The Best Material To Combat Slimy Buildup On A Dish Rack

If you're using a dish rack to air dry dishes after hand-washing them, you're probably familiar with the slimy buildup that can appear so quickly. That buildup is most likely biofilm, a slimy substance that gets excreted from a group of bacteria that has gathered and affixed itself to a surface. Bacteria are drawn to humid, damp environments. That's why it's important to select a dish rack made with materials that can withstand such an environment. Stainless steel, especially high quality stainless steel, is the best material to combat bacteria causing that slimy biofilm.

The kitchen is a prime example of such where biofilm thrives, and the dish rack even more so. Dish racks are really great at holding onto water that drips off dishes (think drain boards that sit under the rack and never actually drain or completely dry out), and all that moisture creates the perfect environment for the slimy buildup you see. Of course, you want to make sure to start by properly hand-washing your dishes so you're not introducing food products or bacteria into the dish rack area that can just add to the mess. Once you have beautifully spotless dishes, you don't want to put them on a dish rack that is covered in slime.

Another reason to choose stainless steel is that it resists rust and corrosion. Dish racks are continuously subjected to water from both the freshly washed dishes and regular cleanings. If it's made with stainless steel, it will be able to stand up to moisture and cleaning agents without deteriorating. When materials begin to deteriorate, bacteria can gather in all the little nooks and crannies, and nobody wants that. Stainless steel is also nonporous, creating a smooth surface, which allows for easier cleaning. This is key in combatting the bacteria buildup that leads to biofilm. 

Alternatively, plastic dish racks show higher bacterial loads compared to stainless steel and have a rougher surface, leaving small hiding places for bacteria to accumulate. This can make it challenging to properly clean, leading to greater buildup over time. Likewise, bamboo is very porous and prone to harboring bacteria and mold, which can present a health risk. 

Even on a stainless steel rack, knowing how often you should clean your dish drying rack is a great way to prevent any buildup from developing in the first place. You'll want to make sure to clean and disinfect your dish rack every couple of days. Wiping it down after cleaning will remove any excess moisture that attracts bacteria. You can also say bye to your slimy traditional dish drainer by considering a space saving wall mounted dish rack, eliminating the need for a moisture-hoarding drip board.