Best Dishwashers 2025 With 3rd Rack

by

Ever wish you had just a little more space for spatulas, utensils, or espresso cups? In 2025, dishwashers with a 3rd rack are the top choice for busy kitchens. The extra rack means more loading flexibility, fewer hand washes, and a place for those tricky long utensils that never fit anywhere else. This guide covers the best 3rd-rack dishwashers you can buy this year, what features to look for, and how to pick the right model for your home.

Quick Picks

  • Best Overall: KitchenAid KDTM404KPS – Deluxe cleaning, near-silent, and a flexible 3rd rack for all those extras.
  • Best Value: GE GDT650SYVFS – Powerful cleaning, Dry Boost, and one of the roomiest 3rd racks at this price.
  • Best Premium Bosch: Bosch 500 Series SHPM65Z55N – Quiet, efficient, and a 3rd rack that truly maximizes space for flatware and more.

Buyer’s Guide: What Makes a Great 3rd Rack Dishwasher?

  • Third Rack Design: Some offer a shallow tray for flatware; others are deep enough for small bowls, mugs, and utensils. Adjustable or removable 3rd racks offer the most flexibility.
  • Noise (dBA): For open kitchens or night use, aim for under 50 dBA. Many 3rd rack models are now in the 39–47 dBA range—barely a whisper.
  • Rack Adjustability: Look for adjustable middle racks and folding tines to help fit tall items and maximize space.
  • Drying Power: Heated dry, fan assist, or “AutoAir” doors help everything dry—even plastics on the 3rd rack.
  • Cycles & Sensors: Soil sensors, sanitize options, and a good quick wash cycle all add convenience.
  • Stainless Steel Tub: Quieter, lasts longer, and helps with drying compared to plastic tubs.
  • Warranty & Service: Choose a brand with proven support and available parts in your area.
See also  Midea Dishwashers: Honest Reviews & Common Problems

Top 6 Dishwashers With 3rd Rack (2025 Reviews)

KitchenAid KDTM404KPS 24″ Top Control

  • Who it’s for: Anyone wanting the quietest cycles, luxury features, and a truly useful 3rd rack for utensils and cups.
  • Key Benefits:
    • Premium 3rd rack fits everything from knives to mugs
    • Ultra-quiet (39 dBA)—run it any time, anywhere
    • ProDry system for extra-dry results—even plastics
    • Adjustable racks, folding tines, PrintShield finish
  • Pros: Elegant, spacious, incredible drying, top-rated for convenience.
  • Cons: Near the top of the price range; pro install recommended for best fit.
  • Final Verdict: The leader in 3rd-rack performance for busy, style-focused homes. Check today’s price.

GE GDT650SYVFS 24″ Top Control

  • Who it’s for: Households needing real flexibility—3rd rack, adjustable racks, and a robust Dry Boost system.
  • Key Benefits:
    • Roomy 3rd rack for utensils and more
    • 47 dBA—quiet for its price
    • Dry Boost dries plastics better than older GE models
    • Steam PreWash and sanitize cycles for tough messes
  • Pros: Great for families, easy to load, strong cleaning and drying.
  • Cons: Some plastic parts; lacks Wi-Fi/smart controls.
  • Final Verdict: The most flexible for the money—very hard to beat under $1,000. See deals.

Bosch 500 Series SHPM65Z55N

  • Who it’s for: Anyone who wants near-luxury German engineering, whisper-quiet cycles, and an awesome 3rd rack.
  • Key Benefits:
    • Flexible 3rd rack for flatware and utensils
    • 44 dBA—super quiet
    • AutoAir door pops open for better drying (even plastics)
    • PrecisionWash sensors, folding tines, deep lower rack
  • Pros: Outstanding cleaning, unbeatable drying, and smart rack design.
  • Cons: May approach the $1,000 mark depending on finish; pro install recommended.
  • Final Verdict: A true 3rd rack leader and a favorite among home chefs. Check best price.
See also  Frigidaire Dishwasher Troubleshooting Guide: Fix Common Issues Easily

LG LDFN4542S 24″

  • Who it’s for: Tech lovers who want adjustable racks, QuadWash power, and a flexible 3rd rack.
  • Key Benefits:
    • 3rd rack for flatware, long utensils, and more
    • QuadWash spray arms for deep cleaning
    • Dynamic Dry, 48 dBA, ENERGY STAR®
  • Pros: Lots of rack options, modern look, great cleaning for big loads.
  • Cons: Some learning curve with controls; plastics take longer to dry.
  • Final Verdict: A tech-forward, flexible 3rd rack dishwasher at a great price. Check deals.

Samsung DW80CG4021SR 24″

  • Who it’s for: Those wanting heated dry, modern controls, and a handy 3rd rack.
  • Key Benefits:
    • 3rd rack for extra capacity and easy loading
    • AutoRelease door for improved drying
    • 48 dBA, ENERGY STAR®
  • Pros: Modern styling, easy to use, reliable drying for everyday needs.
  • Cons: Cycles can run long, drying on plastics is average.
  • Final Verdict: A sleek, feature-packed 3rd rack dishwasher for modern homes. See today’s price.

Frigidaire Gallery FGID2476SF 24″

  • Who it’s for: Budget shoppers who want 3rd rack convenience without the premium price tag.
  • Key Benefits:
    • Adjustable 3rd rack, 47 dBA, and 7 wash cycles
    • EvenDry fan for faster drying
  • Pros: Affordable, easy to use, lots of rack flexibility for large loads.
  • Cons: Some plastic inside; drying performance varies on plastics.
  • Final Verdict: An entry-level winner for affordable 3rd rack performance. See current price.

Comparison Table

Model 3rd Rack Type Noise (dBA) Drying Tech Price Link
KitchenAid KDTM404KPS Deep, fully adjustable 39 ProDry, Heated, Fan View
GE GDT650SYVFS Roomy, utensils & more 47 Dry Boost, Fan Assist View
Bosch 500 SHPM65Z55N Flatware & small items 44 AutoAir, Heated Dry View
LG LDFN4542S Flexible, flatware/utensils 48 Dynamic Dry, QuadWash View
Samsung DW80CG4021SR Flat, utensils/cups 48 Heated Dry + AutoRelease View
Frigidaire Gallery FGID2476SF Adjustable, flatware/cups 47 EvenDry Fan View
See also  GE Refrigerator Complaints: What Owners Are Really Saying

FAQ

  • Why choose a dishwasher with a 3rd rack?
    It maximizes space for utensils, spatulas, small bowls, and mugs—reducing clutter and hand-washing.
  • Is the 3rd rack removable?
    On most major brands, yes! You can often adjust or remove it for tall items below.
  • Does a 3rd rack affect drying?
    Not if the dishwasher has fan, heated, or AutoAir drying. Some models are designed to dry the 3rd rack items as well as the lower racks.
  • How much more can I fit?
    Up to 30% more utensils, coffee cups, or small plates—meaning fewer loads and less crowding below.
  • Are 3rd rack dishwashers hard to install?
    Not at all—installation is the same as standard 2-rack units.
  • Can I run quick washes with the 3rd rack loaded?
    Absolutely. Just avoid stacking deep items on the 3rd rack for best spray coverage and drying.

Conclusion & Call to Action

Dishwashers with a 3rd rack are the future of easy, efficient kitchen cleanup. Whether you want more room for utensils, or you just hate hand-washing that last spatula, you’ll love the flexibility and freedom these models offer. Every pick above is trusted, quiet, and proven to save you time—so your kitchen stays cleaner with less work.

Ready to level up your kitchen? Check prices now, pick your favorite, and enjoy more space—and cleaner dishes—starting this week!
Still need local deals or want to see in-stock models near you? Tell me your zip code or city and I’ll help you find the best options!

Leave a Comment