Bellemain 18/8 Stainless Steel Colander Set: problems, parts and running costs
Checked: 2026-10-17
Summary
A pair of micro-perforated 18/8 stainless steel strainers, 5 Qt and 3 Qt, with riveted handles and a solid ring base; America’s Test Kitchen rated the 5 Qt “Recommended with Reservations” after drop and wash tests. The recurring complaints are small grains slipping through the holes and the untested 3 Qt size. There are no parts or consumables and no published warranty; the set is a fair buy at the $47.99 Bellemain direct price in October 2026.
Common problems and fixes
- Holes collect stuck particles — the perforations need occasional rinsing; America’s Test Kitchen suggests handwashing in hot soapy water with a sponge to clean the holes, even though the set is dishwasher safe. [3]
- The 3 Qt is untested — only the 5 Qt was independently tested; the 3-Qt’s drainage speed, stability and durability are unconfirmed. [3]
- The 3 Qt is small for batch cooking — one r/vegetarian commenter called the colanders too small for batch recipes. [7]
Parts and consumables
- No replaceable parts or consumables. There are no moving parts and nothing to repair; Bellemain publishes no warranty, parts or repair program, so a lost or dented bowl is replaced, not fixed. [1][3]
Yearly running cost
None. There are no consumables, subscriptions or filters; the set is dishwasher safe and the only cost is replacing a lost or dented bowl. No recurring yearly spend is reported.
When it is a good buy
Bellemain’s own site lists the 3 & 5 Qt set at $47.99 and the 5-Qt single at $38.99 in October 2026; America’s Test Kitchen listed the 5-Qt at a $39 list price in October 2025. At the set price the value is fair for a pair of named-grade stainless steel strainers that tested well; if you only ever need one, the single 5 Qt costs most of the way to the set. Above $60 the case weakens.
Alternatives:
- RSVP International Endurance — America’s Test Kitchen’s recommended model; the better choice if you want the top-tested option with welded handles. [3]
- Tramontina Gourmet set — Wirecutter’s pick; the better choice if you want the set a US testing outlet recommends. [6]