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Whether your kitchen is spacious or tiny, having a quality dish-drying rack can help organize your kitchen while providing a sanitary way to dry dishes. Air-drying dishes is not only more hygienic (compared to drying them with a hand towel), but it’s also more convenient. After you’ve washed the day’s dishes, simply set them and forget them.
When shopping for the best over-the-sink dish rack for your needs, there are various materials, sizes, and additional features to keep in mind. This guide will cover the important factors to consider as you shop and then explore some of the top products on the market to air-dry your dishes while keeping the kitchen organized.
- BEST OVERALL: Heomu Over-the-Sink 2-Tier Dish Rack
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Simple Houseware Over-Sink Countertop Dish Drainer
- UPGRADE PICK: Boosiny Over-Sink 2-Tier Dish Drying Rack
- BEST STAINLESS STEEL: 1Easylife Over-the-Sink Dish Drying Rack
- BEST PLASTIC: Progressive International Prepworks Dish Drainer
- BEST ADJUSTABLE: Tsmine Adjustable Over-the-Sink Dish Drying Rack
- BEST COMPACT: OXO Good Grips Extendable Over-the-Sink Dish Rack
- BEST ROLL-UP: Surpahs Over-the-Sink Roll-Up Dish Rack
- BEST IN-SINK: Sanno Expandable Over-the-Sink Dish Drying Rack
- BEST LARGE-CAPACITY: Loyalfire Over-Sink Dish Drying Rack
- ALSO CONSIDER: Seropy Roll-Up Over-the-Sink Dish Drying Rack
How We Chose the Best Over-the-Sink Dish Rack
It’s hard to escape washing dishes. Shopping for a dish rack is simple, but since it’s an object you use daily, it pays off to find a good one. We asked Gretchen Boyd, president of NYC House Cleaners in New York, New York, for some tips. “As a cleaning expert, I believe that the top feature to consider in an over-the-sink dish rack is its adjustable size,” she says. “You can opt for a rack that can be customized to fit various sink dimensions, ensuring a snug and secure fit. This feature maximizes space utilization and provides flexibility for different kitchen layouts.”
We chose dish racks with various dimensions and designs to suit different sink layouts. We preferred adjustable dish racks, which made it easier to customize them to a space. The best options will fit nicely over the sink and have practical storage features.
We looked for dish racks with sturdy and rust-resistant materials, preferring stainless steel, plastic, and silicon over cheaper metals. Lastly, we considered storage options, looking for choices with utensil holders, extra baskets, racks, and hooks to store different kitchen items.
Our Top Picks
The best over-the-sink dish racks can eliminate the time-consuming task of drying dishes while offering a touch of organization to any kitchen—without taking up any counter space. These space-saving top picks take into consideration the abovementioned factors and satisfy a wide variety of kitchen layouts, storage needs, and household preferences.
Best Overall
Heomu Over-the-Sink 2-Tier Dish Rack
Product Specs
- Dimensions: 31 inches tall by 36.5 to 39 inches wide by 11.5 inches deep
- Material: Stainless steel
- Collapsible: No
Pros
- 2 width options: 36.5 or 39 inches wide to fit larger sinks
- Comes with 6 S-shaped hooks that useful for hanging utensils, mugs, and dish rags
- Since width is adjustable, the rack can accommodate larger kitchen sinks
Cons
- Cutlery basket is small; it’s not proportionate to the amount of available dish space, so it may need more frequent clearing
This spacious over-the-sink dish rack by Heomu is made from rust-resistant stainless steel and features two levels of shelves separated into four sections to hold a wide range of kitchen items like plates, bowls, mugs, and glasses. It also includes six removable S-shaped hooks to hang large utensils and dishrags, two side racks for smaller utensils and cutting boards, and a dish soap storage area.
The dish rack will comfortably hover above faucets no higher than 15 inches tall. The width of the rack is adjustable from 36.5 to 39 inches, and it measures 11.5 inches deep and 31 inches tall. Nonslip pads ensure the rack won’t slide around on the countertop, even if wet. Assembly is easy and can be completed in just 15 minutes.
Get the Heomu over-the-sink dish rack at Amazon.
Best Bang For the Buck
Simple Houseware Over-Sink Countertop Dish Drainer
Product Specs
- Dimensions: 4.8 inches tall by 20.5 inches wide by 8.25 inches deep
- Material: Steel
- Collapsible: No
Pros
- Versatile; can be used as an over-the-sink dish rack or countertop dish rack
- Rubberized arms keep the dish rack in place in wet conditions
- No need for a drying tray; when used as an over-the-sink rack, it will drip directly into the sink
Cons
- Lacks a separate compartment for utensils
- Width is not adjustable; only fits sinks smaller than 20 inches across
This chrome alloy steel over-the-sink dish rack by Simple Houseware is an affordable option that does not require any installation. It measures 4.8 inches tall by 20.5 inches wide by 8.25 inches deep. A rubberized arm on each end rests on the sides of the sink to hold the rack in place. However, since it also has small feet, this unit can be used as a regular dish rack if buyers have the available counter space.
With this rack, water conveniently drips directly into the sink, so there is no need for an additional mat or drying board. The dish rack is ideal for more compact sinks and can hold up to eight plates, two cups, and miscellaneous utensils. However, it does not include a separate utensil compartment.
Get the Simple Houseware over-the-sink dish rack at Amazon or Walmart.
Upgrade Pick
Boosiny Over-Sink 2-Tier Dish Drying Rack
Product Specs
- Dimensions: 31.5 inches tall by 27.5 to 33.5 inches wide by 12.09 inches deep
- Material: Stainless steel
- Collapsible: No
Pros
- Extra-large capacity with 2 tiers, a soap holder, cutting board rack, 2 utensil holders, and 6 hanging hooks
- Maximum weight limit of 110 pounds means even heavy dishware can be placed on this rack
- A wide base with suction cups helps to keep the rack in place
Cons
- Utensil holders sit on the outside of the rack, so they may drip onto the countertop
Boosiny’s over-the-sink dish rack is an expansive and upgraded option that offers a variety of organizational features. It includes two shelves: The bottom shelf has slots to hold several bowls and plates of various sizes, and the top shelf is a wire rack suitable for pots and pans, lids, and cups. The rack also provides a dish-soap holder, a cutting-board rack, two utensil-drying holders, and six S-shaped hanging hooks. It is made from stainless steel with a dark gray coating that protects the metal from rust.
This rack measures 31.5 inches tall by 27.5 to 33.5 inches wide by 12.09 inches deep. It will comfortably fit under faucets that are less than 16.93 inches tall. Filling up this rack is no problem; it has a weight capacity of 110 pounds to handle heavy dishes. The legs are capped with suction-cup feet that are anti-slip even on wet countertops.
Get the Boosiny over-the-sink dish rack at Amazon.
Best Stainless Steel
1Easylife Over-the-Sink Dish Drying Rack
Product Specs
- Dimensions: 32.08 inches tall by 33.46 inches wide by 11.02 inches deep
- Material: Stainless steel
- Collapsible: No
Pros
- Made of rust-resistant stainless steel that looks nice and holds up to damp conditions
- Has a variety of baskets and organizers to store dishes and more
- Wine glass holder helps to store delicate wine glasses on the side
Cons
- Not adjustable, though it is large enough to fit many kitchen sinks
Sturdy and made to last, the 1Easylife over-the-sink dish drying rack is made of high-quality stainless steel that won’t rust like some lower-quality steel materials. This is great for shoppers who want to have their dish rack for a long time. However, this drying rack really stands out because of its excellent storage features.
Measuring 32.08 inches tall by 33.46 inches wide by 11.02 inches deep, it has two tiers of shelving plus a bevy of baskets and racks. Of course, it has spaces for plates, bowls, and cutlery, but it also has hooks along the front, a dish soap basket, a cutting board or pot lid holder, and a handy wine rack to hold wine glasses. Suction cup feet keep the rack in place, even when it’s weighed down with kitchen supplies.
Get the 1Easylife over-the-sink dish rack at Amazon.
Best Plastic
Progressive International Prepworks Dish Drainer
Product Specs
- Dimensions: 6 inches tall by 16.5 to 26.75 inches wide by 12.25 inches deep
- Material: Plastic and thermoplastic elastomers (TPE)
- Collapsible: Yes
Pros
- Collapsible; only about one third of its height when collapsed, so it can slide into storage spaces
- Plastic and TPE rubber construction makes this rack rustproof and dishwasher-safe
- Utensil tray is removable to free up more dish storage space
Cons
- Has plastic extendable arms, which are less sturdy than metal options
- Very utilitarian; doesn’t look particularly sleek or nice due to its plastic construction
This over-the-sink dish rack features collapsible walls that conveniently lie flat for easy storage in most cabinets and drawers. When fully expanded, this dishwasher-safe plastic rack measures 6 inches tall by 16.5 to 26.75 inches wide by 12.25 inches deep.
There is no installation or assembly required; simply extend the two adjustable arms to fit any sink up to approximately 26 inches wide. This dish rack can hold up to eight plates and also features a handy removable utensil basket. The rack fits over the sink but hangs into the basin, so water directly flows down the drain.
Get the Progressive International over-the-sink dish rack at Amazon or Walmart.
Best Adjustable
Tsmine Adjustable Over-the-Sink Dish Drying Rack
Product Specs
- Dimensions: 20.5 inches tall by 34.5 to 42 inches wide by 12.6 inches deep
- Material: Stainless steel
- Collapsible: No
Pros
- Great adjustability range; width is adjustable from 34.5 to 42 inches wide to fit wide sinks
- U-shaped reinforcements on base and suction cups help to keep the rack stable
- Variety of baskets and bins help to keep items separated along the dish rack
Cons
- Black finish can become chipped over time, revealing the metal underneath
This adjustable over-the-sink dish rack from Tsmine is constructed from strong 304 stainless steel coated in black paint that protects against rust and scratches. It adjusts from 34.5 to 42 inches wide to fit most standard sinks between 32 and 39 inches wide, with a depth of 12.6 inches and a height of 20.5 inches. The frame can also accommodate a faucet that is no taller than 17.5 inches.
The legs feature a U-shaped design to balance weight and stabilize the rack, which is bolstered by the anti-slip suction cups. The organization options include a plate rack, a bowl rack, a cutting board and lid rack, a knife holder, a utensil holder, a dish soap and sponge holder, a fruit and vegetable basket, and seven utility hanging hooks. No installation is required, and the frame provides a convenient snap-on structure for easy disassembly and cleaning.
Get the Tsmine over-the-sink dish rack at Amazon.
Best Compact
OXO Good Grips Extendable Over-the-Sink Dish Rack
Product Specs
- Dimensions: 5.7 inches tall by 15 to 19 inches wide by 11.5 inches deep
- Material: Aluminum and plastic
- Collapsible: No
Pros
- Compact size is ideal for those who want a smaller dish rack but don’t want to use roll-up versions
- Has a utensil cup that can be placed on the interior or exterior of the rack
- Plate holders help to keep plates and bowls upright for more efficient drying
Cons
- Aluminum and plastic build makes it look less sleek, though reviewers note that it is durable
Over-the-sink dish racks are handy but have one major drawback: They take away from dishwashing space. If you’re already dealing with a small sink, a compact-size dish rack is the right choice. This one from OXO is smaller than many of the other options on the market. It measures 5.7 inches tall by 15 inches wide by 11.5 inches deep. Its side arms can extend from 15 to 19 inches across, so it can fit in slightly larger sinks despite its smaller size.
Since this rack has a base, it can also be used as an inside-the-sink dish rack or a countertop option (with a drying mat underneath) to free up more washing space. It has racks to hold plates and bowls and a separate utensil compartment that can be placed inside or outside the rack, depending on how much space is available.
Get the OXO over-the-sink dish rack at Amazon, OXO, or Crate & Barrel.
Best Roll-up
Surpahs Over-the-Sink Roll-Up Dish Rack
Product Specs
- Dimensions: 0.25 inches tall by 20.5 inches wide by 13.1 inches deep
- Material: Steel and silicone
- Collapsible: Yes
Pros
- Rolls up, so it takes up very little space in storage
- Easy to install or put away; silicone sides help it stay in place
- Metal racks are coated in stainless steel, so it’s sturdy and nonslip
- Dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning and doubles as a trivet, too
Cons
- Does not have a utensil holder; also has no sides, so it can be hard to keep utensils contained
The over-the-sink dish rack from Surpahs is an excellent option for those seeking a dish rack that doesn’t take up much space and also easily stores away. It measures 0.25 inches tall by 20.5 inches wide by 13.1 inches deep when unfurled and rolls up tightly when not in use.
This single-layer dish rack is made with rust-resistant metal steel rods connected by Food and Drug Administration–approved food-safe silicone. It can be placed over the entirety of a sink up to 19.5 inches in width or hung over the side to maintain full functionality of the faucet. This versatile dish rack can also be used to dry produce, thaw meat, dry dishcloths, and cool baked goods. It is heat-resistant up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and dishwasher-safe.
Get the Surpahs over-the-sink dish rack at Amazon or Surpahs.
Best In-Sink
Sanno Expandable Over-the-Sink Dish Drying Rack
Product Specs
- Dimensions: 3.75 inches tall by 16 to 22 inches wide by 12 inches deep
- Material: Stainless steel
- Collapsible: No
Pros
- Long, extendable arms (reaching from 16 to 22 inches across) will fit inside many sinks
- It has feet, so it can also double as a small inside-the-sink or countertop dish rack when needed
- Includes a removable 2-compartment utensil holder to keep utensils together
Cons
- Quite shallow; large dishes might not stay upright in this rack
This over-the-sink dish rack from Sanno offers a smaller option for those who don’t want a large and permanent structure. It measures 3.75 inches tall by 12 inches deep and features adjustable, nonslip rubber arms that expand the rack between 16 and 22 inches wide to fit a range of sinks. This rack is constructed from durable stainless steel that won’t rust or corrode over time.
A removable utensil compartment makes it easy to move silverware back to the drawer once it is dry. The rack’s body has enough space to hold up to seven dishes and miscellaneous kitchen items. Four rubber feet are attached to the bottom to prevent scratching of the counter or sink basin when in use.
Get the Sanno over-the-sink dish rack at Amazon or Walmart.
Best Large-Capacity
Loyalfire Over-Sink Dish Drying Rack
Product Specs
- Dimensions: 33.35 inches tall by 20.87 to 37.6 inches wide by 10.95 inches deep
- Material: Stainless steel
- Collapsible: No
Pros
- Large size; double-tiered design; and extra baskets, racks, and hooks offer excellent capacity
- Includes necessary tools for assembly; easy to put together
- Anti-skid feet ensure that the rack stays in place, even in wet areas
Cons
- Some reviewers note the rack sags a bit in the middle when it’s close to its width limit
For an ultimate over-the-sink and large-size dish rack that doubles as useful storage, look to this two-tier 304 stainless steel model by Loyalfire. It features two expandable tiers that can store various plates, bowls, pots and pans, and even small kitchen appliances. This rack also features six utility hooks, a silverware caddie, cupholders, a cutting-board holder, and a basket for soaps and sponges.
The dish rack is 33.35 inches tall by 10.95 inches deep with the shelves expanding from 20.87 to 37.6 inches wide. It fits comfortably above faucets that are no higher than 16.93 inches tall. The four corners feature anti-skid pads to keep the rack stable and secure, even on wet surfaces. The necessary tools are included for easy assembly.
Get the Loyalfire over-the-sink dish rack at Amazon or Walmart.
Also Consider
Seropy Roll-Up Over-the-Sink Dish Drying Rack
Product Specs
- Dimensions: 17.5 inches wide by 11.8 inches long (other sizes available)
- Material: Stainless steel and silicone
- Collapsible: Yes
Pros
- Rolls up nice and small; it’s easy to store or pack for travel
- Dishwasher-safe, so cleaning is simple and hands-off
- Heat-resistant up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit; can also be used as a trivet
- Silicone edges help to stop the rack from slipping around over the sink
Cons
- Stainless steel rods are not covered with silicone, which means they can be a bit slippery
This over-the-sink dish rack is another roll-up option that’s excellent for people short on space. It’s extremely easy to set up: Just roll it into place over the sink. Once installed, the silicone edges keep the rack nicely in place.
This rack measures 17.5 inches wide by 11.8 inches long, and we recommend allowing an inch of sink space on each side for a secure base. Due to its stainless steel and silicone construction, it can double as a trivet (it’s heat-resistant up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit). As a bonus, this rack is dishwasher-safe, so it’s very easy to clean.
What our tester says: Lizzie Briskin, Bob Vila writer and product tester, notes in The Best Dish Drying Rack that “it’s a cinch to set up and owners can even use it to extend their countertop space. In fact, we placed a cutting board on top of the rack in testing and found it to be fairly stable.” Get the Seropy over-the-sink dish rack at Amazon.
Jump to Our Top Picks
What to Consider When Choosing an Over-the-Sink Dish Rack
The primary features to consider when choosing an over-the-sink dish rack include the size and style of the rack, the material with which it’s made, how the rack suits the aesthetic of a kitchen, and the availability of additional features. Read on to learn more about these features to select the best over-the-sink dish rack for your needs.
Size
It is imperative to know the measurements of the sink, the height of the faucet, and the distance between the sink and any cabinetry above it prior to deciding on the proper size of a new over-the-sink dish rack. It is also helpful to determine the amount of available counter space in case the rack is unfixed and will stand on the border around the sink. Consider how much sink space the rack takes up as well; some can reduce the amount of space that’s available for washing dishes.
Next, consider the number of dishes, bowls, utensils, wine glasses, and other kitchen items the dish rack needs to hold. Smaller dish drying racks hold as few as 10 dishes, while large-size dish rack options can hold up to 25 dishes or more. Some racks feature two-tiered shelving for even more storage space.
Material
Over-the-sink dish drying racks can be made from materials like stainless steel, plastic, vinyl-coated metal, bamboo, and more. Each of these materials varies in terms of durability and aesthetic. Stainless steel is strong, rust-resistant, and durable. It also boasts a higher-end finish that matches other stainless steel kitchen appliances.
Plastic is a budget-friendly material that is lightweight and easy to clean. Bamboo is another popular material that adds a touch of warmth to any kitchen and features natural antimicrobial properties that are ideal for drying dishes. Vinyl-coated metal is durable and provides an aesthetic that better matches kitchens without stainless steel appliances.
Fixed vs. Temporary
A fixed over-the-sink rack requires a bit of installation and can be attached to the wall, cabinet, or countertop to keep it safely in place. Most fixed dish racks include the necessary hardware and installation instructions.
A temporary—or unfixed—rack does not require installation, as it merely rests on its own legs. Temporary dish racks may have rolling wheels for portability or feature an adjustable frame to fit different kitchen layouts. To save the most space, look for a collapsible dish rack. These racks collapse to a smaller storage size so users can slide them into a cupboard when not in use.
Boyd also offers advice on choosing between a fixed or temporary dish rack: “When deciding between fixed and temporary options, choose a fixed over-the-sink dish rack for stability and durability, especially if you have a consistent kitchen setup.” She adds that temporary racks, like roll-up styles, offer portability and easy storage, but they may be less sturdy.
Extra Features
Dish racks have a simple job: to store dishes while they air-dry. While the overall functionality of most over-the-sink dish racks may appear the same on the surface, there are also extra features from which shoppers can choose. Some dish racks feature separate compartments for easy organization; an extendable drying tray; or hooks from which to hang utensils, dishwashing gloves, or dish brushes.
Other racks might offer a mini dish soap shelf, cupholder attachments, and a draining board or microfiber mat to collect water and protect the countertop. Racks to hold cutting boards or wine glasses can also be useful. Dishwasher-safe dish racks are simple to clean; just put them in the dishwasher, which can simplify tidying your kitchen.
Aesthetic
No matter the color scheme or design of a kitchen, there are over-the-sink dish racks that are as stylish as they are functional. Stainless steel dish racks pair well with stainless steel appliances or industrial and modern kitchens. Plastic, matte metal, and bamboo dish racks are also attractive options that can add a warm and homey touch to any space.
FAQs
Do you still have questions about over-the-sink dish racks? Check out some of the most frequently asked questions and corresponding answers to help find the right option for you.
Q. Are dish racks sanitary?
Air-drying dishes on dish racks is generally more sanitary than using a dish towel. However, it doesn’t mean that dish racks don’t also get dirty, so it’s still important to frequently wash the rack to maintain cleanliness.
Q. Do stainless steel dish racks rust?
Some dish racks made from cheaper metals can rust. Dish racks made from high-quality stainless steel are naturally rust- and corrosion-resistant.
Q. Can I put my dish drying rack in the dishwasher?
It depends. Metal and plastic dish racks should be dishwasher-safe, but always be sure to consult the product’s user manual before putting any part of a dish rack in the dishwasher.
