Best Cocktail Strainers

Best Cocktail Strainers for Perfectly Mixed Drinks 2024

Cocktails are a classic and beloved drink, enjoyed by many around the world. Whether you're a professional bartender or a home mixologist, having the right tools is essential to creating the perfect drink. One such tool is the cocktail strainer, which is used to separate ice and other solid ingredients from the liquid in a cocktail.

There are a few different types of cocktail strainers available, each with its own unique benefits. The most common type is the Hawthorne strainer, which features a flat disc with a coiled spring around the edge. This strainer fits snugly over the top of a shaker or mixing glass, preventing ice and other solids from entering the drink. Another popular option is the Julep strainer, which is a perforated spoon that is placed over the mouth of a glass to strain out ice and other solids.

When choosing a cocktail strainer, there are a few important factors to consider. One is the material it's made from, as this can affect durability and ease of use. Another is the size and shape of the strainer, which can impact how well it fits over your shaker or glass. Additionally, some cocktail strainers come with additional features, such as a built-in handle or a rubber grip, which can make them easier to use.

With so many options available, it can be difficult to know which cocktail strainer is right for you. In this article, we'll take a closer look at some of the best cocktail strainers on the market, and help you find the perfect one for your needs.

Best Cocktail Strainers

If you're a cocktail enthusiast, you know that the right tools can make all the difference in crafting the perfect drink. One essential tool for any home bartender is a cocktail strainer, which helps to remove ice, pulp, and other unwanted ingredients from your drink. With so many options on the market, it can be tough to know which one to choose. That's why we've put together a list of the best cocktail strainers available on Amazon. Whether you prefer a classic Hawthorne strainer or a sleek, modern design, we've got you covered.

OXO Cocktail Strainer, Steel

best cocktail strainers(1)

If you're looking for a durable and efficient cocktail strainer, the OXO Steel Cocktail Strainer is a great option.

Pros

  • The durable stainless steel body effectively strains ice, fruit, and more from drinks for smooth cocktails.
  • The raised lip on the strainer prevents liquids from dripping down the sides of glasses, forcing liquid to strain through the spring.
  • The shorter handle allows for easy storage.

Cons

  • The strainer may not fit all shaker tins perfectly, which can lead to some spillage.
  • The raised lip may make it difficult to strain thicker drinks or those with larger chunks of ice or fruit.
  • The strainer may be more expensive than other options on the market.

This cocktail strainer is a bartender's dream, crafted with precision in steel for a sturdy and efficient tool for straining cocktails. The sleek design and easy-grip handle make it a joy to use. The raised lip on the strainer is a great feature that prevents liquids from dripping down the sides of glasses, forcing liquid to strain through the spring. Additionally, the shorter handle allows for easy storage, making it a great option for those with limited space.

However, the strainer may not fit all shaker tins perfectly, which can lead to some spillage. The raised lip may also make it difficult to strain thicker drinks or those with larger chunks of ice or fruit. Additionally, the strainer may be more expensive than other options on the market.

Overall, if you're looking for a high-quality and efficient cocktail strainer, the OXO Steel Cocktail Strainer is a great choice.

OXO SteeL Fine Mesh Cocktail Strainer

best cocktail strainers(2)

If you're looking for a reliable cocktail strainer, the OXO SteeL Fine Mesh Cocktail Strainer is a great option.

Pros

  • The fine mesh efficiently strains fruit pulp and ice chips for a crisp, clean drink.
  • The conical shape provides a large capacity for straining.
  • The double-welded construction is durable and can withstand regular use.

Cons

  • The strainer measures 3 inches in diameter, which might be too small for some glasses.
  • The balance can be a bit of a challenge on larger jars or cups if too much fluid is poured through.
  • The soft handle might not be as non-slip as some users would like.

This cocktail strainer is perfect for home bartenders who want to make professional-quality drinks. The fine mesh ensures that your drinks are free of pulp and ice chips, while the conical shape allows for easy pouring. The double-welded construction means that the strainer can withstand regular use and is dishwasher safe for easy cleaning.

If you're looking for a reliable and affordable cocktail strainer, the OXO SteeL Fine Mesh Cocktail Strainer is a great choice.

Cocktail Kingdom Buswell™ 4-Prong Hawthorne Strainer - Stainless Steel

best cocktail strainers(3)

If you're looking for a reliable and sturdy cocktail strainer, the Cocktail Kingdom Buswell™ 4-Prong Hawthorne Strainer in Stainless Steel is a great option.

Pros

  • The four-prong design ensures a secure fit on any shaker or mixing glass.
  • The tight coil ensures a smooth and consistent pour.
  • The split design makes it easy to remove and clean the strainer.

Cons

  • The strainer is not dishwasher safe and requires hand washing.
  • The price point may be higher than other cocktail strainers on the market.
  • The strainer may not fit on some smaller mixing glasses.

This strainer is a great addition to any home bar or professional bartender's toolkit. The four-prong design ensures a secure fit on any shaker or mixing glass, and the tight coil ensures a smooth and consistent pour every time. The split design also makes it easy to remove and clean the strainer, ensuring that it will last for years to come.

While the strainer is not dishwasher safe and requires hand washing, the sturdy stainless steel construction ensures that it will hold up well over time. The price point may be higher than other cocktail strainers on the market, but the quality and durability of the Cocktail Kingdom Buswell™ 4-Prong Hawthorne Strainer make it a worthwhile investment.

Overall, if you're looking for a reliable and sturdy cocktail strainer that will last for years to come, the Cocktail Kingdom Buswell™ 4-Prong Hawthorne Strainer in Stainless Steel is a great choice.

The Art of Craft Hawthorne Strainer

best cocktail strainers(4)

If you're looking for a reliable and durable cocktail strainer, The Art of Craft Hawthorne Strainer is a great option for both home bar enthusiasts and professional bartenders.

Pros

  • Made from high-quality 304 stainless steel, ensuring durability and dependability.
  • The high-density coil effectively strains cocktails, filtering out unwanted ice shards and fruit pulp.
  • The added finger stop provides a controlled pour, making it comfortable to use.

Cons

  • The strainer may not fit all shaker tins and mixing glasses, although it does fit most industry-standard ones.
  • Some users may find the strainer to be a bit heavy compared to other options.
  • The price point is slightly higher than other cocktail strainers on the market.

The Art of Craft Hawthorne Strainer is a well-designed and sturdy tool that can make your cocktail-making process much smoother. The strainer's high-density coil is effective in filtering out unwanted ice and fruit pulp, ensuring that your cocktails are smooth and consistent. Additionally, the added finger stop on the strainer makes it easy to control your pour, which can be especially helpful when making complex cocktails.

One potential downside of the strainer is that it may not fit all shaker tins and mixing glasses. However, it does fit most industry-standard ones, so this shouldn't be a major issue for most users. Another thing to keep in mind is that the strainer is slightly heavier than some other options on the market, which may be a concern for those who prefer lighter tools.

Overall, The Art of Craft Hawthorne Strainer is a great investment for anyone who takes their cocktail-making seriously. While it may be slightly more expensive than other options, its durability and effectiveness make it well worth the price.

A Bar Above Professional Cocktail Strainer Set

best cocktail strainers(6)

If you're looking for a complete cocktail strainer set, the A Bar Above Professional Cocktail Strainer Set is a solid choice.

Pros

  • The set includes three different types of strainers to cover all your cocktail-making needs.
  • The strainers are made of durable stainless steel and are rust-proof.
  • The set is designed by a professional bartender and is suitable for both home and professional use.

Cons

  • The set is a bit pricey compared to other strainer sets on the market.
  • The curls on the Hawthorne strainer can be difficult to clean properly.
  • The set includes only one of each type of strainer, so it may not be suitable for larger parties or events.

This strainer set is perfect for those who want to take their cocktail-making skills to the next level. The set includes a Hawthorne strainer, a Julep strainer, and a fine mesh strainer, making it a versatile addition to any bar.

The strainers are made of high-quality stainless steel, which is rust-proof and will last for years. The set is designed by a professional bartender, so you can be sure that it has everything you need for perfectly-strained drinks every time.

The only downside to this set is that it is a bit pricey compared to other strainer sets on the market. Additionally, the curls on the Hawthorne strainer can be difficult to clean properly, which may be a concern for some users. Finally, the set includes only one of each type of strainer, so it may not be suitable for larger parties or events.

Overall, if you're looking for a complete and high-quality cocktail strainer set, the A Bar Above Professional Cocktail Strainer Set is definitely worth considering.

Etens Cocktail Strainer

best cocktail strainers(7)

If you're looking for a reliable and easy-to-use cocktail strainer, the Etens Cocktail Strainer is a great choice.

Pros

  • The tight coil spring keeps chunks of ice or fruit pulp out of your drinks, making it easy to create cold drinks without the ice or foam.
  • Made from durable stainless steel 304, this strainer is designed with no welding construction, making it very sturdy and long-lasting.
  • It fits pretty much any drink mixer, mixing pitcher, Boston shaker tins, cocktail shaker cup, and standard size pint glass, making it a versatile addition to your bar setup.

Cons

  • Some users may find the diameter of the strainer coil too small for effective use with a typical Boston shaker or mixing beaker.
  • While the groove on top of the handle serves as a finger grip, some users may find it uncomfortable to hold for extended periods of time.
  • While dishwasher safe, the spring is easily lost if not removed before cleaning, making it a potential inconvenience.

This cocktail strainer is a great addition to any home bar or professional commercial bar. It is easy to use, easy to clean, and fits a variety of drink mixers and pitchers. Whether you're a professional bartender or a home mixologist, the Etens Cocktail Strainer is a reliable choice for creating delicious cocktails.

A Bar Above Hawthorne Strainer for Cocktails

best cocktail strainers(8)

If you're looking for a durable and professional-grade cocktail strainer, the A Bar Above Hawthorne Strainer for Cocktails is a great option.

Pros

  • Custom-created by a career bartender, this strainer is made of stainless steel 304 and has an ergonomic design for comfort and speed.
  • Made from polished food-grade SS304, these bar gifts for men & women feature a high-density spring & are guaranteed to NEVER rust, break or bend.
  • Fits most cocktail shakers and mixing glasses. It’s especially helpful when straining shaken cocktails or drinks made with muddled fruit and herbs.

Cons

  • The strainer may not fit all types of shakers and glasses.
  • Some users may find the spring to be too tight, making it difficult to use.
  • The strainer may be more expensive than other options on the market.

This Hawthorne strainer is lightweight and has a patented cut-away design that reduces abrasion against the side of your hand. The finger grip on the cocktail strainer stainless steel is also closer to the spring to reduce cramping or fatigue. If you push the strainer stainless steel body down while straining, the liquid will pass through the two gaps & with some practice, you’ll be able to strain into two different glasses at the same time!

In summary, if you're looking for a high-quality and durable cocktail strainer, the A Bar Above Hawthorne Strainer for Cocktails is a great option.

TheBarsentials Cocktail Strainer Set

best cocktail strainers(9)

If you're looking for a professional-quality cocktail strainer set, TheBarsentials has got you covered.

Pros

  • This set includes three essential strainers and a mixing spoon for all your cocktail-making needs.
  • Made with durable 304 stainless steel, these strainers won't rust or break, making them perfect for home or professional use.
  • The conical fine-mesh strainer is great for keeping out even the smallest ice shards and bits of lime or mint.

Cons

  • The set may be a bit pricey for those on a tight budget.
  • Some users may find the strainers to be a bit heavy.
  • The included stirring spoon may be a bit too long for some glasses or pitchers.

This cocktail strainer set from TheBarsentials is a great addition to any home or professional bar. The set includes three essential strainers and a mixing spoon, making it a must-have for any cocktail enthusiast.

The strainers are made with durable 304 stainless steel, which means they won't rust or break, even with heavy use. The conical fine-mesh strainer is perfect for keeping out even the smallest ice shards and bits of lime or mint, ensuring that your drinks are perfectly mixed every time.

While this set may be a bit pricey for those on a tight budget, the quality of the materials and construction make it well worth the investment. Some users may find the strainers to be a bit heavy, but this is a small price to pay for their durability and longevity.

The included stirring spoon is a nice touch, but some users may find it a bit too long for some glasses or pitchers. Overall, if you're looking for a high-quality cocktail strainer set, TheBarsentials is definitely worth considering.

Cocktail Kingdom® Koriko® Hawthorne Strainer

best cocktail strainers(10)

If you're looking for a reliable and long-lasting cocktail strainer, the Cocktail Kingdom® Koriko® Hawthorne Strainer is a great option for you.

Pros

  • The strainer is made for heavy use with a very tight coil, which makes it durable and easy to use.
  • It is designed to make it easy to do a true split pour, which is perfect for making cocktails that require multiple ingredients.
  • The strainer fits large and standard mixing glasses, which makes it versatile and easy to use with different types of glasses.

Cons

  • The overall size of the strainer is a bit unwieldy, which may make it difficult to use for some people.
  • The double-pour design may not be suitable for all types of cocktails.
  • The strainer may be a bit expensive for some people.

The Cocktail Kingdom® Koriko® Hawthorne Strainer is a well-designed and durable cocktail strainer that is perfect for both home and professional use. The strainer is made from 18/8 stainless steel, which makes it durable and long-lasting.

The tight coil of the strainer makes it easy to use and ensures that no ice or other debris gets into your cocktail. The strainer is also designed to make it easy to do a true split pour, which is perfect for making cocktails that require multiple ingredients.

The strainer fits large and standard mixing glasses, which makes it versatile and easy to use with different types of glasses. The strainer is dishwasher safe, which makes it easy to clean and maintain.

Overall, if you're looking for a reliable and long-lasting cocktail strainer, the Cocktail Kingdom® Koriko® Hawthorne Strainer is a great option for you. It is durable, easy to use, and perfect for making a variety of cocktails.

Cocktail Kingdom® Premium Julep Strainer (Stainless Steel - Mirror Finish)

best cocktail strainers(11)

If you're looking for a high-quality cocktail strainer, the Cocktail Kingdom® Premium Julep Strainer is an excellent choice.

Pros

  • Based on a 1930s antique from their collection that they consider to be the best julep-style strainer ever created.
  • Fits large and standard mixing glasses.
  • Stainless steel with a mirror finish.

Cons

  • Not dishwasher safe.
  • May not be suitable for those on a tight budget.
  • Some may prefer a different style of strainer.

This strainer is based on a 1930s antique from Cocktail Kingdom's collection that they consider to be the best julep-style strainer ever created. It fits large and standard mixing glasses and is made of stainless steel with a mirror finish. However, it is not dishwasher safe and may not be suitable for those on a tight budget. Some people may prefer a different style of strainer, but if you're looking for a high-quality julep strainer, this one is definitely worth considering.

Winco Stainless Steel 4-Prong Bar Strainer

best cocktail strainers(12)

If you're looking for an affordable and reliable cocktail strainer, the Winco Stainless Steel 4-Prong Bar Strainer might be a great option for you.

Pros

  • The four prongs make it easy to pour and strain cocktails.
  • Made of durable stainless steel material.
  • Dishwasher safe for easy cleaning.

Cons

  • Some customers reported difficulty cleaning the strainer.
  • The prongs may not fit all types of cocktail shakers.
  • Not as aesthetically pleasing as some other cocktail strainers on the market.

This essential barware is perfect for both professional bartenders and home mixologists. The four prongs make it easy to pour and strain cocktails, ensuring that you get a smooth and consistent drink every time. Made of durable stainless steel material, this strainer is built to last and can withstand frequent use. Plus, it's dishwasher safe for easy cleaning, saving you time and effort.

However, some customers reported difficulty cleaning the strainer, so it's important to rinse it thoroughly after each use to prevent any residue buildup. Additionally, the prongs may not fit all types of cocktail shakers, so be sure to check your shaker's dimensions before purchasing. Lastly, while the Winco strainer is functional and reliable, it may not be as aesthetically pleasing as some other cocktail strainers on the market.

Overall, if you're looking for a budget-friendly and dependable cocktail strainer, the Winco Stainless Steel 4-Prong Bar Strainer is definitely worth considering.

Barfly Fine Mesh Cocktail Strainer, Stainless

best cocktail strainers(13)

If you're looking for a high-quality cocktail strainer, the Barfly Fine Mesh Cocktail Strainer is a great choice.

Pros

  • Crafted with a comfortable rod handle and front rest loop that sits on the top of glasses for easy one-hand operation.
  • Fine mesh strainer removes small amounts of pulp, herbs, and ice quickly and efficiently from double-strain drinks.
  • Includes stainless steel 10 3/8" fine mesh strainer; 3 1/2" bowl designed to strain a single drink in one pour.

Cons

  • Hand washing with mild soap and warm water is recommended to maximize performance and longevity.
  • Avoid detergents containing bleach or heavy chlorination.
  • The mesh is fragile and can become bent out of shape if not handled carefully.

This strainer is a staple of every barman and is perfect for both professional bartenders and at-home enthusiasts. It is easy to use with a comfortable handle and front rest loop that sits on the top of glasses for easy one-hand operation. The fine mesh strainer quickly and efficiently removes small amounts of pulp, herbs, and ice from double-strained drinks.

The Barfly Fine Mesh Cocktail Strainer also includes a stainless steel 10 3/8" fine mesh strainer and a 3 1/2" bowl designed to strain a single drink in one pour. While hand washing with mild soap and warm water is recommended to maximize performance and longevity, all stainless steel products are dishwasher safe.

It is important to avoid detergents containing bleach or heavy chlorination to ensure the longevity of the product. The mesh is fragile and can become bent out of shape if not handled carefully, but with proper care, this strainer is a great addition to any bar.

Overall, if you're looking for a high-quality cocktail strainer that is easy to use and efficient, the Barfly Fine Mesh Cocktail Strainer is definitely worth considering.

KITESSENSU Cocktail Strainer Set

best cocktail strainers(14)

If you're looking for a high-quality cocktail strainer set, the KITESSENSU Cocktail Strainer Set is a great option to consider.

Pros

  • This set includes everything you need to make cocktails, including a hawthorne strainer, julep strainer, fine mesh strainer, and mixing spoon.
  • Made from durable 18/8 stainless steel, these tools are resistant to corrosion and rust, making them ideal for both home and professional use.
  • The set comes in a stylish package, making it a great gift for friends, family, colleagues, clients, and business partners.

Cons

  • Some users may find the hawthorne strainer to be a bit heavy.
  • The set may be a bit pricey for those on a budget.
  • The strainers may be difficult to clean if not washed immediately after use.

This 4-piece cocktail strainer set is perfect for those who want to take their mixology skills to the next level. The hawthorne strainer has over 100 coils and is designed to fit snugly inside of the glass, trapping large chunks of ice, leaves, fruit, or other ingredients. The julep strainer is versatile and allows you to pour quickly while filtering out ice particles, creating a smooth and delicious drink. The fine mesh strainer has a polished rim and handle and its extra-fine mesh strains beverages quickly and efficiently. The mixing spoon has a spiral handle designed to effortlessly glide between your fingers, making it easy to layer drinks and mix cocktails, ice tea, malts, beverages, milkshakes, and juice.

One of the best things about this set is that it is made from durable 18/8 stainless steel, which is resistant to corrosion and rust. This means that the tools won't bend or break and are dishwasher safe, making them ideal for both home and professional use. Additionally, the set comes in a stylish package, making it a great gift for friends, family, colleagues, clients, and business partners.

However, some users may find the hawthorne strainer to be a bit heavy, which can make it difficult to use for extended periods of time. Additionally, the set may be a bit pricey for those on a budget. Finally, the strainers may be difficult to clean if not washed immediately after use.

Overall, if you're looking for a high-quality cocktail strainer set, the KITESSENSU Cocktail Strainer Set is definitely worth considering. With its durable construction and versatile tools, this set is sure to help you take your mixology skills to the next level.

Buying Guide

When choosing the best cocktail strainer, there are a few features you should consider to ensure that you get the most out of your purchase. Here are some key factors to keep in mind:

Material

Cocktail strainers come in a variety of materials, including stainless steel, copper, and plastic. Stainless steel is the most common and durable option, while copper is known for its aesthetic appeal. Plastic strainers are often cheaper but may not last as long.

Type

There are two main types of cocktail strainers: Hawthorne and Julep. Hawthorne strainers have a coil that fits around the rim of a shaker or mixing glass, while Julep strainers are placed inside the mixing vessel. Hawthorne strainers are more versatile and easier to use, while Julep strainers are better suited for specific cocktails like Mint Juleps.

Size

Cocktail strainers come in various sizes, so it's important to choose one that fits the size of your shaker or mixing glass. A strainer that is too small won't do the job, while one that is too large may not fit properly and can be difficult to use.

Design

Some cocktail strainers have additional features, such as a built-in handle or a double strainer for fine filtering. Consider what features are important to you and your cocktail-making needs.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best cocktail strainer for your home bar or professional use.

Frequently Asked Questions

What factors should I consider when choosing a cocktail strainer?

When choosing a cocktail strainer, you should consider the type of cocktail you will be making, the size of the shaker or mixing glass, and your personal preference. There are three main types of cocktail strainers: Hawthorne, Julep, and Fine Mesh. Hawthorne strainers are best for shaken cocktails, while Julep strainers are ideal for stirred cocktails. Fine Mesh strainers are best for drinks that contain small particles like fruit or herbs. You should also consider the size of the shaker or mixing glass to ensure that the strainer fits properly.

How do Julep and Hawthorne strainers differ in functionality?

Julep strainers are designed to fit inside a mixing glass, allowing you to strain the cocktail as you pour it into the glass. Hawthorne strainers, on the other hand, are designed to fit over the mouth of a shaker or mixing glass, allowing you to strain the cocktail as you pour it into the glass. Julep strainers are best for stirred cocktails, while Hawthorne strainers are best for shaken cocktails.

What are the top-rated cocktail strainers recommended by bartenders?

The top-rated cocktail strainers recommended by bartenders include the OXO Good Grips Cocktail Strainer, the Koriko Hawthorne Strainer, and the Cocktail Kingdom Julep Strainer. These strainers are all high-quality, durable, and easy to use.

What are the essential strainers to include in a cocktail set?

The essential strainers to include in a cocktail set are the Hawthorne strainer, the Julep strainer, and the Fine Mesh strainer. These three types of strainers will cover all of your straining needs.

Can you explain the unique uses of different types of cocktail strainers?

Hawthorne strainers are best for shaken cocktails, as they allow you to strain out the ice and any other large particles. Julep strainers are best for stirred cocktails, as they allow you to strain the cocktail as you pour it into the glass. Fine Mesh strainers are best for drinks that contain small particles like fruit or herbs, as they allow you to strain out any solids.

What features distinguish a high-quality cocktail strainer?

A high-quality cocktail strainer should be made of durable materials like stainless steel or brass. It should fit snugly over the mouth of the shaker or mixing glass, and have a tight coil to ensure that no solids or ice escape. The handle should be comfortable to hold, and the strainer should be easy to clean.

Back to blog
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

About Author

Mantas, DRIPCRIME Designer

Mantas is a professional merch graphic designer with years of expierence in alternative, y2k, goth grunge, punk industry. The passion for the industry has lead Mantas to become one of main designers and writers at DRIPCRIME store.