I recently posted almost the same question... except I was wondering if I made a mistake getting the non-third-tray KA. :) I have the KUDS03CT and love it, but found out after the fact I could have gotten the one with the cutlery tray for only $100 more. Part of me is glad, in this economy, that I didn't overspend. I certainly don't "need" the third rack, and I AM very happy with the machine I got. BUT, if I had it to do over again, I think I would have gotten the cutlery tray. I like that it's removable so you can use it or not as you choose, and I think it probably really comes in handy on those days you've been cooking a lot and have extra dirty spatulas, whisks, etc.

Bottom line, the KA dishwashers are great. I'm sure you'll be happy with any of your choices. :)

I just bought the Kitchenaid with the third rack and absolutely love it! That third rack is wonderful for large utensils as well as lids, etc. It is removeable so if you need the extra space for tall glasses or stemware you have it. I am so happy I spent the extra money for it.

I love the third rack. Wouldn't buy another without one.

I am unsure about the third rack, so I was thrilled to find the KA that includes the removable one. We haven't remodeled yet, but plan on that one.

We bought the KUDT03FTSS and could not be happier. Decided on this model because for $50-75 more than the next lower series S you get the 3rd cutlery tray, noise level is quieter, and you have 1 or 2 more washing cycles. I find for a small amount over 10-12 years it's worth it; it average to less than $5/year.

The versatility of the cutlery tray is awesome. You may use it or not, it's removable. It has two positional heights so that you may use it for silverware or cooking utensils. And you may use either position depending on the height of your glassware in the top tray.

You cannot go wrong with either S or T series because the KitchenAid dishwasher does its job. I purposely did not rinse any plates and bowls, and even let food crust and dry up on the dishes for a few days before running the DW. Guess what, dishes came out as touted, gleaming and clean. However, if budget is no object I recommend buying the one with the 3rd tray. You won't be disappointed with the added versatility!

Thanks, folks! As usual, you came through for me! Hope you had a happy Thanksgiving.

The best advice I ever got was to bring the dishes I regularly use to the showroom and load them into the dishwasher to see how it works.

I found out that my every day wine glasses were too tall to leave the 3rd rack in. So I was glad that I didn't pay the extra money for something that I would have just ended up taking out.