Does your dishwasher lack a cutlery basket?
It’s common for specific dishwasher models to come without a cutlery basket. This is frustrating as you won’t know where to put the silverware when it’s time to clean everything.
If this is the case, it’s time to learn how to wash silverware in a dishwasher without a basket.
To wash silverware in a dishwasher without the basket, place the utensils flat on the upper rack. This will hold the silverware inside the dishwasher once it’s on. A better, long-term solution is to use a universal silverware basket that attaches to the inside of a dishwasher.
There is no reason to hand-wash the silverware if your dishwasher doesn’t have a silverware basket.
Just place them flat on the top rack and watch as they get cleaned nicely. Please note that it has to be on the top rack to maximize how much water gets to the silverware.
This article will explain more in detail how to wash silverware in the dishwasher without a basket.
Table of Contents
Best Silverware Basket For Dishwasher (EDITOR’S CHOICE)
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Steps On How To Wash Silverware In Dishwasher Without Basket
1. Use a Universal Silverware Basket (Recommended)
The best option is to go with a universal silverware basket for your dishwasher.
What is this?
It’s a detachable dishwasher basket that goes into the appliance. You can take it out when you are done washing the silverware.
The reason this is useful comes down to having a robust, easy-to-use basket that can be inserted into the dishwasher in seconds. This saves time and ensures the silverware is rinsed properly.
The best part about a universal silverware basket is that it works with all types of models.
You are not going to be stuck finding a specific type of silverware basket. Just use the one mentioned above and you will be good to go.

2. Place Silverware Flat On The Top Rack
When it comes to finding a solution without buying a universal silverware basket, it’s time to look at what you have to work with.
It’s best to place the silverware flat on the top rack.
Yes, this will be more than fine when cleaning the utensils as long as nothing is around them. You don’t want the utensils to be fully covered inside the top rack.
Place them separately and make sure they are on that upper rack for maximum coverage.
Placing the silverware flat in a dishwasher works because it won’t slip through. Just let it rest there and the dishwasher will do the rest.
3. Place Alongside A Plate Or Dish
A recommended option is to place a plate or dish alongside the silverware.
This will provide a bit of protection to ensure the silverware does not fall through. Please note, that this does not mean having the silverware right on top of the silverware.
There has to be enough space for the water and soap to get through. Otherwise, it will not be clean at all!
Be patient and make sure you are rinsing everything.
This will go a long way in making sure the silverware is clean and protected inside the dishwasher.

Can I Add A Cutlery Tray To My Dishwasher?
You can add a cutlery tray to a dishwasher. Universal trays are sold on the open market. These work with all types of dishwasher models and can be removed once done. It’s recommended to invest in one if your dishwasher does not have a specialized cutlery tray.
A lot of dishwasher owners do go out and buy a universal cutlery tray for their dishwasher.
It works well and is easy to set up too.
You will save quite a bit of time by doing this. It can also become a space-efficient solution since the cutlery basket sits out of the way.
Is Cutlery Tray Or Basket Better In A Dishwasher?
A basket is often better than a cutlery tray. The basket allows utensils to be placed in the perfect position for rinsing and washing. It is also easier to maintain and works well with all types of dishwasher models.
It’s important to remember that you have to find what works best for your appliance.
Final Thoughts
These are the steps on how to wash silverware in a dishwasher without a basket.
When washing silverware in the dishwasher without a basket, it’s best to lie the silverware flat on the top rack. This will help rinse and wash the silverware without damaging them. It’s also recommended to invest in a universal silverware basket to have a more specialized solution in place.
A universal silverware basket is a great option and one you should keep in mind.
Otherwise, lying the silverware flat in the dishwasher is useful too.
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