The dishwasher makes kitchen cleanup convenient as you simply toss your dinnerware into the machine to clean them after you've finished cooking and eating. However, not all dinnerware and cooking utensils can be placed in the dishwasher.
In this article, we'll provide 10 examples of things you should never place in the dishwasher as they may warp, break, or get damaged from the machine. Harsh dishwasher detergents can also damage some materials. Find out what you shouldn't place in the dishwasher:
What is Dishwasher-Safe?
Unless the manufacturer specifically states their item is dishwasher-safe, you can assume that it isn't. Dishwasher-safe items are those that won't melt, warp, or stain under the pressure and heat of a dishwasher.
Not all modern cookware and utensils are dishwasher-safe. When in doubt, always check the manufacturer's label for the washing instructions. Some items labeled dishwasher-safe, like pressure cooker lids, may accumulate more grime in its nooks and crannies when washed in the dishwasher, so always check whether your dinnerware can be placed in the machine or not.
10 Things You Should Never Put In Your Dishwasher
#1 Plastic Items
If a plastic dinnerware or utensil is not labeled dishwasher-safe, then it most likely isn't. Plastic items will easily warp or melt in the dishwasher, and the high heat and pressure of the water can snap off plastic parts. It is best not to place thin plastic containers in the dishwasher.
#2 Wooden Utensils and Cutting Boards
Both varnished and unvarnished wooden cutting boards and utensils can break from the extreme pressures of the dishwasher. Avoid putting wooden spoons, chopsticks, and chopping boards in the dishwasher, and hand wash these instead.
#3 Insulated Mugs, Tumblers, and Bowls
Pressure from the dishwasher can break through the vacuum seal of insulated containers, making them lose their insulation. Insulated containers are safe to clean through hand washing, but take precautions, and check the manufacturer's instructions if the item can be placed in the dishwasher.
#4 Nonstick Pots and Pans
The nonstick surface of pots and pans can eventually flake off over time, especially with the high heat of the dishwasher, and the abrasive nature of dishwasher detergent. Some nonstick pans, however, are labeled safe for machine washing so always check the manufacturer's instructions before washing your nonstick cookware.
#5 Fine China
Fine china and porcelain are fragile, and can break when washed in the dishwasher. Dinnerware with metal edges or designs are most susceptible to damage, as the pressure in the dishwasher can break off fragile decorations.
#6 Crystal Glass and Milk Glass
Both crystal glass and milk glass are technically safe for dishwashing, but these materials can turn cloudy or yellow over time. It is better to hand wash these dishes. Light colored milk glass can also discolour when repeatedly washed in the dishwasher.
#7 Acrylic Dinnerware
Like plastic, acrylic containers can easily break or warp in the dishwasher. Most acrylic containers are clear, and you'd have better chances of keeping the crystal clear appearance of your hand washed acrylic container instead of a machine-washed one.
#8 Cast Iron
Cast iron pans are notoriously difficult to keep clean, but that doesn't mean the dishwasher will clean it any better! Washing your cast iron pan in the dishwasher will strip off the nonstick seasoned layer, which will expose the cast iron, and increase the chances of the material rusting. Hand wash your cast iron pots and pans instead.
#9 Sharp Knives and Ice Picks
Sharp knives can be placed on the top rack of the dishwasher, but for the most part, they are hazardous when it comes to loading them into the machine. The dishwasher can also dull the edges of sharp knives, so it is better to wash your cooking knives by hand.
#10 Delicate Glass
Don't gamble delicate glass items, like antique glass and hand-blown glass, in the dishwasher! These items can easily break when banged against other dishes, so it is best to hand wash these to preserve their quality.
Kitchen Cleaning Made Easy
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