Why does my new sink have a rack?

[SplshMtn99]

My new stainless steel sink came with a raised rack with a hole in the center for the drain? Raised about 3/4" off the bottom.

Why? Its another thing to keep clean? And you need to remove it to clean the sink?

 

[tekmom]

I think it's to help elevate things like pots and pans, to help prevent scratches. I have a white cast iron sink and had to buy one of those racks in white to help prevent scratches. I would think you wouldn't need it with stainless. You're right, mine is a pain to clean.