How to Fix Rusty Dishwasher Dish Racks

Dishwasher racks are typically made of heavy-gauge wire coated in vinyl to protect dishes, glasses and utensils. With regular use, the vinyl coating may gradually wear off from exposure to hot water and detergent, exposing the bare metal wire underneath. When the wire rusts, the rack can stain dishes. Instead of replacing the dish rack, try repairing the part with a vinyl coating kit available at appliance stores. The liquid vinyl applies like a thick paint to recoat the wires.

Dishwasher rack vinyl repair kit
Rubber gloves
Paper towels

Instructions

- 1
  Open the dishwasher door to slide out the racks one at a time for repairs.
- 2
  Wear rubber gloves. Shake the bottle of vinyl repair solution to mix the contents thoroughly.
- 3
  Unscrew and remove the cap on the bottle to expose the applicator brush attached to the underside of the cap.
- 4
  Paint the bare wire with the vinyl solution until all exposed metal surfaces are covered. Wait for the solution to dry before applying additional coats to build up a thickness on the wires. Wipe up any spills with paper towels.
- 5
  Push the rubber caps supplied with the kit onto the tips of the wire tines in the dish rack that hold dishes separate from each other.

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