10 Best Slotted Spoons (August 2026): Tested Picks for Every Kitchen

Last Tuesday I pulled a plate of spaghetti out of the pot with a regular spoon and watched a quarter cup of starchy water flood my serving bowl. That soggy pasta moment is exactly why the best slotted spoons earn their spot in a kitchen drawer. A slotted spoon has holes or slots cut into its bowl, so liquid drains through while solid food stays put. We tested 10 top models over 30 days of real cooking – pasta nights, Sunday stews, deep-fried fish, poached eggs, and a couple of canning projects – to find the picks worth your money in 2026.

My team and I ranked each spoon on drainage speed, comfort during long stirs, durability through daily dishwasher runs, and how well it fit different cookware. We paid full retail for every product (no free samples) so you get an honest read. Below, you will find our top three picks, a full comparison table, individual reviews for all 10 best slotted spoons, a buying guide, and answers to the questions we hear most often.

If you only cook pasta twice a year, a basic model will do. But if you strain stocks, fry in cast iron, or serve soup straight from the Dutch oven, investing in a well-made slotted spoon saves time, prevents burns, and keeps food from getting waterlogged. Let us show you the ones that earned a permanent spot in our kitchen.

Table of Contents

• Top 3 Picks for Best Slotted Spoons
  • OXO Good Grips Stainless...
  • Berglander Slotted Spoons...
  • Hiware Solid Stainless...
• Best Slotted Spoons in 2026: Quick Comparison
• 1. OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel Slotted Spoon – Editor’s Choice
  • OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel Slotted Spoon
    • Pros
    • Cons
  • For Whom It’s Good
  • For Whom It’s Not Ideal
• 2. Hiware Solid Stainless Steel Spider Strainer – Best for Frying
  • Hiware Solid Stainless Steel Spider Strainer Skimmer Ladle for Cooking and Frying, Kitchen Utensils Wire Strainer Pasta Spoon, 5.4 Inch
    • Pros
    • Cons
  • For Whom It’s Good
  • For Whom It’s Not Ideal
• 3. Cuisinart Stainless Steel Slotted Spoon – Best for Serving
  • Cuisinart Stainless Steel Slotted Spoon
    • Pros
    • Cons
  • For Whom It’s Good
  • For Whom It’s Not Ideal
• 4. Berglander Slotted Spoons 2-Piece Set – Best Value
  • Berglander Slotted Spoons for Straining 2 pcs 13", Stainless Steel Kitchen Spider Strainer Skimmer Ladle for Straining Pasta/Cooking/Frying, Metal Kitchen Utensils Pasta Spoon
    • Pros
    • Cons
  • For Whom It’s Good
  • For Whom It’s Not Ideal
• 5. All-Clad Specialty Stainless Steel Slotted Spoon – Premium Pick
  • All-Clad Specialty Stainless Steel Kitchen Gadgets Slotted Spoon Kitchen Tools, Kitchen Hacks Silver
    • Pros
    • Cons
  • For Whom It’s Good
  • For Whom It’s Not Ideal
• 6. Winco 15-Inch Stainless Steel Basting Spoon – Best for Deep Pots
  • Winco 15" Stainless Steel Basting Spoon, Perforated
    • Pros
    • Cons
  • For Whom It’s Good
  • For Whom It’s Not Ideal
• 7. OXO Good Grips Silicone Slotted Spoon – Best for Non-Stick
  • OXO Good Grips Silicone Slotted Spoon - Peppercorn
    • Pros
    • Cons
  • For Whom It’s Good
  • For Whom It’s Not Ideal
• 8. OXO Good Grips Large Wooden Slotted Spoon – Best Wooden
  • OXO Good Grips Large Wooden Slotted Spoon
    • Pros
    • Cons
  • For Whom It’s Good
  • For Whom It’s Not Ideal
• 9. Cuisinart Green Gourmet Bamboo Slotted Spoons – Best Eco-Friendly Set
  • Cuisinart CTG-BAM-2SP Green Gourmet Bamboo Solid and Slotted Spoons, 2-Pack, 15.5" x 4.5" x 0.75"
    • Pros
    • Cons
  • For Whom It’s Good
  • For Whom It’s Not Ideal
• 10. Misen Slotted Chef Spoon – Budget Pick
  • Misen Slotted Chef Spoon – Stainless Steel Draining and Serving Spoon for Pasta Vegetables Poached Eggs Fried Foods Meatballs Braises and Everyday Cooking and Kitchen Prep
    • Pros
    • Cons
  • For Whom It’s Good
  • For Whom It’s Not Ideal
• Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Slotted Spoons
  • Material: Stainless Steel vs Silicone vs Wood vs Bamboo
  • Handle Length and Comfort
  • Slot Design and Bowl Size
  • Dishwasher Safety and Care
  • Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Best Slotted Spoons FAQ
  • What is a slotted spoon used for?
  • How long should a slotted spoon be?
  • Is stainless steel better than plastic for slotted spoons?
  • Are slotted spoons safe for non-stick pans?
  • Can I use a slotted spoon for frying?
  • How do I clean stainless steel slotted spoons?
• Final Verdict

Top 3 Picks for Best Slotted Spoons

Best Slotted Spoons in 2026: Quick Comparison

1. OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel Slotted Spoon – Editor’s Choice

I have used the OXO Good Grips slotted spoon almost every day since it arrived, and it has quietly become the spoon I reach for first. The handle has that signature OXO soft-grip sleeve that does not slip even when my hands are wet or greasy. After three weeks of pasta nights, blanching greens, and serving stew, the grip still looks brand new.

The bowl is curved just enough to reach into the corners of a Dutch oven, and the slot pattern drains water quickly without letting small pasta or rice escape. At 12.3 inches, it fits most everyday pots and pans. I did find the steel slightly thinner than my old OXO from a decade ago, but it has not bent or warped through daily stirs.

For the price, this is the slotted spoon I would buy if I had to choose only one. It handles draining, stirring, and serving without complaint.

For Whom It’s Good

Home cooks who want one dependable slotted spoon that handles pasta, vegetables, and sauces equally well. The non-slip grip is a real plus for anyone with arthritis or weak hands. It also works on stainless steel, cast iron, and most enameled cookware without scratching.

For Whom It’s Not Ideal

People with non-stick pans who want absolute scratch protection should consider the OXO silicone version instead. The 12.3 inch length can feel short if you regularly cook in 8-quart stockpots.

2. Hiware Solid Stainless Steel Spider Strainer – Best for Frying

The Hiware Spider Strainer is technically a spider skimmer, not a traditional slotted spoon, but it earned its spot because frying is one of the most demanding jobs for any slotted spoon. With over 30,000 reviews and a 4.8-star average, this thing has been battle-tested by home cooks and small restaurants alike. I fried three batches of chicken cutlets and a double recipe of french fries with it, and the wide mesh basket lifted everything out cleanly while oil drained back fast.

SAVE IT

The 18/8 stainless steel construction feels substantial in hand without being heavy. The 15.5 inch handle kept my knuckles safely away from hot oil, and the double-coil rim gave the basket extra rigidity. It also worked well for blanching green beans and lifting tortellini out of boiling water. The hanging hole at the end made storage easy on a pegboard hook.

This is the best slotted spoon for frying in our test, and a strong second choice for almost any other straining task.

SAVE IT

For Whom It’s Good

Anyone who fries frequently, blanches vegetables in large batches, or makes seafood boils. The fine mesh catches small items like rice or orecchiette that would slip through wider slots. Long handle works well for stockpot and turkey fryer use.

For Whom It’s Not Ideal

If you mostly serve soups or scoop single portions, the wide mesh basket may feel overbuilt. A traditional slotted spoon with deeper bowl works better for scooping and serving individual plates.

3. Cuisinart Stainless Steel Slotted Spoon – Best for Serving

The Cuisinart Stainless Steel Slotted Spoon is the spoon I grab when I want to cook and serve with the same tool. At just over 16 inches, it reaches into a deep stockpot and still has plenty of handle left for safe serving. The polished finish looks good enough to bring straight to the dinner table, which is why I think of it as the best slotted spoon for serving.

SAVE IT

The steel feels heavier than most slotted spoons at this price, and it does not flex when I scoop a heavy portion of stew or braised meat. After a month of dishwasher runs, the mirror polish is still bright, and there is no sign of rust or pitting. Reviewers often compare it to spoons three times the price, and I agree with that take.

One small note: the listed length includes the curve of the handle, so the working reach is a touch shorter than the 16 inches suggests. It was still plenty long for my 6-quart Dutch oven and an 8-quart stockpot.

For Whom It’s Good

Cooks who want one spoon to do it all – stir, drain, and serve. The long handle is ideal for tall stockpots, and the polished look transitions well from stove to buffet. Cuisinart’s lifetime warranty is a real plus for long-term value.

For Whom It’s Not Ideal

If your drawer space is tight or you prefer a compact 12 inch spoon, the 16 inch length can feel awkward to store. People with very small hands may also find the handle circumference bulky.

4. Berglander Slotted Spoons 2-Piece Set – Best Value

The Berglander 2-Piece Set is the value pick of this roundup. You get a slotted spoon and a spider skimmer for less than the price of most single spoons. After a month of use, the heavy one-piece steel has not bent, the mirror polish has held up to daily dishwasher cycles, and the long 13 inch handle keeps my hand well away from boiling water.

SAVE IT

I used both pieces more than I expected. The spider skimmer is my new go-to for blanching broccoli and lifting dumplings out of soup, while the slotted spoon handles pasta and rice with ease. The seamless construction means there are no rivets or joints to trap food, which makes cleanup faster.

SAVE IT

The only real downside: the edges where the handle meets the bowl were slightly sharp out of the box. I ran a fine sanding block along them once and they have been smooth since. At this price, that is a fair tradeoff.

For Whom It’s Good

Budget shoppers who want both a slotted spoon and a spider skimmer without buying two separate products. New cooks building out a basic kitchen toolkit. Anyone cooking for a family who needs larger portions lifted out of big pots.

For Whom It’s Not Ideal

People who want a polished, premium-looking handle. The bare stainless finish is more utilitarian than decorative. If you only need one spoon and prefer a softer grip, the OXO Good Grips is a better single-purchase choice.

5. All-Clad Specialty Stainless Steel Slotted Spoon – Premium Pick

The All-Clad Specialty Slotted Spoon is the most premium pick in this roundup. Made from 18/10 stainless steel with a 600F heat rating, it has the kind of build quality you feel the moment you pick it up. The compact 9.37 inch length makes it ideal for smaller pots, sauce pans, and delicate tasks like retrieving soft poached eggs from a water bath.

SAVE IT

I used it almost daily for egg poaching and gravy stirring. The flat end of the bowl sits flush against the pan, which means poached eggs glide out without rolling back into the water. The ergonomic handle has a small finger groove that feels surprisingly comfortable during long stirs.

SAVE IT

This is not the spoon for deep stockpot work – the short handle will burn your knuckles on a tall pot. It is the spoon you keep within arm’s reach for finishing sauces, plating, and small-batch cooking.

For Whom It’s Good

Serious home cooks who want a long-lasting premium tool. Anyone who frequently poaches eggs, makes pan sauces, or wants a slotted spoon for plating. The heat tolerance and stainless build also make it oven-safe for finishing dishes under the broiler.

For Whom It’s Not Ideal

Budget shoppers will find the price hard to justify when other quality options cost half as much. The short handle also rules it out for deep pot cooking.

6. Winco 15-Inch Stainless Steel Basting Spoon – Best for Deep Pots

The Winco 15-Inch Basting Spoon is the workhorse I reach for when I need serious reach. At 15 inches long, it is the spoon I trust for canning tomatoes, lifting ears of corn out of a boiling seafood boil, and basting turkey on a roasting pan. Winco supplies a lot of restaurant kitchens, so the 1.2mm stainless steel is built for daily abuse.

SAVE IT

After several weeks of dishwasher cycles and rough use, the steel shows no rust, bending, or staining. The perforated bowl drains well, though the slots are wider than some competitors, which means smaller pasta can slip through.

The two things to know before buying: the stamped edges are slightly sharp out of the box (a quick pass with a sanding block fixes it), and the 15 inch length does not fit a standard kitchen utensil crock. I keep mine hanging on a hook instead.

For Whom It’s Good

Home canners, deep fryers, and anyone who regularly cooks in 8-quart or larger stockpots. The price and durability also make it a great backup spoon to keep in a drawer.

For Whom It’s Not Ideal

If you want a softer grip or a polished serving look, the bare steel handle will feel utilitarian. Shorter spoons are easier to store and lighter for everyday cooking.

7. OXO Good Grips Silicone Slotted Spoon – Best for Non-Stick

The OXO Good Grips Silicone Slotted Spoon is the spoon I trust with my non-stick pans. The silicone head flexes slightly under pressure and will not scratch even the most delicate coating. I have used it daily for a month on a non-stick skillet and ceramic Dutch oven with zero marks.

SAVE IT

The closely spaced holes drain liquids fast, which is great for blanching vegetables or lifting poached eggs. The signature OXO handle keeps the grip secure even when the spoon is wet and soapy. Cleanup is easy – the one-piece silicone wipes clean and goes in the dishwasher without complaint.

SAVE IT

The two tradeoffs: the bowl is smaller than older OXO nylon versions, so it holds less per scoop. And because the holes are so close together, small bits like chia seeds, minced garlic, or rice can get trapped and need to be shaken out. For most cooking tasks this is a non-issue, but it matters for very fine foods.

For Whom It’s Good

Anyone cooking on non-stick pans, ceramic cookware, or enameled cast iron. Home cooks who want a softer grip and easy cleanup. Great as a dedicated egg-and-vegetable spoon.

For Whom It’s Not Ideal

Heavy-duty users who need to lift big portions or stir thick stews – the smaller bowl slows you down. People who frequently drain very small foods will find the holes too fine.

8. OXO Good Grips Large Wooden Slotted Spoon – Best Wooden

The OXO Good Grips Large Wooden Slotted Spoon is the wooden pick I recommend most often. It feels substantial in hand without being heavy, and the slot width is ideal for pasta, beans, and vegetables. After a month of regular use, the beechwood has held its shape with no cracking or splintering.

SAVE IT

Wood is naturally non-scratch, so this is a safe choice for non-stick pans, ceramic, and enameled cast iron. The OXO handle has a comfortable curve that works well for arthritic hands. Several reviewers report using the same spoon for 7+ years, which is a strong durability signal.

SAVE IT

The main thing to know: wood needs hand washing. The natural oil finish will hold up to occasional dishwasher cycles, but the manufacturer recommends prompt hand washing and drying. If you want a no-maintenance spoon, stainless steel is a better fit.

For Whom It’s Good

Cooks who want a sustainable, non-scratch utensil for non-stick pans. Anyone who prefers the feel and look of wood over metal. People with hand strength issues who need a thick, easy-grip handle.

For Whom It’s Not Ideal

Anyone who relies on the dishwasher for cleanup. Wood also cannot handle long soaks, so it is not the best choice for canning or wet prep work.

9. Cuisinart Green Gourmet Bamboo Slotted Spoons – Best Eco-Friendly Set

The Cuisinart Green Gourmet Bamboo 2-Pack is a great choice if you want an eco-friendly utensil pair. You get one solid spoon and one slotted spoon, both made from renewable bamboo with a natural oil finish. At 16 inches, both spoons reach deep pots and serve nicely from a buffet dish.

SAVE IT

Bamboo is naturally antimicrobial and safe for non-stick cookware, which makes this set a good everyday pair for pans that cannot handle metal. I used them for stirring risotto, serving pasta, and tossing salad without any scratching or staining.

SAVE IT

The honest tradeoffs: hand wash only, and a small number of reviewers (about 13%) report chipping or breaking after 8+ months of daily heavy use. Mine held up fine over the test period, but I would not leave them soaking in water.

For Whom It’s Good

Eco-conscious shoppers who want sustainable utensils. Anyone outfitting a non-stick cookware set. Gift buyers who want a polished-looking bamboo pair at an affordable price.

For Whom It’s Not Ideal

Heavy users who want maximum durability – stainless steel will outlast bamboo. People who prefer to toss everything in the dishwasher after dinner.

10. Misen Slotted Chef Spoon – Budget Pick

The Misen Slotted Chef Spoon is a newer release with limited reviews, but the early reception is strong. The build feels like a solid chunk of steel, and the wide slots drain faster than most competitors. I used it for poached eggs, rice, and small pasta portions, and the ergonomic handle stayed comfortable through long prep sessions.

It is dishwasher safe and feels like it will last for years. Misen is also known for standing behind their products, which adds confidence for a newer tool.

The honest caveats: the spoon is on the smaller side, so it is not ideal for lifting big batches of pasta or stirring large pots. And with only 9 reviews, long-term durability is still an open question. I would buy this for everyday cooking, but for restaurant-grade abuse, the Hiware or Winco are safer picks.

For Whom It’s Good

Home cooks who want a sturdy everyday spoon at a fair price. Anyone who makes poached eggs, single-serving rice, or small vegetable sides. Fans of the Misen brand who want a matching tool.

For Whom It’s Not Ideal

Cooks who regularly prepare large-batch pasta or family-size portions – the smaller bowl will slow you down. Risk-averse buyers who want a deeply reviewed product.

Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Slotted Spoons

Picking the best slotted spoons comes down to four questions: what material fits your cookware, how long you need the handle to be, what size slots match your most common foods, and how you prefer to clean up. Below is what we learned from 30 days of side-by-side testing.

Material: Stainless Steel vs Silicone vs Wood vs Bamboo

Stainless steel is the standard for a reason – it resists rust, handles high heat, and lasts for years. Look for grade 18/8 or 18/10 stainless steel for the best corrosion resistance. Silicone slotted spoons are the safest pick for non-stick pans because they flex slightly and will not scratch. Wooden and bamboo spoons are naturally gentle on cookware and look beautiful on the table, but they need hand washing and cannot handle long soaks. For most home cooks, a stainless steel slotted spoon is the workhorse, with a silicone or wood option as a non-stick backup.

Handle Length and Comfort

A good slotted spoon should be at least 12 inches long to keep your hand away from steam and splatter. For tall stockpots, canning kettles, or turkey fryers, go with 15 or 16 inches. Anything under 10 inches forces your hand too close to boiling water and is hard to use in deep pots. Look for handles with a non-slip grip (OXO’s soft sleeve is the benchmark), a thumb groove, or at least a slightly flared end that prevents your hand from sliding forward.

Slot Design and Bowl Size

Slot width matters more than most shoppers expect. Medium slots about the width of a spaghetti noodle work for most cooking tasks – pasta, vegetables, beans, and stews. Too-large slots let small foods fall through; too-small slots clog with food and drain slowly. The bowl should be roughly 3 inches wide for everyday use, with a slight curve so it reaches pot corners. Spider skimmers (like the Hiware) use a fine mesh basket and are the best slotted spoon for frying because they lift everything quickly while oil drains fast.

Dishwasher Safety and Care

Most stainless steel and silicone slotted spoons are dishwasher safe. Place them slot-side down on the top rack for best cleaning. Wooden and bamboo spoons need hand washing – rinse, wash with mild soap, and dry immediately to prevent cracking. For stainless steel, occasionally polish with a stainless steel cleaner to maintain shine and prevent water spots.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

The biggest mistake I see is buying a spoon that is too short for the pot you use most. Measure your largest pot and make sure the handle clears the rim with a few inches to spare. Another mistake is using a metal slotted spoon on a non-stick pan – even stainless steel can leave micro-scratches over time. Stick with silicone or wood on non-stick surfaces. Finally, do not soak wooden spoons, and do not put them in the dishwasher. The heat and water exposure will crack them within months.

Best Slotted Spoons FAQ

Final Verdict

After 30 days of testing 10 best slotted spoons in a real home kitchen, three picks stand out. The OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel Slotted Spoon is our editor’s choice – it is comfortable, durable, and handles everyday cooking without complaint. The Hiware Spider Strainer is the best slotted spoon for frying, with thousands of reviews backing its performance. The Berglander 2-Piece Set is the smartest buy if you want both a slotted spoon and a spider skimmer without breaking the bank.

If you mostly cook on non-stick pans, add the OXO Silicone Slotted Spoon to your drawer. If sustainability matters, the OXO Wooden or Cuisinart Bamboo sets are both solid picks. And if you cook for a crowd or do canning and frying regularly, the Winco 15-inch and Hiware spider skimmer are workhorses worth every penny. Any of these 10 best slotted spoons will outlast a cheap plastic spoon and make daily cooking easier, so pick the one that matches your pots, your cookware, and your habits. Your pasta will thank you.