Colanders range from small to large. Common capacities include 1.5, 3, and 5 quarts, with many single colanders falling in the 3–7 quart range; some listings also show metric volumes such as 3.08 liters or 160 ounces.

Many colanders are made from stainless steel or plastic. Typical plastics include polypropylene (PP) and recycled polypropylene (rPP), while stainless steel remains a common durable option.

Look for sturdy side handles or raised, non-slip grips. These provide a secure, comfortable hold when lifting and draining hot pasta.

Perforated designs with generously spaced holes allow fast, thorough drainage. Well-distributed perforations help prevent water pooling and speed up draining.

Common features include built-in feet so the colander can sit in the sink or on the counter, extendable/expandable arms to hang over a sink, and multiple feet for added countertop or sink stability.

Compact colanders around 3–3.5 quarts are generally suitable for one to two people, while larger colanders and sets in the 5–7 quart range handle bigger batches.