Washing rice might seem simple, but using the right tool makes all the difference—especially if you want clean grains without losing them down the drain. That’s where a high-quality rice washing bowl with strainer comes in. These clever kitchen helpers combine a deep basin with a fine-mesh or side-draining colander to rinse rice, quinoa, lentils, and even delicate fruits or veggies efficiently and mess-free. After testing dozens of models for durability, ease of use, and smart design, we’ve rounded up the best rice washing bowls with strainers that deliver real value, whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a family.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 7 Best Rice Washing Bowls With Strainers Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. 304 Stainless Steel Microporous Colander, 2QT Large Capacity with Mixing Bowl for Washing Vegetables
This premium 304 stainless steel rice washing bowl combines a deep mixing basin with a precision microporous colander, making it ideal for rinsing rice, quinoa, beans, and even delicate produce. Its food-grade construction ensures safety and longevity, while the 2mm drainage holes prevent grain loss during washing.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Made from 304 food-grade stainless steel—safe, rust-resistant, and built to last
✓ 2QT capacity handles enough rice for 4–6 servings with room to spare
✓ Mirror-polished interior prevents sticking and simplifies cleanup
✓ Microporous design with 2mm holes traps fine grains while allowing fast drainage
✓ Doubles as a mixing or serving bowl for added versatility
Why We Recommend It
If you’re serious about kitchen tools that perform and endure, this is our top pick. The seamless integration of strainer and bowl eliminates the need for multiple gadgets, and the stainless steel build means no worries about microplastics or chemical leaching—even after years of use.
Best For
Home cooks who prioritize health, durability, and multi-functionality. Perfect for families or anyone who regularly prepares grains, legumes, or fresh produce.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional build quality with rust-proof stainless steel
- No grain loss thanks to precisely sized micro-holes
- Easy to clean and dishwasher safe
- Stylish, modern look fits any kitchen aesthetic
Cons:
- Slightly heavier than plastic alternatives
- Higher price point, but justified by longevity
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I bought these to replace the plastics ones I had because I’m worried about all the risks with microplastics. These are definitely pricier but you get what you pay for. I’m impressed by the quality: sturdy, nice finish, just the perfect size. They look indestructible.”
Customer Review: “I love this because it’s everything that I look for in a small colander at a great value! It’s made of strong metal and made well, no delay in draining, perfect for washing fruits, small veggies, basically for a single person/2 person use or for smaller items in general.”
2. Rice Washer Strainer Bowl
A versatile 4-in-1 kitchen essential, this stainless steel rice washing bowl features side drainage holes for quick rinsing and doubles as a fruit, veggie, and pasta strainer. Its thickened, food-grade steel ensures durability without compromising on lightweight handling.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Constructed from thickened, corrosion-resistant stainless steel
✓ Side-draining design allows fast water release without tipping
✓ Ideal for rice, grapes, berries, beans, and more
✓ Compact size fits easily in cabinets or sinks
✓ Smooth edges prevent scratches and ensure safe handling
Why We Recommend It
This bowl strikes the perfect balance between function and affordability. It’s not flashy, but it gets the job done reliably every time—whether you’re washing a cup of quinoa or a batch of cherry tomatoes. The side-drain system is especially clever for one-handed operation.
Best For
Busy home cooks who want a no-fuss, multi-use strainer that won’t take up much space. Great for small kitchens or as a backup tool.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Affordable without sacrificing quality
- Lightweight yet sturdy construction
- Side holes enable controlled draining
- Dishwasher safe for easy cleanup
Cons:
- Lacks a dedicated pouring spout
- Smaller capacity may require multiple batches for large families
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I recently purchased the Rice Washer Strainer Bowl, and I must say it has become an indispensable tool in my kitchen. This versatile 4-in-1 washing bowl is designed to make the process of cleaning and rinsing grains, fruits, vegetables, and beans significantly more efficient and convenient.”
Customer Review: “I recently purchased the Rice Washer Strainer Bowl and am impressed with its quality and functionality. This 4-in-1 washing bowl is constructed from thick, food-grade stainless steel that’s durable and corrosion-resistant, ensuring it lasts for years.”
3. Rice Washing Bowl with Strainer Quinoa Washer Bowl, Stainless Steel Side Drainers Colander for Cleaning
Don’t let the low price fool you—this stainless steel rice washing bowl delivers solid performance for everyday grain rinsing. With fine side drainage holes and a spacious basin, it efficiently washes rice, quinoa, and veggies without breaking the bank.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Crafted from sturdy, heat-resistant stainless steel
✓ Fine mesh-like side holes prevent grain loss
✓ Quick-drain design speeds up prep time
✓ Easy to grip and maneuver in the sink
✓ Compatible with most sink sizes
Why We Recommend It
If you’re on a tight budget but still want a reliable, plastic-free option, this bowl is a steal. It doesn’t have fancy extras, but it rinses rice thoroughly and holds up well over time—making it our top pick for value-conscious shoppers.
Best For
Students, renters, or anyone needing an affordable yet effective rice washing solution without compromising on basic quality.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely budget-friendly
- No plastic components—safe and eco-conscious
- Lightweight and easy to store
- Effective drainage prevents waterlogging
Cons:
- No handle, which can make pouring trickier
- Finish may show minor scratches over time
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Aside from being beautiful this is my go to kitchen tool. I actually threw away my plastic colander to make room for this. I am a minimalist, but this is unique and used frequently.”
Customer Review: “This is a great strainer, very sturdy and easy to use.”
4. 18/8 Stainless Steel Microwell Colander, 3.5QT Large Capacity with Handle Kitchen Food Strainer Bowl
With its generous 3.5-quart capacity and ergonomic handle, this 18/8 stainless steel colander is built for heavy-duty kitchen tasks—from washing large batches of rice to draining pasta or rinsing produce.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Premium 18/8 stainless steel resists rust and warping
✓ Extra-large 3.5QT capacity handles family-sized meals
✓ Sturdy side handle for secure gripping and pouring
✓ Deep bowl design minimizes spills
✓ Micro-perforated holes ensure even drainage
Why We Recommend It
This colander is a workhorse. The handle makes it easy to lift when full, and the large size means fewer refills—perfect for meal preppers or big families. It’s also great for non-rice tasks like draining noodles or washing salad greens.
Best For
Large households or frequent entertainers who need a spacious, durable strainer that can handle volume without constant refilling.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Massive capacity saves time
- Comfortable, non-slip handle
- High-quality steel won’t bend or crack
- Works for rice, pasta, fruits, and veggies
Cons:
- Takes up significant cabinet space
- Heavier when full—not ideal for weak wrists
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Nice colander, for cleaning your veggies and straining your pasta. Made extremely well and very sturdy. Easy to clean. This is a high quality item. Love it!”
Customer Review: “Good large size. Well made and holes positioned all over colander which makes draining food easy.”
5. OXO Good Grips Rice & Small Grains Washing Colander
OXO’s innovative design features a unique delayed-drain system that lets water pool briefly so you can see when your rice is truly clean—then drains fully through a spout with extra holes. It’s lightweight, BPA-free, and engineered for precision.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Patented water-pooling base shows when grains are clean
✓ Pour spout with additional drain holes prevents overflow
✓ Holds up to 4 cups of rice without spillage
✓ Soft, non-slip grip for comfortable handling
✓ Dishwasher safe and easy to store
Why We Recommend It
This isn’t just a strainer—it’s a smarter way to wash rice. The visual feedback from the pooling water takes the guesswork out of rinsing, ensuring perfectly clean grains every time. OXO’s reputation for ergonomic design shines here.
Best For
Rice purists and health-conscious cooks who want maximum control over the washing process. Ideal for sushi rice, quinoa, or any grain requiring thorough rinsing.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Innovative water-pooling technology
- Lightweight and easy to handle
- No grain loss during draining
- Trusted brand with excellent customer support
Cons:
- Made of plastic (BPA-free but less durable than steel)
- Smaller capacity limits large-batch use
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This is an amazing thing to have. I can’t believe I waited so long to get one. I can put about 4 cups of rice in this and wash it without losing a single grain. The bottom holes allow most of the water to drain away and any addition can be poured out from the spout area.”
Customer Review: “Good construction & materials quality, but even more impressive function design. The water drains after a controlled delay and it works beautifully – I’ve never gotten my rice SO clean SO easily.”
6. Inomata Plastic Japanese Rice Washing Bowl with Strainer, 2 Quart
A classic Japanese design trusted by home cooks for decades, the Inomata bowl features a solid bottom with a side drain that lets starchy water escape while keeping rice safely inside. Lightweight and affordable, it’s perfect for traditional rice washing.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Authentic Japanese rice washing design
✓ Side drain allows debris and starch to exit easily
✓ 2-quart capacity suits most home cooking needs
✓ Compact and easy to store
✓ BPA-free plastic construction
Why We Recommend It
This bowl does one thing—and does it exceptionally well. If you follow traditional Japanese rice-washing methods, the side-drain system is intuitive and effective. It’s also incredibly lightweight and won’t chip or rust.
Best For
Traditional cooks, minimalists, or anyone who prefers a simple, purpose-built tool for rice preparation.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Time-tested Japanese design
- Very lightweight and portable
- Affordable and widely available
- Easy to use with one hand
Cons:
- Plastic may stain or retain odors over time
- Not suitable for high-heat applications
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “There are two versions of the Inomata Japanese Rice washing Bowl with Strainer, and I purchased them both. Below I’ll describe them and outline the differences: PURPOSE: These bowls were designed for rinsing rice before cooking, and they do so quite well.”
Customer Review: “If you cook rice often, this strainer is a must. I simply add the rice, fill with water, massage the grains for about 30 seconds, then drain. I repeat this 2–3 times until the water runs clear. There’s no mess and no wasted grains.”
7. Joyce Chen Stainless Steel Rice Strainer Bowl Rice Washer Colander
Joyce Chen’s stainless steel rice washer includes unique agitator bumps on the bottom that help loosen starch and debris during washing. With a spacious 9.5-inch basin, it’s perfect for large quantities and doubles as a fruit or veggie rinser.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Rust-resistant stainless steel construction
✓ Agitator bumps enhance cleaning efficiency
✓ 9.5-inch wide, 5-inch deep basin holds plenty
✓ Smooth rounded edges for safety
✓ Compatible with standard sinks
Why We Recommend It
The agitator bumps are a game-changer—they mimic hand-scrubbing action, so your rice gets cleaner with less effort. Combined with the generous size and sturdy build, this bowl is ideal for serious home chefs.
Best For
Cooks who wash rice frequently and want a tool that reduces manual scrubbing. Also great for washing larger produce like apples or potatoes.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Agitator bumps improve starch removal
- Large capacity saves time
- Durable and dishwasher safe
- Multi-purpose use beyond rice
Cons:
- No handle or spout for controlled pouring
- Can be heavy when full
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This colander is surprisingly useful. I originally bought it because I hate washing rice and I wanted something I can use fast and empty with just one hand. Repeatedly washing rice (at least 6 times – 3 with no stirring by hand and 3 with stirring with your hand) is the key to a quality preparation.”
Customer Review: “Where has this been my whole rice washing life?!?! Absolutely love this for washing rice and I find myself using it over any other colander I own for washing everything. It is the perfect size, super easy and you can control the water level very easily.”
Complete Buying Guide for Rice Washing Bowls With Strainers
Essential Factors We Consider
When choosing the best rice washing bowl with strainer, we evaluate material quality, drainage design, capacity, ease of use, and versatility. Stainless steel models offer durability and health benefits, while plastic options are lightweight and budget-friendly. Side drains, bottom holes, or spout systems each have pros—pick based on your preferred washing style. Capacity matters too: 2QT suits small households, while 3.5QT+ is better for families.
Budget Planning
Prices range from under $15 for basic plastic bowls to over $40 for premium stainless steel sets. Our best budget pick (under $20) delivers solid performance without frills, while our best choice justifies its higher cost with superior materials and multi-functionality. Consider how often you cook rice—if daily, invest in steel; if occasionally, a simple plastic bowl may suffice.
Final Thoughts
A dedicated rice washing bowl with strainer streamlines meal prep, reduces waste, and improves your rice’s texture. Whether you prioritize health, convenience, or tradition, there’s a perfect match in our list. Choose based on your kitchen habits, and say goodbye to lost grains and messy sinks!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a rice washing bowl for other grains like quinoa or lentils?
A: Absolutely! Most rice washing bowls with strainers work well for quinoa, lentils, barley, and even small pasta. Just ensure the hole size is fine enough to prevent tiny grains from slipping through.
Q: Are stainless steel rice washing bowls dishwasher safe?
A: Yes, all the stainless steel models we reviewed are dishwasher safe. However, hand washing can extend their lifespan and maintain their polished finish.
Q: Why do some bowls have side drains instead of bottom holes?
A: Side drains allow you to rinse without tipping the bowl, making it easier to control water flow and see when the rice is clean—especially helpful for traditional Japanese methods.
Q: Is plastic safe for washing rice?
A: Look for BPA-free, food-grade plastic like in the Inomata bowl. While not as durable as steel, high-quality plastic is safe for cold-water rinsing.
Q: How much rice can a typical 2QT bowl hold?
A: A 2-quart bowl comfortably holds 4–6 cups of uncooked rice, enough for 4–6 people depending on serving size.
Ready to upgrade your rice game? Any of these best rice washing bowls with strainers will make rinsing faster, cleaner, and more efficient. Click the “Check Price” buttons above to find your perfect match—and enjoy fluffier, tastier rice every time!