What Is a Third Rack in a Dishwasher? Use and Limits

What Is a Third Rack?

A third rack is an extra loading level positioned above the upper rack in many full-size dishwashers. Unlike the main lower and upper racks that hold plates, bowls, and pots, the third rack is typically a shallow tray that slides out independently. It is designed for flat items that might otherwise clutter the main racks or take up vertical space.

Manufacturers have adopted third racks as part of rack design improvements that also help with energy and water efficiency, as noted by ENERGY STAR. The idea is to make the interior more flexible so you can load a full cycle without leaving items half-dirty. If you are comparing models, you will often see third racks listed as a feature on built-in dishwashers and some portable options.

Common Third Rack Shapes and Designs

Third racks come in a few common layouts. The oldest design is a simple cutlery tray that holds flatware in slots, but that is not a true third rack for bulky items. Many modern models use a wide, flat rack that runs the full depth of the tub, with fold-down tines or compartments. Some have a narrow strip near the front that captures extra flatware.

The exact layout varies by manufacturer and model. Some third racks are fixed, while others can be removed entirely to increase the clearance for tall glasses on the upper rack. Check the product specifications to see if the rack is removable or adjustable. This feature adds flexibility, as explained in our guide to adjustable dishwasher racks.

• Wide flat tray with fold-down tines for cups, lids, and utensils.
• Cutlery-specific tray with slots for forks, knives, and spoons.
• Split or adjustable sections that can be folded to make room for taller items.
• Narrow front strip that adds extra capacity without interfering with upper rack.

What Belongs in a Third Rack

The third rack is most useful for items that are flat, shallow, or awkwardly shaped for the main racks. Common candidates include spatulas, serving spoons, and long utensils that would otherwise stand up and block the spray arm or get tangled together.

Because the third rack sits high, it also works well for items that you want to keep away from the heating element, such as plastic lids or reusable straws. The location typically keeps them at a lower temperature than the bottom rack.

• Flat utensils like spatulas, ladles, and whisks.
• Small lids for pots and pans, especially flat plastic or metal ones.
• Sippy cups, bottle caps, and other small plastic items that can be washed on the top.
• Measuring cups and spoons.
• Knives and other sharp utensils placed point-down for safety, if the rack has slots.

What to Keep Out of the Third Rack

The third rack is not suited for heavy, bulky, or tall items. Large bowls, dinner plates, and pots should stay in the lower racks where they have more support and space for deeper loading.

Some third racks have a weight limit, although manufacturers rarely publish one. As a rule of thumb, use the third rack for lightweight plastic and flat items, not for heavy glass or metal cookware.

• Tall glasses and mugs can hit the top of the tub and prevent the spray arm from rotating.
• Heavy stainless steel cookware could overload the slim tray and cause it to sag or break.
• Large serving platters that extend beyond the rack width may block water spray.
• Items with deep concave shapes, like mixing bowls, may collect water because they cannot sit at an angle.

How a Third Rack Changes Capacity

A third rack adds a layer of loading area, which can increase the total number of items you can fit in a single cycle. However, it does not increase the dishwasher's rated capacity in place settings. ENERGY STAR defines capacity by the number of place settings and serving pieces a model can hold, as stated in their product criteria. A third rack can help you load more flatware and small items within that same cubic footage, but it does not allow a standard model to hold more than eight place settings and six serving pieces.

In practice, a third rack can free up space in the main racks by holding the small stuff, so you might avoid an extra cycle for a communal kitchen or a dinner party. But it also reduces the vertical clearance for the upper rack. If you frequently wash tall wine glasses or large stockpots, you may need to fold the third rack up or remove it, which then cuts the bonus space. For more on how capacity is measured, see our article on place settings vs. cubic feet.

Limits and Tradeoffs

The main limit of a third rack is the tradeoff between its shallow design and the volume of items it can hold. It is not a second full rack. Some models place the third rack so low that it restricts the upper rack from being raised, which can make it harder to fit bulky items above.

Another limit is the height of the tub. Standard built-in dishwashers have a fixed interior height, and adding a third rack means the upper rack must sit lower. If you often wash large baking sheets or huge platters, you may find the third rack gets in the way. Conversely, if you rarely wash those items, the third rack is a valuable addition. Consider your typical loads when choosing a dishwasher, as we outline in our built-in dishwasher buying guide.

Choosing a Dishwasher With a Third Rack

When you compare dishwashers, look for a third rack that is removable and adjustable. That gives you the most flexibility. Also decide whether you prefer a cutlery-specific tray or a flat multi-purpose shelf. Many full-size models include a third rack as standard, but you can also find them on compact 18-inch models, though the shapes are smaller.

Think about your dishwashing habits. If you use many utensils and lids, a third rack can make loading easier. If you mostly wash large pots and pans, you may be better off with a dishwasher that has a spacious upper rack and no third rack to interfere. For space-constrained kitchens, compact models with third racks are worth comparing; see our 18-inch dishwasher roundup and 24-inch options.

What to pick for your use

Questions

Does every dishwasher have a third rack?

No. Third racks are common on full-size built-in dishwashers, but not universal. Many compact and countertop models lack them, and some full-size models use a traditional cutlery basket instead.

Can I remove the third rack?

Some models allow you to slide the third rack completely out, freeing up more vertical space for the upper rack. Others are fixed. Check the manufacturer's manual or specifications to see if it is removable.

Does a third rack hold plates?

It can hold small plates, especially side plates or saucers, if they are flat and light. Full-size dinner plates are too tall and heavy for the shallow tray and should go in the lower rack.

Will a third rack fit tall glasses?

Usually not. A third rack reduces the clearance for the upper rack, so tall wine glasses or highball glasses may hit the top of the tub. You may need to fold or remove the third rack for those loads.

How do I clean a third rack?

Most third racks can be wiped with a damp cloth after the cycle. If food debris collects in the slots, you can hand-wash it in the sink or run it through the lower rack, if the manufacturer allows removal.