Wednesday, May 26, 2010

Space-Saving Options: Collapsible Kitchen Tools

colapsible colander

I really like my big metal colander - but it does take up a lot of storage space. If you need to save space, perhaps the Rösle collapsible colander would work well. It's available in red, green, purple and black - in two sizes.


collapsible colander

If you'd prefer another style, take a look at the collapsible colander from Dexas, which sells products under its own brand and also as private labels. You'll see very similar products at Sur La Table, at Macy's (as part of the Martha Stewart collection), and as part of the Chef'n SleekStor collection. Update on August 1, 2014: I'm no longer finding this at Sur La Table or Macy's. 


collapsible colander

And there are even more colander options! This one comes from Oxo.


collpasible colander

Norpro has some "knockdown" colanders, too - three different styles. Update on Aug. 1, 2014: Norpri has a different product now — a steamer/strainer.


folding colander

And Joseph Joseph takes a different approach with its folding colander.


collapsible salad spinner

Another item that takes up a lot of space is a salad spinner. If that's your storage challenge, look at the collapsible salad spinner from Progressive Intl.

Related Posts:
How Do I Store the Strainer? Flat!
Reader Question: Dish Racks

5 comments:

Marcie Lovett said...

I love the whole new collapsible aspect in kitchenware. I have a beautiful colander that I enjoy using, but it takes up a huge amount of kitchen real estate. Currently I'm obsessing about the collapsible microwave food cover http://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/product.asp?order_num=-1&SKU=14641734 I think I just might have to get it.

Jeri Dansky said...

Interesting product, Marcie - thanks for sharing!

Personally, though, I'm avoiding using plastics in the microwave - there are just too many health concerns being raised. But the science is unclear, so people will certainly make different choices.

SueBK said...

The softer the plastic the more chance it will 'leak' toxic substances at high temperatures.

I just bought some wonderful silicone splatter covers. One way they just cover loose (so let steam out in the microwave etc); flip them over and they seal against a flat rim. Handy for temporary covers when dishing up.

Anonymous said...

Great timing, Jeri! I just registered for the green one at the top of your post. I have one that I love, but it's bulky, and if we move to a smaller place, I think I'll be glad I have a collapsible one.

Also, I have a sudden craving for cherries ...

My trusty salad spinner is getting pretty old, too, but I'll hold off on that.

Jeri Dansky said...

SueBK, thanks for the suggestion for a silicone splatter cover. That sounds exactly like what I need!

Simpler Living, that looks like a wonderful addition to your wedding registry. It's cherry season here - I buy gobs of them at the weekly farmers market. Hmm - I still have some sitting around ...