What is the best way of cleaning a mesh/wire colander/strainer?

We have always had problems getting all the food particles out of the mesh. We used it to clean mushrooms and there are still particles in the mesh/wire. Is there a better way of cleaning them other than soap and water?

My daughter had this problem too. First you leave the mesh basket in hot soapy water - then slice a lemon in quarters and srub the mesh inside and out with the lemon quarters.
Put it back in hot water and baking soda, let it soak for about 15 minutes then take it out and brush it clean with an old tooth brush,
It worked well for us.

What is the difference between sieve, colander and strainer?

Thanks

A sieve is used more when baking and is for dry ingredients e.g. Flour, Sugar. This removes any lumps etc. from the mixture and makes it more fine and even. A colander and strainer are pretty much one in the same and they are used for draining liquid such as when you have boiled potatoes and want to remove the water.

I used to have this flat strainer with a handle. When I went to pour out pasta, I just held it against the pot and tilted it against it over the sink. It was plastic. It was shapped like a half-circle.
Does anyone know where I can get one or what they're called? I can't even find one on eBay.

I think my mom had one when I was a kid, I don't know what they are called but did you try a restaurant supply company, they have all kinds of fun a different stuff you'd never think to have in your kitchen at home....if all else fails....BBB (Bed, Bath and Beyond) or even the flea market, ours is like a mall of weird stuff you can't find in just any store.....

What is the difference between a strainer and a colander? What is the difference between a strainer and a colander?

STRAINER - a filter is a device that is designed to block certain objects or substances while letting others through. Filters are often used to remove harmful substances from air or water, for example to remove air pollution, to make water drinkable, to prepare coffee. In domestic food and drink preparation where bulk solids are removed from liquids

COLANDER - is a type of sieve used in cooking for separating liquids and solids. It is usually made of a light metal, such as aluminium, although it is not uncommon for it to be made of plastic. A colander is pierced with a pattern of small holes for the liquid to drain through, but allowing the solids to remain inside the sieve itself. It is usually shaped as an inverted dome or cone.