Dishwashers are a modern convenience that can make kitchen cleanup a breeze. However, not everything belongs in the dishwasher. Certain items can get damaged, pose safety risks, or even ruin your dishwasher. In this article, we’ll explore 13 things you should never put in the dishwasher, along with tips to keep your dishes and appliances in top condition.
1. Cast Iron Pans
Why Not?
Cast iron pans are designed to develop a natural non-stick surface through seasoning. Dishwashing can strip away this protective layer, leaving your pan vulnerable to rust and corrosion.
What to Do Instead
Hand wash your cast iron pan with warm water and a soft sponge. Avoid using soap, as it can remove the seasoning. Dry the pan thoroughly and apply a thin layer of cooking oil to maintain its non-stick surface.
Pro Tip: To remove stubborn residue, sprinkle a bit of coarse salt on the pan and scrub with a paper towel.
2. Copper Pots and Pans
Why Not?
Copper is a soft metal that can be easily damaged by the harsh detergents and high temperatures in a dishwasher. Over time, this can lead to discolouration and pitting.
What to Avoid
Avoid placing copper pots and pans in the dishwasher. Instead, hand wash them with mild soap and water. For tarnished copper, use a mixture of lemon juice and salt to gently polish the surface.
Pro Tip: To keep copper items looking their best, dry them immediately after washing to prevent water spots.
3. Non-Stick Cookware
Why Not?
Non-stick surfaces are delicate and can be damaged by the abrasive detergents and high heat of dishwashers. This can lead to the non-stick coating flaking off, which is not only a waste but can also pose health risks.
What to Do
Hand wash non-stick cookware with a soft sponge and mild dish soap. Avoid using steel wool or harsh scrubbers, as they can scratch the non-stick surface.
Pro Tip: To prevent food from sticking, preheat your non-stick pan before adding ingredients and use a small amount of oil or butter.
4. Aluminum Pans
Why Not?
Aluminum is reactive and can react with the detergents in dishwashers, leading to discoloration and pitting. This can affect the appearance and performance of your cookware.
What to Do
Hand wash aluminium pans with mild dish soap and warm water. Use a non-abrasive sponge to avoid scratching the surface.
Pro Tip: To remove stubborn stains, soak the pan in a solution of water and baking soda for a few minutes before washing.
5. Wooden Utensils and Cutting Boards
Why Not?
Wood is porous and can absorb water, leading to warping, cracking, and the growth of mold and bacteria. Dishwashers can also strip the natural oils from wooden items, making them dry and brittle.
What to Do
Hand wash wooden utensils and cutting boards with warm water and mild dish soap. Dry them immediately with a clean towel.
Pro Tip: Periodically apply a food-safe mineral oil to keep wooden items moisturized and in good condition.
6. Crystal and Fine China
Why Not?
Crystal and fine china are delicate and can be easily chipped or cracked by the high heat and rough handling in a dishwasher. The harsh detergents can also etch the surface, dulling the finish.
What to Do
Hand wash crystal and fine china with mild dish soap and warm water. Use a soft cloth to avoid scratching. Dry them carefully with a lint-free towel.
Pro Tip: To prevent chipping, store crystal and fine china in a padded container or wrap them in a soft cloth.
7. Gold or Silver-Plated Items
Why Not?
Gold and silver plating can be damaged by the harsh chemicals in dishwashers, leading to discoloration and flaking. This can ruin the appearance and value of your items.
What to Do
Hand wash gold or silver-plated items with mild dish soap and warm water. Dry them immediately with a soft, lint-free cloth.
Pro Tip: To keep gold and silver-plated items looking new, avoid exposing them to harsh chemicals and store them in a dry, cool place.
8. Stainless Steel Knifes
Why Not?
Stainless steel knifes can be damaged by the high heat and harsh detergents in dishwashers. This can dull the blades and affect their performance.
What to Do
Hand wash stainless steel knives with mild dish soap and warm water. Use a soft sponge to avoid scratching the blades.
Pro Tip: To keep your knives sharp, use honing steel regularly to maintain the edge.
9. Plastic Containers
Why Not?
Plastic containers can warp and melt when exposed to the high heat of a dishwasher. This can make them unusable and potentially release harmful chemicals.
What to Do
Hand wash plastic containers with mild dish soap and warm water. Dry them thoroughly to prevent bacteria growth.
Pro Tip: To extend the life of plastic containers, avoid exposing them to high heat and store them in a cool, dry place.
10. Hand-Blown Glass
Why Not?
Hand-blown glass is often more delicate and can be easily chipped or cracked by the high heat and rough handling in a dishwasher. The harsh detergents can also etch the surface, dulling the finish.
What to Do
Hand wash hand-blown glass with mild dish soap and warm water. Use a soft cloth to avoid scratching. Dry them carefully with a lint-free towel.
Pro Tip: To prevent chipping, store hand- blown glass in a padded container or wrap them in soft cloth.
11. Insulated Mugs and Travel Cups
Why Not?
Insulated mugs and travel cups are designed to keep beverages at a consistent temperature. The high heat of a dishwasher can damage the insulating layer, reducing its effectiveness.
What to Do
Hand wash insulated mugs and travel cups with mild dish soap and warm water. Dry them thoroughly to prevent bacteria growth.
Pro Tip: To keep your insulated mugs and travel cups in good condition, avoid exposing them to extreme temperatures and store them in a cool, dry place.
12. Battery-Operated Items
Why Not?
Battery-operated items, such as electric toothbrushes and kitchen gadgets, can be damaged by water and moisture, leading to electrical problems and potentially rendering them unusable.
What to Do
Hand wash the non-electric parts of battery-operated items with mild dish soap and warm water. Dry them thoroughly to prevent moisture from entering the electric components.
Pro Tip: To extend the life of battery-operated items, avoid exposing them to water and moisture and store them in a dry, cool place.
13. Expensive Electronics
Why Not?
Expensive electronics, such as coffee makers and blenders, can be damaged by water and moisture, leading to electrical problems and potentially rendering them unusable.
What to Do
Hand wash the non-electric parts of expensive electronics with mild dish soap and warm water. Dry them thoroughly to prevent moisture from entering the electric components.
Pro Tip: To keep your expensive electronics in good condition, avoid exposing them to water and moisture and store them in a dry, cool place.
Conclusion
Dishwashers are a great tool for cleaning dishes, but they are not suitable for everything. By avoiding these 13 items, you can keep your kitchen items in top condition and extend their life. Remember, a little extra care goes a long way in preserving the quality and functionality of your cookware, utensils, and electronics.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your kitchen essentials remain in excellent condition and your dishwasher continues to serve you well. Happy cooking and cleaning!