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Dishwashers are a convenient part of many kitchens, saving time and effort. However, some items aren’t suitable for dishwasher cleaning and should be washed by hand. Putting the wrong things in the dishwasher can result in poor cleaning or, even worse, damage to the machine.
Here are ten common items to reconsider before placing them in the dishwasher.
Cast Iron Cookware
While cast iron skillets are great for cooking, they should never go in the dishwasher. The harsh detergents and water pressure can strip the pan’s seasoning, leading to rust and ruining its cooking surface. Before handwashing, allow your cast iron pans to cool, and use a small amount of liquid soap, warm water, and a non-abrasive sponge to prevent damage.
Fine China and Crystal
Even if your fine china or crystal seems sturdy, the high temperatures and force of the dishwasher can cause chipping or breakage. Handwashing these items is often the safest option to preserve their beauty.
Insulated Travel Mugs
Many insulated travel mugs are not dishwasher safe. After a wash in the dishwasher, the insulated airspace, keeping both cold and hot liquids at a consistent temperature, may become compromised and lose efficiency. If you must wash these in a dishwasher, place them on the top rack and put the machine on low heat without a drying cycle.
Gold, Brass, Or Bronze-Colored Flatware
Although there are some brilliant hacks to get flatware sparkling in a dishwasher, like using aluminum foil for silver cutlery, warm-toned metals are likely to tarnish or become dull. Consider hand washing and polishing after each use to maintain the beauty of special pieces like these.
Wooden Cutting Boards & Utensils
Wood and dishwashers just don’t mix. The heat of the dishwasher can cause wood to warp, and the drying cycle can make it crack. So, keep your wooden cutting boards and utensils out of the dishwasher.
High Quality Knives
Of course you can put your butter knives in the dishwasher, but you might want to think twice about putting good kitchen and prep knives through the cycle. Why? The heat and detergents can weaken the handles or dull the edges of blades, forcing you to sharpen them more frequently. It can also cause carbon steel and other materials to rust.
Air Fryer Basket
While it might be tempting to toss your air fryer basket in the dishwasher, it’s better to wash it by hand. Even though most manufacturers label it dishwasher safe, the interior non-stick coating can be damaged. Plus, the basket’s many crevices can trap leftover water and food particles, which isn’t ideal for cleanliness. For the best results, clean it by hand.
Bottles or Jars With Labels
If you’re planning to wash bottles or jars, make sure to remove any paper labels and adhesive remnants first. These materials often don’t break down in the dishwasher and can get stuck in the filter, potentially causing more serious issues down the line. Hand wash the jars or ensure they are completely clean of labels before placing them in the dishwasher.
Non-Stick Cookware
While many non-stick cookware brands claim their products are dishwasher safe, continuous washing can gradually degrade the non-stick finish. If you want your cookware to last, wash them by hand with a gentle dish detergent.
Graters and Strainers
There are two reasons to wash your graters and strainers by hand. First, similar to knives, the dishwasher can dull graters’ blades. And second, chances are, a dishwasher won’t be able to get all the particles out of its little holes, so you’re better off doing it by hand anyway.
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Deborah Agor
Deborah Agor is a seasoned freelance writer known for her captivating storytelling and informative articles. With a diverse background in journalism, Deborah's writing covers a wide range of topics, from technology to health and wellness. Her dedication to delivering engaging content has seen her work with numerous top brands. When she's not writing, Deborah enjoys exploring nature and discovering hidden gems in her community.
