A third rack is usually worth it if you regularly wash flatware, utensils, measuring spoons, spatulas, mugs, or small bowls, because it frees space on the lower racks and makes loading easier. Of the five listings reviewed here, only one is a built-in dishwasher that actually includes a third rack: the Kenmore 18 in compact model. The other four are countertop units, a replacement lower rack, and a sink dish rack, and they are covered so you know exactly what they can and cannot do.
Our Winner: Kenmore 18″ Compact Dishwasher – Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel
Based on the specifications, this is the only product in this group with a true third rack. The EasyFlex Third Rack is removable and holds extra utensils and tools, and the middle rack trays slide left or right to make room for tall items. Its 3.2/5 average rating is low, so read recent buyer feedback before ordering.
What Is a Dishwasher Third Rack For?
A third rack is a shallow tray near the top of the dishwasher. Many new models include one.
It is meant for items that fit poorly on the other racks: flatware, spatulas, ladles, and other small or awkward pieces. A standard utensil basket sits on the lower rack and takes floor space. A third rack moves those items up and out of the way.
Whirlpool says select third-rack models are designed for hard-to-fit items such as mugs, bowls, silverware, and flat utensils. GE says the full-extension third rack on some models can hold an entire flatware collection plus knives, soup ladles, and tongs. You can read more in this Reviewed guide to third-rack dishwashers.
How We Compared These Models
We compared the products on four criteria: whether a third rack is actually present, rack flexibility, capacity and dimensions, and buyer ratings. These come from the listed specifications and Amazon rating data. Products without a third rack were judged on how well they serve a household that wants easier loading or a dishwashing alternative.
| Product | Key Specs | Our Choice | Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kenmore 18 in Compact Dishwasher | Built-in, removable third rack, 45 dBA, 3.2/5 | Best Overall | |
| EUHOMY Countertop Dishwasher, 8 Programs | Countertop, 5L tank, 8 programs, 40 dB, 4.5/5 | Best Premium | |
| EUHOMY Countertop Dishwasher, 6 Programs | Countertop, 5L tank, 6 programs, 40 dB, 4.5/5 | Best for Portability | |
| KitchenAid Full Size Dish Rack | Sink or tabletop rack, removable flatware caddy, 4.6/5 | Best Budget | |
| Allstare W10728159 Lower Rack Replacement | Stainless lower rack, 22.3 x 20.8 x 7 in, 4.6/5 | Best for Repairs |
Which Third Rack Designs Are the Most Useful?
Not all third racks are equal in size, shape, or wash performance. A basic version is a shallow tray for flatware. A premium version adds more width, removable sections, and dedicated wash jets.
- Kenmore EasyFlex: removable, paired with a sliding middle rack. Best for compact kitchens.
- KitchenAid 360° Max Jets: KitchenAid says this is the largest third rack on select models, with a removable utensil caddy and moisture-wicking tines.
- Maytag 3rd Level Rack: Maytag says it adds 30% more loading space and includes an adjustable tray on select models.
- GE full-extension: GE says it can hold an entire flatware collection plus knives and ladles.
Reviewed identifies Bosch and KitchenAid as brands that consistently offer some of the most thoughtfully designed third racks. Rank by rack design, not brand name alone.
In-Depth Reviews
1. Kenmore 18″ Compact Dishwasher – Best Overall
Our Verdict: The only built-in dishwasher here with a third rack, which makes it the clear pick for this topic. Weigh that against its 3.2/5 rating.
- Brand: Kenmore
- Installation Type: Built-In
- Dimensions: 22.44 in D x 17.65 in W x 32.29 in H
- Capacity: 1 load
- Color: Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel
- Noise Level: 45 dB
The removable EasyFlex third rack holds extra utensils and tools. The middle rack trays slide left or right for tall items. Three pressurized spray arms, soil-sensing SmartWash, and TurboDry with a fan and heating element round out the cleaning package.
It is ENERGY STAR certified and includes leak detection. At 18 in wide, it suits small kitchens, but total capacity is smaller than a standard 24 in model. The mixed rating suggests checking recent verified reviews first.
Why We Like It
- True third rack with adjustable middle rack
- Quiet 45 dBA operation
- Leak detection and ENERGY STAR certification
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Third rack plus flexible interior
- Compact footprint
- Sensor-based wash adjustment
Cons
- 3.2/5 average rating
- Compact capacity
- Third rack is not described as a premium full-width design
2. EUHOMY Countertop Dishwasher, 8 Programs – Best Premium
Our Verdict: A strong option if you cannot install a built-in unit. It has no third rack, so it will not solve the flatware-space problem in the same way.
- Brand: EUHOMY
- Installation Type: Countertop
- Dimensions: 16.73 in D x 16.85 in W x 18.03 in H
- Capacity: 5 liters
- Noise Level: 40 dB
- Included Components: Adapter, cutlery basket, drain hose, inlet hose, user manual
It offers eight programs, including Glass, Self-Clean, and a Baby Care/Strong cycle up to 167°F. It runs from the built-in 5L tank or a faucet connection. The listing says it holds 30+ items and is not meant for bulky pots or large baking trays.
Why We Like It
- No permanent installation
- Self-Clean and Glass programs
- 4.5/5 rating
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Works in rentals and dorms
- Quiet at 40 dB
- ETL and DOE certified
Cons
- No third rack
- Needs about 19 in of vertical clearance
- Plates limited to 10.25 in
3. EUHOMY Countertop Dishwasher, 6 Programs – Best for Portability
Our Verdict: The simpler EUHOMY model suits single users and small households. Like its sibling, it has no third rack.
- Brand: EUHOMY
- Installation Type: Countertop
- Dimensions: 16.85 in D x 16.73 in W x 18.03 in H
- Capacity: 5 liters
- Noise Level: 40 dB
- Color: Black Door
Six programs include a 29-minute Quick cycle and Baby Care/Heavy. The listing mentions 60 minutes of hot air drying and up to 73 hours of ventilation. It comes with a cutlery holder, fruit basket, and kettle accessory.
Why We Like It
- Tank or faucet water supply
- Includes cutlery holder and fruit basket
- Lower price than the 8-program version
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Portable setup
- 4.5/5 rating
- Quiet operation
Cons
- No third rack
- Fewer programs
- Heavy grease needs scraping first
4. KitchenAid Full Size Dish Rack – Best Budget
Our Verdict: Not a dishwasher. It is a low-cost air-drying rack, useful for items that do not belong in a dishwasher.
- Brand: KitchenAid
- Material: Carbon steel, plastic, stainless steel
- Dimensions: 14.96 in D x 20 in W x 7 in H
- Weight: 3 pounds
- Weight Limit: 25 pounds
- Mounting Type: Sink, tabletop
It has an angled drain board that directs water into the sink, non-slip feet, and a removable flatware caddy with adjustable compartments. Buyers rate it 4.6/5.
Why We Like It
- Rust-resistant coated steel wires
- Removable flatware caddy
- Handles large loads
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Lowest price in this group
- Good drainage design
- Fits pots and pans
Cons
- Does not wash anything
- Needs 20 in of counter width
5. Allstare W10728159 Lower Rack Replacement – Best for Repairs
Our Verdict: Only relevant if you already own a compatible Whirlpool, KitchenAid, or Maytag dishwasher with a worn lower rack. It is not a third rack.
- Manufacturer: Allstare
- Part Number: W10728159 WP8519589
- Weight: 8.48 pounds
- Dimensions: 22.3 x 20.8 x 7 inches
- Included Components: Dishwasher lower rack
- Warranty: 30 days
The listing names many compatible KitchenAid and Whirlpool model numbers. Confirm yours before buying. The description is unclear on whether rollers come installed, since it also tells you to transfer the original rollers.
Why We Like It
- Stainless steel construction
- Broad model compatibility list
- 4.6/5 rating
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Cheaper than replacing a dishwasher
- Straightforward installation steps
Cons
- Fit depends on exact model
- Only a 30-day warranty
- Not a third rack
How a Third Rack Changes Loading Space
Here is an illustrative scenario, not a measurement. Suppose a family load has a flatware basket, two pots, and a set of plates on the lower rack. The basket occupies one corner of that rack.
Move the flatware, spatulas, and ladles to the third rack. That corner is now free for a pot or a few more plates. The middle rack also stays clearer, since long utensils no longer lie across it.
What to Put in the Dishwasher Third Rack
- Flatware, laid flat
- Spatulas, ladles, and tongs
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knives, blade facing safely away
- Small bowls and mugs, if the design allows
Check your owner’s manual, since mug and bowl fit varies by model. Whirlpool also has a loading guide for general placement.
Is the Third Rack in a Dishwasher Worth It?
For daily cooks, big families, and anyone who washes lots of utensils, yes. Reviewed notes that if you rarely max out dishwasher capacity, a third rack may be nice to have rather than essential.
Downsides: it can reduce headroom for tall items on the middle rack, and basic versions may have weaker wash coverage than premium ones. For a deeper look at the cost tradeoff, see this third rack cost guide.
Buyer Checklist
- Does the third rack remove or adjust?
- Is there a dedicated wash jet or spray arm?
- Can it fit mugs and bowls, or only flatware?
- How much middle rack height remains?
- Does the width fit your cabinet opening?
- Are recent verified reviews consistent?
Frequently Asked Questions
What is dishwasher third rack for?
It holds flatware, utensils, and small items on a shallow top tray, freeing the lower racks for larger dishes.
How to use dishwasher third rack?
Load small, flat items so they lie flat and do not block the spray arm. Keep sharp knives pointed safely and check that the rack slides in fully.
Is a dishwasher third rack worth it?
Yes for frequent loads and utensil-heavy households. Occasional users may not notice much difference.
What dishwashers have a third rack?
Bosch, KitchenAid, GE, LG, Maytag, Samsung, Whirlpool, and Kenmore all offer versions. In this guide, the Kenmore 18 in compact model is the one with a third rack.
What to put in dishwasher third rack?
Flatware, spatulas, ladles, measuring tools, and on some models small bowls and mugs.
Conclusion
If you want a third rack, the Kenmore 18 in compact dishwasher is the only product here that delivers one, though its 3.2/5 rating calls for a careful look at recent reviews. The EUHOMY countertop units suit small spaces without a built-in hookup, the KitchenAid dish rack adds drying space, and the Allstare part is a repair option. For larger kitchens, compare premium third-rack designs from Bosch, KitchenAid, GE, and Maytag. Also see Reviewed’s third-rack dishwasher picks.
Affiliate Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, we may earn commissions from qualifying purchases from Amazon.com. This comes at no extra cost to you and helps support our research.
