If you’re tired of tangled forks, stuck-together spoons, and overloaded silverware baskets, it’s time to look for a dishwasher with a dedicated cutlery drawer (also called a third rack). These machines let you lay out utensils and small items flat for a more thorough clean, easier unloading, and better organization. This guide features the top-rated third rack dishwashers, how to choose the right one, full product reviews, a quick comparison table, and answers to common buyer questions—so you’ll never fumble with a cutlery basket again!
Quick Picks: Best Dishwashers with Cutlery Drawer (Third Rack)
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Bosch 800 Series SHX78CM5N – Best Overall
MyWay third rack, ultra-quiet (42 dBA), adjustable racks, Speed60, crystal drying. -
LG LDP6810SS QuadWash – Best for Families
TrueSteam, adjustable third rack, QuadWash spray, SmartThinQ WiFi. -
Samsung DW80R9950US – Best Premium Quiet
Flexible third rack, 39 dBA, AutoRelease door, WiFi, 15 place settings. -
GE Profile PDT785SYNFS – Best Advanced Features
Third rack, UltraFresh anti-mold, bottle jets, WiFi, 42 dBA. -
Whirlpool WDTA80SAKZ – Best for Easy Loading
Third rack, adjustable tines, fingerprint-resistant finish, fan dry.
Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose a Dishwasher with Cutlery Drawer
- Third Rack Size & Flexibility: Some are just for flatware, while premium models hold ladles, small cups, and more. Adjustable/removable options give even more space.
- Cleaning Power: Look for dedicated spray jets or wash arms near the third rack for thorough results, especially on sticky knives and spatulas.
- Noise Level: Most top third rack dishwashers are ultra-quiet—ideal for open kitchens or late-night loads. Under 45 dBA is best.
- Capacity: Standard is 14–16 place settings, but the third rack frees up lower racks for plates and pans.
- Rack Adjustability: Height-adjustable upper racks, fold-down tines, and flexible third racks make it easy to wash big loads or tall items.
- Other Features: Consider WiFi, sanitize cycles, bottle jets, and crystal drying for extra convenience.
- Finish & Build: Stainless steel tubs and fingerprint-resistant finishes keep your kitchen looking fresh.
Full Product Reviews: Best Dishwashers with Cutlery Drawer
Bosch 800 Series SHX78CM5N
Who it’s for: Homeowners who want the best cleaning, quiet operation, and a flexible third rack for cutlery, lids, and espresso cups.
- Key Benefits:
- MyWay third rack holds utensils, spatulas, and small cups
- Ultra-quiet at 42 dBA—run it any time
- 16 place settings, Speed60 quick wash
- CrystalDry for spot-free results
- Pros:
- Industry-best third rack design
- Reliable, ultra-quiet performance
- Adjustable tines and racks
- Cons:
- Premium price, but frequent sales
- App setup can be a learning curve
Final Verdict: Bosch’s MyWay third rack is the gold standard for organized, sparkling cutlery. See today’s deal
LG LDP6810SS QuadWash
Who it’s for: Families who want flexible loading, steam cleaning, and a tech-friendly design.
- Key Benefits:
- Height-adjustable third rack fits utensils and small cups
- QuadWash multi-arm spray for a thorough clean
- TrueSteam and sanitize cycles
- WiFi-enabled (SmartThinQ)
- Pros:
- Lots of rack flexibility for big or odd-shaped loads
- Superb cleaning and drying
- Modern design, reliable brand
- Cons:
- Heated dry not as strong on plastics
- App controls are optional (not everyone uses them)
Final Verdict: LG’s third rack design makes every load more organized and less crowded. Check price
Samsung DW80R9950US
Who it’s for: Anyone wanting whisper-quiet cleaning and a flexible, deep third rack.
- Key Benefits:
- Flexible cutlery drawer holds utensils, tongs, whisks, and more
- Ultra-quiet at 39 dBA
- WiFi connectivity and remote monitoring
- AutoRelease door for improved drying
- Pros:
- Spacious, versatile racks
- Best-in-class quiet
- Excellent for open kitchens
- Cons:
- Premium price
- Some cycles take longer (but Speed60 is available)
Final Verdict: Samsung’s third rack is flexible and roomy—ideal for gadget-loving homes. See price
GE Profile PDT785SYNFS
Who it’s for: Families who want ultra-hygienic cleaning, bottle jets, and a premium third rack experience.
- Key Benefits:
- Deep Clean third rack holds utensils and small kitchen tools
- UltraFresh anti-mold, sanitize cycle
- 42 dBA—very quiet
- WiFi/app controls for easy monitoring
- Pros:
- Superior drying and odor control
- Excellent for baby gear and reusable straws
- Roomy and flexible interior
- Cons:
- Higher price
- May be over-featured for smaller households
Final Verdict: GE’s third rack delivers both space and serious cleaning. Check today’s deal
Whirlpool WDTA80SAKZ
Who it’s for: Anyone seeking easy loading and unloading with a focus on flexibility and reliability.
- Key Benefits:
- Third rack for silverware and small items
- Fan dry for improved results
- Fingerprint-resistant finish, adjustable tines
- Quiet at 47 dBA
- Pros:
- Easy to load/unload flatware
- Affordable for a third rack model
- Good support and warranty in North America
- Cons:
- Some third racks are not height-adjustable
- No WiFi/smart features
Final Verdict: Whirlpool’s third rack is a simple upgrade that makes every load easier. See price
Comparison Table: Best Dishwashers with Cutlery Drawer
| Model | Third Rack Type | Noise (dBA) | Capacity | Special Features | Buy Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch 800 SHX78CM5N | MyWay (deep & flexible) | 42 | 16 | CrystalDry, Speed60 | View |
| LG LDP6810SS | Adjustable | 44 | 15 | QuadWash, TrueSteam | View |
| Samsung DW80R9950US | Flexible (deep) | 39 | 15 | WiFi, AutoRelease | View |
| GE Profile PDT785SYNFS | Deep Clean | 42 | 16 | UltraFresh, bottle jets | View |
| Whirlpool WDTA80SAKZ | Standard third rack | 47 | 15 | Fan dry, adjustable tines | View |
FAQ – Dishwashers with Cutlery Drawer (Third Rack)
Q: Do third rack dishwashers still include a cutlery basket?
A: Most models still include a removable basket, so you can choose what works best for each load. The third rack just makes it easier to separate and clean every piece.
Q: Can I put knives, spatulas, or small cups in the cutlery drawer?
A: Yes! Premium third racks are wide enough for spatulas, whisks, tongs, and even espresso cups—just lay them flat.
Q: Are third racks easy to clean?
A: Absolutely. They slide out for easy wiping, and many are removable if you want more space for tall pots below.
Q: Does a third rack improve drying?
A: Yes—because utensils are separated and don’t “nest” together, they come out cleaner and drier with fewer water spots.
Q: Will the third rack fit in a small kitchen?
A: Third rack dishwashers are the same standard size as regular models—they just add a bonus rack at the top, not extra height.
Conclusion & Call to Action
For the most organized, hassle-free dishwashing, a cutlery drawer (third rack) is a must-have. The models above from Bosch, LG, Samsung, GE, and Whirlpool deliver next-level convenience, cleaner utensils, and less bending for busy kitchens. Click the links for today’s prices and enjoy a truly organized, sparkling clean with every load!