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Which over-the-sink dish rack is best?

Over-the-sink dish racks not only help to dry dishes, but they save countertop space during the washing process. A quality over-the-sink dish rack should be adjustable to fit any size sink and help the user organize dishes into various compartments. Before purchasing an over-the-sink dish rack, consider the size of the rack, how much weight it can hold and how easy it is to assemble. 

For a sturdy over-the-sink dish rack that won’t rust or slip and aids in drying various dishes, try the eModernDecor Avery Black Stainless Steel Standing Dish Rack.

What to know before you buy an over-the-sink dish rack 

Size

Dish racks come in various sizes to support different styles of sinks. Over-the-sink dish racks with an adjustable height work to fit sinks with the tallest faucets. The size of the dish rack you purchase depends on the width and height of your sink and faucet. Users should measure the dimensions of their sink to make sure they correlate with the dimensions of the rack listed on the website. 

Weight capacity

Before purchasing an over-the-sink dish rack, consider how much weight it can hold. Loading the item with more dishes than it can carry causes it to weaken over time and could even break it. If you’re someone who prefers to clean and dry multiple dishes at a time, opt for an over-the-sink dish rack that’s able to carry a substantial amount of weight. 

Assembly

Over-the-sink dish racks should be easy to assemble and come with all the tools necessary to put the parts together, as well as an instruction guide that provides clear information to the user. Dish racks with fewer parts are less time-consuming to set up. Before purchasing an over-the-sink dish rack, consider one that comes preassembled, or at least comes with the tools to put it together so you don’t have to make any additional purchases.

What to look for in a quality over-the-sink dish rack

Sturdiness

Quality over-the-sink dish racks are made with a thick and sturdy base that prevents them from breaking or coming apart after they’re assembled. They should last the user a long time and should be able to hold various dishes of different weights. To check if the dish rack is as durable as stated in the description, note the product reviews section to see if those who have already purchased and used the item feel it’s up to par in terms of quality build. 

Anti-rust

Over-the-sink dish racks should be waterproof and take preventive measures to eliminate rust and corrosion. Items that easily rust and experience corrosion are more likely to be damaged and won’t last.  

Adjustability 

Over-the-sink dish racks that are adjustable allow the user to change the height and width of the item in relation to the size of their sink. If an over-the-sink dish rack is adjustable, users won’t have to measure the dimensions of their sink before purchasing the product. Adjustable racks work best for those who want more control of the size of the rack and the space it provides. 

How much you can expect to spend on an over-the-sink dish rack

Over-the-sink dish racks cost $30-$80, depending on the material the rack is made from, how many compartments it features and its size. An item that’s large, sturdy and is made for organizational purposes will be priced higher. 

Over-the-sink dish rack FAQ

Why are there suction cups on the base of the dish rack? 

A. Items designed with suction cups at the base of the dish rack work to keep it securely in place while the dishes are being hung and stored. Racks with this gripping feature provide greater stability, and there’s less chance of dishes falling and breaking due to the anti-slip qualities. 

What kind of dishes fit in a dish rack?

A. If the dish rack is of decent quality, every type of dish and utensil will be able to be stored and hung in the dish rack. Over-the-sink dish racks feature adjustable rings for spatulas and large spoons, while different compartments in the rack allow for different sized dishes to be safely placed to dry. 

What’s the best over-the-sink dish rack to buy?

Top over-the-sink dish rack

eModernDecor Avery Black Stainless Steel Standing Dish Rack

eModernDecor Avery Black Stainless Steel Standing Dish Rack

What you need to know: This over-the-sink standing dish rack is made with durable stainless steel and is resistant to rust. The base of the dish rack features suction cups so the rack doesn’t slip when in use. 

What you’ll love: This dish rack helps users save countertop space when cleaning and drying the dishes. It can support 80 pounds’ worth of dishes and can fit various types of dishes. The rack is easily assembled, allowing users to clean it when necessary. It helps users organize the dishes before putting them away. It works with tall sinks. 

What you should consider: Some users thought the wired frame wasn’t thick enough, and the baskets were too flimsy to hold different dining utensils. 

Where to buy: Sold by Home Depot

Top over-the-sink dish rack for the money

Simflag Over The Sink Dish Drying Rack

Simflag Over The Sink Dish Drying Rack

What you need to know: This over-the-sink dish drying rack is available in three different sizes, and it works to save space in the kitchen, helping users organize their dishes before they put them away. 

What you’ll love: This dish rack can fit multiple styles of dishes and is easy to assemble. It comes with all the tools necessary to assemble it and take it apart, and it also comes with backup hardware. This item is sturdy, waterproof and scratch-proof and the utensil hooks are adjustable. 

What you should consider: Some users have noted a lack of instruction in the assembly manual, and large plates don’t fit well into this dish drying rack. 

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon

Worth checking out

AIVIKI Over The Sink Dish Drying Rack

AIVIKI Over The Sink Dish Drying Rack

What you need to know: This over-the-sink dish drying rack is made with durable stainless steel and comes with utility hooks to hang some utensils. 

What you’ll love: The bottom of the rack is made with suction cups so it doesn’t slip or cave in and break dishes. This rack can hold a substantial amount of waste, won’t rust and is easy to assemble. It helps users save space and works well for organization in the kitchen. The compartments can fit different types of dishes, and the length of the rack can be adjusted to fit any size sink. 

What you should consider: Some users noted the material wasn’t sturdy enough to hold heavier dishes, and the rack itself was difficult and time-consuming to assemble.

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon

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Logan DeLoye writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.

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