Few things are as frustrating as falling into a game of Tetris when it comes time to load a dishwasher. Of course, unless that means having to take a dish out of the dishwashing machine to make room for essential dinnerware and leaving you to do dish duty. Thankfully, there are smarter dishwasher designs made with these situations in mind, and for our money, a KitchenAid dishwasher with a third rack is one of the best solutions to the problem.
Offering one of the top-rated third rack dishwasher lineups of any class, KitchenAid proves once again that it’s a master of form, function, and performance—and our experts are happy to tell you why. Discover the better way to load dishes in this KitchenAid dishwasher review where we highlight the collection’s best features that help make dish care a load-and-go job.
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Shop KitchenAid DishwashersKitchenAid Dishwasher Features That Maximize Loadability
There’s a reason KitchenAid dishwashers rank number one among buyers in J.D. Power surveys year after year. On top of stunning looks, these premium dishwashing machines deliver where it matters most: the user experience and wash performance. Take a look at these top highlights that differentiate a KitchenAid 3rd rack dishwasher from the competition.
Made for Custom Loads
Learning how to load a KitchenAid dishwasher is part of the joy in its user experience. That’s because KitchenAid dishwashers are crafted with dynamic rack systems, beginning with adjustable middle racks. With multiple positions to switch between at the simple press of a tab, a KitchenAid dishwasher rack adjuster is a lifesaver when it comes to making extra space for tall or bulky items in the dishwasher.
For even more versatility, KitchenAid offers adjustable tines on the middle and lower wash racks. These tines collapse to accommodate larger cookware and containers of a wide range of shapes and sizes. Need an inch or two for a colander, roasting pans, or a carafe? Lay the tines down and instantly gain extra space.
Select KitchenAid dishwashing machines also offer stemware holders (up to four) that secure wine glasses along the rack side during wash cycle, adding an extra level of dish care for every piece in the collection.
The Most Dishwasher Space in Its Class
The only thing better than a customizable dishwasher rack system is having plenty of room to enjoy all the added perks. As the largest capacity dishwasher in its class*,the KitchenAid MaxTub dishwasher gives users the ultimate loading freedom to place dishes with peace of mind—no matter the size. True to the brand’s thoughtful design, the manufacturer takes advantage of the largest KitchenAid dishwasher size, using the extra space for upgrades like the 360° Max Jets Third Rack, which holds up to 10 additional glasses and mugs.
Add that to the industry’s title for the largest 3rd rack dishwasher, and it’s safe to say KitchenAid offers more bang for the buck when it comes to place settings and loading flexibility.
*Based on volume
Luxury Touches for a Premium Experience
It’s a small detail, but pulling out a dishwasher with heavy items can feel like a chore. That’s why KitchenAid SatinGlide Rails on third and middle racks are such a welcome addition to the loading system. This specialty rack system provides a smooth, quiet rolling mechanism that enhances the loading and unloading experience. These precision-engineered rails support the weight of fully loaded racks to prevent sticking or wobbling, even when handling heavy dishes or cookware.
The design allows the racks to slide in and out effortlessly, to give you better access to hard-to-reach items, especially in back corners.
Enjoy Superior Dish Care with These Extra Features
Owning a KitchenAid dishwasher with the largest capacity is great enough, but additional, exclusive features found throughout the collection add the cherry to the top of the experience. Check out these KitchenAid dishwasher features that make dinnertime cleanup easier and more efficient.
➕Found Only on KitchenAid Dishwashers
No other dishwasher brand gives you features like these. The 360° Max Jets Third Rack is the only one equipped with full-circle wash jets that clean the inside and outside of pint glasses, coffee mugs, and cereal bowls.
As the largest 3rd rack dishwasher option among leading brands, the KitchenAid’s premium third tray model also includes a removable utensil compartment for long tools and moisture-wicking tines that help dry items faster. Combined with over 50 total wash jets across four spray arms, KitchenAid dishwashers deliver targeted cleaning in every rack, so there’s no need to pre-rinse, even on heavily soiled items.
➕Upgrade for Top Cleaning Features
Models starting with KDPM604K and KDTM604K and above are built for those who want powerful performance without sacrificing time or peace. With these models, users get features like the Express Wash Cycle, which cleans 72% better than the Bosch SHX9PCM5N Speed 60 cycle, all in under an hour.
This gives KitchenAid KDPM604K and KDTM604K owners the freedom to quickly wash and reuse dishes between prepping, serving, or entertaining, so there's no need to wait for a full cycle. Best of all, these models also operate at a quiet 44 dBA, which makes them ideal for open-concept kitchens or late-night cleanups.
Learn More: KitchenAid Ovens: What Makes Them So Popular?
Featured KitchenAid Dishwashers
Looking for the perfect KitchenAid dishwasher with a third rack and features for special types of dishes? Our KitchenAid dishwasher reviews reveal how the lineup’s top spotlight models stack up
KitchenAid® 24" PrintShield™ Stainless Steel Built In Dishwasher
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Quiet enough to run during dinner and powerful enough to tackle tough food messes, the KitchenAid KDPM604KPS blends convenience with thoughtful design. Its FreeFlex Third Rack accommodates everything from cereal bowls to mugs, with rotating wash jets and a removable utensil tray that frees up space below.
Like many of over 1,800 owners who give this top-rated dishwasher 5/5 stars, buyers love the adjustable middle rack that adds extra clearance that comes in handy for blenders, carafes, sports drinks, and more. As an added touch of detail, the KitchenAid dishwasher stemware clip keeps glasses secure while powerful jets deliver sparkling results ready to enjoy for the next pour.
⭐Featured KitchenAid KDPM604KPS Review:
“I did some research to compare the models available and chose this one. I was impressed by the third rack having its own sprayer, something other models do not have, Since we intend to have this dishwasher for 25+ years, as we did our previous dishwasher, it was worth the time, effort and money to install one that we will be happy with.”
KitchenAid® 24" PrintShield™ Stainless Steel Built In Dishwasher
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Loading awkward dishes no longer feels like a puzzle with the KitchenAid KDTM704KPS model. Its signature FreeFlex third rack handles deep bowls, glasses, and cooking tools with ease, thanks to targeted wash jets and a smart drying bar. It’s complemented by an adjustable middle rack that alternates between heights for tall items like blender jars or mixing bowls without minimal rearranging.
Meanwhile, the Advanced Clean Water Wash System ensures each load, from delicate glassware to greasy pots, gets a fresh stream of microfiltered water. Add in its whisper-quiet 44 dBA operation, and you’ve got a dishwasher that works hard without disrupting your kitchen.
⭐Featured KitchenAid KDTM704KPS Review:
“This is a FANTASTIC dishwasher. It appears to be very well engineered, with loads of great features. FAR BETTER than the brand new LG that broke as soon as it was installed.”
The superior cleaning of a KitchenAid dishwasher only gets better when it’s matched by the many loading features found throughout the collection. Made to hold every piece of dinnerware all in a single load, KitchenAid dishwashing machines showcase brilliant craft and thoughtful design, solidifying their spot as a leader in the dishwasher segment and one of the best mid price dishwasher lineups for buyers. To explore even more great features and models from the KitchenAid lineup, visit Don’s Appliances today!
Frequently Asked Questions
KitchenAid dishwashers have earned several accolades for their performance and designs, including J.D. Power Customer Satisfaction awards and Red Dot Awards.
KitchenAid dishwashers are owned and manufactured by Whirlpool Corporation, one of the largest appliance companies in the world.
KitchenAid dishwashers are primarily made in the United States, with manufacturing facilities located in Findlay, Ohio, and Tulsa, Oklahoma. These U.S.-based plants are operated by Whirlpool Corporation, which owns the KitchenAid brand.
KitchenAid dishwashers typically last between 10 to 15 years with proper maintenance and regular use.
The run time of a KitchenAid dishwasher depends on the cycle you select. Standard and sensor-based cycles, such as Sanitize or Heavy Wash, can last between 3 to 4 hours to ensure thorough cleaning and drying. Shorter options like Express Wash typically take 30 to 60 minutes for lighter loads or quick turnarounds.
Why Trust Don’s Appliances?
Founded in 1971, Don’s Appliances is a family-owned, independent appliance retailer based out of Pittsburgh, PA. Don’s has since expanded to 10 locations selling, delivering, installing, and servicing 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.
When our customers are remodeling or building a new house, Don’s has all the expertise, product knowledge, inventory, brands, displays, and services to meet and exceed your needs. And in the event an appliance breaks, we are there, right on time and with the right product, delivery, installation, and service.
Shop KitchenAid Dishwashers at Don’s
Don’t put off until tomorrow what you can do today, and shop dishwashers online at Don’s Appliance. Our friendly experts are always happy to guide you through all the benefits of a KitchenAid third rack dishwasher — whether you call us at 866-544-1711, email us, or use our online chat feature. Better yet, stop by any of our Don’s Appliances Pittsburgh, PA warehouse locations. Visit us today!
Learn More: KitchenAid French Door Refrigerators: Pros & Cons