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If you want faster unloading, neater cutlery separation, and more usable space on every cycle, a dishwasher with a utensil rack on top is a smart upgrade. These units move forks and spoons out of cramped baskets, reduce jostling during the wash, and can make small items easier to access after drying. This guide shortlists the top options with top-mounted utensil racks and explains the practical tradeoffs you should expect. We evaluated models on wash performance, rack design, and everyday usability to help you pick the right machine for your kitchen setup. Read on for the criteria we used and what matters most when choosing one of these dishwashers.
Top Picks at a Glance
| Best Overall The best all-around choice for most situations | LG LDTS5552S Dishwasher |  |
| Best Quality Built to a higher standard if you want something more solid | ZLINE Monument Dishwasher DWMTZ-304-24-CB |  |
| Best Value The sweet spot between price and what you get | Kenmore 24" Built-In Dishwasher |  |
| Best Budget The cheapest option that still gets the job done reliably | Kenmore 24" Built-In Dishwasher |  |
| Top Rated A top-rated pick with lots of positive feedback | Sharp SDW4523MS 18-Inch Dishwasher |  |
| Most Popular A crowd favorite that many people choose with confidence | Samsung Bespoke Dishwasher DW80B7070US |  |
| Best Seller A high-volume bestseller chosen again and again | Sharp SDW6726MS Dishwasher |  |
LG LDTS5552S Dishwasher
| Installation Type | Built-In |
|---|---|
| Noise | 46 db |
| Controls Type | Push Button |
| Cycle Options | Turbo Cycle, Express Cycle |
| Display | LED |
The LG LDTS5552S is a built-in top-control dishwasher designed for everyday household cleaning with an added third rack for utensils and small items. QuadWash uses four multi-directional spray arms to reach dishes from multiple angles, while TrueSteam and Dynamic Dry with Auto Air improve drying and reduce water spots on glassware. The adjustable third rack increases loading flexibility for utensils, spatulas, and small bowls, and the PrintProof stainless finish helps resist fingerprints. At 46 dBA the unit runs quietly enough for open-plan kitchens and nighttime cycles. Controls are push-button with an LED display and the cycle options include Turbo and Express for quicker loads. Limitations include a single-voltage design and the standard built-in configuration, so installation requires compatible cabinetry and a 120 V connection, and the feature set focuses on cleaning and drying rather than advanced smart integrations.
Best for: Buyers who want a quiet, reliable built-in dishwasher with a dedicated top utensil rack and strong cleaning and drying performance for everyday family use.
Less Ideal for: People seeking a portable unit, models with extensive smart-home connectivity, or who need a non-standard voltage installation.
- QuadWash four-arm system for more complete coverage and fewer missed spots
- TrueSteam and Dynamic Dry with Auto Air reduce water spots and boost drying performance
- Adjustable 3rd rack provides a dedicated top space for utensils and small items
- Quiet 46 dBA operation suited to open-concept kitchens
- PrintProof stainless finish resists fingerprints and keeps the exterior looking cleaner
- Requires standard built-in installation and 120 V wiring so not suitable for portable or counter-top use
- No explicit smart-home or Wi-Fi features listed in the product details
Verdict: If you want a quiet, hard-working built-in dishwasher with a dedicated top utensil rack and strong cleaning and drying features, the LG LDTS5552S is a solid choice.
ZLINE Monument Dishwasher DWMTZ-304-24-CB
| Installation Type | Built-In |
|---|---|
| Noise | 43.98 db |
| Controls Type | Touch |
| Cycle Options | Delicate, Rinse, Normal, Intensive |
| Material Type | Stainless Steel |
The ZLINE Monument DWMTZ-304-24-CB is a built-in 24-inch dishwasher aimed at buyers who want robust cleaning power with chef‑style conveniences. It features a dedicated third utensil rack at the top for flatware and small items, four bottle wash jets for narrow glassware, and a multi-motion DuraWash spray system that targets dishes from multiple angles. The interior is 304-grade stainless steel with heated dry and a UV LED to reduce odors between cycles, while adjustable racks and foldable tines make it easy to fit tall glasses or bulky pots. Controls are a concealed top touch panel with an LED display and a floor timer that projects remaining time. Noise is low enough for open kitchens at around 44 dBA. Trade-offs include the unit's built-in form factor, which requires compatible cabinetry and installation, and its premium features add complexity compared with simple compact models. For buyers needing a third rack and focused cleaning performance, this model packs useful, professionally minded features into a stylish package.
Best for: Buyers who prioritize cleaning performance and kitchen-ready features like a top utensil rack and bottle jets and want a built-in appliance that handles varied loads efficiently.
Less Ideal for: People seeking a portable or freestanding dishwasher or those who want a very simple low-maintenance unit without advanced drying or specialty wash features.
- Dedicated third utensil rack for organized flatware and small items
- DuraWash multi-motion spray system and 4 bottle wash jets for thorough cleaning of narrow items
- 304-grade stainless steel interior with heated dry for better drying and durability
- Concealed top touch controls with LED floor timer for a clean look and visible cycle time projection
- Ultra-quiet operation around 44 dBA suitable for running cycles any time
- Built-in installation required, so not suitable for freestanding use
- Advanced features increase installation and service complexity compared with basic models
Verdict: If you want a built-in dishwasher that delivers strong, targeted cleaning and a dedicated top utensil rack for organized loads, the ZLINE Monument is a performance-focused choice.
Kenmore 24" Built-In Dishwasher
| Capacity | 15 place settings |
|---|---|
| Noise | 49 db |
| Installation Type | Built-In |
| Controls Type | Touch |
| Cycle Options | Sensor Wash |
This Kenmore-branded 24" dishwasher is built around a three-rack layout that includes an EasyFlex removable third rack for utensils and small items, plus adjustable middle and lower racks to fit taller cookware. It uses Smart Wash sensor technology to tailor temperature, pressure, and cycle time to soil levels, and the stainless steel tub helps retain heat for the residual-heat dry and resists odors. At 49 dBA it is billed as ultra-quiet for open-plan kitchens, and the three-stage filter and separate silverware basket make maintenance straightforward. Practical loading options such as folding cup shelves with stemware notches and sliding/flexible tines improve fit for mixed loads. Limitations to note are some confusing spec entries in the listing (the capacity field reads oddly) and that this model is presented as a built-in form factor despite appearing in a countertop dishwasher category, so check installation fit and service support before buying. The dishwasher is energy-efficient and feature-rich for everyday family use but verify sizes and hookups for your cabinet opening during planning.
Best for: Buyers who prioritize flexible loading and a dedicated top rack for utensils and small items and who want an energy-efficient, quiet dishwasher for regular household use.
Less Ideal for: Those who need a confirmed countertop-specific unit or who cannot accommodate a 24-inch built-in installation without verifying cabinet dimensions and hookups should look elsewhere.
- Three-rack design with a removable top utensil rack for extra loading flexibility
- Smart Wash sensor cycle adjusts wash parameters to soil level for efficient cleaning
- Stainless steel tub and residual-heat dry improve drying performance and reduce odors
- Ultra-quiet operation at 49 dBA suitable for open kitchens
- Listing contains inconsistent capacity wording that requires verification before purchase
- Presented as built-in form factor but listed under countertop dishwashers which may cause installation confusion
Verdict: Choose this model if you want a three-rack, quiet dishwasher with a removable top utensil rack and sensor wash for flexible, efficient everyday cleaning.
Kenmore 24" Built-In Dishwasher
| Installation Type | Built-In |
|---|---|
| Noise | 49 db |
| Cycle Options | Accela Wash, Delay Start, Extra Dry, Half Load, High Temp |
| Display | LED |
| Number Of Options Cycles | 7 |
The Kenmore 24" built-in dishwasher is a mid-range, ENERGY STAR certified unit designed for everyday household use and families who want a sensible mix of cleaning power and features. It uses UltraWash Plus with three pressurized spray arms and a three-stage filter to remove stuck-on food, while SmartWash automatically adjusts temperature, pressure, and cycle length based on soil level. The removable third rack gives a dedicated spot for utensils and small items so you can load the lower racks more efficiently, and the MoreSpace adjustable upper rack lets you fit taller cookware or stemware. TurboDry combines a fan and heating element to improve drying performance, and an Extra Dry option adds heat time for plastics. Practical protections include a leak-detect system and a Quiet Wash option that cuts noise to 49 dBA. Trade-offs are typical for this price tier: the control set is basic touch with a single display and it lacks advanced connectivity or premium finish options, but it focuses on reliable cleaning, drying, and load flexibility.
Best for: Buyers looking for a practical, budget-conscious built-in dishwasher that emphasizes reliable cleaning and a top utensil rack for daily family use.
Less Ideal for: Shoppers seeking a premium, connected dishwasher with the quietest operation or luxury finishes should consider higher-end models.
- Removable third rack provides a dedicated top utensil area for better organization
- SmartWash auto-adjusts cycle settings to match soil level and save resources
- UltraWash Plus with three spray arms and a fine filter handles stuck-on food effectively
- TurboDry plus Extra Dry option improves drying, including plastics
- ENERGY STAR certified for lower energy and water use
- Controls are basic touch interface without advanced connectivity features
- Sound level at 49 dBA is quiet but not among the quietest models available
Verdict: A budget-minded built-in dishwasher that delivers dependable cleaning and a removable top utensil rack for better load organization.
Sharp SDW4523MS 18-Inch Dishwasher
| Noise | 47 db |
|---|---|
| Installation Type | Built-In |
| Number of settings | 8 |
| Cycle Options | Lower Rack, Normal, Sanitize, Sensor Wash, Top Rack |
| Additional Features | Removable Third Rack, Backlit Touch Controls, Wash Zones |
The Sharp SDW4523MS is a compact built-in dishwasher designed for small kitchens that need a dedicated top utensil rack. It cleans up to eight place settings and includes a removable third rack that keeps flatware and narrow utensils separated for better cleaning and organization. The unit uses smart sensors in Auto and Normal cycles to tailor wash time and water use, and the Wash Zone option lets you run just the upper or lower rack when loads are light. Practical touches include a stainless steel inner tub for durability, a fingerprint-resistant exterior, backlit touch controls with adaptive indicators, and an Auto Door Open feature that speeds drying by venting moisture after a cycle. Noise is restrained at 47 dB, so it will be unobtrusive in open-plan homes. Limitations are its 18-inch width and 8-place capacity, which make it unsuitable for larger households or heavy entertaining, and it lacks the larger capacity and extra cycles found on full-size models. For compact spaces that still need a proper utensil rack, this is a capable, quiet option.
Best for: Buyers who need a reliable, space-saving built-in dishwasher with a dedicated top utensil rack for everyday household loads and value quiet, consistent cleaning.
Less Ideal for: Homes that regularly need to wash large quantities of dishes or host frequent gatherings should choose a full-size dishwasher with higher capacity and more cycle options.
- Removable third rack designed for flatware and utensils keeps small items organized
- Compact 18-inch footprint fits narrow or apartment kitchens
- Stainless steel tub and fingerprint-resistant exterior for durability and easy cleaning
- Smart sensor cycles and Wash Zone option save water on smaller loads
- Quiet 47 dB operation suitable for open-plan living spaces
- Only 8 place setting capacity limits large loads and frequent entertaining
- Fewer wash cycles and smaller capacity compared with full-size dishwashers
Verdict: If you need a compact built-in dishwasher with a reliable top utensil rack and quiet performance for a small kitchen, this Sharp model delivers both practicality and durability.
Samsung Bespoke Dishwasher DW80B7070US
| Installation Type | Built-In |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 1.28 cubic feet |
| Additional Features | 3rd Rack, AutoRelease Door, SmartThings, StormWash, Ultra Quiet |
| Noise | 42 db |
| Water Consumption | 3.2 gph |
This Samsung Bespoke dishwasher is designed for households that want a top utensil rack plus smart features and strong cleaning performance. The third rack gives a dedicated place for utensils and small items so you can free up lower-rack space for plates and pans, while StormWash+ uses dual wash arms and a rotating spray jet to target heavily soiled items without pre-rinsing. The AutoRelease Door and Smart Dry system improve drying by opening the door to circulate air, which is helpful for plastics, and Wi‑Fi/SmartThings lets you start or monitor cycles remotely. Controls are top-mounted touch with an LED display and the unit claims a quiet 42 dBA operation, making it unobtrusive in open kitchens. Practical downsides are the modest 1.28 cu ft capacity that limits large loads per cycle and the energy consumption figure shown, so expect regular water and power use compared with higher-efficiency models. Installation requires a built-in fit and buyers should confirm dimensions and service access before purchase.
Best for: Buyers who prioritize a dedicated top utensil rack and reliable cleaning with smart control and quiet operation, and who value social proof and clear feature trade-offs when choosing appliances.
Less Ideal for: Large families or users who need maximum per-cycle capacity or the most energy-efficient model available should consider larger or higher-efficiency alternatives.
- Third/top utensil rack increases usable space and keeps silverware organized
- StormWash+ dual wash arms and rotating spray jet for intensive cleaning without pre-rinsing
- AutoRelease Door and Smart Dry improve drying performance, especially for plastics
- Wi‑Fi with SmartThings enables remote start, stop and monitoring
- Quiet 42 dBA operation suitable for open-plan kitchens
- Relatively small 1.28 cubic foot capacity limits the amount you can load per cycle
- Listed energy consumption is moderate, so it may use more power than higher-rated models
Verdict: Choose this dishwasher if you want a quiet built-in machine with a top utensil rack, strong targeted cleaning, and smart remote control.
Sharp SDW6726MS Dishwasher
| Installation Type | Built-In |
|---|---|
| Noise | 47 db |
| Water Consumption | 3.5 gph |
| Cycle Options | Economy, Heavy, Normal, Rapid, Rinse |
| Display | Touch Control Panel |
The Sharp SDW6726MS is a 24-inch built-in dishwasher designed for everyday family kitchens where quiet operation and flexible loading matter. It uses an adjustable third rack to keep flatware and utensils on top, freeing the main racks for plates and cookware, and a Power Wash sprayer plus a three-sprayer system for tackling heavily soiled pots. Soil sensors automatically adjust cycles to match load conditions, and the heated dry option speeds up drying compared with passive condensation methods. Front touch controls and a fingerprint-resistant stainless exterior keep the look clean while the recessed pocket handle hides controls when closed. Practical limits include a 12-place setting capacity that is typical for 24-inch units, so very large households may need more frequent runs, and the 47 dB noise level is quiet but still audible in extremely open-plan living spaces. Installation requires a standard built-in cutout and the unit includes energy-efficient features. For buyers prioritizing an organized top utensil rack, sensible cleaning power, and low noise, this model balances those needs well.
Best for: Buyers who want a reliable, low-profile built-in dishwasher with a top utensil rack and quiet daily operation and who prefer straightforward features over high-end bells and whistles.
Less Ideal for: Homes that need very large capacity or the absolute lowest possible noise floor should consider larger or premium models instead.
- Adjustable third rack dedicated to flatware and utensils for better organization
- Library Quiet operation at 47 dB for low-noise cycles
- Power Wash sprayer and three-sprayer system for stronger cleaning on soiled cookware
- Soil sensors that auto-adjust cycles to conserve water and improve results
- Fingerprint-resistant stainless steel exterior with hidden top controls for a tidy look
- 12-place capacity may be limiting for very large households
- Not the absolute quietest on the market, so noise can be noticeable in very open floor plans
Verdict: If you want an affordable built-in dishwasher that keeps utensils neatly on a top rack while delivering quiet, sensor-driven cleaning, the Sharp SDW6726MS is a practical choice.
Choosing the Right Dishwasher with Utensil Rack on Top: Key Factors to Consider
Utensil Rack Design and Placement
Where and how the utensil rack sits affects loading speed and cleaning. A shallow, full-width top rack that is easy to slide in and out reduces bending and fumbling at the sink. Look for molded slots or dividers that keep forks and spoons separated and pointed down or angled to expose surfaces to spray.
Rack placement also changes access to the upper spray patterns. A rack that sits too low can block water to the top of taller items, while a high, slim tray keeps water flow unobstructed but may limit utensil depth. Consider how you typically load silverware and whether the tray orientation will make common items sit securely during wash cycles.
Cleaning Coverage and Spray Design
Effective cleaning for a top utensil rack depends on spray arm reach, nozzle placement, and whether the recycler or targeted jets can reach the shallow tray. Some machines route concentrated sprays across the tray or include dedicated jets for cutlery. Assess whether the dishwasher emphasizes targeted cleaning for small items rather than relying solely on general wash action.
Pay attention to cycle selection and pressure options. Delicate or quick cycles may not deliver enough force to remove dried-on food from silverware, while eco cycles might also reduce temperature and pressure. If you routinely wash greasy or baked-on residue, prioritize models with stronger targeted wash modes or higher-temperature sanitize options.
Interior Capacity and Load Flexibility
Adding a top utensil rack changes available vertical space for cups and tall items. Some designs reclaim overall capacity by allowing both racks to be adjusted, while others reduce usable height on the middle rack. Consider how often you load tall glasses, wine stems, or large cookware and whether the upper rack can be repositioned or removed to accommodate those items.
Flexible tines, fold-flat sections, and adjustable upper-rack heights let you balance cutlery storage against bulky items. If you frequently run mixed loads, favor layouts that allow quick reconfiguration without tools so you do not sacrifice convenience for a separate utensil area.
Drying Performance and Water Drainage
Shallow top racks can trap water in small crevices or on utensil handles, so drying design matters. Look for machines with good internal airflow, heated drying options, or residual-heat strategies that reduce spotting. Tray geometry that allows water to drip back into the tub rather than pool on the rack will speed drying and reduce residue buildup.
Drainage path and cycle timing also affect outcomes. Models with shorter final drains or delayed rinse features can leave more water in the shallow tray. If you prefer fully dry cutlery without towel finishing, give weight to systems engineered to minimize retained moisture in the tray area.
Ease of Use and Everyday Maintenance
A utensil rack should make daily tasks simpler, not add fussy maintenance. Evaluate how easy the tray is to remove for cleaning, whether it snaps securely into place, and if small parts collect food debris. Trays with removable dividers or smooth surfaces are easier to keep sanitary and reduce trapped gunk.
Also consider loading ergonomics: a full-width tray that slides smoothly and locks in position reduces accidental drops. Check whether the rack design prevents rattling during wash cycles and whether common repairs involve simple, widely available parts. Low-maintenance designs save time over the life of the appliance.
Noise Levels and Cycle Variety
Because the utensil rack is typically used in frequent, shorter cycles, the dishwasher's noise and available cycle options matter to daily convenience. Quieter machines are less intrusive for midday runs, and a broader selection of cycles lets you choose faster programs without compromising wash for small loads.
Also factor in specialty cycles such as intensive, sanitize, or quick wash modes. These can be useful when the shallow tray is loaded with heavily soiled cutlery. Balance the desire for speed with the need for effective cleaning by checking whether the available cycles maintain enough temperature and pressure for thorough cutlery cleaning.
How a Top Utensil Rack Changes Daily Loading
A top utensil rack fundamentally changes how you approach loading and unloading. Moving flatware out of the lower baskets frees space for plates and bowls and makes it easier to place cookware without tines getting in the way. For people who empty the dishwasher straight into drawers, the shallow tray speeds transfer because it keeps items more organized.
Practical loading habits shift with this design. You will likely separate small kitchen tools and measuring spoons into specific tray zones, and you may need to adjust where you put long-handled utensils to prevent them from overhanging into spray paths. The result is typically fewer nested items and more predictable cleaning outcomes.
- Faster unloading because utensils are spread out and visible
- Less risk of nesting and missed surfaces compared with cutlery baskets
- Requires minor habit changes for placing long or oddly shaped items
Placement and Clearance Considerations
Before installing or replacing a dishwasher, consider vertical clearance and how the top utensil rack will interact with the countertop and cabinets. Some top racks add a slight amount of height to interior components that can limit how high the upper rack sits.
If you have an under-counter microwave drawer or specialty cabinetry, confirm that the dishwasher door and rack motion fit your layout. Small changes in installation height can alter the ease of sliding the tray and the angle at which utensils rest, so plan for a brief trial with the chosen configuration.
- Measure interior clearances when planning for tall glasses or stemware
- Confirm door swing and access to the upper tray in tight kitchen spaces
Cleaning Small or Specialty Items
Top utensil racks are particularly useful for delicate or small tools that would otherwise rattle in the lower baskets. Items like paring knives, small whisks, and plastic lids often wash better when separated on a shallow tray because they do not block each other and receive more uniform spray.
Be mindful of sharp objects. While the tray improves security for many items, very sharp knives may still be better washed by hand or placed with their points down and handles secured so they do not shift during the cycle.
- Good for small gadgets, measuring spoons, and chopsticks
- Take care when washing sharp knives; secure them to prevent movement
Routine Cleaning and Preventive Care
Maintain the utensil tray by removing it periodically and rinsing away trapped food particles. Because this tray sits near the top of the tub it can collect fine debris that escapes the filter, so a quick weekly rinse prevents buildup and odor.
Inspect the track or clips for wear and clear away limescale or mineral deposits that can impede smooth sliding. Regularly run a cleaning cycle or a high-temperature rinse to keep internal channels and spray arms clear, which benefits cutlery cleaning performance.
- Remove and rinse the tray weekly to prevent trapped debris
- Check clips and slides for wear and clean mineral deposits as needed
When a Top Rack Might Not Be Ideal
If you frequently wash very tall glasses, large platters, or heavy cookware, a permanent top utensil tray can reduce usable vertical space and complicate loading. Some users prefer removable trays or fold-flat systems that allow the upper area to be converted when needed.
Also, if you rarely run partial loads and tend to fill the dishwasher completely, a traditional full-depth lower basket may offer slightly more capacity. Consider whether your household benefits from the unloading and organizing gains of a top tray more than the marginal capacity tradeoff.
- Consider removable or adjustable trays if you often wash large items
- Households with consistently full loads may prefer standard lower baskets
How We Chose the Best Dishwasher with Utensil Rack on Top
We focused on features and performance qualities that directly affect how useful a dishwasher with a top utensil rack is in daily life. Key evaluation criteria included wash coverage and spray arm design to ensure the smaller items on the shallow rack receive consistent cleaning, and rack geometry plus adjustability so cutlery fits securely without blocking water flow. We also assessed interior layout and load capacity to understand how the top utensil rack impacts usable space for plates and cookware. Drying performance and drainage mattered because shallow racks often retain water; we looked for designs that minimize pooling and speed drying. Durability and serviceability were considered to avoid picks with fragile rack fittings or hard-to-replace components. Noise level and cycle options were included because a top utensil rack is often paired with shorter specialty cycles that must still clean well. We excluded models that lack a dedicated top utensil tray or that relegated small items to unstable baskets; units had to provide a stable, purpose-built shallow rack. The resulting selection emphasizes practical usability and consistent cleaning results across common household loads.
Our full evaluation process is outlined in our review methodology.
FAQ
Does a top utensil rack clean silverware as well as a basket?
Often, yes. A properly designed top tray exposes more surfaces and prevents nesting, which can improve cleaning. However, effectiveness depends on spray reach, cycle selection, and how utensils are placed.
Will a top utensil rack reduce the dishwasher's capacity?
It can reduce vertical space for the middle rack, but many designs reclaim capacity through adjustable racks and foldable tines. The net effect varies by interior layout and how you load other items.
Are top utensil racks easy to remove and clean?
Usually they are removable for rinsing and cleaning. Look for trays with simple release mechanisms and smooth surfaces to make maintenance quick and to avoid trapped debris.
Can I wash sharp knives in a top utensil rack?
You can, but exercise caution. Secure knife points down and ensure they do not sit loosely where they could shift. For very sharp or valuable knives, hand washing is still recommended by many users.
Do top utensil racks affect drying performance?
They can. Because the tray is shallow, water may cling to utensils unless the dishwasher has effective drainage and drying features. Models with heated drying, good airflow, or clever tray drainage will dry cutlery better.
Are there special cycles I should use with a top utensil rack?
Shorter or eco cycles might be convenient for light loads, but heavily soiled cutlery often needs higher temperature or more aggressive spray settings. Choose a cycle that balances speed with adequate water pressure and temperature.
Final Verdict
A dishwasher with a top utensil rack can streamline unloading, reduce nesting, and keep small items better organized. Prioritize models with thoughtful tray geometry, solid spray coverage, and adjustable interior layouts so the rack improves daily convenience without sacrificing cleaning performance. Weigh the tradeoffs between a small loss of vertical space and the practical benefits of faster unloading and neater cutlery. If your routine includes frequent small loads or lots of utensils and gadgets, a top utensil rack is likely a worthwhile feature.