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10 Best Cheese Graters in 2022 (Chef-Reviewed)

Cheese graters are perfect for adding your favorite cheese to a recipe, whether it's hard cheese like parmesan or soft cheese like mozzarella. But finding the right one for you may not be easy, especially when there are so many different options with handles, containers, and more.


Whether you're looking to make a gooey grilled cheese or sophisticated charcuterie board, we've selected the 10 best electric, rotary, microplane, and manual cheese graters to suit anyone's needs, with insight into our buying guide by an experienced chef. Our favorite is the OXO Good Grips Box Grater because it boasts four different grating surfaces, an attachable container, and a removable zester. It works perfectly for any type of cheese!

Last updated 09/26/2023
Jim Quast
Expert
Executive R&D Chef
Jim Quast

Jim Quast (JQ) is a lifelong professional restaurant and corporate R&D chef who loves everything food-related and the tools, both big and small, to make those great food memories. He's a super huge BBQ, grill, and kitchen gadget fanatic. JQ has spent the last 30+ years trying to figure out what works to make your kitchen life easier and fun. If you can use it to slice it, dice it, cook it, smoke it, or store it, he's been there checking it out. Food = Life!

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mybest US' editing team consists of experienced members who have backgrounds in writing, editing, translation, and more. We are dedicated to researching what makes a product or service the best to users in the US in order to create top-quality articles. From skincare, to kitchen appliances, and to DIY supplies, our mission is to find the best ones for you.

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Table of Contents

How to Choose a Cheese Grater - Buying Guide

When choosing a cheese grater for your kitchen, look for a product that accomplishes what you want without sacrificing ease of use or cleaning. Keep those aspects in mind to assist you in choosing the right cheese grater. 

1

Choose a Style That Suits Your Cooking Habits

There are three prominent styles of cheese grater. Each style has their own unique benefits, so consider how you like to cook and which dishes you are interested in preparing. 

Box Graters for Volume and Multiple Grating Surfaces

Box Graters for Volume and Multiple Grating Surfaces

Need a mountain of cheddar for mac and cheese? A large box grater will make grating a breeze! Box graters, also called tower graters, typically have four sides with different styles of graters on each. A box grater is a great multipurpose tool and can often be used not only for a variety of cheeses but also for other foods like vegetables.


They can stand on their own, making them more stable to use than handheld varieties. This, paired with the larger size, makes it easy to grate large blocks of cheese quickly

Flat Cheese Graters for Portability and Precision

Flat Cheese Graters for Portability and Precision

Making a delicate cheese plate or garnishing a dish? Consider a smaller handheld grater that gives you more control.


Flat graters, also called "washboard" graters, are helpful for grating cheese directly into a pot or on top of a dish. Flat graters vary in size from large and wide to small and thin. These also include microplanes and rasps, which have fine pinhole blades excellent for hard cheeses, zesting citrus, or shaving chocolate.


They’re useful for when you only need a little bit of cheese, especially for garnishing. Flat graters are typically less stable, so you need to have a steady hand to be safe! This is true whether you’re using it balanced on your kitchen counter or midair.

Jim Quast
Executive R&D Chef
Jim Quast

The best approach when using a flat grater is less is better, and less is safer. Before grating, cut the cheese you intend to use into smaller pieces to grate. This makes the cheese easier to hold and safer for you when flat grating. It's much easier to use the grater when you're not having to worry about how to safely and comfortably hold a big brick of cheese.

Rotary Cheese Graters Are Safe and Efficient

Rotary Cheese Graters Are Safe and Efficient

Rotary designs are handheld and use a drum that shaves the cheese as you turn the handle. The drums are often interchangeable, offering different blade styles that make it easy to grate hard cheese.


They’re more hygienic and safe, as your hand isn’t anywhere near the blades or touching the cheese directly. They are also easy to keep on your dining table to use during a meal, and everyone can use the simple design without any mess or danger.

Convertible Models or Accessories for Extra Functionality

Convertible Models or Accessories for Extra Functionality

Convertible cheese graters will have a variety of attachable graters that vary in size and function. For example, a handheld grater with attachable blades could be used to shred large pieces of cheese or finely zest fruit. 


Some cheese graters have attachable containers to catch the cheese as you shred it. The containers range in size. For instance, some box graters come with a small cup attachment. And other graters fit on top of a large mixing bowl. 


Cheese graters are often made as attachments for other products. As an example, many stand mixers will be compatible with an attachable rotary cheese grater.

2

Pick the Right Grater Size Based on the Cheese

Pick the Right Grater Size Based on the Cheese

Large and medium holes are the most useful overall, whether you're shredding cheddar or provolone. They are your best option if you are looking to shred a lot of cheese. They can shred medium or soft cheeses quickly without getting clogged. However, hard cheeses may crumble instead of shred. 


Small holes and pinholes work best with hard cheeses, like asiago or parmesan. Soft cheeses will just quickly clog the blades. They won't create a high volume of shredded cheese unless you're willing to put in some elbow grease!


Ribbon or slicing graters create larger pieces or irregular sheets of cheese. These work best with semi-soft or hard cheeses and are ideal for cheese plates, sandwiches, or garnishing. 

3

Look for Durable and Sharp Stainless Steel Blades

Look for Durable and Sharp Stainless Steel Blades

When it comes to cheese graters, stainless steel will stay sharp the last the longest without rusting. Stainless steel is actually an iron alloy made from different components that make steel stronger and less likely to corrode. Look for 100 percent stainless steel for the best longevity! 


There are two methods used when making grating blades. Stamped blades are thicker and protrude more. They are made from being stamped out of a sheet of metal. This type of blade creates larger, rougher shreds of cheese. 


Etched blades are created with a chemical process to sharpen the edge to a finer point. This type creates finer, tapered shavings. Etched blades are notoriously sharp, which is great for grating, but be sure to use extra caution. 

Jim Quast
Executive R&D Chef
Jim Quast

When looking at square stamped blade graters, take into account the thickness of the metal it is made from and the sturdiness of the grater. Thin metal blades will bend and flex when used, making them difficult to use. And these will have a tendency to bend or break in the short term.

4

Seek Features for Easier and Safer Use

Cheese graters are multipurpose tools that are essential to any kitchen, so it's important to have something that's simple to use, store, and clean.

Features Like Guards and Non-Slip Grips Prevent Injury

Features Like Guards and Non-Slip Grips Prevent Injury

Awkwardly-designed handles that don’t fit well in your hand make shredding cheese an annoying ordeal. Make sure handles have soft rubber or an ergonomic design so you can use the grater as long as you need to without slipping. Also, make sure the handle is the appropriate size for your hand; you want to be able to hold it comfortably. 


Make sure there’s non-slip material wherever the tool touches your countertop or hands. This is especially true for box and flat graters since you're putting a lot of downward pressure on tiny blades! If the grater slips, you could end up hurting yourself. Graters with a base made of thick rubber or silicone are durable and resist pressure or slipping. 


Some models offer a guard to protect your fingers while you grate or to keep blades covered during storage. If you are really concerned about getting nicked, choose a rotary grater where the blades are always covered during use. 

Jim Quast
Executive R&D Chef
Jim Quast

If cutting your fingers or knuckles has crossed your mind when you use a cheese grater, I highly recommend using a cut-resistant glove when doing the job. They will give you peace of mind and an added layer of protection for you when grating cheese.

Compact Models for Easy Storage, Multipurpose Options for Versatility

Compact Models for Easy Storage, Multipurpose Options for Versatility

How much storage do you have in your kitchen? Large cheese graters take up more space, so consider a flat grater if storage is in short supply. Flat graters are more compact and can easily fit in a drawer with other utensils. Also, they won't take up much space on your table or countertop. 


If you don't want many kitchen tools or gadgets, pick a multipurpose grater. This grater can serve several functions such as shredding and zesting. And it can be used to grate not only cheese, but also fruits and vegetables. This will help reduce the number of items in your kitchen. 

Make Sure It's Easy to Clean

Make Sure It's Easy to Clean

Cheese graters have a reputation of being difficult to clean quickly. Are you too busy for detailed cleaning? Avoid small graters and small blades. The tiny nooks and crannies easily get clogged with cheese and require hand washing after use. More complex grating mechanisms, like in rotary graters, should come apart simply so each piece can be washed.


We also recommend seeking a dishwasher-safe grater to save a lot of time! It is generally recommended to clean residue from the blade and crevices after use to avoid buildup. Be sure to follow product instructions, as some cheese graters only have certain components that are dishwasher-safe, and some can only be washed on the top rack. 

Jim Quast
Executive R&D Chef
Jim Quast

Getting the small holes cleaned can be an issue. Sometimes a sponge will not get the job done. Use a small nylon brush or use a toothbrush to get inside those holes to clean inside and out. Clean and check every hole to be sure that no cheese will remain and harden. You can rub the grater prior to use with salad oil to keep the cheese from sticking when using.

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10 Best Cheese Graters

Choosing the best cheese grater depends on what you value, whether that's high volume capacity, ease of use, or simple storage. Keep these four points in mind to help you select the best grater.
Popularity
Products
Image
Click to purchase
Price
Key features
1

OXO

Good Grips Etched Box Grater with Removable Zester

OXO Good Grips Etched Box Grater with Removable Zester 1

$26.99

Mid

Best Multipurpose Cheese Grater

2

Cuisipro

Surface Glide Technology 4-Sided Boxed Grater

Cuisipro  Surface Glide Technology 4-Sided Boxed Grater 1

$37.25

High Mid

Best Modern Update of a Traditional Kitchen Staple

3

Geedel

Rotary Cheese Grater

Geedel  Rotary Cheese Grater 1

$28.99

High Mid

Best for Simple and Safe Cheese Grating

4

Zyliss

Classic Rotary Cheese Grater

Zyliss Classic Rotary Cheese Grater 1

$13.99

Low Mid

Best for Freshly-Grated Parmesan and Other Hard Cheeses

5

Black+Decker

Black+Decker  1

$34.04

High Mid

Best for Shredding Large Amounts of Cheese

6

Joseph Joseph

Twist Grater 2-in-1 Grater with Adjustable Handle

Joseph Joseph  Twist Grater 2-in-1 Grater with Adjustable Handle 1

$17.99

Mid

Best for Handheld Option for Saving Space

7

Alltop

Multi-purpose Set of 3 Grinders

Alltop Multi-purpose Set of 3 Grinders 1

$9.97

Low

Best for Easy Cleanup

8

Microplane

Premium Classic Series Zester/Grater

Microplane Premium Classic Series Zester/Grater 1

$14.95

Low Mid

Best for Delicate Shavings of Hard Cheese

9

Joseph Joseph

Joseph Joseph  1

$14.99

Low Mid

Best for Elegant Slices

10

Kitchenaid

Kitchenaid  1

$37.79

High Mid

Best Grater Attachment

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

OXOGood Grips Etched Box Grater with Removable Zester

Good Grips Etched Box Grater with Removable Zester 1
Source:amazon.com
Good Grips Etched Box Grater with Removable Zester 2
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$26.99
Mid
Reference price
$26.99
Mid

Best Multipurpose Cheese Grater

Pros:

  • Four grating surfaces offer variety 
  • Container to measure grated cheese  
  • Detachable zester 
  • Non-slip grips and foot for safety

Cons:

  • A few buyers say the container does not sufficiently catch grated cheese

This box grater has so much to offer. It boasts four distinct sides that can grate, slice, and zest; therefore, it works well for hard cheese like parmesan or soft cheese like mozzarella. The measuring container can store inside the grater when not in use, and it's useful for catching and measuring grated cheese. The detachable zester is perfect for shaving parmesan cheese on your dishes. 


A couple of reviewers said that the grated cheese falls around the attachable container; the size prevents it from catching all the grated cheese. However, many buyers love the variety of uses this grater offers. They also appreciate the quality of materials used to design the product.

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No.2

Cuisipro Surface Glide Technology 4-Sided Boxed Grater

Reference price
$37.25
High Mid

Best Modern Update of a Traditional Kitchen Staple

Pros:

  • Grooved design allows for easy grating 
  • Handle to secure the base when grating
  • Protective cover that can be used to measure grated cheese

Cons:

  • Buyers warn the blades are too sharp

This grater is a modernized version of a classic box grater. It features a patented design in which the grooved surface enhances the grating motion, giving amazing results for less effort. It features a sturdy handle to keep the grater secure while in use. Also, it boasts a protective cover that can be used to catch and measure grated cheese. 


A number of buyers express the blades are extremely sharp; they wish the grater came with a guard or protective gloves. But, most reviewers love the patented design of the grater; the grooved surface makes it effective and easy to use. They also rave about the sturdy design. 

No.3

Geedel Rotary Cheese Grater

Reference price
$28.99
High Mid

Best for Simple and Safe Cheese Grating

Pros:

  • Rotating drum blade quickly shreds cheese 
  • Feeding chute keeps your hands away from the blades 
  • Suction base keeps it safe and secured while grating

Cons:

  • Reviewers say cheese gets clogged in the blade often 

If you need to grate more cheese with less elbow grease, this rotary grater is perfect. It has a suction base so it will stick to the counter while you grate. Also, it features a block to push food into the feeding chute; this keeps your fingers safe and away from the blade.


A few customers report the blade often becomes clogged with cheese; the grater needs to be taken apart and cleared of buildup. Nonetheless, buyers love how simple the grater is to operate. It is safe and effective for shredding cheese. They also note the grater is easy to take apart and clean

No.4

ZylissClassic Rotary Cheese Grater

Reference price
$13.99
Low Mid

Best for Freshly-Grated Parmesan and Other Hard Cheeses

Pros: 

  • Adjustable handle for left- or right-handed individuals 
  • Easy to take apart and clean 
  • Grater components fit tightly together for storage 
Cons:
  • A few buyers note the plastic used in the handle is not sturdy 

If you're looking to add fresh parmesan or other hard cheese to dishes, this classic rotary grater is the perfect choice. It's ideal to use during mealtime as well since everyone can safely use it while keeping their hands clean. It comes apart for easy cleaning, and the handle can be switched to either side so it's simple to use whether you're right- or left-handed.


A number of reviewers want the materials used in constructing the grater to be sturdier; the plastic can crack if too much pressure is exerted. However, many customers appreciate how this rotary grater is easy for anyone to use. They also like that it can be taken apart and cleaned without any hassle

No.5

Black+Decker

Reference price
$34.04
High Mid

Best for Shredding Large Amounts of Cheese

Pros: 
  • Bowl holds up to eight cups of ingredients 
  • Safety is reinforced through feeding chute and pushing block
  • Variety of blade options let you slice, shred, or mince 
Cons: 
  • A number of buyers say the processor is quite loud 

Slicing or shredding large amounts of cheese is a breeze with this food processor. It works great for shredding large amounts of cheese to add when cooking or baking. With a variety of blade options, it is possible to accommodate many different cheeses. And the safety features intend to keep your fingers away from the blades. 


Some reviewers point out the processor makes loud noises when in use. On the other hand, buyers love this food processor for the variety of uses, including finely shredding cheese. They say combining and shredding ingredients is quick and simple

No.6

Joseph Joseph Twist Grater 2-in-1 Grater with Adjustable Handle

Reference price
$17.99
Mid

Best for Handheld Option for Saving Space

Pros:

  • Compact and easy to store  
  • Two blade types for coarse or fine grating 
  • Protective cover can be used to catch shaved cheese 

Cons:

  • Buyers say that when propped up, the grater can be a bit wobbly

This unique product offers the convenience of a flat grater with the volume of a box grater. It works and stores just like a flat grater, but the handle can lock at a 90-degree angle to give you the stability of a box grater. With two grating surfaces and a non-slip handle, this grater has a lot to offer in a compact package. 


A couple of reviewers note the cheese grater can wobble a bit when propped on the rotated handle. On the other hand, buyers love how easily this grater shreds cheese. They love that the protective cover is useful for storage and to catch the grated cheese. Also, they appreciate the compact design, as it does not take up too much space in a drawer. 

No.7

AlltopMulti-purpose Set of 3 Grinders

Multi-purpose Set of 3 Grinders 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$9.97
Low
Reference price
$9.97
Low

Best for Easy Cleanup

Pros:

  • Offers variety in grating size
  • Easy to store and clean
  • Non-slip handle for secure grating 

Cons:

  • Some reviewers express the graters feel too small 

If you are looking to have the most blade variety without taking up too much storage space, this set is for you. The three different blade sizes mean any cheese, ranging from soft to firm, can be tackled with this set. It also means you can only use which blade type you need, saving you from extra cleaning.


A few buyers feel the graters are too small. But, other reviewers love that these graters fit easily in their hands and take up much less space than other all-in-one products. The handles have holes in them as well for easy storage too.

No.8

MicroplanePremium Classic Series Zester/Grater

Reference price
$14.95
Low Mid

Best for Delicate Shavings of Hard Cheese

Pros:

  • Perfect for shaving hard cheese onto your favorite dish
  • Soft handle for comfortable grating 
  • Stores easily with other utensils 

Cons:

  • A few buyers say the grater is difficult to clean 

This tool is designed to turn medium and hard cheeses into fluffy mountains of delicate shavings with ease. Razor-sharp blades cut instead of tearing, leaving you with cheese that has a wonderful texture. 


A few reviews point out the underside of the grater curves under, and it can be difficult to clean the buildup. However, others appreciate that the zester easily cuts through cheese, They also love how the blade creates cheese shavings with such a fluffy texture

No.9

Joseph Joseph

 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$14.99
Low Mid
Reference price
$14.99
Low Mid

Best for Elegant Slices

Pros:

  • Compact design for easy storage
  • Food pinch keeps the cheese in place and fingers safe 
  • Slices hard and soft cheese with ease

Cons: 

  • A couple of buyers want more adjustability for blade thickness

This hand-held mandoline is perfect for cutting appealing slices of cheese. They work well for charcuterie boards and on top of dishes. This mandoline slicer has a food pinch to keep ingredients locked in place while you slice. It also features a handguard and non-slip handle to keep you safe. 


A few reviews point out the slicer only has three adjustable options for thickness; they want more variety. On the other hand, reviewers appreciate all the safety features as the blades of slicers can be quite sharp. They also love that the mandoline can produce very thin slices.  

No.10

Kitchenaid

 1
Source:amazon.com
 2
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$37.79
High Mid

Best Grater Attachment

Pros: 

  • Attaches to all Kitchenaid stand mixers 
  • Feeding chute and food pushing block keep fingers safe
  • Three blade attachments for a variety of shredding and slicing options

Cons:

  • A few buyers point out that cheese tends to get stuck in the shredding barrel 

This grater attachment works for all Kitchenaid stand mixers and even some Cuisinart mixers too. The grater is powered by the stand mixer, so shredding cheese is simple and effortless. With three barrel attachments, the grater works perfectly for hard or soft cheese. 


Some buyers say the shredding barrel can easily become clogged with cheese; they need to stop and dislodge it. But, most reviewers like that the product is quick and effective at shredding cheese. Reviewers with limited mobility in their hands also found this product extremely helpful. 

How to Care for Your Cheese Grater

How to Care for Your Cheese Grater

Once you've selected a cheese grater, it's important to take care of it so it stays sharp and rust-free. You'll want to clean it immediately after use so food doesn’t adhere to blades. If you don't have time, make sure to at least tap or brush off any large bits of cheese.


After washing, make sure it dries well to avoid rust. Even with stainless steel, this isn’t something you want to keep in your wet sink all day.


Finally, store it in a safe place. You don’t want to reach into a crowded drawer only to accidentally scrape your knuckles on the sharp blades! Rather than keeping it in a drawer, consider hanging it up or storing it in a cupboard where it's easily visible. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Along with reviewing and commenting on our buying guide, Jim was also kind enough to answer a frequently asked question on the Internet. Read below for his insight!

How do I shred cheese without a grater?

"There are a couple of ways to shred without a grater," Jim says, "One is using your kitchen knife to slice thin slices of cheese and then lay them flat and cut into strips. The second and more creative way is to use a carrot peeler. 


Take your block of cheese and slice it into thinner blocks, then use your carrot peeler to whittle away at the cheese, creating cheese shreds for you to use. This works best for semi-soft to hard cheeses."

More Accessories for Your Cheeses and Snacks

Now that you've got your cheese ready, what will you do with it? Here are some more cheese-related gadgets and accessories.

Amazon's Best Selling Graters for Cheese

If you're looking for more details on cheese graters or you want to browse a variety of products, check out Amazon's best selling list of graters for cheese. 

Top 5 Cheese Graters

No. 1: OXOGood Grips Etched Box Grater with Removable Zester

No. 2: Cuisipro Surface Glide Technology 4-Sided Boxed Grater

No. 3: Geedel Rotary Cheese Grater

No. 4: ZylissClassic Rotary Cheese Grater

No. 5: Black+Decker

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The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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