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TIPical Mary Ellen host Mary Ellen Pinkham shares tips for using colanders, strainers and sieves in unique ways.

The difference between a strainer and a colander is that a strainer generally has a handle, but a colander does not.

Figure A

Figure B

Use a fine mesh metal colander as a grease splatter guard by turning it upside down over a skillet (figure A).

Use a fine sieve to press berries into when making a puree (figure B). The sieve will trap the seeds.

* Note: Be sure to use a nylon sieve because a metal one may react and discolor the berries.

Figure C

Figure D

Store a small strainer in the canister with your powdered sugar so that it is readily available when you have to sprinkle sugar on foods (figure C).

Use a tea-ball strainer (figure D) to clean jewelry. Place a ring or necklace inside the tea ball and pass through soapy water.

Place fresh lavender in a tea-ball strainer and drop into your bath water.

Figure E

Place a candle inside a large pasta pot strainer for an interesting lantern (figure E).

When draining pasta in a sink, balance the strainer over the sink rather than placing it in the bottom of the sink where soap suds can interfere.

Figure F

Figure G

Use a colander as a fruit basket (figure F). The air will circulate around the fruit and keep it fresh longer.

You can even use a metal colander as a great lampshade (figure G), as well as a great conversation starter. Find one with a center hole in the bottom, then just use a harp to attach the colander to a lamp base.

Also in this Episode

TIPical Mary Ellen : Episode TIP-1406
•	Household Moneysavers
•	Quick and Healthy Dinners
•	Getting Creative With Colanders
•	Tip of the Day

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Getting Creative With Colanders

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