A silverware basket can refer to a number of different open holding devices for silverware. Organizing silverware is a terrific thing, since it means people may know exactly what they’re reaching for when they grab a piece of flatware from a sectioned basket of sorts. One section may hold all spoons, for instance, which can be great when a person wants to grab a spoon and not a fork or a knife.
It isn’t always the case that a silverware basket is designed to separate different pieces of silverware. This is also the term used for baskets that fit in dishwashers where all flatware can be placed during the washing process. People can organize this by type of flatware if they like, but usually the goal of this form of silverware basket is to keep silverware from falling out of the racks and into the main mechanism of the dishwasher.
Many types of silverware baskets for dishwashing machines sit on the bottom rack. Some have small lids that can help keep in small pieces, when water is pulsing through the machine and this can be useful for things other than flatware. People might be able to place small lids, rubber rings for blenders or other washable items in a basket that has a cover and not worry about these ending up somewhere else in the dishwasher.
Dishwasher silverware baskets may also be located on top racks, and instead of placing the silverware standing up, it may be placed into the dishwasher in a lying down position. This design was more common in older dishwashers. Most baskets now fit on the bottom rack, and if a basket gets damaged, there are many places online that sell replacement ones.
An alternative silverware basket, and much closer to the original sense of the term is truly a basket. People like the Amish make beautiful woven baskets with sections that can store silverware on a counter. Alternately, some of these baskets are so beautiful, they may be part of a table centerpiece, and can be particularly useful for things like large gatherings where guests help themselves to cutlery, plates, and food.
Some people use the term silverware basket when talking about silverware organizers that fit in drawers. These usually have several sections for various kinds of utensils, and can help in organization. A few of these are woven and others may be made of plastic. Many of the plastic ones may be more easily washed, and some are even dishwasher safe. Woven baskets are very pretty, but tend not to be as durable, and they can be more difficult to keep clean.
