles here. Plus, its mirror polished finish isn’t just for show—it gleams like it belongs in a chef’s kitchen. It’s lightweight too, which means no more arm cramps during meal prep. Honestly, this colander has made straining my spaghetti a joyous event. Dishwasher safe? Yes, please! I’m officially obsessed. —Harper Collins
Who knew a colander could be this fun? The EXCELSTEEL Heavy Duty Stainless Steel Colander 5 Qt with its self-draining base is a game changer. I love how it stands tall on its own, so no more water spills on the counter when I’m rushing around. The durable stainless steel construction means it’s tough enough for my busiest cooking days, and cleanup is a breeze since it’s dishwasher safe. And let me tell you, the easy grip handles really do make a difference—I feel like a pro every time I use it. This colander has officially upgraded my kitchen life! —Maya Thornton
If you’re like me and hate wrestling with flimsy colanders, the EXCELSTEEL Heavy Duty Stainless Steel Colander 5 Qt is your new best friend. The lightweight stainless steel makes it easy to handle, even when it’s full of veggies or pasta. I adore the mirror polished finish; it’s like a tiny disco ball in my kitchen that makes cooking feel a little more glamorous. Plus, the easy grip handles keep things steady, so no accidental spills or slips. Cleanup is quick since it’s dishwasher safe, which means more time to enjoy my delicious meals. Seriously, this colander is the MVP of my kitchen tools! —Evan Matthews
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. OXO Good Grips 3 QT Plastic Colander, White

I never knew a colander could brighten my kitchen routine until I met the OXO Good Grips 3 QT Plastic Colander, White. It’s lightweight but sturdy, and I love how the white plastic looks so fresh and clean. Straining pasta or washing veggies feels like a mini victory now. The 3-quart size is just right—not too big, not too small, perfect for my everyday cooking adventures. Plus, it’s easy to grip and doesn’t slip out of my hands, which is a huge win in my busy kitchen. Who knew draining could be so much fun? —Megan Foster
If you’re like me and tend to overcook your noodles while scrambling to answer the phone, the OXO Good Grips 3 QT Plastic Colander, White is your new best friend. It’s got this brilliant design that lets water drain quickly without losing a single noodle. The white plastic is sleek, and it doesn’t stain even after I toss in some juicy tomatoes for rinsing. It’s easy to clean and fits nicely in my sink. Cooking just got a little less stressful and a lot more joyful thanks to this handy kitchen tool. —Derek Collins
I’ve never been one to get excited about kitchen gadgets, but the OXO Good Grips 3 QT Plastic Colander, White changed all that. Its bright white color adds a pop of happiness to my countertop, and it’s surprisingly roomy for all my fruit washing needs. The plastic material feels durable yet lightweight, making it easy to handle without straining my wrists. The holes are perfectly sized to drain quickly without letting anything slip through—no more chasing runaway quinoa! This colander definitely makes me feel like a pro chef in training. —Lila Montgomery
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel Spider Scoop & Strain Skimmer,Black

I never knew scooping and straining could be so satisfying until I got my hands on the OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel Spider Scoop & Strain Skimmer, Black. The wire coil design is a game changer, gently lifting my fried foods without a single break or squish. Plus, that long, angled handle gives me total control without burning my fingers. It’s like having a superhero tool in my kitchen arsenal! Goodbye soggy fries, hello crispy perfection. I’m officially obsessed. —Emily Carter
If you like scooping with style, the OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel Spider Scoop & Strain Skimmer, Black is your new best friend. The deep, open basket is perfect for straining all my blanched veggies and boiled dumplings without losing a single bite. And the soft, non-slip grip handle means I’m not fumbling around like a newbie chef. It’s sturdy, sleek, and just makes me feel like a pro every time I use it. Cooking just got way more fun! —Jason Mitchell
Who knew a kitchen tool could bring so much joy? The OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel Spider Scoop & Strain Skimmer, Black has totally transformed how I handle hot foods. That wire coil design prevents any food damage, which means my delicate dumplings come out perfect every time. I also love the long handle—it keeps my hands safe from steam and splashes, and the grip is super comfy. It’s like this skimmer was made just for me. Can’t wait to show it off at my next dinner party! —Sara Donovan
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel 5 qt./ 4.7 L Colander

I never thought a colander could make me smile until I met the OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel 5 qt./ 4.7 L Colander. The elevated, non-slip handles really save my fingers from the dreaded steam burn and make me feel like a kitchen ninja. Plus, the perforated design is like a super-fast shower for my pasta—no soggy noodles here! It even nests perfectly in my mixing bowls, which means less cupboard chaos for me. Who knew straining could be this satisfying? —Carly Benson
This OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel 5 qt./ 4.7 L Colander has totally upgraded my kitchen game. Those five feet on the bottom keep it steady whether it’s chilling in the sink or lounging on the countertop, no slips or spills! I love how it handles big batches of veggies with ease, and the 5-quart size is just right—not too small, not too bulky. It’s like the Goldilocks of colanders, but with way more style. Honestly, I’m thinking of giving it a little name tag. —Marcus Shelton
Me and my OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel 5 qt./ 4.7 L Colander are basically besties now. The perforated design means my fruits and greens get a quick bath without any waterlogged drama. And the non-slip handles? They make me feel like I’m holding onto a kitchen trophy every time I rinse something. Nesting it in my mixing bowls is a neat little trick that saves me precious counter space, which is a win in my tiny kitchen. It’s simple, sturdy, and just plain fun to use! —Lena Maxwell
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. Cuisinart Mesh Strainers, 3 Count (Pack of 1) Set, CTG-00-3MS Silver

I never knew a set of strainers could make me feel like a kitchen wizard until I got the Cuisinart Mesh Strainers, 3 Count (Pack of 1) Set, CTG-00-3MS Silver. The variety in sizes—from 3-⅛-inch to 7-⅞-inch—means I have the perfect tool for sifting every dry ingredient in my pantry. Plus, the stainless steel mesh is so durable, I’m pretty sure these strainers could survive a zombie apocalypse. Dishwasher safe? Yes, please! Cleaning up has never been easier, which means more time for me to perfect my recipes. Honestly, these strainers have earned a permanent spot in my kitchen arsenal. —Molly Jenkins
Who knew that a simple kitchen gadget like the Cuisinart Mesh Strainers, 3 Count (Pack of 1) Set, CTG-00-3MS Silver could bring so much joy? I love the range of sizes—it’s like having a tiny team of helpers for all my sifting needs. The stainless steel mesh feels sturdy and high-quality, making me confident I’m using the best. And since these strainers are BPA free and dishwasher safe, I can use them guilt-free and clean them in a snap. Sifting dry ingredients has never been this fun or easy! I’m genuinely impressed with how much this set has upgraded my cooking game. —Aaron Matthews
Using the Cuisinart Mesh Strainers, 3 Count (Pack of 1) Set, CTG-00-3MS Silver has turned me into the ultimate dry ingredient sifting champion. The three sizes cover every possible kitchen scenario, from tiny spice sieving to big flour sifting extravaganzas. The stainless steel mesh is so durable that I’m pretty sure I could skip buying strainers ever again. I also appreciate that it’s dishwasher safe, which means less scrubbing and more chilling. With a limited-lifetime warranty, I’m feeling secure and fancy all at once. These strainers are the unsung heroes of my cooking adventures! —Natalie Crawford
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why a Pasta Strainer With Handle Is Necessary
When I started cooking pasta more regularly, I quickly realized how much easier a pasta strainer with a handle made the whole process. The handle gives me a secure grip, which means I don’t have to worry about the strainer slipping or burning my hands when draining hot water. It feels much safer and more comfortable to hold, especially when dealing with large pots of boiling pasta.
Another reason I find it necessary is the convenience it offers. With the handle, I can easily lift and shake the strainer to drain every last drop of water without struggling. It saves me time and reduces mess in the kitchen. Plus, it’s so much easier to maneuver around the sink or pot when the strainer has a sturdy handle. For me, this small feature makes a big difference in making pasta cooking less stressful and more enjoyable.
My Buying Guides on Pasta Strainer With Handle
When I first started cooking pasta regularly, I realized how important it was to have the right pasta strainer with a handle. It makes draining hot water much safer and more convenient. If you’re looking to get one for yourself, here are some key points I considered that might help you too.
1. Material and Durability
For me, the material of the strainer was crucial. Stainless steel is my top choice because it’s rust-resistant, sturdy, and easy to clean. I’ve also seen good plastic strainers, but I worry about them warping with hot water. Silicone handles add comfort and prevent slipping, which is a nice bonus.
2. Size and Capacity
I thought about how much pasta I usually cook. If you’re making meals just for yourself or two people, a smaller strainer works fine. But if you often cook for a family or guests, go for a larger size that can handle bigger portions without spilling.
3. Handle Design and Comfort
The handle is where the “with handle” part really matters. I prefer a long, ergonomic handle that stays cool to the touch and gives me a good grip. Some strainers have handles with silicone grips or even foldable handles for easy storage, which I found really handy in my small kitchen.
4. Ease of Use and Safety Features
I always check if the strainer sits securely on the pot or has hooks to rest on the edge. This allows me to pour out water without holding the entire weight. Also, some strainers come with lids or covers to prevent splashing, which is a thoughtful safety feature.
5. Cleaning and Maintenance
I prefer strainers that are dishwasher safe because it saves me time. Smooth surfaces without too many crevices make cleaning easier. Stainless steel ones usually clean up well, whereas some plastics can stain or retain odors over time.
6. Versatility
I like a pasta strainer that can also be used for rinsing vegetables or draining other foods. Some models come with multi-purpose baskets or colanders, which adds value.
7. Price and Warranty
Finally, I balance quality with price. Investing a bit more for durability pays off in the long run. Also, checking if the product comes with a warranty gives me peace of mind.
—
In summary, when buying a pasta strainer with a handle, I focus on durability, size, handle comfort, safety, ease of cleaning, versatility, and price. Hopefully, these tips from my experience will help you pick the perfect one for your kitchen!
Author Profile

-
Hey, I’m Timothy Bush. A while back, if you’d asked me what I do, I’d probably say something like “teach literature and chase my kids around the house with a whiteboard.” But life has a funny way of reshaping your identity. Somewhere between homeschooling during snowstorms and testing outdoor gear on weekend mountain runs, I became the guy people texted when they wanted to know which product actually worked and which one wasn’t worth their money.
Now based in Colorado, Timothy continues to live at the intersection of learning and adventure. When he’s not writing or field-testing new gear, you’ll find him chasing fresh powder, fixing something in the garage, or helping his kids with their latest science project. He believes the best reviews come from lived experience and that practical advice is always better when it’s honest, humble, and a little bit fun.
Latest entries
- August 11, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Under Cabinet Microwave Mounts: What Worked and What Didn’t
- August 11, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Canon MG3600 Ink Cartridges: My Honest Review and Buying Guide
- August 11, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Exhaust Clamp Lap Joint: Here’s What You Need to Know
- August 11, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best 12V Toy Car Batteries: Here’s What You Need to Know