Black Flex Strainer DP1111-1 kitchen sink drain cover with perforated grid

The Unexpected Frustration of a Kitchen Sink Strainer

When I moved into my new home, I didn’t expect the kitchen sink strainer to be a problem. But the metal basket strainer that came installed quickly became one of the most frustrating parts of daily kitchen use.


Why Builder-Grade Sink Strainers Fall Short

Many new homes include basic metal strainers that:

  • Restrict water flow

  • Allow food into the disposal

  • Rust or pit over time

  • Scratch sink finishes

These issues show up quickly with everyday use.


What I Looked for in a Better Sink Strainer

I wanted something that:

  • Worked with my garbage disposal

  • Was easy to clean

  • Protected the sink

  • Looked good over time

  • Rust-free

For a complete overview of the Flex Strainer sink strainer for sinks and disposals, see here.


Why the Flex Strainer Was the Right Upgrade

The Flex Strainer solved all of these issues:

  • No center stem

  • Oversized 5¼-inch flange coverage

  • Flexible plastic protects dishes

  • Twist-in stopper holds water

  • Dishwasher safe

It fits popular sink brands like Blanco and Kohler.
https://www.blanco.com
https://www.kohler.com


Final Thoughts from a New Homeowner

A simple sink strainer upgrade made daily kitchen use noticeably easier and cleaner. It’s a small change with a big impact.


Frequently Asked Questions

Do new homes need a sink strainer if they have a garbage disposal?

Yes. Sink strainers help protect disposals and plumbing even in new homes.

What size sink strainer fits most homes?

Most kitchens use a 3½-inch drain flange, which is fully covered by a 5¼-inch strainer.

Are flexible sink strainers safe for new sinks?

Yes. Flexible materials help prevent scratching and damage to sink finishes.

Where to Buy FLI Products


Leave a comment

This site is protected by hCaptcha and the hCaptcha Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.


You may also like

View all
Example blog post
Example blog post
Example blog post