A dish strainer may not be the most glamorous kitchen accessory to grace your countertops, but it certainly is one of the most functional. Even if you already own a dishwasher, using a dish strainer rather than running your dishwasher's drying cycle can help reduce power costs. What's more, many containers aren't dishwasher safe to begin with, making a dish strainer a must-have item for every kitchen.
When choosing the best dish strainer for your kitchen, remember to consider size, capacity, style and construction materials, as these factors can vary greatly from one model to the next. The SimpleHuman Steel Frame Dish Rack gives competitors a run for their money with its sleek style, fast-drying technology and innovative feature set.
What to know before you buy a dish strainer
Types of dish strainers
Full-size dish strainers, also referred to as dish racks, are generally large enough to hold dinnerware for a family of three to four. These dish strainers typically feature tall sides, as well as slots for dishes, plates, saucers, glasses and cutlery.
Compact dish strainers are basically miniature versions of full-size models. Most offer all the same features, but only accommodate dishes for one to two people.
In-sink dish strainers have many of the same features as other styles but are designed to sit in one side of a double sink, rather than directly on the counter. Since water drips straight into the sink, these dish strainers don't come with a drain tray.
Over-the-sink dish strainers are meant to be used with a double sink. These generally come in two different forms: small and simple flat racks that attach to the sides of the sink and larger models with long legs that elevate them well above the sink.
Wall-mounted dish strainers attach directly to the wall and can be great space savers for small kitchens. However, it's worth noting that many wall-mounted models lack flatware holders, making them best suited for drying plates, cups or glasses.
Collapsible dish strainers work well in kitchens with limited space as they fold down quickly and easily for storage. These dish strainers are available in compact form, in-sink models and over-the-sink strainers and typically offer space for dishes, cups and flatware.
Two-tiered dish strainers have a stacked design with a dish rack on top and a flat rack for cups or glasses at the bottom. If counter space is an issue, a two-tiered dish strainer is worth considering. Just remember to measure the height between your countertop surface and upper kitchen cupboards to ensure a good fit.
Size
Some dish strainers have quite a large footprint. Always check the measurements and compare these numbers to your available space before you buy. On average, full-size dish strainers measure around 9 by 14 by 6 inches, while compact models are generally sized around 12 by 5 by 4 inches.
Capacity
Just how many dishes do you need your dish strainer to hold? For families of three to four, full-sized dish strainers or large over-the-sink models are by far the most practical choice. If you only need a dish strainer for one or two people, a compact strainer or simple in-sink or over-the-sink model should suffice. When it comes to collapsible and wall-mounted dish strainers, sizes can vary from model to model, so don't forget to check the dimensions before you buy.
Dish strainer features
Construction materials
Dish strainers are most commonly made of stainless steel, wood, bamboo, plastic, rubber or silicone. In terms of durability, stainless steel simply can't be beat. However, high-gauge stainless steel can scratch or chip delicate dishware, though some are coated with silicone or plastic to prevent damage. Wood or bamboo aren't the most moisture-resistant materials and are best reserved for occasional use. Lightweight and affordable, plastic dish strainers are a popular budget-friendly pick. Unfortunately, they aren't the most durable and may stain, crack or lose shape over time.
Drain boards
Drain boards or trays usually come with dish strainers that stand on the counter top. As your dishes dry, the drain board catches that moisture that drips from your dish strainer, keeping your kitchen surfaces clean and dry.
Specialty holders
Some dish strainers come with specialty attachments or holders. These typically include handy elements not commonly found in the average dish strainer, such as wine glass holders or dedicated knife storage units.
Dish strainer cost
For under $25 you can find dish strainers made from a wide variety of materials in varying sizes. The $25-$75 price bracket offers an array of sturdy full-size stainless steel dish strainers as well as solid two-tier models. Dish strainers priced at $75 and over often have a generous capacity, quality construction and boast unique and stylish designs not often seen in other models.
Dish Strainer FAQ
Can dish strainers hold wine glasses?
A. Some dish strainers have special wine glass holders while others simply have a flat surface on which you can place wine glasses or any number of other items. Either way, be sure to stack delicate pieces such as wine glasses carefully and remember not to overload your dish strainer.
Can I place a standard cutting board in a dish strainer?
A. Most full-size dish strainers are capable of accommodating a standard cutting board. Some dish strainers even come with cutting board attachments to help save space.
Which dish strainer should I get?
Best of the best dish strainer
Simplehuman Steel Frame Dish Rack : available at Amazon
Our take: This sleek and modern dish strainer outshines the rest with its quality construction, high-tech design and a host of handy features.
What we like: Enhanced with a hydrophilic coating for faster drying and reduced residue buildup. Steel frame is sturdy and attractive. Comes with built-in wine glass holders. Drain board features a swiveling spout that allows you to drain water directly into the sink.
What we dislike: Some reviewers complained of water spots and rust developing on the stainless steel frame over time.
Best bang for your buck dish strainer
Simple Houseware 2-Tier Dish Rack: available at Amazon
Our take: This attractive two-tiered dish strainer has a compact footprint that's ideal for smaller kitchens and holds about as much as an average full-size model.
What we like: Boasts an attractive and modern brushed-chrome finish. Delivers good capacity without taking up too much space. Comes with a removable flatware holder and a translucent drain board. Easy to clean. Sturdy and durable, despite its budget-friendly price.
What we dislike: Taller glasses and mugs may not fit on the lower rack.
Honorable mention dish strainer
Premium Racks Professional Dish Rack: available at Amazon
Our take: An innovative dish strainer with some handy features and a fully customizable design that can be rearranged to better suit your personal needs.
What we like: High-grade stainless steel construction is tough and durable. Parts can be rearranged or removed as needed. Comes with a removable knife holder, utensil holder and a cutting board attachment. Includes two different styles of drain boards and a microfiber mat.
What we dislike: A handful of reviewers felt that the drain boards could do with improvement. Has a large footprint.
Erica van Blommestein is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. BestReviews and its newspaper partners may earn a commission if you purchase a product through one of our links.
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