RUBBERMAID 3-Position Plastic Pitcher, 2.25-Quart

Whether you’re serving lemonade or margaritas, the right pitcher can make all the difference. Simply insert your ingredients, mix and pour.

But not all pitchers are the same. Some have some conveniences built in that you might miss at first glance. One of the most useful features is a lid that doubles as a strainer. You’ll notice most lids have a section cut out to help you with pouring. Simply move the lid to the closed position to block liquid from coming out. You can also find lids that have slots built in for straining liquid through ice or keeping pulp out of your glass of orange juice.

If water is your beverage of choice, consider a pitcher that has a water filter built in. You’ll simply have to change the filter periodically, but this type of pitcher allows you to get delicious water from your kitchen sink.

Many modern pitchers also feature measurement marks. These marks demonstrate exactly how much liquid to put in. This can come in handy if you regularly use recipes to make beverages.

Pitchers also come in various sizes, so make sure you pay attention to capacity before you buy. You may find your favorite beverage recipe makes two gallons, but your pitcher’s capacity is only one gallon.

• Check the height of your pitcher if you’ll be storing it in your refrigerator. If you don’t have a shelf in your refrigerator that allows for taller items, you could find you have nowhere to store your pitcher.
• Most pitchers are made from plastic. If BPA is a concern for you, search for a pitcher that promises it’s BPA-free.
• If you’ll use your pitcher outdoors, consider one that’s made of shatterproof materials. Plastic that allows for drops without breaking can come in handy if you’re at a picnic or by the pool, or if kids will use your pitcher.
• Most pitchers block liquid by having you simply rotate the lid. Pay attention to how easy it is to move the lid on the pitcher you choose. Some require you to lift the lid, rotate it, then push it down again while some can be moved without lifting. You’ll want to make sure your lid is designed to stay in place once you’ve moved it to its position.
• You can liven up plain filtered water by adding a little fresh fruit to your water pitcher. Simply drop some sliced fruit in the bottom of the pitcher, then pour your water through the pitcher as usual.