Simple Solutions

How to Repair a Rusted Dishwasher Rack

By: Joe Truini
Applying dishwasher rack coating to rusty tines on dishwasher rack.

Joe Truini applying dishwasher rack coating to tines on dishwasher rack.

The plastic coating on dishwasher racks can wear off over time. To extend the life of your dishwasher rack:

  1. Snip off the end of the rusted tines with wire cutting pliers.
  2. Lightly sand the metal to remove any rust.
  3. Apply dishwasher rack coating (available at appliance stores) to the bare ends. To speed the process, turn the rack upside down, and dip each tine in the bottle of coating.
  4. Allow the plastic coating to dry at least 24 hours before using the dishwasher.

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5 Comments on “How to Repair a Rusted Dishwasher Rack”

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  • Judy Jenson Says:
    October 19th, 2018 at 6:51 pm

    jdjenson@aol.com
    I have 2 stainless steel dishwashers by Monogram. The insides top & bottom roll out dish holders are rusted to the very bottom of the tine. It breaks off. I wanted to buy new inserts but they took them off the market. These were expensive. I have a kosher kitchen & it makes me very angry that I have new looking outsides & rusted away insides. I paid extra for all stainless steel. Didn’t realize they’d cheap out on the insides. How to fix this or is there something to buy that’s comparable! Thanks


  • Helen coughlin Says:
    August 20th, 2018 at 8:34 am

    Rust on bottom racks, ruingmy new white dishes..what can I use to repair this problem.

  • Official Comment:


    Thomas Boni Says:
    May 28th, 2018 at 12:30 pm

    Hi, Rintin!
    You could buy replacement tips and use vinyl repair paint for the job.
    Try this resource: https://www.familyhandyman.com/appliance-repair/dishwasher-repair/dishwasher-repair-fix-a-dishwasher-rack/view-all/


  • Rintin Mukherji Says:
    May 27th, 2018 at 8:56 pm

    Some of my dishwasher tines are completely broken at the base. What’s the cheapest and easiest way to completely replace the broken ones?
    Thanks in advance for your response.


  • Patty Says:
    January 11th, 2018 at 2:41 pm

    My rust on my dishwasher rack is not on the prong tips, but at the bottom. I’ve even had some break off. I really don’t want to buy a new rack, but the epoxy I’ve used hasn’t lasted. Any suggestions?

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How to Repair a Rusted Dishwasher Rack