Anyone who has ever prepared a salad knows the struggle: rinsing leafy greens only to end up with soggy lettuce, limp herbs, and a watery bowl that dilutes dressings. A tool that has become almost iconic in modern kitchens. First launched in the late 1990s by OXO, the spinner has since gone through several iterations and remains a staple for home cooks and professional chefs alike.
Salad spinners aren’t unique to OXO. The idea of using centrifugal force to remove water from greens dates back to mid-20th-century Europe. Early versions were hand-cranked or cord-pulled devices that required two hands and weren’t particularly stable.
Known for rethinking everyday tools with comfort and ergonomics in mind, launched its Good Grips line in 1990. The company’s mission was to create utensils that were functional, comfortable, and accessible, even for people with limited hand strength or dexterity.
Entered the scene in 1998. Instead of a crank, it used a simple pump mechanism—press the knob on top, and the basket spins. This innovation turned a clunky, two-handed chore into a smooth, one-handed operation. Today, that same pump-and-brake system remains the hallmark of the OXO Spinner.
How the OXO Salad Spinner Works
At its core, the spinner relies on centrifugal force. When the basket spins, water on the greens is flung outward into the outer bowl. Once the spinning slows down, the water stays in the bowl while the leaves remain dry.
Here’s a breakdown of the components:
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Outer Bowl: A sturdy, clear container that catches water and can double as a serving dish.
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Inner Basket: A perforated colander where the greens go. It can also be used separately for rinsing.
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Pump Lid: The most distinctive feature, with a large knob on top. Push down, and the basket spins.
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Brake Button: Stops spinning instantly when pressed—no need to wait for the basket to slow on its own.
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Locking Mechanism: The pump handle locks flat against the lid for compact storage.
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Non-Slip Base: Keeps the spinner steady on the counter, even during vigorous spinning.
This simple yet effective design has made the OXO Spinner a gold standard in its category.
Over the years, OXO has expanded the line to meet different needs:
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OXO Good Grips Large Salad Spinner
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Capacity: 6.22 quarts (bowl), 4.95 quarts (basket).
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Best for families or those who prepare large salads.
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OXO Good Grips Small/Herb Spinner
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Compact, about half the size of the large version.
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Ideal for herbs, berries, or small servings of greens.
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OXO SteeL Salad Spinner
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OXO Glass Salad Spinner
Each version retains the essential pump system but caters to different lifestyles and preferences.
Advantages of the OXO Salad Spinner
1. Dryer Greens, Better Salads
Moisture is the enemy of crisp salads. Wet leaves dilute dressings and cause flavors to slide off. The OXO Spinner removes excess water quickly, resulting in greens that are crisp, dry, and ready to absorb vinaigrettes or oils.
2. Ease of Use
The pump mechanism requires less coordination and strength than traditional crank or pull-cord models. Even children or people with arthritis can operate it comfortably.
3. Multi-Functionality
The outer bowl doubles as a serving dish, while the inner basket works as a colander. This makes the tool more versatile than it might appear.
OXO products are known for durability, and the spinner is no exception. Many households report theirs lasting years with frequent use.
5. Easy to Clean
The lid disassembles for thorough washing, and both the bowl and basket are dishwasher-safe.
Drawbacks to Consider
No tool is perfect. Here are some potential downsides:
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Storage Space: The large version is bulky. If you have limited kitchen storage, it might feel cumbersome.
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Price: These are more expensive than generic alternatives. You’re paying for design and durability.
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Plastic Parts: On the classic model, the plastic can scratch or cloud over time. Glass or stainless versions avoid this but cost significantly more.
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Cleaning the Lid: While it does come apart, the mechanism has small crevices that may require detailed cleaning.
Comparisons with Alternatives
There are dozens of salad spinners on the market. How does OXO stack up?
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Generic Crank Spinners: Often cheaper but less stable and harder to use. They also lack a brake button.
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Pull-Cord Spinners: Spin quickly but require both hands and are prone to cord breakage.
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Premium Brands (e.g., Zyliss): Offer similar performance, sometimes with more compact designs. However, OXO’s pump system is widely considered smoother and more ergonomic.
In consumer tests by outlets like America’s Test Kitchen and Food Network Kitchen, the OXO Spinner consistently ranks as the top choice for ease of use, performance, and durability.
Buying Guide
When choosing your OXO Spinner, ask yourself:
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How much salad do I make at once?
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Do I want presentation value?
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How much storage do I have?
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Budget: Prices range from around $25 for the small plastic version to $55+ for glass or stainless models.
Care and Maintenance Tips
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Wash greens thoroughly before spinning to prevent grit from collecting in the lid.
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Empty the outer bowl promptly—leaving standing water can cause odors.
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For deep cleaning, disassemble the lid and hand wash with warm, soapy water.
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Store with the pump locked down to save space and protect the spring mechanism.
If you prepare salads, leafy greens, or herbs regularly, this is an excellent investment. It saves time, reduces waste (no more soggy lettuce you end up throwing out), and enhances the overall salad-eating experience.
For occasional salad eaters, a simple colander and towel might suffice. But for salad lovers—or anyone looking to increase their vegetable intake—the spinner often pays for itself in convenience and better results.
Conclusion
It may seem like a specialized gadget, but it solves a universal problem in the kitchen: drying greens effectively. With its ergonomic pump, efficient spinning, and versatile design, it has earned its spot as a beloved tool in countless households.
Whether you choose the large plastic model, the compact herb version, or the elegant stainless steel bowl, offers functionality, durability, and a touch of kitchen satisfaction every time you press that pump and watch the greens whirl.
If salads are part of your lifestyle, this is one tool you’ll likely wonder how you ever lived without.
