Hawthorne, julep, and fine mesh strainers are all used for cocktail straining, but with different designs and purposes. A Hawthorne strainer fits a shaker & features a coiled spring and small holes, while julep strainers are perforated spoons that fit over mixing glasses, and fine mesh strainers have a tight mesh screen for finer filtration.

Learn more here!

Just pop your A Bar Above Hawthorne strainer directly in the dishwasher! You can also remove the spring first and give it a good scrub to ensure it gets really clean. Then dry thoroughly before storing.

The difference comes down to design and personal preference. A 2-prong Hawthorne strainer has a classic, streamlined shape that many bartenders love for its simplicity and ease of use; it’s quick to position and feels nimble in the hand. The 4-prong version adds two extra stabilizing prongs, which can provide a more secure fit over the mixing tin or glass; this is especially great for people who are newer to making cocktails, have less hand strength, or are working with heavier shakers. Both strainers perform the same core function— It's just a matter of what feels best in your hand behind the bar.

Yes! The 4-prong design is versatile and works well with both standard cocktail shakers and mixing glasses. The additional prongs help create a secure fit regardless of the vessel diameter, though you may need to adjust your technique slightly between different containers.

Absolutely! A 4-prong Hawthorne strainer is excellent for straining any mixed beverage, including mocktails, fresh juices, infusions, and even tea. The fine straining capabilities make it perfect for removing pulp, herbs, or other solid ingredients from any liquid.