10 Best 3rd Rack Dishwashers: Additional Washing Space For Flatware

Are you looking for a spacious dishwasher that has an additional rack specially designed for silverware?

Then a 3rd rack dishwasher is just what you need!

All models I reviewed below will provide you with amazing performance. Check them out, find out all about their designs and features, and find out which model suits your needs the best.

The Rundown

What Is A Third Rack?

In the terms of a dishwasher, a third rack is a sliding tray or a drawer. It is located above the top rack and just beneath the top of the tub.

What Is The Purpose Of Such A Feature?

This drawer adds useable space for washing utensils, flatware, cooking and servings tools, additional cups, glasses, silverware, and other small items.

Do All Dishwashers Have The Third Rack?

No. This is a relatively new component in the terms of reliable dishwashers and at the moment, only the priciest models have it. However, as time goes by, affordable dishwashing machines started to incorporate this additional feature.

What Is The Difference Between Top Rack And Third Rack?

Most dishwashers come with only 2 racks, top, and bottom. Now, the top rack is just a classic rack for mugs, glasses, plates, and bowls, while a third rack is a flat drawer designed for utensils and other small items and flatware.

Can You Install It Additionally?

Only if your dishwasher is designed for adding such a feature. As some dishwashers have an optional third rack, they come with already designed space for adding it so you can additionally buy it. Otherwise, if your dishwasher doesn’t have available space at the top of its interior, you won’t have enough space to add a third rack.

Does This Rack Take Too Much Space?

No. It is conveniently placed away from the top rack and just beneath the top of the dishwasher. It offers just a couple of inches of space which is enough for small items without taking space from the top rack.

Price Range

Dishwashers that come with a third rack are usually priced from $600 to more than $1,500. Standard dishwashers cost anywhere between $200 and $900.

What Dishwasher Brands Produce This Model?

Some of the brands that are known for their third-rack dishwashing models are Bosch, GE, Kucht, and Frigidaire.

Is A Third Rack In Dishwasher Worth It?

This innovative feature comes with many advantages. Here are just a few of them.

Additional Washing Space

This is the biggest benefit of a third rack. It will allow you to nicely divide all the utensils and cookware, without overcrowding each of the racks.

Great For Sensitive Items

Silverware isn’t that recommended to wash in the dishwasher. However, a third rack is an ideal place for it to be properly washed without damage. The same goes for plastic items.

Better Cleaning Results

Since the racks won’t be overcrowded, the flatware, utensils, and other small items, won’t be jammed together but nicely divided. Thanks to that, the dishwasher will ensure better cleaning and drying results.

Simple Loading & Unloading

You don’t really need to think about how to load utensils and flatware. The drawer is simple to use and you’ll load and unload the dishes in no time.

Standard Functions & Specifications

Now, we need to talk about other specs and features that a dishwasher with a third rack has. Let’s discuss what models can you get, their construction, cleaning cycles, certificates, and more.

Available Dishwashing Models

Not all dishwashers come with a third rack. For example, you can’t count on a countertop dishwasher with this additional rack. However, here are the models you certainly can count on.

• A built-in dishwashing machine is a model that is built into the already existing cabinetry. It features an 18 or 24-inch big unit. These are the 2 standard sizes when it comes to the dishwashers and they fit any standard kitchen cabinetry. The built-in model can have either a front or top control panel. It can also feature a panel-ready design that will perfectly fit the design of the rest of the cabinetry. This dishwasher type can hold between 12 and 20 place settings.
• A freestanding dishwasher isn’t built in the cabinetry but is positioned next to it. As it is finished on all sides, it can easily be placed anywhere in the kitchen where you have enough space. It can also have an 18 or 24-inch unit, as well as a front or top control panel. This standalone model can usually hold between 8 and 12 place settings. What makes this dishwasher type stand out is the fact that it can also feature wheels on its bottom so you can roll it in and out per request and needs.

Steel Construction

Stainless steel material is the best one on the market so when you can, choose a dishwasher that has both steel exterior and interior. This material of the making is resistant to high temperatures, odors, and stains, and it is durable and strong. It will ensure your dishwasher’s longevity.

Adjustable Racks: Additional Convenience

This is another quite convenient feature. Adjustable racks allow you to completely customize the interior of the dishwasher by rearranging compartments, racks, and baskets. Thanks to that, you will be able to fit in awkwardly shaped cookware and pans too.

Standard Cycle Options

When it comes to the different cleaning cycles this dishwasher type can offer you, it can feature between 4 and 15 options. Some of the most usual ones are a normal, light, heavy, and quick wash, ECO mode, rinse only, glasses only, delicate, baby care, china, and more. The final number and cycle options depend on the model you want.

2 Different Drying Functions

Besides cleaning, the dishwasher comes with a great drying performance too. You can choose between 2 options, heated drying and air-dry. Here are more details.

• Heated drying uses a fan or some other heating element. It is rather efficient and quick, and it thoroughly dries the dishes. However, it uses a lot of energy in that drying process so it isn’t that preferred amongst the customers.
• The air-dry option uses room temperature air to circulate in the dishwasher and dry the dishes that way. This option is eco-friendly and it uses 15% less energy than heated drying.

Additional Smart Features

What is great about dishwashers with a third rack is that they come with a modern and innovative design. Such models include smart features too. Some of the components you can get by choosing this dishwasher type are WiFi connectivity, separate wash zones, soil sensors, smartphone monitoring, the possibility to download new cleaning cycles, an automatic door, a time projector, and more.

Noise Range

The lower the decibel level is, the quieter the dishwasher will be. Most models come with a noise level between 38 and 50 dB.

Energy Star Certification

What is great about this certification is that it shows which dishwasher is designed as an energy-efficient kitchen appliance. By choosing a certified dishwasher, you will use only 3 gallons of water and 0.87 kWh of energy per load. For comparison, non-certified models use up to 15 gallons of water and 1.59 kWh of energy per load.

ADA Compliant

ADA compliance means that a product, in this case, a dishwasher, is accessible to those with disabilities. It refers to the height of the product itself. Such a dishwasher is about 32 inches tall, while classic models are between 33 and 34 inches in height. ADA-compliant dishwashers also come with legs that can be adjusted.

10 Best 3rd Rack Dishwashers

Frigidaire FGID2479SF Dishwasher

Fully Integrated Design
This triple rack dishwasher features a fully integrated design. It features a stainless steel tub with 3 nylon racks that can easily accommodate up to 14 place settings. Additionally, it offers multiple washing cycles and a powerful drying performance that will perfectly sanitize your dishware.

User-Friendly Features
With its DishSense cleaning technology, this top-rack model will be able to detect the soil level inside the machine and automatically adjust its performance accordingly. It also offers a fully programmable 24-hour delay start. It is even Energy Star and NSF certified.

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ThorKitchen HDW2401SS Dishwasher

Large Capacity
Because of its 24-inch size, this is the perfect dishwasher for a large family. Its 3 separate racks are specially designed to fit a much larger amount of dirty dishes all at once.

Energy Efficient Performance
The best thing about this three-tier dishwasher is that it provides you with energy-efficient performance. This means that it will have much lower power and water consumption. Each cleaning cycle that this machine provides will provide you with amazing performance and perfect cleaning results.

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SPT SD-6502SS Dishwasher

Smart Wash System
Amongst the many versatile cleaning cycles and options, this built-in dishwasher comes with a specially designed smart wash system. It can automatically detect the soil level inside the machine and adjust its cleaning performance accordingly. This also means that no energy or water will go to waste.

Drying Performance
Keep in mind that this triple rack dishwashing machine also provides a very powerful drying performance. You will be able to store clean dishware straight from the dishwasher into your kitchen cabinets.

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GE GDT695SMJES Dishwasher

High-Quality Design
This dishwasher for apartment features high-quality stainless steel construction. Due to its clean design, you can be sure that it will perfectly fit next to your other kitchen appliances and require very little maintenance.

Pre-Wash Cycle
Note that this dishwasher with the third rack for silverware offers a powerful pre-wash cycle. This feature eliminates the need for pre-rinsing your dishware. Its AutoSence cleaning cycle automatically adjusts the performance of the machine and maximizes energy savings.

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Bosch SPE68U55UC Dishwasher

Narrow Design
Out of all models I reviewed in this post, this 18-inch rack dishwasher is the only model that features a bit more narrow design. Due to its simple design, it is a perfect choice for apartments that have smaller kitchens that simply can’t fit larger models.

Water Softener
Note that this dishwasher comes with a powerful leak protection system and a water softener that makes it an amazing choice for households with hard water.

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LG LDT7797ST Dishwasher

Tall Tub Design
This stainless steel dishwasher features a tall tub design. Its top third rack is height-adjustable to ensure that you can clean larger dishware inside the tub too. The three racks can easily accommodate up to 15 standard place settings at once.

Smart Features
The best thing about this three-rack dishwasher is that it offers versatile user-friendly features. It is even WiFi-enabled, meaning, you will be able to control its performance using your smartphone. Also, it provides a convenient option of running only a half load, delaying its next cleaning cycle, etc.

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Bosch SHV863WD3N Dishwasher

Panel-Ready Design
This white dishwasher features a beautiful, panel-ready design. This means that you will be able to adjust its design to ensure that it fits with the rest of your kitchen appliances. Note that a panel does not come included in the package. You need to purchase it separately.

Low Operating Noise
Another convenient feature of this 3 shelf dishwasher is its low 44 DB operating noise. Thanks to this feature you will be able to run it both during the day and night without worrying its noise might bother someone.

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Kucht K6502D Dishwasher

Professional-Grade Design
This dishwasher features a professional-grade design. It is made out of high-quality stainless steel material which provides it with an elegant, sleek look. Its convenient handle can also work as a towel bar. Its built-in design ensures that it will perfectly fit into your kitchen.

Fully Integrated Control Panel
Like most of the listed models, this economical dishwashing model also features a fully integrated control panel. It provides you with multiple cleaning cycles and options you can easily activate with a touch of your finger.

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Samsung DW80N3030US Dishwasher

Built-In Design
This dishwasher for home use features a built-in design. It is constructed out of high-quality stainless steel material that provides it with needed durability and ensures its lasting lifespan. Its simple control panel is located on the front side of the dishwasher’s door which makes it much more accessible.

Delay Start
Note that this three-rack dishwashing machine also provides a delay start program you can set up to several hours in advance. With its versatile cleaning cycles and options, you can count on great cleaning results.

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Sharp SDW6757ES Dishwasher

Versatile Features
This 3 rack dishwashing machine comes with versatile user-friendly features. It comes with smart soil sensors, provides powerful washing and drying performance, has a convenient half-load option that allows you to run a somewhat smaller load.

Low Noise
Because of its low, 45 DB decibel rating, you will be able to run this dishwasher any time you want without worrying that its noise might bother someone.

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How To Install Third Rack Into The Dishwasher?

• Firstly, you need to remove the top rack.
• Then attach the top rack rails using appropriate hooks.
• Check if the rails are stable so that you can slide the rack.
• Then attach the rails of the top rack a little lower and slide it, too.

Loading A Dishwasher By Racks

So, you have 3 racks but you don’t know how to work with them? Here are the details on how to properly load a dishwasher by using all of its racks.

Bottom Rack

This rack is designed for large plates, large bowls, serving platters, and cookware. Place all these items at an angle and face toward the center of the dishwasher. Larger items should be placed at the back of the rack, near the wall of the tub. Small plates are great for filling the gaps. The bottom rack also has silverware baskets so you can use them for your utensils and other items that are small in size, such as reusable straws.

Top rack

This rack is for cups, mugs, small bowls, and dishwasher-safe plastic. You should place all these items to stand at an angle. Plastic items need to be placed furthest away from the heat source. Make sure that mugs and bowls have enough space in between and don’t block the spray arms.

Third Rack

You can use this rack for large utensils and items such as measuring cups. Place there small mugs, bowls, taller utensils, and other flatware, as well as utensils if you don’t want the baskets to be overcrowded as that doesn’t lead to thorough cleaning.

How To Maintain?

When it comes to maintaining your new dishwasher with a third rack, the cleaning procedure isn’t any different from other models. Once a week, you need to remove the filter and clean it under the running water with a toothbrush and mild detergent. Once it is clean, put the filter back in its place. To deep-clean the rest of the dishwasher’s interior, along with a third rack, run 2 cycles. In the first one, place white vinegar on the top rack, and in the second one, sprinkle baking soda at the dishwasher’s bottom. That will clean and sanitize your dishwasher. Just remember to do this cleaning operation once a week.