OTOTO The Nessie Family Colander Review

Buying Guide: Colander

Whether you're making a big pot of spaghetti or simply want to wash fruits for your smoothie, a colander is an essential kitchen tool that can make your life a whole lot easier. With so many options available on the market, it can be tough to decide which one to go for. But fear not, as we've compiled the ultimate buying guide to help you choose the perfect colander for your needs. From size and material to shape and design, we've got you covered. So, let's get filtering!

Material

The material of the colander is an important factor to consider when making your purchase. Colanders are usually made from either stainless steel, plastic, or silicone. Stainless steel is strong and durable, making it a great choice for heavy-duty tasks like straining large batches of pasta. Plastic colanders are quite lightweight and easy to clean, making them a great option for everyday use. Silicone colanders are heat-resistant and nonstick, making them ideal for cooking with hot liquids or oils. They're also dishwasher-safe, which makes cleaning up after use a breeze.

Handle Design

The handle design of the colander makes a difference in its usefulness. Colanders with long handles are easier to use than those with short, stubby ones. Long-handled colanders allow you to reach into the pot without having to worry about burning yourself or maneuvering around your sink or pots/pans. Handles should feel solid when held and be easy to grip without being too slippery. If you plan on using your colander frequently, you may also want to consider purchasing one with a detachable handle so that it can be stored in an out-of-the-way place when not in use. 

Sturdiness

The sturdiness of a colander plays an important role in its longevity and ability to withstand regular use. You'll want to look for one made with thicker walls that provides good strength when held or gripped and smooth edges that won't cut into your hands. Additionally, proper weight distribution can help keep the center of gravity low so it won’t tip when filled with food items or water for draining.

Draining Capacity

When selecting a colander, it's important to consider how quickly and efficiently it can drain water without spilling onto countertops or floors. A good draining capacity means that water won't pool in areas where food items are located, which may increase bacteria growth and spoilage risk for stored ingredients.  Ideally, it should have large holes that allow water to drain without overflowing but not so large that it allows food to pass through as well — especially important for those who like to cook large quantities of pasta or vegetables.

Shape

The colander’s shape will affect its usability. Some odd-shaped colanders may require a larger sink area than others to comfortably drain ingredients or wash vegetables in a running water stream.  Other shapes may be more suitable for smaller sink sizes but may not provide ample room for large batches at once — something to take into consideration when making your purchase decision. Additionally, some shapes may not fit certain pots/pans properly, so make sure to double-check before committing to any product!

Ease of Cleaning

You should also check how easy it is to clean the colander. Most products on the market today are dishwasher safe, which can be a great convenience for busy cooks who want their kitchen tools ready for use as soon as possible after preparing a meal. Another aspect of cleaning is how easily the colander can be cleaned by hand — some models may require special scrubbing tools or harsh chemicals to remove stubborn food particles like rice grains or quinoa flakes, while others clean up nicely with just some warm water and soap.