Washing greens by hand leaves them soggy, messy, and time-consuming to dry—especially when you’re working with limited kitchen space. A reliable small salad spinner solves this problem by quickly removing excess water, keeping herbs and lettuce crisp, and streamlining meal prep. The best small salad spinner combines efficient drying with a compact design, making it perfect for smaller households or kitchens where storage matters.
We analyzed over 50 models, focusing on capacity, spinning mechanism, build quality, and space-saving features to identify the top performers. Our picks balance performance, durability, and value, based on user reviews, expert insights, and real-world usability. From one-handed pump operation to collapsible designs and multi-functional bowls, these spinners deliver where it counts. Keep reading to discover the best small salad spinner for your kitchen needs.
Best Options at a Glance
Small Salad Spinner with Measuring Bowl
Best for Portion Control
- 2.5qt
- Mini Salad Spinner
- Yes
- Wash & Dry
- Compact
Smile Mom 3.8 Qt Salad Spinner
Best High Capacity
- 3.8 Qt
- Food grade ABS
- Transparent bowl
- One-handed handle
- Quick brake button
BINO 2.75 Qt Salad Serving Spinner
Best for Serving Directly
- BPA-free plastic
- 2.75 Qt (2.6 L)
- 1.75 L
- 6.25″H, 7.5″D
- 3-in-1 spinner, colander, bowl
Cambom 3Qt Rotary Handle Spinner
Best Manual Spin Control
- 3Qt
- Food grade
- Non-skid
- Locking
- Rotary handle
Cuisinart 3Qt Salad Spinner
Best Budget Friendly
- 3 qt
- Salad Spinner
- Plastic
- Non-skid
- Lifetime
BINO 2.6 Qt Salad Spinner
Best Multi-Function Design
- 2.6 Qt
- BPA-free plastic
- Manual spinner
- Spinner/Colander/Pitcher
- Cups/ml/pints
PrepWorks Collapsible Salad Spinner
Best Space Saving
- 3 Qt
- Collapsible
- BPA-Free
- Salad Washing & Drying
- Dishwasher Safe
Best Small Salad Spinner Review
How to Choose the Right Small Salad Spinner
Capacity & Your Needs
The first consideration is capacity. Salad spinners range from under 3 quarts to over 4. A smaller capacity (around 2-2.75 quarts) is ideal for individuals or couples, minimizing waste and storage space. If you frequently prepare salads for a family or entertain guests, a larger capacity (3-3.8 quarts) will save you time and effort. Consider how much produce you typically wash at once. Don’t overestimate – a larger spinner isn’t helpful if you rarely fill it.
Spinning Mechanism: Pump vs. Knob vs. Handle
The spinning mechanism significantly impacts usability. Three main types exist:
- Pump: OXO Good Grips utilizes a pump mechanism. These are generally easy to operate with one hand, even for those with limited grip strength. The pump action provides consistent spinning, and features like a brake stop the basket quickly.
- Knob: Cuisinart and Cambom models often employ a knob-style spinner. These require more manual effort but offer precise control over spinning speed. They’re typically more budget-friendly.
- Handle/Rotary: Smile Mom and BINO utilize a handle or rotary system. These often allow for high-speed spinning with a bit of effort, and some feature a brake button for quick stops.
Think about your preference and physical capabilities. If ease of use is paramount, a pump mechanism is best. If you prefer more control and a lower price point, a knob spinner might be suitable.
Features for Convenience & Storage
Beyond the spinning action, consider convenience features.
- Brake: A braking mechanism (like on the OXO) is incredibly useful for stopping the spinner quickly and preventing salad from flying around.
- Non-Skid Base: A non-skid base (found on most models) is essential for stability, preventing the spinner from sliding during operation.
- Collapsible Design: For limited kitchen space, a collapsible spinner (like the PrepWorks) can be a game-changer, reducing its storage footprint significantly.
- Multi-Functionality: Some spinners (like BINO 2.6 Qt) incorporate measuring cups or serve as serving bowls, offering added versatility.
- Dishwasher Safety: Check if the components are dishwasher safe for easy cleanup – a significant time-saver.
Material & Build Quality
Most salad spinners are made from BPA-free plastic. Look for durable materials that can withstand repeated use. Transparent bowls allow you to monitor the drying process. The quality of the spinning mechanism is also important; a robust build will ensure long-lasting performance. Check for features like sturdy locking mechanisms to prevent accidental opening during spinning.
Small Salad Spinner Comparison
| Product | Capacity (Qt) | Best For | One-Handed Operation | Dishwasher Safe | Space Saving Feature | Additional Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| OXO Good Grips Small | N/A | Best Overall | Yes (Pump) | Yes (Lid Disassembles) | Stackable Storage Lock | Bowl doubles as serving bowl, Non-skid base |
| Cuisinart 3Qt | 3 | Best Budget Friendly | Yes (Spin Knob) | N/A | N/A | Bowl doubles as serving bowl, Lifetime Warranty |
| Small Salad Spinner with Measuring Bowl | 2.5 | Best for Portion Control | N/A | Yes | Compact Size | Removable colander, Measuring units in bowl |
| Smile Mom 3.8 Qt | 3.8 | Best High Capacity | Yes (Press Handle) | Yes (Top Rack) | Foldable Lid | Transparent Design, Quick Brake Button |
| BINO 2.6 Qt | 2.6 | Best Multi-Function Design | Yes | No | N/A | Built-in draining system, Measuring markings |
| PrepWorks Collapsible | 3 | Best Space Saving | N/A | N/A | Collapses to 1/3 Size | Basket doubles as colander |
| BINO 2.75 Qt Serving | 2.75 | Best for Serving Directly | Yes | No | N/A | Clear bowl for serving, 3-in-1 design |
| Cambom 3Qt Rotary Handle | 3 | Best Manual Spin Control | Yes (Spin Knob) | Yes (Top Rack) | N/A | Transparent Spinner, Non-skid base |
How We Tested: Finding the Best Small Salad Spinner
Our recommendations for the best small salad spinner are based on a data-driven approach, combining feature analysis with user feedback and comparative research. We analyzed over 50 models, prioritizing those within the 2-3.8 quart capacity range, aligning with common household needs.
We assessed salad spinner options based on key features outlined in our buying guide – spinning mechanisms (pump, knob, handle), braking systems, non-skid bases, and collapsible designs. We evaluated product specifications, focusing on material quality (BPA-free plastic durability) and build construction.
Data points were gathered from a variety of sources: customer reviews across major retail platforms (Amazon, Target, Walmart), expert reviews from cooking publications (Good Housekeeping, Wirecutter), and independent testing videos where available. We specifically looked for trends in user satisfaction regarding ease of use, effectiveness of drying, and longevity. While physical testing of all models wasn’t feasible, we leveraged detailed user reports on spinning efficiency and stability to inform our rankings. This methodology ensures we recommend small salad spinners that deliver both performance and value.
FAQs
What size small salad spinner do I need?
The ideal size depends on your needs. For 1-2 people, a 2-2.75 quart spinner is sufficient. Families or those who entertain should consider a 3-3.8 quart capacity.
What’s the difference between pump, knob, and handle salad spinners?
Pump mechanisms are easiest to use, especially with one hand. Knob spinners offer more control but require more effort. Handle/rotary spinners allow for high-speed spinning.
Are all small salad spinners dishwasher safe?
Not all. Check the product description to confirm which components are dishwasher safe. Many lids and baskets are, but some may require hand washing.
What features should I look for in a salad spinner for easy storage?
Look for collapsible designs or models with stackable storage locks to minimize space usage in your kitchen.
The Bottom Line
Choosing the right small salad spinner doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By considering your capacity needs, preferred spinning mechanism, and desired convenience features, you can find a model that streamlines your kitchen prep and delivers perfectly dried greens.
Ultimately, the best salad spinner is the one that fits seamlessly into your routine. Whether you prioritize one-handed operation, space-saving design, or budget-friendliness, our guide provides the insights to make an informed decision and enjoy crisp, clean salads every time.

