While nobody likes washing up, owning a practical dish drainer will make this job much easier. Especially if you don't own a dishwasher, and even more so if your household tends to get through a lot of plates, pots, bowls, mugs, cutlery... and more, every single day. Dish drainers aren't just a practical kitchen buy, but they even, in some cases, can add a sense of style to your kitchen worktop. They can also make your kitchen appear neat, even when you've an entire dinner set air drying on your side.
When it comes to choosing a dish rack, there are lots of types out there, including in-sink drainers and foldable ones, that can be hidden away in a cupboard or drawer when not in use. There are even two-tier options for larger families, or opt for a drying mat if you wash up every now and then.
Whether you are simply after functionality or something that matches the look of your kitchen, we have picked out the best dish drainers and dish racks to make washing up as hassle free as can be. Not to mention stylish – who said dish drainers have to be boring by default? Not us...
If you have officially had enough of doing the dishes, check out our best dishwashers guide – owning a dishwasher won't negate the need for a dish rack, but if you have space, it will cut your time spent at the sink.
The best dish drainers and dish racks to keep your kitchen tidy
1. Joseph Joseph Connect Adjustable 3-Piece Dish Rack
Material: Plastic
Size: H11cmx W22cm x D27cm
2. simplywire Black Dish Drainer with Cutlery Basket
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Material: Steel
Size: L44.6cm x W29.5cm x H12.5cm
3. Brabantia Compact Dish Drying Rack
Material: Plastic and corrosion resistant metal
Size: H14.2cm x L49.2cm x D38.6cm
4. TOMORAL Dish Rack
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Material: 304 stainless steel
Size: H39cm x W25.5 x L42.5cm
5. OXO Good Grips Foldaway Dish Rack
Material: Plastic, Metal
Size: H10.4cm x L51.3cm x D33cm
6. simplehuman Black Dishrack
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Material: Plastic, steel
Size: H16.5cm x W33cm x D37cm
7. Umbra Tub Dish Drying Rack
Material: Plastic
Size: L33cm x W37cm x H18cm
8. Lakeland Diamond Glass Drying Mat
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Material: Microfibre fabric
Size: L46cm x W41cm
9. John Lewis & Partners Modern Country Beech Dish Drainer
Material: Beech wood
Size: H27cm x W32.5cm x D49cm
10. ILO Clam Shell Small Dish Drainer Rack
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Material: Plastic
Size: 31.5cm x 38.5cm x H14cm
What to look for when buying a dish drainer?
How much crockery can it hold?
Before you buy, bear in mind that it's not just about how it looks – you need to think about your kitchen worktops and how much room you have. If you often have lots of washing up, then a double-tiered dish rack will save you taking up too much space. Or, if it's only mugs and glasses you need to drain, sometimes a mat can be less intrusive. If you have a dishwasher you only really need space for anything that isn't dishwasher friendly (though it helps to have enough room for a full load when your dishwasher is already full).
Display or put away?
For those who like to keep their kitchen looking like a showroom, then a fold away dish rack will allow you to pretend the washing up never existed once it’s dried. Foldaway ones are also less likely to be susceptible to the build-up of limescale or dirt because they are not left with stagnant water on them after the dishes have been put away, too.
Material
Metal racks are strong and usually more slimline, but look for one that won't corrode – it will have water on it after all. Plastic racks are very easy to clean so if you go for plastic, find a durable offering that is built to last.
Where to buy a dish drainer?
Didn't find a dish drainer that you love above? Not to worry: there are plenty more dish racks out there to browse. Just click through our list below to shop for more – by retailer.
