If you’re looking for the 15 best stainless steel food dehydrators for healthy snacking in 2025, I’ve got you covered. These models feature precise temperature controls, durable stainless steel construction, and various capacities to suit home or small business use. With adjustable trays, easy-to-clean designs, and smart features like timers and interior lights, they make dehydrating fruits, jerky, and herbs effortless. Keep exploring, and you’ll discover options perfect for your needs and preferences.
Key Takeaways
- Top-rated stainless steel dehydrators offer precise temperature control and large capacities for healthy snack prep.
- Modern models feature durable construction, easy cleaning, and advanced airflow technology for consistent drying results.
- Flexible operation with digital controls, preset modes, and timers simplifies process management.
- Multiple tray sizes and accessories allow customization for drying various foods like fruits, herbs, and jerky.
- Commercial and home-use units combine safety features, quiet operation, and sleek designs suitable for different spaces.
COSORI Food Dehydrator with Temperature Control and 5 Trays

If you’re looking for a reliable, easy-to-use dehydrator that offers precise temperature control, the COSORI Food Dehydrator with 5 stainless steel trays is an excellent choice. It features adjustable temperatures from 95°F to 176°F in 1°F increments, perfect for safely drying meats, fruits, and vegetables. The built-in 48-hour timer and four preset modes make operation simple, while the rear fan ensures even dehydration. Its compact stainless steel design fits comfortably on countertops, and the trays are dishwasher safe for easy cleaning. Overall, it delivers consistent results, quiet operation, and durable construction, making it a top pick for healthy snack making.
Best For: those seeking an easy-to-use, reliable dehydrator for making healthy snacks, jerky, dried fruits, or pet treats at home with precise temperature control.
Pros:
- Consistent, even dehydration thanks to rear fan and quality construction
- Adjustable temperature range from 95°F to 176°F with preset modes for convenience
- Compact stainless steel design with dishwasher-safe trays for easy cleaning
Cons:
- Not suitable for outdoor use; requires indoor space and proper airflow
- Limited to five trays, which may be restrictive for large batch drying
- International users may need a power converter due to North American voltage compatibility
Food Dehydrator with 12 Stainless Steel Trays and Digital Timer

The Food Dehydrator with 12 stainless steel trays and a digital timer is perfect for those who want to dry large batches efficiently. Its spacious design with 11.42-inch square trays makes it easy to process fruits, vegetables, meats, and herbs all at once. The 850W motor offers adjustable temperature from 95 to 167°F and a 48-hour digital timer with auto shut-off for safety and convenience. Quiet operation under 55 dB, a transparent glass door with interior light, and user-friendly presets streamline the drying process. Plus, its dishwasher-safe parts and versatile features make it ideal for beginners and seasoned preservers alike.
Best For: health-conscious families, home food preservers, and meal preppers seeking large-capacity, easy-to-use dehydration solutions.
Pros:
- Large 12-tray stainless steel design for efficient batch drying of various foods.
- Adjustable temperature and timer with auto shut-off for precise control and safety.
- Quiet operation and transparent door with interior light for convenient monitoring.
Cons:
- May be bulky for small kitchens with limited counter space.
- Higher power consumption due to 850W motor.
- Price point could be higher compared to smaller or basic dehydrators.
Magic Mill Pro Food Dehydrator with 7 Stainless Steel Trays

The Magic Mill Pro Food Dehydrator with 7 stainless steel trays stands out for its spacious design and versatile drying options, making it perfect for both home cooks and gardeners. Its rectangular shape includes mesh and fruit roll trays, allowing for a variety of foods to be dried simultaneously. The rear-mounted fan and airflow circulation technology guarantee even drying without tray rotation. With a sleek stainless steel finish and a transparent door window, it’s easy to monitor progress. Quiet operation, dishwasher-safe trays, and precise digital controls make it user-friendly. Overall, it’s a reliable, efficient choice for healthy snacking and food preservation.
Best For: home cooks and gardeners seeking a spacious, versatile, and easy-to-use food dehydrator for drying a variety of foods efficiently.
Pros:
- Spacious rectangular design with 7 stainless steel trays for large batches and versatile drying options
- Even drying technology with rear-mounted fan and airflow circulation, eliminating the need for tray rotation
- Quiet operation, dishwasher-safe trays, and precise digital controls for user convenience
Cons:
- Thermal fuse may trip after prolonged use, potentially requiring replacement
- Limited maximum temperature of 176°F, which may not suit some specific drying needs
- Some users report concerns about the product’s longevity and warranty coverage beyond a few years
Magic Mill Food Dehydrator Machine with Digital Timer and Temperature Control

Designed for home cooks who value precision and convenience, the Magic Mill Food Dehydrator Machine features a digital timer and temperature control that make drying foods straightforward. With five stackable stainless steel trays, adjustable from 0.6 to 1.1 inches, it handles a variety of ingredients like fruits, vegetables, meats, and pet treats. The digital control panel allows setting timers up to 24 hours and temperatures between 95°F and 158°F, ensuring accurate dehydration. Its durable BPA-free plastic body with a stainless steel base offers longevity and food safety. Compact and quiet, it’s easy to operate, though some users note tray fragility and a short power cord.
Best For: home cooks and food enthusiasts seeking an affordable, user-friendly dehydrator with precise temperature and timer controls for a variety of foods.
Pros:
- Digital timer and temperature control for accurate and customizable drying.
- Compact size and quiet operation ideal for home kitchens.
- Detachable, dishwasher-safe stainless steel trays simplify cleaning.
Cons:
- Tray fragility and occasional rattling may affect durability.
- Short power cord (~3 feet) limits placement flexibility.
- Reports of safety issues, including safety hazards and product defects.
Silver Retro Food Dehydrator with 6 Stainless Steel Trays

If you’re looking for a compact and stylish dehydrator that fits seamlessly into small spaces, the Silver Retro Food Dehydrator with 6 stainless steel trays is an excellent choice. Its sleek, retro design resembles a tiny microwave, saving space while handling large food batches. Made entirely of food-safe stainless steel, it’s durable, easy to clean, and free of plastic contact. With a 500W motor, digital temperature control from 70°F to 190°F, and a 24-hour timer, it offers precise dehydration. Its quiet operation, user-friendly controls, and versatility for drying fruits, herbs, mushrooms, and more make it perfect for small kitchens or dorms.
Best For: small households, dorm residents, or anyone seeking a space-saving, stylish dehydrator for drying small batches of food and crafting projects.
Pros:
- Compact, retro design that saves space and adds aesthetic appeal
- Made entirely of food-safe stainless steel for durability and easy cleaning
- Precise digital temperature control and timer for consistent results
Cons:
- Limited to small batch sizes; not suitable for large-scale dehydration
- Silicone fruit leather trays are no longer available, restricting certain uses
- Some users report noise issues or difficulty finding additional accessories
Food Dehydrator for Jerky with Stainless Steel Trays, 1200W, 24H Timer, 190°F Temperature Control

For those serious about making high-quality jerky at home, this food dehydrator’s 1200W motor and 24-hour timer stand out as essential features. Its rear drying fan and 360° circulating airflow ensure even heat distribution, preserving nutrients and flavor. The 12 stainless steel trays offer ample space for large batches, while the clear glass door makes monitoring easy without disrupting the drying process. With adjustable temperature control up to 190°F, you can fine-tune settings for perfect jerky. Compact and durable, it’s designed for convenience, safety, and long-term use, making it an ideal choice for home or small commercial production.
Best For: home chefs and small-scale food producers seeking an efficient, versatile dehydrator for jerky, dried fruits, herbs, and vegetables.
Pros:
- Even heat distribution thanks to 360° circulating airflow and rear drying fan, ensuring consistent drying results.
- Large capacity with 12 stainless steel trays, suitable for batch processing of various foods.
- Easy monitoring with a clear glass front door and user-friendly digital controls for temperature and timer settings.
Cons:
- Slightly heavier at 21.3 pounds, which may impact portability.
- Limited to a maximum temperature of 190°F, potentially restricting some drying needs.
- Higher price point compared to smaller or less feature-rich dehydrators.
Magic Mill Food Dehydrator Machine with 15 Trays

The Magic Mill Food Dehydrator Machine with 15 Trays stands out thanks to its advanced Precision Airflow circulation, which guarantees even drying across all trays without the need for manual rotation. Its rear-mounted fan guarantees consistent airflow, while the transparent door makes monitoring easy. Made from food-grade stainless steel and BPA-free materials, it’s built for safety and durability. With 800W of power, it handles large batches quickly and gently. The digital controls let me set precise temperatures from 95°F to 167°F, and the 48-hour timer offers flexible drying sessions. Quiet and easy to clean, it’s perfect for preserving herbs, fruits, and more.
Best For: home chefs and culinary enthusiasts looking for a reliable, high-capacity dehydrator for large batches of herbs, fruits, and snacks.
Pros:
- Even drying ensured by advanced Precision Airflow circulation and rear-mounted fan.
- Large 15-tray capacity allows for processing big batches at once.
- Easy to operate with digital controls, precise temperature adjustment, and dishwasher-safe trays.
Cons:
- Slightly bulky size may require ample storage space.
- Digital interface might require some learning for new users.
- Higher power consumption due to 800W motor.
Commercial Food Dehydrator Machine for Jerky, Herbs & More

A commercial food dehydrator machine is vital for anyone serious about making jerky, herbs, and other dried foods in large batches. I rely on this 10-tray stainless steel model, which offers 17 square feet of usable space and comes with durable, food-grade trays, silicone sheets, and safety gloves. Its precise temperature control from 70°F to 190°F, along with a 24-hour timer and auto shutoff, ensures perfect dehydration every time. The efficient airflow, quiet operation, and easy cleaning make it ideal for both professional and home use. With its sturdy construction and extensive accessories, I can confidently produce high-quality snacks, herbs, or pet treats at scale.
Best For: Home cooks, small-scale food producers, and culinary enthusiasts seeking efficient, large-capacity dehydration for jerky, herbs, fruits, and pet treats.
Pros:
- Durable stainless steel construction ensures long-lasting use and easy cleaning.
- Precise temperature control (70°F to 190°F) and 24-hour timer allow for customizable dehydration processes.
- Includes comprehensive accessories like trays, silicone sheets, gloves, and recipe book for versatile food drying.
Cons:
- Relatively heavy (around 33 pounds), which may require assistance for moving or storage.
- Power consumption of 800W at 220V may not be compatible with all outlets or regions.
- Larger footprint may require dedicated space in the kitchen or commercial setting.
Elite Gourmet Food Dehydrator with Stainless Steel Trays

If you’re serious about making healthy snacks at home, the Elite Gourmet Food Dehydrator with Stainless Steel Trays stands out with its durable stainless steel construction and adjustable temperature controls. It offers an adjustable temperature range from 95ºF to 158ºF, ensuring perfect dehydration for various foods. The fan-forced air promotes even heat distribution, while the stainless steel trays are easy to clean and interchangeable. Clear-view sides let you monitor progress without opening the unit. This dehydrator makes it simple to create all-natural snacks like dried fruit, jerky, or trail mix without additives, making it a versatile choice for healthy snacking.
Best For: health-conscious individuals and home cooks looking to create natural, preservative-free snacks and dried foods with ease and precision.
Pros:
- Durable stainless steel trays that are easy to clean and interchangeable for versatile use
- Adjustable temperature controls from 95ºF to 158ºF for optimal dehydration of various foods
- Clear-view sides and lid for monitoring progress without opening the unit, preserving consistent airflow
Cons:
- Limited to a maximum temperature of 158ºF, which may not suit all drying needs
- Slightly larger footprint due to stainless steel construction, requiring more storage space
- No included recipe book or accessories, which might require additional purchases for variety
Food-Dehydrator Machine with 8 Stainless Steel Trays

For those seeking a spacious and efficient dehydrating solution, the Food-Dehydrator Machine with 8 stainless steel trays stands out. Each tray offers a large drying space of 9.84 inches, perfect for drying thick cuts of meat, vegetables, fruits, herbs, and more. Its upgraded air circulation system and 1600 rpm exhaust fan ensure uniform heat distribution for fast, effective drying. Made from BPA-free, fire-resistant stainless steel, the trays are durable, dishwasher safe, and designed with safety features like overheating protection and adjustable temperature control from 70°F to 190°F. With a 24-hour timer and low noise operation, this dehydrator provides reliable, convenient performance for healthy snacking.
Best For: home cooks, food preservation enthusiasts, and those seeking a large-capacity, efficient dehydrator for drying a variety of foods.
Pros:
- Large drying space with 8 stainless steel trays, accommodating thick cuts of meat and large batches of fruits or vegetables.
- Uniform heat distribution thanks to upgraded air circulation and high-speed exhaust fan for faster drying times.
- Made from durable, BPA-free, fire-resistant stainless steel with safety features like overheating protection and adjustable temperature control.
Cons:
- May be relatively bulky and require ample space for operation and storage.
- Opening and ventilating the machine after use can take 1-3 days, which may be inconvenient for some users.
- Noise levels are at or below 45dB, which is quiet but might still be noticeable in very sensitive environments.
Food Dehydrator with 12 Trays, Stainless Steel, Adjustable Timer & Temperature

The food dehydrator with 12 stainless steel trays, adjustable timer, and temperature is ideal for anyone serious about healthy snacking and meal prep. Its large capacity lets me dehydrate jerky, fruit, herbs, and more simultaneously, which saves time. The quiet operation and even hot air circulation ensure consistent drying without noise or overheating. I appreciate the digital control panel, allowing precise adjustments from 30 minutes up to 24 hours and temperatures between 70℉ and 190℉. With safety features like overheat protection and automatic shutdown, I trust this dehydrator for safe, efficient performance. Plus, it includes helpful accessories and recipes to get me started right away.
Best For: health-conscious individuals, home chefs, and families seeking efficient, large-capacity food dehydration for snacks, jerky, fruits, and herbs.
Pros:
- Large capacity with 12 stainless steel trays allows dehydration of multiple food types simultaneously
- Quiet operation with even hot air circulation ensures consistent drying and minimal noise
- Precise digital control panel offers customizable timer and temperature settings for optimal results
Cons:
- May be bulky for small kitchen spaces due to its large tray capacity
- Power consumption of 1000W might lead to higher energy usage
- Learning curve for new users to fully utilize all features and recipes included
Commercial Large 12 Trays Food Dehydrator

With its impressive 12-tray capacity and durable stainless steel construction, the Commercial Large Food Dehydrator is ideal for those who need to dehydrate large batches efficiently. Each tray measures 15.75 x 15.75 inches, offering over 22 square feet of drying space, perfect for meat, fruit, herbs, or pet foods. The glass front door allows easy monitoring, while the rear-mounted fan and airflow circulation technology guarantee even drying. The digital controls let you set precise temperatures from 70°F to 190°F and timers up to 24 hours. Quiet and safe, this dehydrator is a reliable choice for both commercial and serious home use.
Best For: Commercial kitchens, small food businesses, and serious home users needing large-scale dehydration capacity for meats, fruits, herbs, and pet foods.
Pros:
- Large 12-tray capacity provides over 22 sq. ft. of drying space, ideal for bulk dehydration.
- Durable stainless steel construction with a glass door for visibility and safety.
- Precise digital controls for temperature and timer, ensuring consistent results.
Cons:
- Some users have reported component failures, such as heating element issues after a few weeks.
- Limited customer service channels (email only), which may slow troubleshooting.
- Hefty weight of approximately 48 pounds may require effort to move or reposition.
Brod & Taylor SAHARA Folding Food Dehydrator (Stainless Steel Shelves)

If you’re looking for a space-saving dehydrator that doesn’t compromise on capacity or performance, the Brod & Taylor SAHARA Folding Food Dehydrator is an excellent choice. Its stainless steel shelves, glass doors, and rectangular design make it durable and stylish. When folded, it reduces to one-third its size, making storage easy even in small kitchens. With digitally-controlled dual heaters, precise temperature adjustments, and an expansive drying area of over 11 square feet, it handles large batches efficiently. The quiet airflow and easy-to-monitor glass doors ensure consistent results. Plus, its sturdy build and accessories make it versatile for drying, proofing, and more.
Best For: Home cooks and small-scale food preservers seeking a space-efficient, versatile dehydrator with reliable performance.
Pros:
- Folds quickly to one-third its size for easy storage in limited spaces
- Large drying area of over 11 square feet with 7 durable trays for bulk processing
- Precise digital temperature and timer controls ensure consistent, nutrient-preserving drying results
Cons:
- Small knobs may be difficult for some users to grip, requiring modification
- Heavier weight (24.6 pounds) can make portability challenging
- Limited to a maximum temperature of 165°F, which may not suit all dehydration needs
Elite Gourmet Food Dehydrator with Stainless Steel Trays

Designed for home chefs committed to healthy living, the Elite Gourmet Food Dehydrator stands out thanks to its durable stainless steel trays and transparent design. This allows me to easily monitor my drying process without opening the unit. Its bottom-mounted fan ensures even heat distribution, which is essential for consistent results. With adjustable temperatures from 95ºF to 158ºF and a 24-hour timer, I can customize each dehydration session. The 350W power rating makes it suitable for everyday use, and the removable trays and lid are dishwasher safe, making cleanup effortless. It’s a reliable, versatile option for creating healthy snacks and DIY projects at home.
Best For: home cooks and hobbyists seeking a reliable, easy-to-use dehydrator for healthy food preparation and DIY projects.
Pros:
- Durable stainless steel trays and transparent design for easy monitoring
- Even heat distribution with bottom-mounted fan ensures consistent drying
- Adjustable temperature and timer provide customizable dehydration sessions
Cons:
- Designed for indoor use only, limiting placement options
- May have a higher price point compared to plastic tray models
- Limited to 350W power, which might extend drying times for larger batches
Food Dehydrator Machine for Jerky Beef

For anyone serious about making homemade beef jerky, this food dehydrator machine stands out thanks to its large capacity and efficient airflow system. With 7 stainless steel trays measuring 11.8 x 8.8 inches, you can dehydrate big batches at once. The trays are dishwasher safe and feature a reliable edge-wrapping design for easy cleaning. Its digital control panel lets you set precise temperatures from 95°F to 158°F in 9°F increments and includes an adjustable timer up to 48 hours. The built-in exhaust fan and air circulation technology ensure even drying. Compact, durable, and safe, it’s perfect for creating healthy, homemade jerky effortlessly.
Best For: Home cooks, hobbyists, and families looking to efficiently make large batches of jerky, dried fruits, and snacks with a durable and easy-to-use food dehydrator.
Pros:
- Large capacity with 7 stainless steel trays for simultaneous dehydration of big batches
- Precise digital temperature control from 95°F to 158°F and up to 48-hour timer for accurate drying
- Easy to clean with dishwasher-safe trays and durable stainless steel construction
Cons:
- Slightly bulky design may require dedicated storage space in smaller kitchens
- Higher power consumption with 400W motor compared to smaller dehydrators
- Limited to dehydration; does not include additional features like freezing or steaming
Factors to Consider When Choosing Food Dehydrators Stainless Steel

When choosing a stainless steel food dehydrator, I focus on durability, safety, and capacity to guarantee it meets my needs. I also consider how easy it is to clean, along with temperature and timer controls for precise drying. Plus, I look for extra features and accessories that can make the process more convenient.
Material Durability and Safety
Choosing a food dehydrator made from stainless steel means prioritizing durability and safety. Stainless steel is highly resistant to rust, corrosion, and staining, so it can handle regular use and cleaning without deteriorating. Food-grade stainless steel is non-reactive and free from harmful chemicals like BPA, ensuring that your food remains safe during dehydration. Its sturdy construction can withstand handling, extended operation, and high temperatures without warping or cracking, providing long-lasting reliability. Plus, stainless steel surfaces are easy to clean and often dishwasher safe, reducing bacterial buildup and cross-contamination risks. Most importantly, stainless steel is fire-resistant and non-toxic, adding an extra layer of safety during use. All these qualities make stainless steel an excellent choice for a durable, safe, and reliable dehydrator.
Capacity and Tray Size
Selecting the right capacity and tray size is essential because it directly affects how efficiently you can dehydrate your food. Larger dehydrators with more trays let you process bigger batches at once, saving time and effort. Tray size influences drying efficiency: bigger trays offer more surface area, speeding up dehydration, but they also require more space and airflow considerations. Adjustable tray heights provide flexibility to accommodate different food types and quantities, ensuring even drying. If you have limited space or only need small batches, compact dehydrators with smaller trays are perfect. Conversely, for bulk processing or frequent use, larger models with ample trays are more convenient. Matching the number and size of trays to your food quantities helps optimize performance and makes dehydrating more practical and enjoyable.
Temperature and Timer Control
Having precise temperature and timer controls is essential for achieving perfect dehydration results. A good dehydrator offers adjustable temperatures, typically from 70°F to 190°F, allowing me to tailor settings to different foods—lower temps for delicate herbs, higher for jerky. A digital timer with at least 24 hours capacity means I can set it and forget it, ensuring unattended operation. Fine adjustments in 1°F or 30-minute increments give me greater control for specific recipes, preventing over or under-drying. Many models include preset modes for common foods like fruit, vegetables, or jerky, simplifying the process. Reliable digital displays help me monitor and maintain consistent temperature and time, ensuring ideal results. Overall, these controls make dehydration more precise, efficient, and adaptable to my snack-making needs.
Ease of Cleaning
When evaluating stainless steel food dehydrators, ease of cleaning is a crucial factor that can save time and effort in the long run. Many models feature trays that are dishwasher safe, making cleanup straightforward. The smooth, non-porous surface of stainless steel resists staining and odors, simplifying maintenance and keeping the unit looking new. Removable components like trays, drip trays, and mesh screens allow for thorough cleaning and prevent food residue buildup. Additionally, washable air filters and vents help maintain ideal airflow and reduce dust accumulation. A well-designed dehydrator also offers easy-to-wipe exterior surfaces and transparent doors, enabling quick visual checks without disassembly. All these features make regular cleaning hassle-free, ensuring your dehydrator stays hygienic and functions efficiently.
Additional Features and Accessories
Beyond ease of cleaning, the range of additional features and accessories considerably influences how well a stainless steel food dehydrator meets your needs. Accessories like mesh screens, fruit roll sheets, and silicone mats boost versatility, letting you dry a variety of foods efficiently. Dishwasher-safe trays and components make cleanup hassle-free, saving you time. Adjustable temperature controls and timers give you precise drying, whether you’re dehydrating herbs or jerky. Features like interior lights, transparent doors, and removable trays help you monitor progress and customize your process. Some models offer optional accessories such as extra trays, specialized mats, or silicone gloves, expanding capacity and functionality. These extras ensure your dehydrator adapts to different tasks, making healthy snacking easier and more enjoyable.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Energy-Efficient Are Stainless Steel Food Dehydrators Over Time?
Stainless steel food dehydrators are pretty energy-efficient over time because they’re built to last and often have advanced features like adjustable thermostats and timers. I’ve noticed they use less power compared to older or plastic models, especially if you choose energy-saving settings. Plus, their durability means I don’t have to replace them often, making them a smart, eco-friendly investment in the long run.
Are Stainless Steel Trays Dishwasher Safe for Easy Cleaning?
Think of stainless steel trays like the shiny armor of a knight—durable and built to last. Yes, they’re dishwasher safe, which makes cleanup a breeze. I just pop them in, and they come out spotless, saving me time and effort. Plus, stainless steel resists stains and odors, keeping my dehydrator looking sleek and functioning perfectly for years. It’s a win for convenience and longevity.
Can These Dehydrators Handle Large Batches Simultaneously?
Yes, these dehydrators can handle large batches at once. I’ve found that stainless steel models usually come with spacious trays, allowing me to dehydrate big quantities efficiently. The sturdy construction also means I don’t have to worry about uneven drying. If you’re planning to make snacks for a crowd or stock up, these dehydrators are a great choice because they’re designed for high-volume use.
How Do Noise Levels Compare Among Different Models?
I find that noise levels vary quite a bit among models. Some are surprisingly quiet, operating at a gentle hum, perfect for use in shared spaces. Others can be a bit louder, especially during longer drying cycles. I recommend checking the decibel ratings and reviews to find a model that won’t disturb your environment. Personally, I prefer a quieter dehydrator for late-night snacking prep.
Are There Safety Features to Prevent Overheating or Electrical Issues?
Of course, safety features are a must—because who wants their snack machine turning into a fiery inferno? Most models now include automatic shut-off, overheat protection, and secure electrical connections. I always check for these before I buy, trusting that manufacturers have my back and my snacks. After all, a dehydrator without safety features is like a cupcake without frosting—missing the point entirely.
Conclusion
So, whether you’re after a sleek stainless steel design or versatile features, these dehydrators are perfect for healthy snacking. I found that choosing the right one really depends on your needs—like size, trays, and controls. Funny enough, I recently discovered that my favorite model not only fits my kitchen perfectly but also makes snacks taste so much better. Trust me, the right dehydrator can turn your snack game around—happy dehydrating!
