Tray material doesn't change how food dries; airflow and temperature do. It changes cleanup, durability and price.
Side by side
| Stainless steel | Plastic | |
|---|---|---|
| Cleaning | Most go in the dishwasher; don't stain | Can stain and hold odors |
| Weight | Heavier | Lighter |
| Price | Mostly on $160+ models | On most budget models |
| Examples | Cosori, Magic Mill, Tribest, Excalibur 10-Tray | Excalibur 9-Tray, Nesco, Presto, Hamilton Beach |
Cleaning
Stainless trays on the Magic Mill are dishwasher safe, and Cosori's trays clean up easily. Plastic trays can stain from fruit and hold marinade smells.
Sticking
Sticky foods cling to any tray. Use mesh screens for small pieces and leather sheets for purées; most shelf models include them.
Which to choose
If you'll dry often, stainless is worth it. See the best stainless dehydrators.
