

It may seem counterintuitive (after all, you’re using it to stash clean dishware), but your dish drying rack will need to be cleaned occasionally. Determine what level of organization you need - and carefully consider whether going without will make it more difficult for you to quickly put away your dishes once they’re dry. The dish rack favorites on our list offer various organizational options, from mats that let you lay your dishware flat any way you please, to highly organized containers that offer a slot for every piece of silverware or salad plate. Here’s where personal preference comes in.

You’ll want to choose a material that suits your dishware and lifestyle, avoiding anything that will mold or mildew over time or abrasive styles that may scratch your cookware. Most of the picks on our list are made from silicone, rust-free aluminum, or steel. You don’t want to sacrifice all your prep space to a dish drying rack if you don’t have to, so aim to snag a piece that balances the capacity you need with a footprint that feels manageable. Your ideal drying rack should also fit your available counter space - especially if you envision leaving it out on display. If you don’t have a dishwasher that will be handling some of the load, then you’ll want to choose a drying rack that can house upwards of 10 or more plates, along with cutlery and glasses. One of the biggest considerations when shopping for a dish drying rack is just how large of a piece you need - and what your kitchen can accommodate.
