The dishwasher, a modern convenience that has revolutionized the way we clean our dishes. However, not everything is dishwasher safe. There are certain items that should never, under any circumstances, be placed in a dishwasher. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the 21 things you should never put in your dishwasher.
1. Wooden Utensils and Boards
Wooden utensils and cutting boards are a staple in many kitchens. However, they are not designed to withstand the high temperatures and intense water pressure of a dishwasher. The heat can cause the wood to warp, crack, or even split. Additionally, the prolonged exposure to water can lead to the growth of mold and mildew.
Instead, these items should be hand washed with warm, soapy water and dried immediately. Regular oiling can also help to maintain their condition and prolong their lifespan.
2. Cast Iron Cookware
Cast iron pans are prized for their heat retention and versatility. However, they are highly susceptible to rust and should never be placed in a dishwasher. The intense heat and water can strip away the seasoning, leaving the iron exposed and prone to rusting.
Cast iron cookware should be cleaned by hand using minimal soap and water, and dried immediately to prevent rust. Regular seasoning with oil can help to maintain its non-stick surface and prevent rusting.
3. Non-Stick Pans
Non-stick pans are another item that should be kept out of the dishwasher. The harsh detergents and high heat can damage the non-stick coating, reducing its effectiveness and potentially releasing harmful chemicals.
These pans should be cleaned by hand with a soft sponge and mild detergent. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scrubbers as they can scratch and damage the non-stick surface.
4. Crystal Glassware
Crystal glassware is delicate and can easily be damaged in a dishwasher. The high heat can cause the glass to crack or chip, and the intense water pressure can leave water spots on the surface.
Crystal should be hand washed with a soft sponge and mild detergent, and dried immediately to prevent water spots. Avoid using hot water as it can cause the glass to crack.
5. China
China is another delicate item that should not be placed in a dishwasher. The high heat and water pressure can cause the glaze to crack, and the vibrations can cause the pieces to chip or break.
China should be hand washed with a soft sponge and mild detergent, and dried immediately to prevent water spots. Avoid stacking the pieces while they are still wet as this can cause them to chip or break.
6. Aluminum Cookware
Aluminum cookware is lightweight and conducts heat well, but it is not dishwasher safe. The harsh detergents can cause the aluminum to darken and discolor, and the high heat can cause it to warp.
Aluminum cookware should be hand washed with a soft sponge and mild detergent, and dried immediately to prevent water spots. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scrubbers as they can scratch the surface.
7. Copper Mugs and Cookware
Copper mugs and cookware are popular for their aesthetic appeal and superior heat conductivity. However, they are not dishwasher safe. The harsh detergents can cause the copper to tarnish, and the high heat can cause it to warp.
Copper items should be hand washed with a soft sponge and mild detergent, and dried immediately to prevent water spots. Regular polishing can help to maintain their shine and prevent tarnishing.
8. Insulated Mugs and Bottles
Insulated mugs and bottles are designed to keep beverages hot or cold for extended periods. However, they are not dishwasher safe. The high heat can damage the insulation, reducing its effectiveness.
These items should be hand washed with warm, soapy water and dried immediately. Avoid submerging them in water as this can damage the insulation.
9. Sharp Knives
Sharp knives are essential in any kitchen, but they should never be placed in a dishwasher. The intense water pressure can dull the blades, and the high heat can damage the handles.
Knives should be hand washed with warm, soapy water and dried immediately. Regular honing can help to maintain their sharpness and prolong their lifespan.
10. Silverware
Silverware is a classic addition to any dining table. However, it is not dishwasher safe. The harsh detergents can cause the silver to tarnish, and the high heat can cause it to warp.
Silverware should be hand washed with a soft sponge and mild detergent, and dried immediately to prevent water spots. Regular polishing can help to maintain its shine and prevent tarnishing.
11. Gold-Plated Dishware
Gold-plated dishware adds a touch of elegance to any dining table. However, it is not dishwasher safe. The harsh detergents can cause the gold plating to wear off, and the high heat can cause it to warp.
Gold-plated items should be hand washed with a soft sponge and mild detergent, and dried immediately to prevent water spots. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scrubbers as they can scratch the surface.
12. Plastic Containers
Plastic containers are convenient for storing leftovers, but not all of them are dishwasher safe. The high heat can cause the plastic to warp or melt, and the harsh detergents can cause it to discolor.
Check the bottom of the container for a dishwasher safe symbol before placing it in the dishwasher. If in doubt, hand wash with warm, soapy water and dry immediately.
13. Printed Mugs and Plates
Printed mugs and plates can add a personal touch to your kitchenware. However, the high heat and harsh detergents of a dishwasher can cause the print to fade or peel off.
These items should be hand washed with a soft sponge and mild detergent, and dried immediately to prevent water spots. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scrubbers as they can scratch the surface.
14. Disposable Aluminum Pans
Disposable aluminum pans are convenient for baking and transporting food, but they should not be placed in a dishwasher. The high heat can cause the aluminum to warp or melt, and the harsh detergents can cause it to discolor.
These pans are designed to be used once and then recycled. If you need to clean them, hand wash with warm, soapy water and dry immediately.
15. Pressure Cooker Parts
Pressure cookers are a great tool for quick and easy meals, but not all parts are dishwasher safe. The high heat can damage the rubber seals, and the harsh detergents can cause the metal parts to discolor.
Check the user manual for cleaning instructions. Most recommend hand washing the lid and rubber seals with warm, soapy water and drying immediately.
16. Blender Blades
Blender blades are sharp and can easily cut through fruits and vegetables. However, they should not be placed in a dishwasher. The high heat can dull the blades, and the harsh detergents can cause them to rust.
Blender blades should be hand washed with warm, soapy water and dried immediately. Be careful when handling the blades as they are sharp and can easily cause injury.
17. Antique Dishware
Antique dishware is a treasure that should be handled with care. The high heat and harsh detergents of a dishwasher can cause the glaze to crack, the paint to fade, and the metal parts to rust.
Antique dishware should be hand washed with a soft sponge and mild detergent, and dried immediately to prevent water spots. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scrubbers as they can scratch the surface.
18. Hand-Painted Ceramics
Hand-painted ceramics are a beautiful addition to any kitchen. However, they are not dishwasher safe. The high heat can cause the paint to fade or peel off, and the harsh detergents can cause the glaze to crack.
Hand-painted ceramics should be hand washed with a soft sponge and mild detergent, and dried immediately to prevent water spots. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scrubbers as they can scratch the surface.
19. Pewter Dishware
Pewter dishware has a unique, rustic charm. However, it is not dishwasher safe. The harsh detergents can cause the pewter to tarnish, and the high heat can cause it to warp.
Pewter dishware should be hand washed with a soft sponge and mild detergent, and dried immediately to prevent water spots. Regular polishing can help to maintain its shine and prevent tarnishing.
20. Brass Utensils
Brass utensils are durable and have a unique, vintage appeal. However, they are not dishwasher safe. The harsh detergents can cause the brass to tarnish, and the high heat can cause it to warp.
Brass utensils should be hand washed with a soft sponge and mild detergent, and dried immediately to prevent water spots. Regular polishing can help to maintain their shine and prevent tarnishing.
21. Items with Adhesive Labels
Items with adhesive labels should not be placed in a dishwasher. The high heat can cause the adhesive to melt, leaving a sticky residue on the item and potentially clogging the dishwasher filter.
Adhesive labels should be removed before washing. If the label is difficult to remove, soak the item in warm, soapy water to loosen the adhesive, then scrub gently with a soft sponge.
In conclusion, while dishwashers are a great convenience, they are not suitable for all types of kitchenware. Always check the manufacturer’s instructions before placing an item in the dishwasher. When in doubt, hand wash to preserve the condition and lifespan of your kitchenware.