Comparison: Best Ikea Ordning Colander (Updated | May 7th)

If you are looking for that classic, no-nonsense aesthetic that Ikea is famous for, the Ordning 9-inch colander is the quintessential choice. What really makes this stand out in a busy kitchen is its sheer simplicity; it is a solid piece of Stainless Steel that doesn’t try to be anything other than a reliable workhorse. Because it is dishwasher safe and built with a sturdy base, it feels much more premium than the price tag suggests, holding its shape even when you dump a massive pot of boiling pasta into it.

I would recommend this primarily for the home cook who values durability over bells and whistles. It is the perfect size for a standard family meal of spaghetti or rinsing a big batch of garden vegetables. It’s the kind of tool you buy once and keep for a decade because there are no plastic parts to snap or melt.

However, the trade-off here is the footprint. Unlike collapsible models or over-the-sink versions, this Ordning strainer takes up a permanent, non-negotiable chunk of cabinet space. If you are living in a tiny apartment with minimal storage, you might find its 9-inch diameter a bit cumbersome to tuck away between other pots and pans.

The Ikea TSSP Colander is a bit of a beast compared to your average strainer, boasting a wide 10-inch diameter that makes it feel much more professional. What stands out to me is the elongated length—reaching over 16 inches—which gives you plenty of leverage when you’re shaking out excess water. It’s made of high-quality Stainless Steel and is fully dishwasher-safe, so you don’t have to worry about a tedious cleanup after dealing with starchy potatoes or greasy greens.

This is the ideal pick for someone who cooks in large volumes or hosts big Sunday dinners. If you frequently find yourself overflowing a smaller 7-inch strainer, the extra capacity here is a lifesaver. It’s also great for those who want a piece of cookware that can take a beating and still look sleek on an open kitchen shelf.

The honest downside is the weight and bulk. At nearly a pound (15 oz) even when empty, it can feel surprisingly heavy once it’s loaded with food. If you have wrist issues or very small sinks, maneuvering this 25 cm wide basket might feel more like a workout than a simple kitchen task.

There is something incredibly satisfying about the IKEA 501.037.55 model because it solves the “sink slip” problem perfectly. What makes this product stand out is the adjustable handles. Instead of balancing a hot colander on the bottom of a potentially dirty sink, you can suspend this one right over the bowl. The plastic-covered handles are a genius touch; they provide a non-slip grip that protects your sink’s finish while ensuring the whole unit stays stable under the weight of heavy foods.

I think this is the best option for people who do a lot of “hands-free” prep work, like letting fruit air-dry or draining pasta while simultaneously working on a sauce. Because it fits most sink sizes, it’s a versatile gift for someone moving into a new place where the sink dimensions are a mystery. The Stainless Steel construction ensures it looks professional while staying hygienic.

One trade-off to consider is the mechanical nature of the handles. While they are great for convenience, any moving part is a potential point of failure over many years of use. If you aren’t careful when sliding them, food particles can occasionally get trapped in the adjustment tracks, requiring a bit more attention during the cleaning process.