Have you ever struggled with removing the fat from pan juice to prepare a tasty gravy? You can traditionally use a spoon to skim the fat rising on the top of the broth. However, it is difficult to remove totally. Or you need to wait 6-8 hours until the fat solidifies in the refrigerator for better skimming, which takes time, right?
Those inconveniences encourage the creation of a fat separator. This kind of kitchen utensil was explicitly designed to solve this problem, helping to separate the fat from the juice efficiently.
However, there are many fat separators displayed on the market now, can you identify which you should buy?
If not, my following reviews can help you make your comparisons and wisely select the best fat separator for you.
What Is A Fat Separator?
Wait! First, what exactly is a fat separator?
As I mentioned above, it is a cooking utensil helping you remove the fat from pan juices effectively.
Fat separator works based on the physical principle that the fat or oil is lighter than the broth, which will naturally arise on the surface of the mixture after some minutes. Therefore, if you want to separate those two things, instead of traditionally skimming the fat from the top, just simply make way for releasing the heavier, lower one out.
Types Of Fat Separator
There are two main types of fat separators, which are known as spout pitcher and bottom-drainer. They basically work on the same principle, but differently operate at the final step due to their different structures.
Pitcher
This kind of product usually comes with a long spout for pouring the juice, and a silicone stopper for helping the spout to be airtight, which makes the fat not spill through the spout when you pour.
Bottom-Drain
It includes one button on the handle and a drain at the bottom of the container. You press the button to open the drain, let the liquid release, and stop pressing to close the hole when the fat is getting to the bottom.
Popular Brands Of Fat Separators
Despite a variety of fat separators from many global brands that are available on the market, there are some outstanding brands favored by consumers all over the world, which I want to introduce to you:
Cuisipro
They believe that there should be a tool for every task in your kitchen. Cuisipro produces kitchen utensils for cooks having an eye on design and a passion for quality of products.
OXO
For nearly 30 years, they continuously focus on creating the products that are simple, easy to use, and thoughtfully designed. They try to notice every problem in their customers’ daily lives to work on the products solving the problems, which ideally makes life easier.
Bellemain
The brand name means “beautiful hand” in French, implying the purpose of Bellemain for creating useful kitchen appliances and tools to support any cooking activities. Bellemain serves worldwide customers with exceptionally personalized services.
Which Are The Best Fat Separators To Buy?
In case you do not have enough time to go through my reviews, I have already highlighted some outstanding fat separators with specific characteristics. Take a look, and then you may find the best fat separator for you right here!
- Best Overall – Cuisipro 4 Cup Fat Separator
“Bottom-drain; 4 cup capacity; easy drip feature; durable and heat resistant Tritan material; BPA free; easy to disassemble; dishwasher safe.” - Best Budget – Swing-A-Way 4 Cup Fat Separator
“Bottom-drain; capacity of 4 cups; budget-friendly; easy to release with spring at the bottom drain; dishwasher safe.” - Best for Daily Tasks – OXO Good Grips 2 Cup Fat Separator
“Pitcher; 2 cup capacity; durable plastic; suitable for one person use for small family; dishwasher safe.” - Best Quality – OXO Good Grips Good Gravy 4 Cup Fat Separator
“Bottom-drain; 4 cup capacity; non-slip grip on the handle; external drain; plastic; dishwasher safe.” - Best Functional – Vebo 4 Cup Fat Separator
“Bottom-release; 4 cups gravy separator; heat resistant; BPA free; dishwasher on the top rack.” - Best with Stoppers – Vita 2-Stopper Fat Separator
“Pitcher with two stoppers for airtight spout; large 4 cup capacity; slip-resistant handle; heat resistant.” - Best Glass – HIC Borosilicate Glass Fat Separator
“A pitcher made of borosilicate glass; stainless steel strainer; capacity of 4 cups; microwave safe; stovetop safe.” - Best Simple – Fox Run 1.5 Cup Fat Separator
“Pitcher with 1.5 cup capacity; plastic; simple with no strainer, or stopper; top-rack dishwasher safe.” - Best Unique Design – Trudeau Fat Separator
“Unique design; pitcher with short spout; plastic; no stoppers; covered by a five-year warranty. “
Fat Separator Comparison Table 2021
This is the table comparing some features of my 15 best fat separators. Take a glance at to get an overview of the items I will review later.
Top 15 Best Fat Separator Reviews in 2021
This is the most necessary part of my article, right? I believe that you will not miss any important notes about the top 15 fat separators by reading my following reviews.
1. Cuisipro 4 Cup Fat Separator
(Best Overall)
This is the first product of my list and the best overall fat separator for homemade gravy I would like to recommend you.
Cuisipro brand provides a 4 cup bottom-drain kitchen tool that works effectively for your Thanksgiving gravy or daily use with soup, or sauce. This fat separator with the smart design can be easy to use, even for those who are not used to cooking.
What is more, due to the Tritan material, it lasts for such a long time that it can be your assistant for several years. What a worth-buying product!
Key Features:
- A 4 cup capacity fat separator
- The sauce is released from the bottom
- The silicone plug works to control the release
- Made of Tritan material
- BPA free
Pros
- Easy to pour and measure
- Smart design, making it easy to disassemble and clean
- Tritan material is durable and heat resistant
- Easy drip feature separates the juice from fat effectively
Cons
- Without promotion, the product is relatively expensive
Product Specifications:
| Brand | Cuisipro |
| Type | Bottom-drain |
| Dimensions | 8.5 x 8.5 x 6.5 inches |
| Weight | 12 ounces |
| Color | Transparent, black |
| Included components | Plastic strainer |
| Dishwasher safe | Yes |
| Warranty | 25 years |
2. Swing-A-Way 4 Cup Fat Separator
(Best Budget)
Are you looking for a useful 4 cup fat separator with a limited budget? If yes, congrats! This kitchen utensil from Swing-A-Way is precisely what you need!
This fantastic product from Swing-A-Way is inexpensive but offers you the vital function of many other fat separators on the market, helping you to separate grease from bone broth successfully.
However, keep in mind that you need to wait for the liquid to get cool before pouring in the container because this container is not heat resistant.
Key Features:
- A bottom-release fat separator with 4 cup capacity
- Dishwasher safe; recommended to put on the top rack
- Standard measurements on the container
Pros
- Budget-friendly
- Easy to use and clean
- Easy to read the measurement
- Large capacity
- Suitable size for small kitchen
Cons
- It is not made of heat resistant plastic
- The handle is flimsy, easy to break
Product Specifications:
| Brand | Swing-A-Way |
| Type | Bottom-drain |
| Dimensions | 6.5 x 5.5 x 5 inches |
| Weight | 11.5 ounces |
| Color | Transparent, red |
| Included components | Plastic strainer |
| Dishwasher safe | N/A |
| Warranty | Limited Lifetime |
3. OXO Good Grips 2 Cup Fat Separator
(Best for Daily Tasks)
If you are looking for a fat separator that can be used every day for a small amount of liquid, or a small utensil that perfectly fits your limited storage space in the kitchen, this 2-cup fat separator is what you need!
Coming from OXO, this product consists of a 2-cup container with a spout and non-drip handle, a high-front strainer, and a smart stopper. In case you have too little liquid, this small fat separator works much more effectively than the 4-cup one.
Key Features:
- A 2-cup spot-style pitcher
- BPA-free; heat-resistant container
- Silicone handle
- High-front strainer
Pros
- Easy to read measurement and use
- Convenient to store in small kitchens
- You can grip sturdily even when greasy
- The high-front shield can prevent the liquid from spilling over the top
- Suitable for one person or small family
Cons
- The strainer holes are not small enough to keep seasonings
- If you need to separate a large amount of liquid, you need to do it twice
Product Specifications:
| Brand | OXO |
| Type | Pitcher |
| Dimensions | 3 x 9 x 5.3 inches |
| Weight | 6.4 ounces |
| Color | Clear, gray, black |
| Included components | One silicone stopper |
| Dishwasher safe | Yes |
| Warranty | N/A |
4. OXO Good Grips Good Gravy 4 Cup Fat Separator
(Best Quality)
For those who are fans of OXO but do prefer a fat separator with a bottom release, this product brings the best quality for you!
It works simply and effectively; you can have a fully juice within 2 minutes. What is more, thanks to the durable plastic, you do not need to worry about the broken container because of the hot liquid or greasy handle.
Even when you use it for only Thanksgiving, which means once a year, or daily uses with cleaning in the dishwasher, this durable product will last for years and assist you in getting the least greasy broth.
Key Features:
- A 4-cup container with bottom release
- Silicone valve prevents leaking
- External drain
Pros
- The plastic is thick and durable
- Easy to squeeze the built-in trigger on the handle to release cooking juices
- You will get less oil because the hole is at the very bottom
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Relatively high price.
Product Specifications:
| Brand | OXO |
| Type | Bottom-drain |
| Dimensions | 5.5 x 7 x 6.25 inches |
| Weight | 12.8 ounces |
| Color | Clear, black |
| Included components | Plastic filter |
| Dishwasher safe | Yes |
| Warranty | N/A |
5. Vebo 4 Cup Fat Separator
(Best Functional)
This Vebo fat separator can help you with multi-purposes in your cooking, from making gravy, soup, sauces to even creating different shapes of pancakes!
The easy drip feature helps you to separate the liquid from the fat quickly and effectively. Just press the red button on the top of the handle, the pure liquid will be released from the bottom.
VEBO fat separator will transform your gravy, your soup into the healthiest version.
Key Features:
- A bottom-drain fat separator with easy drip feature
- BPA free material
- Heat-resistant plastic
Pros
- Best for multifunctional uses
- Can last for a long time
- Easy to disassemble and clean
- Can be used for making shapes of pancakes
Cons
- The silicone seal sometimes does not work well, which can lead to leaking
Product Specifications:
| Brand | VEBO |
| Type | Bottom-drain |
| Dimensions | 7.01 x 5.98 x 5.98 inches |
| Weight | 16.1 ounces |
| Color | Transparent, black |
| Included components | Plastic strainer |
| Dishwasher safe | Yes |
| Warranty | N/A |
6. Bellemain 4 Cup Fat Separator
The product from Bellemain has become one of the most popular fat separators currently. If you simply need a fat separator for your cooking, this indestructible tool with affordable price worths a try.
It is made of ABS-free plastic, which can withstand high temperature, up to 400°F. You can take the boiling juice to pour in the container without any delay for the cooling process.
Key Features:
- Intuitive high top design
- Commercial kitchen safe ABS-free container
- 4 cup capacity
- Silicone stopper for an airtight spout
Pros
- The product is nearly indestructible
- Extremely easy to use
- Rubber handle for safe handling hot liquid
- The spout entrance is narrow enough to give you more broth as you reach the bottom when separating
Cons
- This item is usually out of stock
Product Specifications:
| Brand | Bellemain |
| Type | Pitcher |
| Dimensions | 9.29 x 7.72 x 5.98 inches |
| Weight | 15.8 ounces |
| Color | Transparent, gray, black |
| Included components | One silicone stopper, separated strainer |
| Dishwasher safe | Yes |
| Warranty | 2 years |
7. Vita 2-Stopper Fat Separator
(Best with Stoppers)
Are you worried about losing the silicone stopper, which makes your fat separator useless? It is not exaggerating to say that stopper, which keeps the fat out of the spout, is one of the essential parts in this kitchen tool.
With this 4 cup grease separator, the manufacturer Vita provides two stoppers for their customers. You only need one stopper for use, but the second one will be in need if you lose the first one, helping you to save a budget for buying a new fat separator.
That is why I would love to say that it is the best fat separator with stoppers.
Key Features:
- A pitcher with two silicone stoppers
- The rubber grip is slip-resistant
- High-front shield
Pros
- The shield prevents juice from spilling over when pouring
- The suitable size for processing pan drippings once
- Helps you to stay healthier by effectively minimizing the amount of oil consumption
- Comfortable to hold even when greasy on the handle
Cons
- The handle seems to be flimsy because of the thin materials
- The strainer could have smaller holes to keep more unwanted bits
Product Specifications:
| Brand | Vita |
| Type | Pitcher |
| Dimensions | 9.9 x 9.3 x 5.4 inches |
| Weight | 12.3 ounces |
| Color | Transparent, black, gray |
| Included components | 2 silicone stoppers, plastic filter |
| Dishwasher safe | Yes |
| Warranty | N/A |
8. HIC Borosilicate Glass Fat Separator
(Best Glass)
If you want to avoid using plastic when working with hot dishes, I believe this glass grease separator is perfectly suitable for you.
Being crafted from borosilicate glass, this pitcher is heat resistant (up to 300°F), stovetop safe, microwave safe, and dishwasher safe for thorough cleaning.
What is more, the generous 4-cup capacity can process a large volume all at once; you can save a lot of time preparing everyday or holiday meals.
Key Features:
- A 4 cup glass pitcher
- The pitcher is made from borosilicate glass, which is heat resistant
- A strainer is made from 18/8 stainless steel
Pros
- Elegant design with long narrow spout
- Can be used in the microwave
- Withstand hot temperature up to 300°F
- The glass is thin and lightweight
Cons
- It is fragile, easy to be broken
- The price is relatively high
Product Specifications:
| Brand | HIC Harold Import Co. |
| Type | Pitcher |
| Dimensions | 6.25 x 8.5 x 4 inches |
| Weight | 17.6 ounces |
| Color | Transparent, silver |
| Included components | Stainless steel filter |
| Dishwasher safe | Yes |
| Warranty | N/A |
9. Vondior 4 Cup Fat Separator
This 4 cup bottom-drain is a new version from Vondior, improving the old product with a spout which is easy to be leaking. You can use it for gravies, soups, stews, sauces, and even fruit juices without any efforts.
Moreover, the fat separator comes in a box with a “3 in 1” peeler includes, which helps peeling, slicing, and shaving.
Key Features:
- New design without spout
- Durable clear plastic
- Black sturdy filter and silicone plug
Pros
- Affordable budget
- Quickly strain the liquid without making a mess
- Heat and cold resistant; BPA free
- Includes a free gift – a “3 in 1” peeler
Cons
- The peeler included is not durable
- The body can crack after several uses, leading to leaking
Product Specifications:
| Brand | Vondior |
| Type | Bottom-drain |
| Dimensions | 8.5 x 6.01 x 5.8 inches |
| Weight | 16.6 ounces |
| Color | Clear, black |
| Included components | Plastic strainer; one peeler; one quality gift box |
| Dishwasher safe | Yes |
| Warranty | N/A |
10. Fox Run 1.5 Cup Fat Separator
(Best Simple)
Are you a minimalist who is always looking for the most basic utensil but helpful for your kitchen?
Are you a clumsy person who prefers the kitchen tool that is as simple as possible to avoid losing or breaking any included accessories?
Are you searching for a very small fat separator that perfectly fits your limited space?
If yes, this 1.5 cup fat separator from Fox Run is what you should buy, which is only a pitcher without strainer, or stopper included.
Key Features:
- A fat separator with pitcher style
- The capacity of 1.5 cups
- Durable acrylic plastic
- Without any strainer or silicone stopper
Pros
- Don’t need to disassemble when using
- Easy to use and clean
- Surprisingly lightweight
- Suitable for the small kitchen
Cons
- You need to filter the unwanted bits before separating
- Without a stopper, it cannot totally separate the fat and broth
Product Specifications:
| Brand | Fox Run |
| Type | Pitcher |
| Dimensions | 3.5 x 6.5 x 3.5 inches |
| Weight | 3.2 ounces |
| Color | Transparent |
| Included components | None |
| Dishwasher safe | Yes |
| Warranty | N/A |
11. Amco Easy Release Fat Separator
This Amco 4 cup fat separator is easy to use for any cooking enthusiasts!
If you have used Amco’s products, you will know that they always focus on creating intuitive, innovative products that serve their customers better with reasonable prices. And the unique selling point of this grease separator is the spring at the bottom, helping the broth to drip easier than usual.
Key Features:
- Metric and standard measurement
- Has a spring-loaded bottom opening
- Dishwasher safe on the top rack
Pros
- Good price
- Easy to read the measurement
- The spring bottom enables the free-grease juice to be released easily
- Large capacity works for any types of dishes
Cons
- The body can break easily
Product Specifications:
| Brand | Amco |
| Type | Bottom-drain |
| Dimensions | 6.5 x 5.5 x 5 inches |
| Weight | 12 ounces |
| Color | Clear, black |
| Included components | Plastic filter |
| Dishwasher safe | Yes |
| Warranty | N/A |
12. Trudeau Fat Separator
(Best Unique Design)
This is the most special shape of a fat separator I have ever seen. It operates as a spout-styled pitcher but looks like a bottom release tool because of its unique spout.
What is more, the body tends to be wider and shorter than other fat separators with the same capacity of 4 cups. Thanks to this unique design, the product from Trudeau, in some urgent case, can be used as a juice, or coffee jug besides its main function.
Key Features:
- A 4 cup pitcher gravy separator
- Has a wide mouth and short spout for instant pouring
- Microwave and dishwasher safe
Pros
- Unique design without a long spout
- Lightweight compared to other 4 cup container
- Resists heat up to 400°F
- Covered by a five-year warranty of brand
Cons
- Because of the short spout, you can easily agitate the fat and broth when pouring
Product Specifications:
| Brand | Trudeau |
| Type | Pitcher |
| Dimensions | 9.75 x 5.5 x 5 inches |
| Weight | 10.4 ounces |
| Color | Clear; gray |
| Included components | Plastic strainer |
| Dishwasher safe | Yes |
| Warranty | Five years |
13. Norpro 4 Cup Gravy Separator
This is another option for those searching for a glass fat separator that works safely with hot food items.
Coming from a long-lasting brand, Norpro fat separator will be a useful assistant in your kitchen that never lets you disappointed, especially when you need to roast a Thanksgiving turkey.
Key Features:
- Pitcher is made from glass
- 4 cup capacity
Pros
- High heat resistant
- Comfortable handle for both right and left hands
- Lightweight
- Easy to clean
Cons
- It is recommended to be washed by hand
- It is quite costly
Product Specifications:
| Brand | Norpro |
| Type | Pitcher |
| Dimensions | 6.25 x 4.75 x 8.5 inches |
| Weight | 16.8 ounces |
| Color | Clear, silver |
| Included components | Stainless steel strainer |
| Dishwasher safe | Yes |
| Warranty | N/A |
14. CHEFS Fat Separator
This glass grease separator comes from CHEFS with a capacity of 4 cups. Made of borosilicate, this one can withstand high temperature (500°F), so that you can directly pour the juice in from the pan.
What is more, you do not need to clean this glass container on your own, just put it on the top rack of the dishwasher for deep cleaning.
Key Features:
- Borosilicate glass material
- 4 cup capacity
Pros
- Elegant design
- Heat safe to 500°F
- Can be warmed in oven/ microwave
- Easy to use
Cons
- Some users said that it was easy to break
Product Specifications:
| Brand | CHEFS |
| Type | Bottom-drain |
| Dimensions | 6.69 x 5.71 x 5.2 inches |
| Weight | 12 ounces |
| Color | Clear; silver |
| Included components | Stainless steel strainer |
| Dishwasher safe | No |
| Warranty | N/A |
15. Mugpie Fat Separator
The last item in my reviews list is a special fat separator, which is made of stainless steel. This is the only steel gravy boat in my top 15 best fat separators.
This tool has just been available from early 2021. Therefore, it is entirely new on the market with not many users and reviews.
However, with the quality guaranteed by the brand and the affordable price it costs, I believe this stainless steel separator is worth a try!
Key Features:
- Stainless steel fat separator
- 4 cup container
Pros
- Sturdy and easy to use
- Lightweight and comfortable to hold
- Can last for a long time
- Can be used as a gravy boat besides separator
Cons
- It needs hand washing
Product Specifications:
| Brand | CHEFS |
| Type | Bottom-drain |
| Dimensions | 6.69 x 5.71 x 5.2 inches |
| Weight | 12 ounces |
| Color | Silver |
| Included components | None |
| Dishwasher safe | No |
| Warranty | N/A |
Buying Guide
If you have already finished reading my reviews but have not concluded which the most suitable fat separator for you to buy, here I suggest some factors you should consider when selecting a grease separator.
Capacity
I think it is the most important thing that you pick a product with the capacity suitable for your family’s needs. Currently, most of the fat separators on the market offer a 4 cup containing. However, you can take a small one – 2-cup or 1.5-cup types for better using and storing. It depends on the liquid volume you need to separate.
Bottom-Drain Or Pitcher
I think that both types of fat separators can work productively, and we can’t point out an item that is notably better than the other. Some users prefer bottom-drain, while others always look for pitchers; it depends on personal preference. Therefore, please keep in mind to know the type of product well to make sure that it is what you expect before buying.
Materials
For those who have never brought a fat separator, material is one of significant factors you need to consider before buying. If your family has children, you should avoid the glass fat separators to prevent breaking. If not, I think you can choose any kinds of material based on your preference.
Dishwasher Safe Or Not
Suppose you are a fan of the dishwasher and do not want to clean the kitchen tool yourself. You need to check whether the product is safe with a dishwasher or not. Fortunately, most of the fat separators in my top 15 can be put on the top rack of the dishwasher. But everything seems to be simpler if you prefer washing by hand for thorough cleaning.
How To Use A Fat Separator?
First, every fat separator has a filter, through which you pour the pan juices, then the unwanted herbs, or bits will be kept on the strainer, only the liquid flows into the container.
After that, you wait for some minutes to see the fat, which is lighter, naturally rise to the top, and gradually separate from the juices. These are the same steps in two types of fat separators.
Next, depending on which kind of equipment you have, the last step will be taken differently. Regarding the pitcher, you will take the stopper out, then pour out the juices through the spout.
On the other hand, considering the bottom-release fat separator, you will pull a lever to drain the juices through the hole in the bottom of the other fat separator.
How To Clean A Fat Separator Properly?
Most fat separators can be cleaned on the top rack of dishwasher. However, some should be hand-washed; and in some cases, you would love to clean them yourself for deeper cleaning. So how can we clean a fat separator thoroughly?
In the first step, I think you should remove the residual grease in the cup and strainer with hot water. Next, you put a few drops of soap and little warm water in the utensil, and then softly scrub with scouring pad.
In case there are some parts such as small drain or long spout that your scouring pad cannot approach, you can use a small brush to reach every single part of the fat separator. I believe that the warm soap liquid combining with the cleaning brush can help you properly clean the grease separator in some minutes.
FAQs
In case you have any inquiries about fat separator, this part provides some questions that are frequently asked:
My Top Pick
I guess that you have already got an option in your mind after reading my top 15 best separators reviews, right?
For me, my best choice is Cuisipro 4 Cup Fat Separator. This durable product costs an affordable budget but brings me a fantastic experience when cooking.
What about you? What is the best fat separator that you won’t hesitate to add to your cart when reading my list? Or do you know any other products that can worth a try? Feel free to share with me in your comments.
