November 4, 2026 Easy Plumbing

Sink Grids and Racks: How to Find One That Fits Your Kitchen Sink

A sink grid — also called a bottom grid or sink rack — sits in the bottom of the bowl and keeps pots, pans and dishes off the sink floor. It protects the finish from scratches and chips, and it lets water drain freely underneath. The catch is fit: a grid that is even slightly the wrong size slides around or will not sit flat.

Why a grid is worth it

Stainless steel sinks scratch easily. A grid takes the contact instead of the bowl.
Enameled cast iron and fireclay sinks can chip if a heavy pan is dropped on them. A grid absorbs the impact.
Glassware and dishes are less likely to break against a raised grid than on the bare sink floor.

Best option: the grid made for your sink

Most sink manufacturers make grids sized for specific sink models. A matched grid follows the bowl's exact corner radius and drain position, so it sits flat and does not move. If you know your sink's model number, start there — look for a grid listed for that model.

The model number is often on a label under the sink, on the original paperwork, or on the sink's product page if you bought it online.

If you don't know the model: measure the bottom, not the top

Measure the flat bottom of the bowl, not the opening at the top. Sink walls slope, so the bottom is always smaller than the top.
Measure front to back and side to side across the flat area.
Note the corner radius — tight, square-ish corners need a different grid than rounded ones.
Note where the drain sits: centered, or offset to the rear or a side. The grid has to leave the drain open.
Choose a grid slightly smaller than the bottom so it can sit flat without riding up the curved walls.

Double-bowl sinks

Each bowl needs its own grid, and the two bowls are often different sizes. Measure them separately.

Grids vs mats vs racks

Bottom grids are stainless steel frames with protective feet or bumpers. The most durable and the most common.
Silicone sink mats are flexible and quiet, protect against scratches, and can be trimmed or rolled. Easy to remove and wash.
Racks that sit across the top of the sink or on a ledge are for drying and food prep, not for protecting the bottom.

Care

Lift the grid out and rinse underneath it regularly — food and soap collect there. Check that the protective feet are still in place; a grid with missing feet can mark the sink it is meant to protect.

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