Cheese graters remain simple but essential kitchen tools. In 2025 you'll find box graters, microplane-style rasps, hand-crank rotary models, and electric or cordless units. Choose by the cheese you use and the volume you grate. Prioritize stainless-steel blades, safety features, and ease of cleaning. Commercial kitchens rely on heavy-duty electric equipment, while home cooks often prefer versatile box graters or fine rasps for finishing. Verify specific brand models and dishwasher claims before purchase.

Why a good grater still matters

A grater turns blocks of cheese into shreds, ribbons, or fine powder, and the right one saves time and reduces waste. Today's market still offers basic manual tools alongside modern electric and cordless options. Choosing the right grater depends on the cheese you use, how often you cook, and how much cleaning you want to do.

Common grater types

Box grater

The classic four-sided box grater gives you multiple grating sizes in a single tool. It's sturdy, inexpensive, and works well for most home tasks: shredding, slicing, and zesting.

Microplane (rasp) and fine graters

Microplane-style rasps produce very fine shreds or zest. They're excellent for hard cheeses and citrus but can clog with softer cheeses. Many cooks prefer these for finishing dishes.

Rotary (hand-crank) graters

Rotary graters use a drum and hand crank to grate without pressing. They're useful for hard cheeses and chocolate and often enclosed, which reduces contact with sharp blades.

Electric and cordless graters

Countertop electric graters and small cordless or battery-powered models speed up large jobs. They vary from heavy-duty units used in commercial settings to compact cordless tools for quick tasks. Cordless handheld graters are convenient for quick use and smaller portions, but their performance and battery life vary by model.

Materials, blades, and safety

Look for stainless-steel blades or drums that resist corrosion and hold an edge. A non-slip base, finger guards, or enclosed drums improve safety. If you plan to grate often, invest in a model with durable blades and a comfortable handle.

Cleaning and dishwasher considerations

Many modern graters include parts labeled dishwasher-safe, but delicate rasps and some blade assemblies may last longer with hand washing. Enclosed rotary drums and removable drums often rinse clean easily. Always follow the manufacturer's care instructions for longevity. 1

Brands and commercial options

Several legacy brands still make manual and rotary graters; specialty brands produce high-quality rasps popular with home cooks. Commercial kitchens use heavy-duty electric shredders and processors for volume work. Specific brand availability and model features vary by region and retailer. The brand name Fama has been associated with electric graters in older references; verify current offerings if you're seeking that exact model. 2

How to choose

Match the grater to the task: use a rasp or microplane for fine finishing, a box grater for versatility, a rotary for reduced hand strain, and an electric unit for volume. Prioritize blade quality, ease of cleaning, and safety features. Price ranges cover budget basics to higher-end specialty tools; quality and longevity are the most important selection criteria.

Care tips

Dry metal parts thoroughly to prevent rust. Replace worn drums or blades when performance drops. Store graters safely to protect the blade and your hands.
  1. Confirm current availability and product details for the Fama electric cheese grater brand and models.
  2. Verify dishwasher-safety claims for current Zyliss rotary grater models and other common brands referenced.
  3. Confirm prevalence and typical battery/rechargeable specifications for modern cordless/battery-operated cheese graters available in 2025.

FAQs about Cheese Grater

Which grater is best for hard cheeses like Parmesan?
A microplane-style rasp or a fine rotary drum produces the best, fluffy results for hard cheeses like Parmesan.
Are electric graters worth it for home use?
Electric or cordless graters save time for large quantities and reduce hand strain; for occasional use, a manual box grater or rasp is usually sufficient.
Can I put any grater in the dishwasher?
Not always. Many graters have dishwasher-safe parts, but delicate rasps often last longer if washed by hand. Follow the manufacturer's care instructions.
How do I keep grater blades sharp?
High-quality stainless-steel blades hold an edge longer. Replace drum inserts or blades when they dull; do not attempt to sharpen thin rasp blades.
What safety features should I look for?
Look for non-slip bases, finger guards, enclosed drums, and comfortable handles to reduce the risk of cuts.