How to Clean a Colander and Strainer

Colanders and Strainers: Simple Tools That Need Regular Cleaning

Colanders and strainers are used for draining pasta, rinsing vegetables, and straining liquids. Food particles get trapped in the holes and can harbor bacteria if not cleaned thoroughly. Here's how to keep them clean and hygienic.

What You'll Need

• Stiff brush or bottle brush
• Non-scratch scrub sponge
• Baking soda
• White vinegar
• Bar Keepers Friend (for stainless steel)
• Mild dish soap
• Warm water

Everyday Cleaning

1. Rinse immediately after use under warm running water to flush food particles through the holes
2. Apply dish soap to a stiff brush and scrub all surfaces, including the inside, outside, and rim
3. Pay special attention to the holes — food particles lodge here and dry quickly
4. Rinse thoroughly until water runs clear through all holes
5. Shake off excess water and dry or air dry completely

Dishwasher Method

Most stainless steel and plastic colanders are dishwasher safe. Place on the top rack. The dishwasher is very effective at flushing food particles from the holes.

Removing Stuck-On Food

For food dried in the holes, soak in warm soapy water for 15–20 minutes. Use a stiff brush to scrub the holes from both sides. A bottle brush works well for reaching inside the colander bowl.

Removing Stains and Discoloration

Stainless steel colanders can develop discoloration from pasta water minerals or tomato sauce. Bar Keepers Friend removes staining effectively — apply, scrub with a non-scratch sponge, and rinse thoroughly. For mineral deposits (white buildup), soak in white vinegar for 10 minutes, then scrub and rinse.

Removing Odors

If the colander retains odors from fish or strong-smelling foods, wipe with white vinegar after washing, let sit 5 minutes, then rinse. A baking soda paste applied and left for 10 minutes also neutralizes odors effectively.

Final Thoughts

Colanders and strainers are easy to clean when rinsed immediately after use. A stiff brush handles the holes effectively, the dishwasher is the easiest option, and Bar Keepers Friend restores stainless steel shine. Dry completely to prevent rust on metal colanders.