No dishwasher? No problem! Pick up a space-saving over-the-sink dish rack to dry your cups, plates and utensils.
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These 10 Over-the-Sink Dish Racks Will Save Precious Counter Space
Updated on Jan. 07, 2025
Adjustable Over-the-Sink Dish Rack
Pros:
- Adjusts to fit most sinks
- Contains compartments for dishes, utensils, glasses, and more
- Strong suction cup base
- Easy to assemble
Cons:
- Holds fewer dishes than others
After pulling out the dishwashing gloves and getting to work on the dirty dishes, it’s time to put them away to dry. This adjustable dish rack fits over most sinks and has little compartments for everything—from bowls and knives to wine glasses and spatulas. It uses strong suction cups to prevent unwanted shaking and movement while in use.
Tiered Over-the-Sink Dish Rack
Pros:
- High weight capacity
- Excellent kitchen storage
- Customizable
Cons:
- May be too large for smaller sinks or spaces
This isn’t your traditional over-the-sink drying rack. This stainless steel tiered shelf design doubles as a kitchen storage organizer. With a weight capacity of 200 pounds, it holds all your dishes and cookware with ease. The hollowed-out baskets and cutlery holder drips water directly into the sink. Each piece is removable and adjustable to suit your needs. Four anti-slip suckers ensure everything stays in place.
Expandable Two-Tier Drying Rack
Pros:
- Budget-friendly
- Comes in several sizes
- Adjustable
- Anti-rust materials
Cons:
- Baskets hold less weight than others
At an affordable price, you’ll be be able to dry plates, cups, utensils, a cutting board—and then some—all in one place. Made of stainless steel, this two-tier drying system has a black finish to blend in with a range of kitchen decor styles. There’s space for your hand soap, dish soap and sponges, so you’ll have everything you need within arm’s reach.
Expandable Dish Drying Rack
Pros:
- Inexpensive
- Expandable, over-the-sink design
- Versatile for dishes or rinsing veggies or fruit
Cons:
- Single tier only
Clean your dishes with some Dawn Powerwash, then place them in this expandable rack that’ll fit most kitchen sinks. This over-the-sink dish rack features nonslip rubber arms to keep it from moving, and rubber-coated feet protect the sink’s interior finish. Rinse and dry veggies and fruit, or dry up to seven dishes and a handful of silverware in the removable utensil holder.
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Seropy Roll Up Dish Drying Rack
Pros:
- Inexpensive
- Nonslip design
- Rust-resistant stainless steel
- Rolls up for compact storage
- Comes in two colors
- Available in five sizes
Cons:
- Only single tier
This roll-up design from Seropy is a super-affordable over-the-sink dish rack that comes in two colors and five sizes. The dish drying rack holds up to 33 pounds of plates, utensils, cups and whatever else needs to be cleaned. Plus, when it’s not in use, simply roll it up and stash it in a drawer or cabinet so it doesn’t take up any valuable kitchen space.
ClosetMaid Dish Draining Rack
Pros:
- Compact
- Countertop or in-sink design
- Non-slip coating
- Inexpensive
Cons:
- Versatile for drying dishes or rinsing vegetables and fruit
- Much smaller than other options
Say goodbye to a mountain high stack of dirty dishes, and hello to this durable draining rack made to hold and drip-dry dishes over the sink. Crafted of heavy-duty steel wire, this universal fit low-key design still allows access to the faucet, and the drainage holes do the heavy lifting to dry the dishes. The versatile cleaning tool also works to wash and drain fresh produce.
Expandable Dish Drainer
Pros:
- Expands to fit most sinks
- Rust-resistant stainless steel
- Non-slip arms
- Compact to store
Cons:
- Only single tier
Amazon has nearly everything, from bag sealers to over-the-sink dish racks, like this expandable one from iPegtop. It’s made from stainless steel and can be used on, in or over the sink to hold up to seven plates and some cutlery as they dry. The best part? It’ll never rust, so you can trust that your dishes will always be in good shape after sitting on the rack.
FAQs
Are over-the-sink dish racks worth it?
If you’re limited on counter space, you’ll quickly understand the benefits of an over-the-sink dish rack. It won’t take up already hard-to-come-by working space in your kitchen. Plus, the dishes will drip directly into your sink, so no cleanup is required.
What can I use instead of a dish rack?
You certainly don’t have to spend money on a gadget for drying your dishes, however, any alternatives will take up counter space. It can be as simple as placing paper towels on your countertop. You can also use a dish mat or dish rack that sits on the counter, if you have room to spare, that is.
Is a dish drying mat or rack better?
A drying mat has a single level for drying dishes, so it’s best suited for someone who lives on their own or doesn’t produce a whole lot of dishes. But families or people who do a lot of handwashing will reap the benefits of the best over-the-counter dish rack. Many models have multiple levels and designated spots for utensils, large knives and other kitchen essentials. On the other hand, drying mats roll up and can be stored away with ease. So, it’s all about what works for your lifestyle.
Are dish racks sanitary?
Where there’s water, there’s a chance for mold to grow. That’s why it’s important to follow the care instructions on your over-the-sink dish rack and give the drying rack a chance to, well, dry. Some models are safe to put in the dishwasher, making cleanup super easy.
Is plastic or metal better for a dish rack?
Both plastic and metal, specifically stainless steel, are smart options. Plastic is typically affordable and won’t lead to rust and rotting, however, it’s not as durable. Stainless steel, on the other hand, is usually more pricey, but it can handle heavier items, like pots and pans. Consider your budget and what you’ll be drying. You could also go the wood route, but wooden dish racks can warp from the constant moisture exposure.
