How to Clean a Colander and Strainer (Every Hole, Every Time)

Colanders and strainers trap food particles in dozens or hundreds of tiny holes — and a quick rinse rarely gets them all. Left uncleaned, these residues build up, harbor bacteria, and cause odors. Here's how to clean them properly.

What You'll Need

• Holikme Bottle Brush Set — the narrow brushes are ideal for scrubbing colander holes and mesh strainers
• Mild dish soap and warm water
• Amazon Basics Non-Scratch Sponges
• Baking soda (for stubborn residue and odors)
• White vinegar (for mineral deposits)

Step-by-Step: How to Clean a Colander

Step 1: Rinse Immediately After Use

Rinse the colander under warm running water right after use. This prevents food particles from drying and hardening in the holes, which makes them much harder to remove later.

Step 2: Scrub with Soap and a Brush

Apply dish soap and use a bottle brush or stiff brush to scrub both the inside and outside surfaces. Pay special attention to the holes — push the brush tip into the holes to dislodge trapped food. Scrub the rim and base where residue collects.

Step 3: Rinse Under Pressure

Rinse under a strong stream of water, directing the flow through the holes from both sides. This flushes out any remaining particles the brush loosened.

Step 4: For Stubborn Residue, Use Baking Soda

1. Sprinkle baking soda over the colander surface.
2. Scrub with a damp brush, working it into the holes.
3. Let sit for 5 minutes, then rinse thoroughly.

Step 5: Remove Mineral Deposits with Vinegar

Hard water leaves white mineral deposits around the holes over time. Soak the colander in equal parts white vinegar and water for 15–30 minutes, then scrub and rinse. The acid dissolves the deposits without damaging the metal.

Step 6: Dry Completely

Shake off excess water and dry with a cloth, or air dry upside down. Make sure water doesn't pool in the base — standing water causes rust on metal colanders.

Cleaning a Fine Mesh Strainer

Fine mesh strainers are even harder to clean than colanders — the tiny holes clog easily.

• Rinse immediately after use — never let food dry in the mesh
• Use a soft bottle brush to scrub the mesh from both sides
• Run under a strong water stream to flush particles through
• For clogged mesh, soak in hot soapy water for 10 minutes before scrubbing
• Use a toothbrush for very fine mesh — the soft bristles clean without stretching the mesh

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I put a colander in the dishwasher?

Stainless steel colanders are generally dishwasher safe. Plastic colanders may warp on the bottom rack — use the top rack. Always check the manufacturer's instructions.

How do I remove rust from a metal colander?

Scrub rust spots with a paste of baking soda and water using a non-scratch sponge. For stubborn rust, use Bar Keepers Friend. Rinse thoroughly and dry completely to prevent rust from returning.

My strainer smells even after washing. Why?

Food particles are still trapped in the mesh or holes. Soak in a baking soda solution (2 tbsp per liter of warm water) for 15 minutes, scrub thoroughly with a brush, and rinse under a strong water stream.