Fine Mesh vs Standard Mesh Dehydrator Sheets
Mesh sheets keep food on the tray and off the floor of the dehydrator, and the fine-versus-standard choice is really about the size of what you dry. Get it wrong and small foods vanish through the holes.
How they differ
Fine mesh has small holes that keep herbs, small berries and chopped foods from falling through or blowing around in the airflow. Standard mesh has larger holes that allow more airflow around bigger slices, so they dry a little faster and more evenly. Neither is universally better; they suit different foods, which is why many people own both.
| Fine mesh | Standard mesh | |
|---|---|---|
| Small foods / herbs | Held in place | Can fall through |
| Airflow | Good | Best |
| Best for | Herbs, berries, chopped | Larger slices |
Who should choose fine mesh
Choose fine mesh if you dry herbs, small berries or chopped foods, the small holes stop them scattering or dropping through. It is the more versatile single choice; see how to dehydrate herbs and the best trays for herbs.
Who should choose standard mesh
Choose standard mesh if you mostly dry larger slices, fruit, vegetables, jerky strips, where maximum airflow underneath helps them dry evenly. For jerky specifically, see the best trays for jerky.
The verdict
Drying herbs and small foods? Fine mesh. Mostly larger pieces? Standard mesh, or keep both for flexibility. See the best dehydrator accessories and disposable vs reusable liners.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need fine-mesh dehydrator sheets?
For herbs, small berries and chopped foods, yes, fine mesh stops them falling through or scattering in the airflow. Larger slices dry fine on standard mesh.
What is the difference between mesh sizes?
Fine mesh has smaller holes to hold tiny foods in place; standard mesh has larger holes that allow more airflow around bigger pieces.
Can I use fine mesh for everything?
Yes, though very large or juicy pieces dry a touch faster on more open mesh. Fine mesh is the more versatile of the two if you only buy one.