Dishwasher technology has evolved dramatically, leaving behind the days when these appliances were just a basic substitute for handwashing.
Modern dishwashers now boast cutting-edge features that boost efficiency, elevate cleaning power, and simplify daily life. Among the standout innovations driving this transformation is the third rack dishwasher—a game-changer for kitchen convenience.
Featuring an additional top-level rack, third rack dishwashers are designed to accommodate utensils, small dishes, and even cooking tools, optimizing space and performance. At Slager, we’ve noticed a surge in demand for these models as homeowners seek to enhance their kitchen’s functionality—and it’s easy to see why.
If you’re considering a dishwasher upgrade, discover four compelling reasons why a third rack dishwasher is a smart investment for your home.
What Is a Third Rack Dishwasher?
A third rack dishwasher is exactly what it sounds like—a dishwasher that features an additional, shallow rack positioned above the traditional two racks.
Unlike a standard two rack dishwasher, which requires you to place utensils in a silverware basket or try to balance them on top of larger dishes, a dishwasher third rack offers:
- Extra space for utensils, cooking tools, and small dishware like espresso cups and measuring spoons.
- Better organization by separating silverware and delicate items, preventing overcrowding.
- Enhanced cleaning performance, since items are more spread out and exposed to water jets.
Third rack dishwashers free up space on the lower racks, making room for larger dishes, pots, and pans while still ensuring silverware gets a deep clean. If you’ve ever struggled to fit everything into a single load, a three rack dishwasher can be a game changer.
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Reason #1 - More Space, Less Hassle
One of the best third rack dishwasher features is the extra space it provides.
Without a third rack:
- Utensils, spatulas, and small items often clutter the silverware basket.
- Larger dishes compete for space, making it hard to fit everything in a single load.
- Some items end up being washed by hand simply because they don’t fit.
With a third rack:
- Small items have a dedicated space, keeping them out of the way.
- The bottom racks are free for larger dishes, mixing bowls, and cookware.
- You can wash more in one cycle, cutting down on the number of loads you run.
For households that cook often or entertain guests, choosing to upgrade to a three rack dishwasher means less time worrying about dish placement and more time enjoying a clean kitchen.
Reason #2 - Better Organization and Cleaning
Organization isn’t just about convenience—it also leads to better cleaning performance. Traditional dishwashers often force users to stack utensils together in a silverware basket. This can result in overcrowding or nesting, which prevents proper water circulation.
It also results in poor cleaning results, since items stick together, and necessitates rewashing, which wastes time and water.
A third rack eliminates these issues by keeping utensils separated and properly spaced. This allows water jets to reach every item, ensuring a thorough clean without residue or missed spots.
Many third racks also feature adjustable sections, allowing you to place small bowls, big spatulas, deep soup ladles, and long, flat kitchen utensils without taking up space in the main racks. If you like a neatly organized dishwasher with sparkling clean results, a 3 rack dishwasher is a smart upgrade.
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Reason #3 - Modern Features That Make Life Easier
Today’s third rack dishwashers don’t just add extra space—they also come with high-tech features designed to make dishwashing more efficient and effective. Some of the best features include:
- Adjustable third racks, which can be lowered or removed to fit different items.
- Specialized spray jets designed to target utensils and small dishes for better cleaning.
- Separate compartments for silverware, knives, and kitchen tools.
Many models also include removable or customizable third racks, allowing you to tailor the space to your needs. This isn’t just a dishwasher with silverware rack on top. If you occasionally need more vertical space for tall glasses or large serving bowls, you can easily adjust or remove the third rack.
At Slager, we carry dishwashers with cutting-edge features from top brands, so you can find a model that fits your kitchen and lifestyle.
Reason #4 - Save Water, Save Time
Another one of the third rack dishwasher benefits is energy efficiency. Because a third rack allows for better organization and more capacity per load, you can fit more dishes into a single cycle. This means:
- Fewer dishwasher loads, saving both water and electricity.
- Less handwashing, reducing overall water usage.
- Lower energy bills thanks to high-efficiency cycles found in modern third rack models.
Many newer dishwashers also come with eco-friendly wash cycles and sensor technology that adjusts water and energy use based on the size and dirt level of the load. If you’re looking for a way to reduce your home’s environmental footprint while saving money, a 3 shelf dishwasher is an excellent choice.
➜ Learn More: Standard Dishwasher Size: What It Is and How Much It Fits
Best Third Rack Dishwashers of 2025
Keep reading to learn more about five of the best third rack dishwashers 2025 has to offer, including top-control and built-in dishwashers.
GE 24” Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel Built In Dishwasher
Shop GE 24” Built In Dishwasher
Tackle big messes with ease—this GE 24” built-in dishwasher combines powerful cleaning with smart features for effortless performance.
The third rack offers an open design without fixed compartments, giving you the flexibility to fit everything from long utensils to small bowls. There aren’t any smart features, so this dishwasher leans more toward reliable performance than advanced smart tech.
Yet features like AutoSense and Steam + Sani add intelligence to each wash. ENERGY STAR certification and the efficient AutoSense wash cycle make it a smart choice for households that want effective cleaning without high utility costs.
Top Features
- Flexible Third Rack – Wide-open design fits lids, spatulas, and small bowls to boost capacity.
- Deep-Cleaning Bottle Jets – Targeted jets clean narrow items like baby bottles and travel mugs.
- Steam + Sani Cycle – Loosens grime and kills 99.999% of bacteria for a hygienic clean.
⭐Featured Third Rack Dishwasher Review:
"I’m really happy with my purchase of the GE dishwasher. The third row is a great idea, I use for my kids cup lids or bottle tops and my taller utensils so they won’t interfere with the sprayer arm. My dishes have been coming out cleaner, dryer, and there is plenty of room for a day's worth of dishes! I was able to purchase mine on sale and it was well worth every dollar!"
Cafe 24” Fingerprint Resistant Matte Black Top Control Built In Dishwasher
Shop Cafe 24” Matte Black Top Control Built In Dishwasher
Combining sleek design with smart functionality, this GE Café 24” dishwasher offers powerful performance and luxury-level convenience.
We love the stylish and sleek Matte Black finish. The CustomFit Top Rack and Lid Caddy offer excellent flexibility for loading a wide range of items, while the third rack and bottle jets ensure thorough cleaning even in hard-to-reach spots.
With SmartHQ integration, users can control cycles remotely and even get improved wash performance over time through Smart Assist learning.
Top Features
- Ultra Wash & Dual Convection Dry – Powerful jets and dual-fan drying leave dishes clean and dry, even plastics and fine china.
- SmartHQ & Smart Assist – Control and monitor via Wi-Fi; Smart Assist learns your habits for better performance.
- CustomFit Racks & Lid Caddy – Flexible loading for tall items, lids, and straws to ensure thorough cleaning every time.
Bosch 800 Series 24” Stainless Steel Top Control Built In Dishwasher
Shop Bosch 800 Series 24” Top Control Built In Dishwasher
Get powerful performance in a refined package—this Bosch 800 Series dishwasher delivers advanced cleaning, smart tech, and whisper-quiet operation.
Its flexible third rack expands to fit deeper items, giving you more capacity without compromising space for pots and pans. Powered by Home Connect, the Smart Cycle recommends the optimal settings for each load, making your dishwashing routine effortless and efficient.
ENERGY STAR-certified and equipped with CrystalDry, it not only saves energy but also ensures your dishes—even plastics—come out completely dry.
Top Features
- Flexible 3rd Rack – Adjustable wings and tines fit bulky items like ramekins and utensils.
- PrecisionWash + PowerControl – Smart sensors and spray arm deliver a deep, targeted clean.
- CrystalDry Technology – Dries every item—even plastics—with heat up to 176˚F for cabinet-ready results.
Monogram 24” Custom Panel Built In Dishwasher
Shop Monogram 24” Custom Panel Built In Dishwasher
Enjoy top-tier cleaning behind a custom panel—this Monogram 24” dishwasher delivers premium power with a tailored, integrated look.
Its expansive third rack adjusts to fit everything from flatware to soup ladles, while over 90 powerful jets ensure complete cleaning coverage. With built-in smart features, LED interior lighting, and ultra-quiet 39 dBA operation, it's as luxurious as it is functional.
Equipped with a Max Dry system, it also delivers outstanding efficiency and dryness—even for tricky items like glassware.
Top Features
- 90+ Jet Wash System – Powerful jets clean every corner for spotless results on all items.
- Adjustable Third Rack – Fits full flatware sets and large tools like ladles and knives.
- Max Dry System – Delivers thorough drying with optimized heat and airflow—no towel needed.
Thermador Emerald 24” Stainless Steel Top Control Built In Dishwasher
Shop Thermador Emerald 24” Top Control Built In Dishwasher
This Thermador 24” top-control dishwasher offers an impressive blend of power, smart technology, and flexibility, all in a sleek, ENERGY STAR-certified design.
Its Chef’s Tool Drawer provides a dedicated space for hard-to-place utensils, while the 3-level adjustable upper rack adds even more capacity and versatility.
The Home Connect app and Sens-A-Wash system take the guesswork out of cleaning with intelligent adjustments and remote control features.
With a quiet 48 dBA operation and performance-boosting options like PowerBoost and Extra Dry, it delivers exceptional cleaning and drying efficiency.
Top Features
- Chef’s Tool Drawer – Perfect for long or awkward items like whisks and spatulas.
- Smart Tech + Sens-A-Wash – Remote control via Home Connect; auto-adjusts settings for optimal cleaning.
- PowerBoost + Extra Dry – Extra power for tough messes and higher heat for drier, ready-to-use results.
Is a Third Rack Dishwasher Right for You?
Have you been wondering, “Do I need a third rack dishwasher?”
Now is the perfect time to invest in a third rack model. With benefits like increased space, better organization, modern cleaning features, and energy savings, it’s easy to see why so many homeowners are making the switch.
At Slager, we carry a variety of third rack dishwashers from trusted brands like GE, Bosch, and Thermador, and our team is here to help you find the perfect fit for your kitchen. Visit one of our Iowa locations or browse our selection online to discover the best third rack dishwasher for your home.
➜ Learn More: 2 Top-Rated GE Auto Dishwashers
Frequently Asked Questions
A third rack dishwasher features an extra, shallow rack at the top of the machine. It’s designed to hold silverware, cooking utensils, and small dishware, keeping them separated for better cleaning. This frees up space on the lower racks for larger items and improves water circulation for superior wash performance.
Yes! Third rack dishwashers improve cleaning results by preventing overcrowding and allowing better water flow. Utensils and small items are laid flat, which helps them get a more thorough wash compared to being stacked in a silverware basket. Many third rack models also include dedicated spray jets for enhanced cleaning power.
Absolutely! If you need more loading space, better organization, and improved efficiency, a third rack dishwasher is a smart investment. Homeowners love the convenience of extra space, reduced need for handwashing, and energy savings that come with these modern models.
Yes! Many third rack dishwashers come with adjustable or removable third racks, allowing you to customize the space. If you need to fit tall glasses, large serving dishes, or oversized pots, you can simply adjust or take out the third rack.
Several top brands offer high-quality third rack dishwashers, including Bosch, KitchenAid, Whirlpool, GE, and LG. At Slager, we carry a variety of top-rated dishwashers, and our knowledgeable team can help you choose the best model based on your needs and budget.
Why Trust Slager Appliances?
Founded over 70 years ago, Slager Appliances is a family-owned, independent appliance retailer based out of Iowa City, IA. Slager has competitive prices and industry knowledge in delivering and installing all major appliance brands. Large enough to offer competitive pricing yet small enough to continue offering the “white glove” service we pride ourselves on, our focus is always on the customer experience — from the first step into a showroom to the purchase transaction to well after your new appliance has been installed.
Whether you need to replace an old appliance, or if you’re remodeling and need an entire kitchen full of new brand-name products we are with you all the way. We will work with you to find a product that fits your needs, budget, and lifestyle.
Shop Third Rack Dishwashers at Slager Appliances
Don’t put off until tomorrow what you can do today, and shop appliances online at Slager Appliances. Our friendly experts are always happy to help you find the best third rack dishwashers for your kitchen— whether you call us at 319-337-3833, email us, or use our online chat feature. Better yet, stop by any of our Slager Appliances in Iowa City, IA. Visit us today!