Paint strainers come in the form of a mesh bag or a paper cone, filtering dust, debris and clumps out of paint so it will go onto a surface more smoothly. If you are looking for a durable strainer made with nylon mesh to finely filter paint, TCP Global Paint Strainers are the top choice.
Filters work to remove microscopic particles from the paint. The product description will list a number of microns so you’ll know just how small the particles are that the strainer can remove from the paint. You want that number to be as low as possible.
If you are planning to strain a large amount of paint, opt for larger strainers. This will make the process quicker and decrease the likelihood that the strainer will break.
Paint strainers are sold in different quantities. If you paint often, or have larger projects or multiple people working on them, consider an option with multiple strainers.
The best strainers have holes that let you hang them instead of having to hold them up while the paint is being strained. Paper and plastic strainers are more likely to be hung than mesh bags, as the mesh will rip when hung.
If nylon mesh tears while you’re straining the paint, you will have to start over to ensure that all of the dust and debris are removed. Nylon resistant to tearing will make the project go faster and will ensure the highest quality of paint.
While strainers are used to separate dirt and clumps from the paint, nylon mesh can attract small particles of lint that then get into the paint. Look for nylon mesh that is resistant to gathering lint.
Paint strainers will be priced from $5-$20 depending on how many strainers are purchased and the quality of the materials.
A. Straining paint prevents spray guns from clogging. Removing dirt and chunks from paint causes the gun to operate smoothly.
A. Most are made from nylon mesh with a low thread count and their bases are either paper or plastic. Some strainers are just made with mesh and do not feature a base. Plastic bases are more expensive than paper.
A. They can also be used to separate honey from the honeycomb, protect plants when gardening, filter beer and help you locate kidney stones or gallstones.
What you need to know: These 190-micron paint strainers are made with nylon mesh to finely filter dust and dirt from paint.
What you’ll love: They also work with stains and varnishes, and the fine tip lets the filtered paint be dispensed quickly. They are easily stored.
What you should consider: Paint easily soaks through the paper, and some filters break after half a gallon of paint is sent through.
Where to buy: Amazon
What you need to know: This 190-micron strainer is made with lint-free nylon mesh that is compatible with all styles of paint.
What you’ll love: It has holes on the top that let you hang it while straining paint. Paint is delivered quickly out of the fine-flow tip.
What you should consider: The filters are not included with the purchase and the paper is thin.
Where to buy: Amazon
California Containers Mesh Disposable Paint Strainers
What you need to know: These 200-micron filters are made with durable mesh and are not easily torn or destroyed.
What you’ll love: They can be folded over buckets so you won’t have to hold onto them when straining paint, and you can use them for 5-gallon buckets.
What you should consider: Though durable, some of these strainers only last through a few uses and the net melts when exposed to heat.
Where to buy: Amazon
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Logan DeLoye writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
