Originally used in the cheese-making process, cheesecloth is a helpful tool that home cooks rely on whenever a fine sieve is needed. If you find yourself out of cheesecloth, you’re in luck. There are other great Cheesecloth Substitutes that you can use, and we bet you have at least a few of them available at home.
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What Is A Cheesecloth?
Similar to gauze, cheesecloth is a lightweight, woven cloth that’s made from cotton. In addition to its original role of wrapping homemade cheese and separating the whey from the curd, cheesecloth is also used in kitchens to strain solids from liquids, to keep cakes and meats moist, and to use as a pouch to hold seasonings in soups and stews.
Tips: Cheesecloth can be washed and reused. It’s economical and can be found at most grocery and department stores.
Best Substitutes For Cheesecloth
1. Coffee Filter (Our Top Pick)
If your coffee maker uses disposable or reusable filters, you’re in luck. You can use the coffee filter as you would cheesecloth, to strain foods. Note that if you’re using a reusable filter, pop it into the dishwasher or hand wash it before using it again for coffee.
2. Fine Mesh Bag or Nut Milk Bag
Often used to wash delicates in the washing machine, fine mesh bags are a great substitute for cheesecloth. Just use a strainer and place the clean mesh bag into it, and then add the food you want to strain. Depending on the size of the strainer and the mesh bag, you may want to do this slowly, using a spoon or a soup ladle.
3. Paper Towel
Most homes have a roll of paper towel on the kitchen counter, and it can be a good substitute for cheesecloth. Place the paper towels into a strainer over a bowl, and add the food that needs to be strained. While it isn’t the best option because the towels will absorb some of the liquid and may tear, it can work if you have no other options.
4. Cotton Fabric
Because cheesecloth is made of cotton, it makes sense to try other types of cotton fabric as a substitute. With its bag-like shape, a pillowcase is one of your best bets, as well as a cloth napkin, or even a clean cloth diaper! Note that you probably won’t want to use the cotton again because it will stain, so choose an item that can be washed or tossed after you use it. You’ll need a strong rubber band and a large bowl. Secure the cotton to the bowl with the rubber band and slowly add the contents to be strained.
5. Kitchen Towel
This one is one of the easiest solutions. Grab a clean kitchen towel (preferably one that’s white so that dyes don’t contaminate the food) and place it over a large bowl. You may want to secure it to the bowl with a sturdy rubber band. Slowly pour the contents onto the towel and discard the solids if no longer needed. Rinse and wash the towel or discard if you don’t plan on using it again.
6. Pantyhose
Yes, even pantyhose can be used as a handy replacement for cheesecloth! Because of their fine weave, pantyhose, tights, or even socks can be used to strain food. Just make sure they’re clean before using. Stretch the pantyhose over a bowl, slowly add the food to be strained, and you’re done! In most cases you’ll want to discard the pantyhose after using but they can be washed if desired.
7. Straining Cloths
Similar to cheesecloth but thicker, straining cloths are an easy substitute if you happen to have some on hand.
How to Strain Stock without Cheesecloth
- Place a coffee filter or your preferred cheesecloth substitute over a pitcher or a large bowl.
- Pour the liquid into the coffee filter or cheesecloth substitute.
- Using your hands or a large spoon, gently squeeze so the juice runs into the pitcher/ bowl.
Best Cheesecloth Substitute for Making Butter
If you’re making homemade butter and don’t have any cheesecloth, use paper towels or coffee filters to strain your butter.
Best Substitute for Straining Yogurt
A mesh bag or a nut bag are good options for straining yogurt. If you don’t have either of these on hand, any piece of cotton such as a pillowcase, a handkerchief, or even medical gauze will do the trick.
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Best Cheesecloth Substitute (and How to Use Cheesecloth Substitute)
Ingredients
- Coffee filter
- Or other substitutes
Instructions
- Place a coffee filter or your preferred cheesecloth substitute over a pitcher or a large bowl.
- Pour the liquid into the coffee filter or cheesecloth substitute.
- Using your hands or a large spoon, gently squeeze so the juice runs into the pitcher/ bowl.
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