Adding a plate rack to your kitchen can be a great way to free up cabinet space, keep dishes organized, and enhance your kitchen’s style. With so many options for materials, mounting styles, sizes and configurations, there are many possibilities when it comes to incorporating a plate rack. Read on for 13 great ways to add this functional and decorative element to your cooking space.
Consider Where to Mount Your Plate Rack
When deciding where to install your plate rack, think about ease of access and visibility. Here are some of the most popular locations:
Wall Mounted
Mounting a plate rack on the wall is a classic option that keeps dishes up and out of the way. Wall mounted racks work especially well above counters or islands, keeping plates within arm’s reach while cooking or cleaning. Just be sure to install securely into wall studs for safety.
Ceiling Mounted
Hanging a plate rack from the ceiling is an excellent choice for smaller kitchens. Opt for a rack with cables that allow you to adjust the height to suit your needs. Ceiling racks are great above islands and peninsulas.
Cabinet Mounted
Installing racks on cabinet doors or sides is convenient for keeping dishes, mugs and glasses right where you need them. Open shelving works well too. Just be mindful of weight limits for your cabinetry.
Freestanding
Freestanding plate racks on legs take up floor space but can serve as decorative accent pieces. They work well in corners, next to counters or on open shelves. Rotate for access from all sides.
Under Cabinet Mounted
Racks installed directly underneath upper cabinets keep dishes neatly tucked away but still accessible. Allow for some space between rack and counter for easy plate loading.
Choose a Material for Function and Style
Plate racks come in a variety of materials to suit both your functional needs and kitchen’s decor. Consider these popular options:
Metal
Sturdy, durable and often inexpensive, metal is one of the most common rack materials. It comes in finishes like stainless steel, black, copper and brass. Select chrome plated steel or powder coated metal for a corrosion resistant option.
Wood
Wood brings natural warmth and beauty to your kitchen. Opt for moisture-resistant woods like teak or bamboo. Unfinished, stained or painted wood racks fit nicely with many decors.
Plastic
Plastic and acrylic racks are budget-friendly, low maintenance and water resistant. Go for high-quality, BPA-free plastic that is durable and won’t warp over time.
Wicker
For a breezy, beachy look, wicker plate racks add texture and style. Just take care not to overload wicker racks, as the material is less sturdy than metal or wood.
Wire
Basic wire racks are affordable and allow for air circulation and drainage. Choose vinyl coated wires for a smooth, easy to clean finish. Wire racks work nicely with a rustic or industrial aesthetic.
Determine the Best Size for Your Space
Plate racks come in a variety of lengths and plate capacities. Decide how much storage you need, while also considering your kitchen’s dimensions.
Small
Holding around 6-12 plates, small racks work well in compact kitchens. They can mount on the wall, inside a cabinet or sit on the counter conveniently.
Medium
If you need storage for approximately 15-30 plates, a medium sized rack is a good choice. Medium racks store a substantial amount of dishware without dominating space.
Large
For bigger kitchens and dish collections, choose an oversized rack with space for 30-60 plates. Large racks make a bold statement and may even replace upper cabinets.
Extra Large
Accommodate heaps of plates and bowls with an extra large rack. These substantial racks hold up to 80 pieces of dishware, keeping everything organized in one spot.
Decide on Rack Configuration
Plate racks come in vertical and horizontal orientations, each with their own advantages.
Vertical
Best for wall mounting, vertical racks store plates upright in a column. This orientation is space efficient and allows for quick access to dishes.
Horizontal
Horizontal racks display plates and bowls on their sides. Long and low, these racks work nicely for cabinet mounting or setting on counters.
Combination
Some racks combine vertical and horizontal bars for the ultimate versatility. Get the benefits of both orientations in one space saving rack.
Choose Between Open and Enclosed Racks
Another key decision is whether you want an open rack or one with an enclosed back panel.
Open
Open plate racks have visible wiring, perfect for showing off beautiful dishware. Open racks encourage air circulation, allowing dishes to dry efficiently.
Enclosed
A solid back panel makes for a tidier look and prevents dust buildup. Enclosed racks feel more integrated into cabinetry and protect plates from potentially falling.
Add Specialty Storage Components
Beyond standard plate and bowl storage, some racks incorporate unique storage options:
- Wine glass holders
- Mug hooks
- Utensil trays
- Bowl slots
- Napkin bars
- Knife blocks
- Cutting board nooks
Look for racks with these built-in extras or customize your own rack with add-ons to suit your needs.
Incorporate Drawers or Cabinets Below
For even more storage capacity, select a plate rack with drawers or cabinet storage included in the base.
Drawers
Great for flatware, linens and tools, drawers maximize the storage potential of your rack. Look for soft-close drawer slides and sturdy construction.
Cabinets
A plate rack with enclosed cabinets in the base is perfect for hiding away less attractive items. Just be sure cabinets are properly ventilated to prevent moisture buildup.
Choose Between Fixed and Adjustable Racks
Another choice to make is between fixed and adjustable racks:
Fixed
Fixed plate racks have permanent, stationary wiring or bars in a set arrangement. They offer a streamlined look and don’t shift around.
Adjustable
Adjustable racks allow you to customize wiring or shelving to fit specific plate and bowl sizes. Handy for accommodating new dishes down the road.
Consider Finish and Hardware Options
Don’t forget about the finishing touches like rack finish and hardware choices:
Finishes
Select racks in popular finishes like stainless steel, black, white, wood tones and metallics that tie into your overall kitchen decor.
Hardware
Look for racks with attractive hardware like decorative knobs, hooks or pegs for hanging utensils and dish towels.
Glass Shelves
For easy cleaning and a touch of elegance, choose racks with tempered glass shelves instead of metal or wood.
With multiple aesthetic options, it’s easy to find a rack to coordinate with your existing decor.
Add Lighting for Visibility
Proper lighting helps you easily see where dishes are placed on your rack. Consider these lighting ideas:
LED Strips
Install battery operated LED strip lights underneath wall mounted racks to brightly illuminate dishes. Opt for dimmable, motion-sensing lights.
Puck Lights
Puck lights installed above or beneath racks provide directed task lighting. Power them up with plug-in or hardwired options.
Cabinet Lighting
Use LED cabinet lights or puck lights inside wall cabinets with integrated racks to illuminate interiors.
Incorporate Shelving Around the Rack
Surround your plate rack with compatible shelving for an integrated storage solution:
Open Shelving
Flank rack with coordinated open shelves for neatly displaying cooking items, glassware and decorative pieces.
Enclosed Cabinets
Combine plate rack with surrounding upper and base cabinets for a built-in look. Use cabinets for hidden storage.
Wine Rack Shelving
Installing wood wine rack shelving around a plate rack pulls together cooking and dining storage. It’s a great option near dining spaces.
Layer Racks for Expanded Storage
Maximize storage by layering two or more plate racks:
Double Decker
Stack two identical racks at different heights on a wall to double your storage capacity.
Corner Racks
Make use of corner space by mounting racks perpendicular to each other for a storage dense solution.
Step Racks
Stagger racks in increasing heights across the wall like steps. Great for displaying your collections creatively.
Consider Rack Mobility
Do you want your plate rack to stay in one spot or have the freedom to move it occasionally?
Stationary Rack
Permanently installed racks have a built-in look and don’t shift around when loading and unloading.
Mobile Rack
For flexibility, choose a rack on casters or wheels to conveniently roll in and out of place as needed. Locking wheels allow you to keep it stationary when preferred.
Account for Maintenance and Durability
Select a plate rack that will hold up well over time and is easy to keep clean:
- Opt for materials like metal and high-quality woods that are built to last.
- Make sure wire racks have smooth, rounded wires to prevent snagging dishes and hands.
- Choose finishes that resist corrosion, rust and discoloration.
- Look for racks with drainage holes to prevent water pooling.
- Seek out racks with removable parts for easy cleaning access.
- Check that hardware is firmly attached and redundant to endure weight and pulling.
- Ensure racks have adequate support brackets, anchors and anti-tip designs for safety.
Choosing the right materials, construction and design will help your rack stand the test of time.
Carefully Measure Your Space
Before installing any rack, carefully measure your existing space to ensure proper fitting. Consider the following:
- Measure wall dimensions to find ideal wall mounted rack lengths. Account for lighting or hardware fixtures.
- For ceiling racks, measure ceiling height and proximity to islands or tables to determine ideal rack height and length.
- Note exact cabinet dimensions for racks to be installed inside or on cabinet surfaces.
- Check for level surfaces and plumb walls to ensure racks mount flush and even.
Accurate measurements ensure your rack complements your kitchen layout rather than clashes with it.
Follow Secure Mounting Best Practices
Mounting a plate rack properly is critical for stability and safety. Follow these best practices:
- When wall mounting, locate and install heavy duty anchors into wall studs to provide strong support.
- For ceiling mounted racks, use appropriately rated hooks and eye screws to bear the weight load.
- Use screws of the proper length and diameter to secure racks without penetrating too deeply.
- Avoid drywall anchors and instead use through-bolting whenever possible for the strongest hold.
- Carefully follow all manufacturer instructions for installation methods and weight capacities.
- Make sure racks are level and oriented squarely to walls or cabinets for aesthetics and function.
While it takes a bit more time, proper mounting is essential to enjoy your rack safely for years to come.
Add Safety Features
Incorporate design elements to prevent your loaded plate rack from tipping or plates sliding out. Helpful safety additions include:
- Lipped edges to stop plates from sliding off rack wires.
- Slanted rack designs that angle dishes inward rather than outward.
- Glass or plastic shelf retainers to contain plates.
- Wire racks with closed loop ends to contain plates.
- Racks with attached anti-tip stabilizer bars or straps.
- Child safety latches on any cabinets built into racks.
With a few strategic safety enhancements, you can prevent accidents and breakage.
Common Questions about Adding Plate Racks:
What are the benefits of adding a plate rack to my kitchen?
Some benefits include freeing up cabinet space, keeping your dishes neatly organized and on display, and adding visual interest and character to your kitchen. Plate racks also allow dishes to dry more efficiently after washing.
Should I get a wall mounted or freestanding plate rack?
Wall mounted racks are great for small kitchens to maximize vertical storage. Freestanding racks are more flexible and can be moved, but take up floor space. Consider your space and layout.
How much weight can plate racks hold?
Most quality racks hold 35-60 pounds safely, but check manufacturer specs. Use heavy duty anchors, evenly distribute weight and don’t overload.
What is the best material for plate racks?
Stainless steel, chrome plated steel, powder coated metal and high-quality woods like teak are all great options that are durable, corrosion resistant and easy to clean.
How do I prevent my mounted plate rack from tipping?
Always securely mount into studs, use anti-tip plates, and don’t overload one side. Wall straps offer added stabilization as well.
How wide of a plate rack do I need for my dishes?
Measure plates and bowls at their widest points and allow for 2-3 inches between them when choosing rack width for a comfortably snug fit. Size up if loading large platters.
Should I get a plate rack with glass shelves or wire shelves?
Glass shelves are beautiful and easily cleaned. Wire shelves allow for more airflow and drainage. Choose based on your needs and style preferences.
How can I incorporate lighting to see my plate rack better?
LED strips, puck lights and interior cabinet lights all illuminate racks nicely. Opt for dimmable, motion-activated lights for convenience.
What is the best place in my kitchen to install a plate rack?
Wall mounting above counters or islands is popular. Ceiling racks work for islands and peninsulas. Cabinet door/side installation provides access right where you need it.
How do I clean and care for my plate rack?
Use a soft cloth with mild soap and water to wipe racks down. Avoid harsh chemicals. Check hardware stability periodically and remount loose racks securely.
Conclusion
Adding a plate rack opens up a world of options for your kitchen’s storage, organization and style. Take time to consider your needs and kitchen layout to select the ideal rack design, placement, size and material. Measure carefully before installing securely and safely. Include lighting and complementary shelving or cabinetry for a coordinated look. With the right rack executed thoughtfully, you can enjoy improved kitchen organization and visual appeal for years to come.
