My inner skeptic was quickly silenced w­hen, in use, these items stood up to any mixing, pouring or dumping we dished out. Though the walls of the collapsible bowls, colanders and measuring cups we tested are flexible, they’re formed in rigid, high-heat food-grade polypropylene plastic which makes them very sturdy and self-supporting when expanded. Plus, it’s fun to pop collapsible bowls and colanders up and down, making them a perfect lure to get kids into the kitchen to help out.

Leading kitchen goods brands Progressive and Chef’n listened to cooks’ storage woes and responded beautifully with a new breed of cleverly designed colanders, bowls and measuring tools that flatten for easy storage. Combining rigid rims and bases for stability together with flexible sides, collapsibles fold accordion-style from full height down to about an inch tall — or less. So, instead of nesting or wedging bulky full-sized items into tight spaces, busy cooks can simply collapse them down to store wherever convenient.

Even better, collapsible cooking tools are designed to fit in the dishwasher in their flattened state, making space-wasting bulky loads and hand-washing large items things of the past.

I must admit that flexible-sided mixing bowls and measuring cups sounded a bit flimsy to me when first introduced. So, when testing collapsible tools for our product reviews, I gave them a thorough run in our kitchens, subjecting them to plenty of boiling pasta, thick batters, and of course, my assistant chef, age 9.

Needless to say, I was a quick convert to collapsible kitchen tools, especially since my home’s kitchen is anything but spacious. Collapsible colanders, bowls and measuring tools are a great solution for any cook looking to save a lot space or simply add convenience in any kitchen.-kf

Step One – Clean Out and Organize Kitchen Trouble Spots
A cluttered, disorganized kitchen can become a holiday entertaining horror show, especially if your kitchen is starved for storage space like mine. But who has the time — or desire — to do a full clean-out with Christmas looming? Instead, tackle the areas that will be heavily used or that really bother you; for me it’s the fridge, pantry and mixing bowl catch-all cabinet. Set aside a half-hour to an hour or so for a quick clean-out of your trouble spots. And if you’re still struggling to fit bulky colanders, mixing and storage bowls in tight cabinets, add the new space-saving collapsible versions to your wish list this year. They’re ideal for stretching space in cramped cabinets.

Step Two – Take Stock of Serving Essentials
Hosting everything from big family gatherings to impromptu visits with friends is easy when serving essentials are conveniently at hand. During your quick clean-out gather together (or at least locate) platters, trays, cheese boards, serving tongs, pitchers and other key serving pieces. With serving tools at the ready, you can quickly whip out hors d’oeuvres and festive beverages in style.

Step Three – Makin’ a List… As You Go
As you do your clean-out, keep a notepad handy to jot down foods or spices to be replenished and serving or party goods to purchase. Also note any special ingredients you’ll need to buy for holiday menus and goodies.

Step Four – De-Clutter Countertops for Holiday Peace-of-Mind
Cluttered countertops jangle the nerves of the most resilient cook, especially when workspace is sparse. Don’t fight countertop clutter during your holiday cooking, instead give yourself some breathing room. Store rarely-used appliances in upper cabinets, move mail or school paper stacks out of the kitchen, and remove anything that clutters or blocks food prep areas. You’ll be amazed at how a tidy countertop can soothe the soul.