Photo: Helect
During food preparation, your top priority is probably ensuring the process is as hygienic as possible. Your kitchen sink plays an important role in this process and ensuring its neatness and cleanliness will help keep away harmful microbes.
To ensure that the kitchen sink is free of debris and eliminate clogging of pipes, your sink requires a key component called the kitchen skin strainer.
A strainer may seem small and insignificant, but buying the ideal one makes a great difference in maintaining spotlessness and hygiene at the sink.
There is a variety of kitchen sink strainers in the market, but here you will find the 12 best kitchen sink strainers you can buy.
In this post:
- 12 Best Kitchen Sink Strainers – Review
- 1. Betwoo Plastic – Best Value for Money Sink Strainer
- 2. Helect 11807052036 – Best Kitchen Strainer under $10
- 3. OXO 1308200 – Best Quality Kitchen Sink Strainer
- 4. KONE Garbage G231 – Most Advanced Kitchen Strainer
- 5. A AULIFE 20161153668 – Best Mesh Kitchen Sink Strainer
- 6. Kitchen KSS682 – Most Ergonomic Sink Strainer
- 7. Sink Strainer 2ct – Best Stainless Steel Kitchen Strainer
- 8. Fengbao 1603131813 – Reliable Kitchen Sink Strainer
- 9. EverFlow 75111 – Multi-purpose Sink Strainer
- 10. Kohler 48694 – Elegant Kitchen Strainer
- 11. DANCO 86800 – Custom Sink Strainer
- 12. Décor KD-001-O – Oil-rubbed Bronze Strainer
- How to Buy the Best Kitchen Sink Strainer
- Conclusion
12 Best Kitchen Sink Strainers – Review
IMAGE | PRODUCT | FEATURES | |
|---|---|---|---|
 | 1. Betwoo Strainer (Best Value for Money) |
| |
 | 2. Helect 11807052036 (Best under $10) |
| |
 | 3. OXO 1308200 (Best Quality) |
| |
 | 4. KONE Garbage G231 (Most Advanced) |
| |
 | 5. A AULIFE 20161153668 (Best Mesh Design) |
| |
 | 6. Kitchen KSS682 (Most Ergonomic Design) |
| |
 | 7. Sink Strainer 2ct (Best Stainless Steel Design) |
| |
 | 8. Fengbao 1603131813 (Reliable) |
| |
 | 9. EverFlow 75111 (For Multi-purpose) |
| |
 | 10. Kohler 48694 (Elegant) |
| |
 | 11. DANCO 86800 (Custom Strainer) |
| |
 | 12. Décor KD-001-O (Has Oil-rubbed Bronze Finish) |
|
PRODUCT |
|---|
1. Betwoo Strainer (Best Value for Money)
|
2. Helect 11807052036 (Best under $10)
|
3. OXO 1308200 (Best Quality)
|
4. KONE Garbage G231 (Most Advanced)
|
5. A AULIFE 20161153668 (Best Mesh Design)
|
6. Kitchen KSS682 (Most Ergonomic Design)
|
7. Sink Strainer 2ct (Best Stainless Steel Design)
|
8. Fengbao 1603131813 (Reliable)
|
9. EverFlow 75111 (For Multi-purpose)
|
10. Kohler 48694 (Elegant)
|
11. DANCO 86800 (Custom Strainer)
|
12. Décor KD-001-O (Has Oil-rubbed Bronze Finish)
|
1. Betwoo Plastic – Best Value for Money Sink Strainer
Photo: Betwoo
- Size: 4.5 inches
- Material: Plastic
For less than $10, you get four of these multicolored strainers, which is the most value for money of all products on the list.
Weighing only 30 grams apiece, and 1.12 ounces for a set of 4, Betwoo Plastic is also the most lightweight kitchen sink strainer on the list.
The inner filter has a width of 3 inches while and the strainers depth is 1.37 inches. It offers more capacity for debris retention compared to other strainers on the list.
The strainer’s plastic material enhances durability and prevents food residue from sticking on it.
Betwoo Plastic has a unique dia petal holes design offering an effective food trapping mechanism while allowing water to pass through easily.
While the strainer unique design and material makes it the most attractive and lightweight option on the list, it is recommended that you wash it with your hands and not a dishwasher.
Pros:
- Plastic material makes it lightweight and durable
- Great value at four pieces in one set
- Deep strainer depth to hold more food debris
- Unique dia petal hole design to trap food
Cons:
- Handwashing is the recommended mode of cleaning
- Small food particles may pass through the strainer holes
2. Helect 11807052036 – Best Kitchen Strainer under $10
Photo: Helect
- Size: 4.5 inches
- Material: Stainless steel
For an under $10 kitchen sink strainer, the Helect 11807052036 is a great bargain as it comes in a pack of three.
This strainer has a diameter of 4.5 inches and is designed to fit most kitchen sinks and garbage disposals.
Its stainless-steel material prevents rusting and deforming. The strainer is long-lasting and promises a clog-free sink. And the strainer’s anticlogging mechanism prevents food particles from passing through it while allowing water to pass effortlessly into the drain.
Helect promises an easy cleaning experience. Simply run warm water soapy water through to restore its mirror finish.
With a lifetime warranty from Helect, expect the strainer to maintain its quality and reliability throughout its use.
Although the strainer is reliable and effective, its shallow basket can make it fill up with food debris fast.
Pros:
- Prevents clogging
- Standard outer diameter to fit most sinks
- Easy to wash
- Comes with a lifetime warranty
- Offered in a set of three.
Cons:
- Shallow basket fills up with food debris fast
3. OXO 1308200 – Best Quality Kitchen Sink Strainer
Photo: OXO
- Size: 4.5 inches
- Material: Stainless steel and silicone
The build quality of the OXO 1308200 is quite impressive because it comes with a silicone basket and center column, which enable easy removal of the strainer and debris disposal. You simply have to lift the column then empty its contents then fit it back.
The strainer’s underside is made of silicone as well, and this prevents the component from scratching your sink.
Cleaning the strainer is a bliss. You can run warm soapy water through it to wash of the dirt, or simply toss it in the dishwasher. Either option is effortless. The strainer’s capacity is, however, a bit small.
Pros:
- Stainless steel and silicone for grip and sink protection
- Easy to clean
- Clog prevention and pipe protection
- Dishwasher safe
- Center column makes it easy to remove
Cons:
- Strainer basket capacity is small
4. KONE Garbage G231 – Most Advanced Kitchen Strainer
Photo: KONE
- Size: 3.5 inches
- Material: Stainless steel
Arguably the most advanced kitchen strainer on the list, KONE Garbage G231 comes equipped with a deep removable waste basket, a runner gasket sealing lid, and a locking nut.
When you install the strainer in your sink, rest assured it grips firmly and is not easily dislodged by water.
The removable wastebasket is deep and holds a lot of food garbage allowing you to focus on the task at hand without constantly emptying the strainer.
The strainer is easy to install. You don’t require an expert plumber as it comes with clear and simple installation instructions.
And its design allows for easy cleaning, in a minute or less.
Although the strainer’s advanced features make it an ideal choice for those who desire quality and convenience, the outer diameter of 3.5 inches may discourage those with larger-diameter sinkholes.
Pros:
- Removable basket for ease of waste disposal
- Comes with a locking nut for firm installation
- Clear instruction for easy installation
- Easy to clean in under one minute
- Traps large and small food particles
Cons:
- Strainer’s outer diameter may limit sink compatibility
5. A AULIFE 20161153668 – Best Mesh Kitchen Sink Strainer
Photo: A AULIFE
If you’re looking for simplicity and durability, the A AULIFE 20161153668 strainer promises both at an affordable price of less than $10.
It comes with a stainless-steel mesh and a micro-perforated bowl, which prevent food particles and other debris from clogging the sink.
As a set of two strainers, you can count on A AULIFE to last long without worrying about replacing the product.
The strainer is dishwasher safe. Cleaning is also easy. Simply run warm soapy water through it to restore its shiny finish.
Designed with a standard diameter of 4.5 inches, the strainer will fit in most sinks at home. To effectively cover the sink’s drain, A AULIFE has a 2-ply metal sheet rim.
Although A AULIFE is a worthy bargain with a money-back guarantee, its bowl area height of 1 inch can make the strainer fill up fast thus increasing waste disposal cycles.
Pros:
- Durable stainless-steel finish
- Micro-perforated bowl to prevent sink clogging
- Offered in two pieces to maximize product lifespan
- Dishwasher safe and easy to clean
- Standard diameter that fits most kitchen sinks
Cons:
- The 1-inch basket depth is notably shallow
6. Kitchen KSS682 – Most Ergonomic Sink Strainer
Photo: SinkShroom
- Size: 4.5 inches
- Material: Stainless steel
The unique design of the SinkRoom KSS682 makes it the most ergonomic on the list. It has an intuitive hollow center cylinder, which prevents dishes and pots from drain blockage.
Its design allows for easy removal of the strainer when full. Simply pull it out by grabbing the center ‘Shroom’ cylinder, which also makes it easy to clean it. Unlike other strainers, you will not struggle to try to grab the sharp edges.
Given the optimal placement of the strainer’s hole, it will allow water to seep through even when full of food debris. It also prevents the messy dishwater from rising up the sink.
The award-winning design ensures that SinkRoom KSS682 fits on most sinks and even garbage disposal drains without requiring special tools.
Although the strainer’s ergonomics and the unique design are superior to that of the competition, the center cylinder is susceptible to damage.
Pros:
- Ergonomic design with an intuitive hollow center
- ‘Shroom’ cylinder for easy removal from sink
- Optimal hole placement for seamless water flow
- Fits on most sink and garbage disposals
Cons:
- The center ‘Shroom’ cylinder is prone to breakage
7. Sink Strainer 2ct – Best Stainless Steel Kitchen Strainer
Photo: i-Kawachi
- Size: 4.5 inches
- Material: Stainless steel
The Sink Strainer 2ct promises to drain your kitchen sink fast as it is designed with wide 2mm filter holes. The holes are oval-shaped for excellent filtration and quicker draining water. Its standard diameter of 4.5 inches complements this feature.
It has a wide bowl area of 2.75 inches to accommodate as much food debris as possible while maintaining the fast rate of draining sink water.
Sink Strainer 2ct has a rugged stainless-steel finish, which prevents clogging and corrosion while minimizing the risk of germs of bacteria buildup.
Offered as in a set of two pieces, you are guaranteed to use the strainer for a long time before considering replacing it.
Although the Sink Strainer 2ct proves to be an all-around workhorse, its sharp edges at the outer diameter can make it difficult to remove from the sink.
Pros:
- 2mm filter holes for fast drainage of water
- Oval-shaped holes for enhanced filtration
- Wide bawl diameter for maximum capacity
- Rugged stainless steel prevents clogging and germs
- Offered as a set of two
Cons:
- Outer diameter’s sharp edges make prevent easy removal from sink
8. Fengbao 1603131813 – Reliable Kitchen Sink Strainer
Photo: Fengbao
- Size: 4.5 inches
- Material: Stainless steel
Fengbao 1603131813 is a reliable strainer that comes in a set of two, promising long-lasting satisfactory service.
Coming in a standard size of 4.5 inches, the strainer will fit in most sinks and even garbage disposals. It is also dishwasher safe, making it easy to clean.
The strainer is lightweight and offers good protection against sink clogging from food and other debris. Its 2 mm diameter will allow water to flow through seamlessly while blocking food particles preventing their entry into the drainage pipes.
It promises effortless cleaning and you simply have to run warm soapy through it to bring out its mirror finish. Combined, these features make this component the top-rated kitchen sink strainer, and best value for money.
However, a silicone component is not included for enhancing the strainer’s grip.
Pros:
- Best value for money
- Comes in 2 pieces
- Stainless steel, rust-free material
- Anti-clogging and debris trapping
- Easy to clean
Cons:
- Silicone component not included
9. EverFlow 75111 – Multi-purpose Sink Strainer
Photo: EverFlow
- Size: 3.5 inches
- Material: Stainless steel
The EverFlow 75111 is not only an effective kitchen strainer but also serves as a sink plug when the need arises. Its multipurpose usage means you don’t have to incur more costs for additional accessories.
To prevent food debris from clogging your sink, the strainer’s basket has 32 bar holes that allow easy and fast drainage of water.
It has a stylish look designed to complement your kitchen by adding a touch of elegance. The strainer’s silicone’s underside also prevents scratching of the sink.
The strainer is easy to clean and also dishwasher safe. When full, simply pull it out and empty the contents into garbage disposal then wash with warm soapy water.
Even though the EverFlow 75111 is a multipurpose strainer at an affordable price of less than $10, its 3.5-inch diameter makes it unsuitable for customers who have sinks with diameters of 4.5 inches.
Pros:
- Multi-purpose. It is both a strainer and plug
- 32 bar holes to prevent clogging
- Silicone underside to prevent sink scratching
- Stylish design to complement kitchen
- Easy to clean and dishwasher safe
Cons:
- Its 3.5-inch diameter is unsuitable for larger sinks
- It cannot be a strainer and plug at the same time
10. Kohler 48694 – Elegant Kitchen Strainer
Photo: Kohler
- Size: 3.5 inches
- Material: Polished Chrome
Arguably the classiest strainer on the list, the Kohler 48694 has a chrome finish that promises to withstand the effects of daily usage to maintain its shiny finish.
It is offered separately from its other components to cate for those who desire to mix and match and experiment with a different combination of Duostrainer options.
It has a removable basket, which has an open/close stopper for firm placement. You do not have to worry about corrosion or tarnishing as the strainer’s premium finishes exceed the industry standard.
For just a single piece, the strainer is the most expensive strainer on the list. This price is exclusive of the additional components that are required for it to be fully functional. For $21, you can get about 2 sets (8 pieces) of the Betwoo Plastic strainer.
The strainer will not work without the Kohler K-8804 Duostrainer body and tailpiece, which is sold separately, hence additional costs.
Pros:
- Premium chrome finish for superior elegance
- Removable basket for easy waste disposal
- Build quality prevents tarnishing and corrosion
- Separate components to support mix and match
Cons:
- Pricey. Costs thrice as much as the cheapest strainer
- Requires additional components sold separately
11. DANCO 86800 – Custom Sink Strainer
Photo: DANCO
- Size: 3.5 inches
- Material: Stainless steel and chrome
With a special patented locking mechanism, the DANCO 86800 strainer locks firmly in your sink and will not be dislodged by water or other objects.
The lock also serves as a center column to the strainer basket. Thus, when full, simply pull the post upwards and dispose of the waste.
Boasting of a premium chrome finish like the Kohler 48694, this strainer is resistant to rusting and tarnishing.
Its durable construction combining stainless steel and a chrome finish promises long-lasting performance.
A notable downside of the Kohler 48694 is that it does not come with a warranty or a refund policy like many similar products on the list.
Pros:
- Locking mechanism for firm sink placement
- Center column for easy basket removal
- Premium chrome finish prevents rusting
- Durable materials for long-lasting performance
Cons:
- 3.5-inch diameter won’t fit larger sinks
12. Décor KD-001-O – Oil-rubbed Bronze Strainer
Photo: Décor
- Size: 3.5 inches
- Material: Stainless steel
Only the Décor KD-001-O sink strainer boasts of an oil-rubbed bronze finish. Beneath it is stainless steel and the combinations ensure long-lasting rust-free service.
It has a removable basket for ease of debris disposal and cleaning.
The strainer comes with a limited lifetime warranty and customer support for purchases based in the US. This option is notably absent in other products reviewed such as the DANCO 86800.
Although the Décor KD-001-O has a unique oil-rubbed bronze finish that is unlike any other on the list, its price is rather steep given it is still a basic strainer while there are more advanced, but cheaper ones on the list.
Pros:
- Has a limited lifetime warranty
- Oil-rubbed bronze premium finish
- Removable basket for easy waste disposal
- Durable construction and easy to clean
Cons:
- Pricey with no advanced features
- 3.5-diameter limits usage in larger sinks
How to Buy the Best Kitchen Sink Strainer
Photo: Betwoo
1. Compatible with Kitchen Sink Drain
When choosing the ideal kitchen sink strainer, compatibility should be a prime consideration. It will not matter how well-built, affordable, or appealing a strainer is if it is incompatible with your sink drain’s design.
Once, you have established the type of drain fitted into the sink, you can proceed to shop of a strainer. Luckily, many sink drains are likely to embrace a standard design and fitting, so you do not need any technical expertise to determine compatibility.
Compatibility should not be compromised because it eliminates the risk of losing money by purchasing the wrong strainer.
2. Size and Design
When looking at size, the strainer’s outer diameter comes to mind. This is the part that rests on top of the drain and ensures the strainer fits firmly and with precision, on the sink.
Sinkholes are made in standard sizes, most of which are in the range of 3.5 – 4.5 inches. You can simply measure the outermost diameter of the sink to determine its size, and then compare the same with the strainer you intend to buy.
Design can be a personal preference, but even the most simplistic of strainer designs promise reliability and durability. Some advanced ones have center columns or ‘pillars’ that provide ease of removal.
Others have separate and removable baskets that simplify the process of waste removal and disposal. More advanced one double-up as strainers and stoppers. Strainer designs allow for flexibility of choice.
3. Material
A sink strainer is not just an item of convenience, but it is a critical influence in the hygiene and aesthetics of your sink, and kitchen. The sink has multiple uses, including food preparation, you will want the strainer’s material to minimize the risk of germs and bacteria accumulation.
Stainless steel and chrome are the most common materials used for sink strainers. As the name suggests, stainless steel does not corrode, stain, or rust. It also blends in perfectly with your sink.
Chrome finish strainers also share similar properties with those of steel while maintaining a shiny finish that complements the vibrancy of your kitchen.
Plastic strainers are also common especially because they come in different colors, allowing you to experiment with mixing and matching depending on your preferences.
4. Easy to Clean
Cleaning dirty items is a task we all dread. Imagine all the dirt and debris that accumulates in, or passes through the sink. If a strainer is the last line of defense, you will appreciate the one that is easiest to clean.
Luckily, many strainer manufacturers have thought this through and used materials that retain the least dirt. Most metallic strainers such as those made of stainless steel and chrome are clog-free and easy to clean.
You will only need to run warm soapy water on or through them to remove all dirt and restore the strainer’s shiny finishes.
In fact, cleaning most strainers takes a minute or less, especially if they have a unique hole mechanism or removable baskets that minimize dirt accumulation.
Conclusion
A kitchen sink strainer is a must-have item if you desire a stress-free experience in the kitchen, especially when preparing food or cleaning items at the sink.
As simple and valuable as the item may be, there are some key considerations to make when shopping for the best kitchen sink strainer for you to maximize its benefits.
Some of the most important factors to consider include compatibility with sink drain, size and design, materials used, and ease of cleaning the strainer.
When you are looking to buy a new strainer or replace an old one, our top 12 kitchen sink strainers review is the ideal starting point.