16 Best Dish Racks For Sinks In 2023: Reviews & Buying Guide
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Whether using a dishwasher or hand-washing your dishes, having a reliable dish rack near the sink is always a good idea. With an easily accessible and safe place to put freshly cleaned plates and bowls, you don’t have to worry about water pooling on your kitchen counter. Plus, it saves you time and energy as the dishes dry off on their own.
In this article, we rounded up the best dish racks for sinks available in the market. We also provided a comprehensive buying guide and reviews to help you make the right decision on your purchase. Let’s get started!
Our Top Picks
1. Best Overall: iSPECLE 2-Tier Stainless Steel Dish Drying Rack
Why We Think It’s Great
- 5-IN-1 MULTIFUNCTIONAL STORAGE RACK: The top layer accommodates up to 17 plates and pots, while the bottom tier functions as a bowl rack. It also comes with knife and cutlery holders on one side and a cutting board rack on the other.
- 3 DETACHABLE WATER TRAYS: Collects excess drips from the dish holders to keep your countertop dry, ensuring easy cleanup.
- STABLE H-SHAPED FRAME: Provides balanced support and can hold up to 110 lbs. of load.
- ADJUSTABLE SILICONE FEET: Protects your countertop against scratches while providing additional stability for uneven surfaces.
- STAINLESS STEEL CONSTRUCTION: Offers high durability and prevents rusting for long-lasting service.
What We Don't Like
- The water trays tend to slide.
What Our Editors Say
“What’s great about this dish drying rack is that it has a small footprint but a large capacity. It includes a dish rack, bowl rack, cutlery holder, knife holder, and cutting board rack, so everything has a designated place, making the organization an absolute breeze.
We also love that this dish rack has adjustable feet, making it suitable for uneven surfaces. Plus, it is easy to put together and comes complete with assembly instructions.”
Material: Stainless Steel | Dish Slots: 17 | Additional Storage: Bowl Rack, Cutlery Holder, Knife Holder, Cutting Board Rack | Tier: 2 | Drainboard: 3 | Dimensions: 16.6” L x 10.2” W x 16.1” H | Collapsible/Adjustable: No | Color: Black, Silver, White
Related: The Best Dish Drainer Racks
2. Best Wooden: Bambüsi Collapsible Bamboo Dish Drying Rack
Why We Think It’s Great
- HIGH-QUALITY MATERIAL: Made of sturdy and sustainable bamboo and equipped with tight screws that hold the rack securely.
- PROPERLY SPACED SLATS: The wide, strong slats allow airflow for quick and hassle-free drying.
- COLLAPSIBLE AND COMPACT: Measures 17” L x 11.25” W x 9.5” H when fully open and folds flat when not in use.
- TWO-TIER DESIGN: Extra foldable tier offers a total of 28 slots to accommodate all your dinnerware.
- AESTHETICALLY PLEASING AND STYLISH: Its bamboo construction and X-shaped design provide a natural yet stylish look that will complement any kitchen decor.
What We Don't Like
- It needs extra effort to prevent mold.
What Our Experts Say
“Ideally, you want a dish rack that is going to protect your dishes, glasses, and silverware from chipping or breaking,” says Steven Hill, an Interior Designer and the Founder of DIY Gazette.
One great feature of this dish drying rack by Bambüsi is that it is made of bamboo. Not only is bamboo a sustainable option, but it is also gentle on your dishes and will not cause any damage to them. This dish rack has round edges and a smooth surface to ensure safe and scratch-free use.
Material: Bamboo | Dish Slots: 14 | Additional Storage: Extra Foldable Tier | Tier: 2 | Drainboard: None | Dimensions: 17” L x 11.25 ”W x 9.5” H (maximum) | Collapsible/Adjustable: Yes | Color: Natural
3. Best Stainless Steel: iPEGTOP Expandable Dish Drying Rack
Why We Think It’s Great
- EXTENDABLE RUBBER ARMS: Expands from 14.7 up to 21 inches wide to fit different sink sizes.
- REMOVABLE UTENSIL HOLDER: Drains and dries utensils with the included two-compartment plastic cutlery holder.
- STAINLESS STEEL CONSTRUCTION: Made of food-grade 304 stainless steel to ensure long-lasting durability and prevent corrosion.
- ANTI-SLIP RUBBER FEET: Protects your counter and sink from scratches while keeping the rack from slipping.
- MULTIFUNCTIONAL: Adjustable and can be used on the counter, in the sink, or over the sink.
What We Don't Like
- It tends to fall over if the contents are not evenly distributed.
What Our Experts Say
“Stainless steel tends to be one of the best materials since it won’t rust and is sturdy enough to hold up to long-term use,” says Grace Baena, Interior Designer at Kaiyo. This online marketplace offers a stylish, stress-free, and sustainable way of buying and selling pre-loved furniture to its customers.
One of the best dish racks for sinks on our list, this expandable rack by iPEGTOP features a simple, compact design that will complement any kitchen countertop. The heavy-duty stainless steel construction provides a sleek, clean look while guaranteeing many years of service. So, if you are looking for an elegant and long-lasting dish rack, this one is your best bet.
Material: Stainless Steel | Dish Slots: 7 | Additional Storage: Utensil Holder | Tier: 1 | Drainboard: None | Dimensions: 14.7” L x 11.5” W x 3.7” H | Collapsible/Adjustable: Yes | Color: Black, Gray, White
4. Best Two-Tier: Simple Houseware 2-Tier Dish Rack With Drainboard
Why We Think It’s Great
- SPACE-SAVING TWO-TIER DESIGN: Two shelves for full-size dinner plates, cups, bowls, and more.
- MUG HOLDERS AND CUTTING BOARD RACK: Includes 10 mug holders on the top shelf and a cutting board rack on the side.
- DETACHABLE CUTLERY BUCKET: Store and dry your utensils in the included cutlery bucket with drainage spots.
- COMES WITH A DRAINBOARD: The detachable drainboard has an opening on one side to drain water easily.
- 4 COLOR OPTIONS: Choose four beautiful finishes to match your kitchen decor.
What We Don't Like
- The dish rack is prone to rust after a while.
What Our Editors Say
“What we love most about this dish rack is the simple and practical design. Its two tiers allow you to save space while providing ample room for all your dinner plates, bowls, cups, and more. The integrated mug, cutlery, and cutting board holders are also a nice touch.
Another useful feature of this dish drying rack is the detachable drainboard that allows the water to drain and directs it into the sink. This will ensure a clean, dry, and tidy countertop.”
Material: Metal | Dish Slots: 18 | Additional Storage: Mug Holder, Cutlery Bucket, Cutting Board Rack | Tier: 2 | Drainboard: 1 | Dimensions: 20.5” L x 11.5” W x 13” H | Collapsible/Adjustable: No | Color: Bronze, Chrome, Silver, White
5. Best Collapsible: Masirs Collapsible Dish Rack
Why We Think It’s Great
- COLLAPSIBLE: Collapses down easily when not in use for easy, space-saving storage and portability.
- STURDY PLASTIC CONSTRUCTION: Made of heavy-duty plastic, it is highly durable and prevents rusting.
- INCLUDES A DRAINBOARD: The rack sits securely on the drainboard, allowing the water to drain directly into the sink.
- BUILT-IN UTENSIL RACK: Accommodates up to eight large plates and offers four compartments for all your cutleries and cooking utensils.
- EASY TO CLEAN: The plastic material allows quick and simple cleaning.
What We Don't Like
- The holes are very small, so the water doesn’t drain as it should.
What Our Editors Say
“If you are looking for a portable dish drying rack, this product is perfect. It has a convenient size and collapses down, so you can easily stow it away under the sink or inside a cabinet whenever you don’t use it.
Another great feature of this dish rack is that it is constructed of plastic. The small prongs at the bottom will hold your dishes securely without scratching them. Plus, you don’t have to worry about rusting.”
Material: Plastic, Rubber | Dish Slots: 8 | Additional Storage: Cutlery Rack | Tier: 1 | Drainboard: 1 | Dimension: 14.25” L x 12.25” W x 5” H | Collapsible/Adjustable: Yes | Color: Gray/White
6. Best Draining System: Simplehuman Kitchen Dish Drying Rack
Why We Think It’s Great
- FINGERPRINT-PROOF STAINLESS STEEL FRAME: Keeps the rack smudge-free for an immaculately clean counter.
- SWIVEL SPOUT: The spout swivels and drains water directly into the sink from any side, allowing for easy rack positioning.
- SILICONE-CAPPED PLATE HOLDERS: Store your plates securely while protecting them from scratching, chipping, or damage.
- INVISIBLE MOISTURE CONTROL: The inner plastic of the dip tray comes with a hydrophilic coating that allows the water to spread thinly across the surface, ensuring fast evaporation and eliminating water spots.
- ANTI-SLIP RUBBER FEET: Keeps the rack in place and prevents it from scratching your countertop surface.
What We Don't Like
- The plastic part tends to wear quickly.
What Our Experts Say
When asked why he recommends Simplehuman, Steven Hill of DIY Gazette replies, “I think their dish racks are well-designed and look great in any kitchen. They're also very easy to use, which is always a plus.”
“Simplehuman dish racks are also very well-made, and I appreciate that they offer a variety of sizes and styles to choose from. I think the brand offers high-quality products that would be a great addition to any kitchen,” adds Stacy Lewis, the owner and Interior Designer at Eternity Modern.
Material: Metal, Plastic | Dish Slots: 8 | Additional Storage: Glass/Mug Holder, Cutlery Rack, Wineglass Holder (Optional) | Tier: 1 | Drainboard: 1 | Dimension: 15.5” L x 15” W x 7.5” H; 20.2” L x 13.4” W x 11.5” H | Collapsible/Adjustable: No | Color: Gray/Silver, White/Silver
Related: The Best Dish and Platter Organizers
7. Most Versatile: Joseph Joseph Extend Expandable Dish Rack
Why We Think It’s Great
- EXPANDABLE: It can be extended from 12.5 to 20.75 inches long to accommodate more dishware.
- INTEGRATED DRAINING SPOUT: The drain spout opens and closes so you can easily control the water drainage.
- REMOVABLE STEEL RACK: Suitable for all types of dishware and allows easy cleaning.
- MOVEABLE CUTLERY DRAINER: Includes a cutlery drainer that can easily move around for maximum flexibility.
- NON-SLIP FEET: Provides stability to ensure safe and slip-free use.
What We Don't Like
- The water builds up around the ridges near the drain spout.
What Our Editors Say
“This product is designed for optimum functionality and versatility, making it one of the best dish racks for sinks. With its plated steel prongs and non-scratch tips, the dish rack allows you to store and dry any type of glassware and dishware while protecting them from scratches. Plus, you can easily remove it for easy cleaning.
Another great feature of this dish-drying rack is that it is expandable. You can easily extend it to double its capacity whenever you need extra space for drying your dishes.”
Material: Plastic, Steel | Dish Slots: 7 | Additional Storage: Cutlery Rack | Tier: 1 Drainboard: 1 | Dimension: 12.5” L x 14.25” W x 6.25” H (Minimum); 20.75” L x 14.25” W x 6.25” H (Maximum) | Collapsible/Adjustable: Yes | Color: Gray, Sky, Gray/Silver, White/Green
8. Most Stylish: Sweet Home Collection Three-Piece Dish Drainer Set
Why We Think It’s Great
- 3-PIECE SET: A complete set includes a dish rack, a cutlery holder, and a drainboard.
- VINYL-COATED WIRE RACK: The wire rack has designated slots for dishes, cups, or bowls and comes with a protective vinyl coating for long-lasting and rust-free use.
- WELL-DESIGNED DRAINBOARD: The plastic drainboard has a convenient lip that hangs slightly over the sink to prevent water pools or spills.
- 2-COMPARTMENT CUTLERY CADDY: Separate your silverware and flatware to ensure safety and quick drying.
- AVAILABLE IN 18 COLORS: Choose various colors to suit your existing kitchen decor.
What We Don't Like
- The dish rack is too lightweight.
What Our Editors Say
“If you need a dish rack that will match your existing decor or one that will add a pop of color to your kitchen, this dish drainer set by Sweet Home Collection is an excellent option.
It offers a wide array of colors to meet everyone's preferences. Choose from neutral ones like Black, White, Gray, or Taupe to vibrant shades such as Red, Turquoise, and Yellow.”
Material: Metal, Plastic | Dish Slots: 11 | Additional Storage: Cutlery Caddy | Tier: 1 | Drainboard: 1 | Dimension: 19” L x 12” W x 5” H | Collapsible/Adjustable: No | Color: Beige, Black, Bronze, Burgundy, Eggplant, Gray, Ivory, Mint, Navy, Pale Pink, Red, Sage, Silver, Taupe, Teal, Turquoise, White, Yellow
9. Most Compact: mDesign Steel Compact Modern Dish Drying Rack With Removable Cutlery Tray
Why We Think It’s Great
- SIMPLE, SLEEK DESIGN: A modern look that complements any kitchen style. Plus, it comes in different colors to match your preference.
- STRONG AND STURDY CONSTRUCTION: Made of high-quality steel wire with a durable finish to ensure long-lasting service.
- PLASTIC CUTLERY HOLDER: The removable cutlery holder is made of shatter-resistant plastic and offers three compartments to keep your flatware, silverware, and utensils separated.
- NON-SLIP PVC FEET: Keeps the rack stable and prevents it from scratching your countertop.
- COMPACT AND SPACE-SAVING: It has 12 slots for drying plates, glassware, and serveware.
What We Don't Like
- It does not include a drainboard.
What Our Experts Say
“I want a dish rack that makes the best use of the space in my sink, so I look for compact designs that fit well in smaller spaces,” adds Stacy Lewis, the owner and Interior Designer at Eternity Modern.
One of the best things about the mDesign drying rack is its sleek, compact design that is perfect for small kitchen counter spaces. It measures only 12.4” L x 5.5” W x 3.9” H, making it ideal for use in condos, apartments, or studios.
Material: Steel | Dish Slots: 12 | Additional Storage: Cutlery Holder | Tier: 1 | Drainboard: None | Dimension: 12.4” L x 5.5” W x 3.9” H | Collapsible/Adjustable: No | Color: Amber/Bronze, Graphite/Smoke, Matte Black, Stone/Clear, White/Clear
10. Best Capacity: Kitsure Dish Drying Rack
Why We Think It’s Great
- LARGE CAPACITY: The wire rack offers ample room for holding various dishware, while the extra attachments provide space for cups, wine glasses, cutleries, and cutting boards.
- INNOVATIVE DRAINAGE SYSTEM: A 360-degree adjustable spout and a central drainage hole for automatic draining directly into the sink.
- STAINLESS STEEL CONSTRUCTION: Made of high-grade 304 stainless steel, it is incredibly durable and rust-resistant.
- PROTECTIVE SILICONE CAPS: Comes with four anti-slip leg caps and five cup holder caps to prevent scratching your glassware and countertop.
- OPTIONAL SECOND TIER: Available in classic and two-tier designs to suit all your kitchen organization needs.
What We Don't Like
- It has no drainboard for catching water from the extra attachments.
What Our Editors Say
“One of the best dish racks for sinks, this product from Kitsure offers a large capacity for holding all your dishes. With its multiple attachments, you can easily separate your dishware and glassware and store them in their designated areas to keep your kitchen counter clean and organized.
Another great thing about this dish drying rack is that it is suitable for all kinds of sinks, thanks to the integrated drain tray with a 360-degree swivel spout. This also allows you to position the rack anywhere you want.”
Material: Stainless Steel | Dish Slots: 11 | Additional Storage: Wine Glass Holder, Cup Holder, Cutlery Holder with Knife Slot, Cutting Board Holder | Tier: 1, 2 | Drainboard: 1 | Dimensions: 18.7” L x 7.87” W x 11.8” H; 16.7” L x 13” W x 22” H | Collapsible/Adjustable: Yes | Color: Gray/Silver
11. Best Customizable: Majalis Two-Tier Stainless Steel Dish Drying Rack With Drainboard
Why We Think It’s Great
- REMOVABLE TOP SHELF: A two-tier design with a top shelf that you can easily remove when not needed and use in the sink.
- DETACHABLE ATTACHMENTS: All the attachments, including the dish rack, cup holder, wine glass holder, cutlery box, and cutting board holder, are detachable and can be installed according to your storage needs.
- ADJUSTABLE AUTOMATIC DRAINAGE: Integrated drainboard with an adjustable spout that swivels up to 270 degrees to drain the water directly to the sink.
- HEAVY-DUTY AND RUST-RESISTANT: Made of high-quality stainless steel with a nano-coating finish, it is highly durable and resists corrosion.
- EXTRA DISH DRYING MAT: Includes a free dish drying mat to keep your countertop dry.
What We Don't Like
- The dish rack’s dip tray is too small.
What Our Editors Say
“What we love most about this dish drying rack is its versatility, thanks to its removable top-shelf design. You can add the top layer to build a two-tier rack or use it separately in the sink or anywhere you want to create additional storage space. Also, all the included attachments are detachable so that you can install them according to your dish drying needs.”
Material: Stainless Steel | Dish Slots: 11 | Additional Storage: Wine Glass Holder, Cup Holder, Cutlery Holder with Knife Slots, Cutting Board Holder | Tier: 2 | Drainboard: 1 | Dimensions: 19.68” L x 18.11” W x 14.17” H | Collapsible/Adjustable: No | Color: Black, Light Gray, Matte Black, Red, Silver, White
12. Best Over-the-Sink: Merrybox Two-Tier Over-The-Sink Dish Drying Rack
Why We Think It’s Great
- ADJUSTABLE LENGTH AND HEIGHT: Expands up to 33 inches in length and 24.5 inches in height to fit different size sinks.
- HIGHLY DURABLE AND RUST-RESISTANT: Made of high-grade stainless steel with a high-temperature coating finish that resists scratching and rusting.
- HIGH-CAPACITY AND STABLE FRAME: A U-shape frame with excellent load-bearing capacity ensures balance and stability.
- NON-SLIP SUCTION CUPS: Equipped with four rubber suction cups at the bottom to prevent sliding.
- ALL-IN-ONE DESIGN: Offers storage for all your plates, bowls, cups, cutleries, and even sponges and dishwashing detergents.
What We Don't Like
- Its assembly can be challenging.
What Our Editors Say
“What’s great about this dish drying rack is that it can fit in most kitchen sinks with its adjustable length and height. Simply loosen the screws and pull the crossbars and vertical bars to match your sink size, faucet height, or countertop-cabinet distance.
Another advantage of this dish drying rack is that it doesn’t need a drainboard, as the excess water falls directly into the sink. This will ensure a dry and clean kitchen countertop.”
Material: Stainless Steel | Dish Slots: 12 | Additional Storage: Bowl Rack, Knife Holder, Cup Rack, Cutting Board Rack, Dishware Holder, Detergent Basket, Hooks | Tier: 1 | Drainboard: None | Dimensions: 25.6” L x 13” W x 20.7” H (Min.); 34” L x 13” W x 24.5” H (Max.) | Collapsible/Adjustable: Yes | Color: Black
13. Best Value: Seropy Over-The-Sink Roll-Up Dish Drying Rack
Why We Think It’s Great
- HIGH-QUALITY MATERIAL: Made of 304 stainless steel tubes, it is sturdy, rust-resistant, and supports up to 33 pounds of load.
- FOLDABLE: Allows easy storage when not in use, which helps you save valuable counter space.
- HEAT-RESISTANT: Offers heat resistance up to 400° F, making it suitable for cooling hot food or preventing damage from hot items.
- NON-SLIP SILICONE: The BPA-free, food-grade silicone edge protectors keep the drying mat stable while protecting your kitchen counter from scratches.
- AVAILABLE IN DIFFERENT SIZES: Choose from four different sizes to fit your existing kitchen sink.
What We Don't Like
- It tends to move around easily when empty.
What Our Editors Say
“If you want a functional and versatile dish drying rack, this foldable mat by Seropy is a great choice. It is an excellent over-the-sink dish rack for air-drying your kitchenware and works as a colander for fruits and vegetables or a cooling rack for diffusing heat from hot food or items. You can also use this dish rack as a sink cover to create extra space on your kitchen counter.
Aside from being multifunctional, this dish-drying rack is also compact and space-saving. You can easily roll it up and put it away under the sink or in a drawer when not used.”
Material: Stainless Steel, Silicone | Dish Slots: 14, 17, 19 | Additional Storage: None | Tier: 1 | Drainboard: None | Dimension: 17” L x 11.8” W x 0.2” H; 17.5” L x 11.8” W x 0.2” H; 17.5” L x 13.7” W x 0.2” H; 17.5” L x 15.7” W x 0.2” H | Collapsible/Adjustable: Yes | Color: Silver/Black, Silver/Gray
Related: The Best Sink and Under-Sink Organizers
14. Best Roll-Up: Surpahs Over-The-Sink Silicone Wrapped Steel Roll-Up Dish Drying Rack
Why We Think It’s Great
- SILICONE WRAPPED STEEL: Made of high-quality steel rods wrapped in food-grade silicone, it is highly durable, non-slip, rust-resistant, and protects your counters and dishes from scratches.
- COLLAPSIBLE: Rolls up easily for hassle-free transport and space-saving storage.
- HEAT-RESISTANT AND DISHWASHER SAFE: Resists heat up to 400° F and allows easy cleanup.
- COMES IN 3 DIFFERENT SIZES: Choose from three large sizes to match your kitchen sink.
- LIFETIME WARRANTY: Shop worry-free with the included lifetime warranty.
What We Don't Like
- It is not sturdy enough to support heavy items.
What Our Editors Say
“What we love about this roll-up dish drying rack is that it is covered with food-grade silicone, ensuring safe and non-slip use. The silicone also prevents the rack from scratching or damaging your dishes and kitchen counters. Plus, it provides resistance against corrosion for guaranteed long-lasting durability.”
Material: Steel, Silicone | Dish Slots: 17, 20 | Additional Storage: None | Tier: 1 | Drainboard: None | Dimension: 17.5” L x 13.1"W x 0.3"H; 20.5"L x 13.1"W x 0.3"H; 20.5"L x 15.5"W x 0.3"H Collapsible/Adjustable (Y/N?): Yes Color: Gray
15. Best Design: KitchenAid Full-Size Expandable Dish Drying Rack
Why We Think It’s Great
- EXPANDABLE: Expands from 20.5 up to 30.9 inches long to provide extra storage space when needed.
- REMOVABLE CUTLERY CADDY: Two compartments and a special bamboo knife block for organizing your utensils and cutleries.
- DRINKWARE ATTACHMENTS: Comes with a cup holder and a stemware attachment for hanging delicate wine glasses separately.
- ANGLED DRAINBOARD: Designed to direct the water into the sink to keep your countertop dry and clean.
- RUST-RESISTANT: Made of brushed stainless steel panels and coated wire frame to prevent corrosion.
What We Don't Like
- The drainboard only drains the water in one direction.
What Our Experts Say
When asked for recommendations, Grace Baena of Kaiyo responds, “I usually recommend the KitchenAid line of dish racks. These are high quality and have tons of storage space for drying dishes without taking up too much space or being prohibitively priced.”
Another great feature of this dish rack is the smart design. “I think the general way a dish rack is put together is the most important feature. It needs to be efficiently designed to hold dishes without taking up counter space, and it needs to have some kind of drainage to filter water away,” Baena continues.
Material: Stainless Steel, Steel Wire | Dish Slots: 11 | Additional Storage: Bowl Rack, Stemware Rack, Cup Holder, Cutlery Caddy, Knife Block | Tier: 1 | Drainboard: 1 | Dimensions: 20.5" L x 15" W x 14" H (Min.); 30.9" L x 15" W x 14" H (Max.) | Collapsible/Adjustable: Yes | Color: Black, Charcoal, White
16. Best Modern Look: Yamazaki Home Sink Dish Rack with Removable Drainer Tray
Why We Think It’s Great
- MODERN, SCANDINAVIAN DESIGN: Featuring a sleek steel frame with wooden accents, it adds a modern and sophisticated look to any room,
- SMOOTH WOODEN HANDLES: Adds a natural touch to the rack and ensures easy handling and transport.
- ADJUSTABLE UTENSIL CADDY: Allows ultimate flexibility and hassle-free cleaning.
- REMOVABLE DRAINING TRAY: Made of durable ABS resin, the draining tray catches the water drips and is easily removable for tipping the water onto the sink.
- COMPACT AND LIGHTWEIGHT: It is perfect for small-space living, like in condo units or studio apartments.
What We Don't Like
- It has no automatic draining system.
What Our Editors Say
“If you are looking for a stylish dish drying rack that will add elegance to your kitchen counter, this rack by Yamazaki Home is an excellent option. It features a modern, Scandinavian design that will complement most kitchen styles. Plus, you can choose between White and Gray colors to match your existing decor.
Another thing we love about this dish rack is the high-quality materials. The frame is made of sturdy powder-coated steel, and the easy-to-carry handles are ash wood. The draining train and utensil holder are durable ABS resin.”
Material: Steel, Steel Wire | Dish Slots: 9 | Additional Storage: Utensil Holder | Tier: 1 | Drainboard: 1 | Dimensions: 18.5” L x 13.19” W x 7.87” H | Collapsible/Adjustable: No | Color: Gray, White
Final Verdict
Dish racks are an essential household item that can make your life in the kitchen easier and more convenient. They provide a safe and efficient way of drying your dishes while keeping your counter clean, dry, and tidy. When used properly, they can also help you optimize your space.
If you’re looking for a reliable and multifunctional dish drying rack, we highly recommend the iSPECLE 2-Tier Stainless Steel Dish Drying Rack. Its two-layer design offers ample room for all your plates, bowls, and cutleries while occupying minimal counter space. Plus, it is made of stainless steel, so you don’t have to worry about rust.
We hope this list of the best dish racks for sinks has provided you with great options for your next purchase. So, what are you waiting for? Shop now and get that dish rack for your kitchen.
Best Dish Racks for Sinks Buying Guide
Not all dish racks are created equal, and the right one for you will depend on your dish drying needs. Here are a few factors to consider before purchasing one for your kitchen sink:
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Size
Before purchasing a dish drying rack, you must know how much space you have on your kitchen counter. Measuring your sink's size, the faucet's height, and the countertop's length is always a good idea, especially if you are looking for an over-the-sink dish rack.
“You'll want to make sure that the rack is large enough to fit all of your dishes but not so large that it takes up too much space,” explains Jen Stark, Interior Designer, Home Improvement Expert, and the Founder of Happy DIY Home.
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Type
Before deciding which dish drying rack to buy, it would be helpful to familiarize yourself with the different types you can find in the market. This way, you can explore all the options available to you.
The most common type of dish rack is the traditional countertop-mount rack. It usually consists of a wire rack sitting over a drainboard, which collects the pooling water to keep the counter dry. Countertop-mount racks take up space, so they are suitable for those who have spacious kitchen counters.
If you have limited kitchen counter space, collapsible racks are perfect. These racks fold away so you can easily store them when not in use. This means you do not need a dedicated area for them, so you don’t lose valuable counter space.
Tiered racks occupy minimal counter space but offer a higher capacity than traditional countertop-mount racks, making them ideal for those who wash many dishes regularly. By utilizing vertical spaces, these racks help you optimize your space. However, the drawback of using this type of rack is that the water drips from the top shelf to the bottom, slowing the drying process.
Over-the-sink dish racks allow you to air-dry the dishes and drain the excess water directly into the sink, so they don’t require drainboards or drip trays. They don’t use counter space but may obstruct you when using the sink. These racks mostly come with suction cups to ensure safe and stable use.
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Material
Dish drying racks are made of different materials, such as plastic, metal, and wood. When deciding which will work best for you, remember that this kitchen tool will inevitably get exposed to moisture, water, and sometimes heat. So, choose a material that is durable, easy to clean, and can resist rust.
When it comes to dish racks, stainless steel is the best option because it is sturdy, rust-resistant, and easy to maintain. It is also aesthetically appealing and will complement any kitchen decor. However, it can be a bit pricey in comparison with other options.
Plastic is the way to go if you want a cheaper and more practical option. It is lightweight, easy to clean, and will not stain or rust. However, plastic is not as durable as metal or wood and can break easily.
Wood adds warmth and natural elements to any room, making it a good material for creating a stylish look for your kitchen or giving it an accent. It is also incredibly strong and does not rust. However, it requires regular cleaning as repeated exposure to moisture will cause mold growth.
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Cleaning and Maintenance
Keeping your dish-drying racks clean is crucial to your family’s health. Regular and thorough cleanup is a must, so choose a dish rack that requires minimal cleaning and less maintenance.
“I also want a dish rack that is easy to clean, so I look for ones with smooth surfaces and a few nooks and crannies where dirt and grime can accumulate,” says Stacy Lewis, the Owner and Interior Designer at Eternity Modern.
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Drainage System
Stacy Lewis states, “The most important feature of a dish rack is allowing water to drain away from the dishes. This is important because it helps to prevent mold and bacteria. Second, it prevents water spots from forming on dishes.”
“Proper drainage is the most important feature of a dish rack. If water can't drain properly, it will pool and eventually lead to rusting. So, when I am looking for dish racks, I always make sure that there is a good drainage system in place,” agrees Steven Hill of DIY Gazette.
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Capacity
Another factor to consider when purchasing a dish rack is its capacity. This will depend on the number of dishes you usually wash, how much drying space you need, and how often you wash the dishes. You may also consider the largest piece of kitchenware you will use the dish rack for.
When it comes to dish drying racks, bigger is not always better. Multiple-tier racks are designed to occupy minimal space while providing optimum capacity. Furthermore, over-the-sink racks do not take up any counter space as they sit directly in the sink area.
Some dish racks have integrated bowl racks, cutlery holders, knife slots, and cutting board holders. Others even include built-in wine glass holders and sponge caddies. These features are especially helpful if you have a lot of dishes to wash and dry.
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Stability
When buying a dish rack, keep a keen eye on its design, structure, and construction. The best dish racks for sinks should be stable and well-supported so they can hold your dishes securely.
“I believe that the most important feature of a dish rack is stability. A dish rack needs to support a large amount of weight without tipping over and a sturdy base that prevents sliding around on the counter. With a stable dish rack, you can rest assured that your dishes will stay put while they dry,” says Jen Stark of Happy DIY Home.
Sink Dish Racks FAQ
1. Are dish racks necessary?
Dish racks are a must-have tool for any kitchen. They provide a safe place for your dishes to air-dry after washing. Using a dish rack also helps keep your kitchen counter clean and dry.
With a dish drying rack, you can leave the freshly washed dishes and let them dry on their own. No need to spend additional hours drying them using a dish towel. This will save you energy and give you extra time to rest or do something more important.
Another advantage of having a dish rack is that it allows you to organize your dishware. It offers a designated area for all your plates, bowls, cups, and cutleries, so it’s easy to find each item when needed.
2. How to clean a dish rack?
Cleaning your dish rack regularly is the surest way to prevent rusting or mold growth. Not only will it extend the life of your rack, but it will also help safeguard your family’s health.
Wash the dish rack with warm, soapy water and scrub it to remove dirt and grime. You can use a toothbrush to get to the hard-to-reach areas. Then, rinse it with hot water and let it dry completely.
You can use vinegar or bleach for a moldy dish rack and let it soak for a few minutes to eliminate the mold. If you have a wooden dish rack, rubbing it with food-grade mineral oil after washing will protect it from the effects of the water. For stainless steel racks, dry them thoroughly with a dish towel to prevent the formation of water spots.
3. What is the best material for a dish rack?
If you're looking for a dish rack that will not rust, you need a rack that can withstand regular exposure to moisture and water without rusting. Stainless steel, plastic, and silicone are great options. You can also find metal racks with anti-corrosion coating, which are excellent alternatives to stainless steel.
4. Are dish drying racks sanitary?
According to some experts, air-drying your dishes on a dish rack is more hygienic than drying them using a dish towel. This is because dish towels tend to harbor bacteria, which can spread to your clean dishes. If you prefer using this method to dry your dishes, wash the dish towel as often as possible to prevent germ transfer.
On the other hand, dish racks have hard surfaces that can be easily sanitized before putting the freshly washed dishes. To ensure your dish rack is always sanitary, don’t forget to dry it off after each use.
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