Putting plastic items in the dishwasher with metal items can potentially lead to several issues:
Melting or warping: Many plastic items, especially those not labeled as dishwasher-safe, are not designed to withstand the high heat of dishwasher cycles. The combination of hot water and the high-temperature drying cycle in the dishwasher can cause plastic items to melt or warp, ruining the plastic items and potentially damaging the dishwasher.
Chemical reactions: Some plastics can react with certain metals, especially when exposed to heat and detergents. This chemical interaction can lead to discoloration or even chemical breakdown of the plastic material, making it unsafe for use and potentially damaging the dishwasher interior.
Transfer of chemicals: If plastic items do not react with the metal, they might still absorb chemicals from the detergent or rinse aid used in the dishwasher. When the plastic items are used for serving or storing food later, these chemicals could leach into the food, posing health risks.
Scratches or damage to the dishwasher: If plastic items come into direct contact with metal surfaces or utensils during the dishwasher cycle, they can cause scratches or other damage to the dishwasher interior or metal items.
To avoid these potential problems, follow these guidelines:
Check the dishwasher manual: Review the dishwasher's manual to see if it is safe to wash plastic items and which plastics are safe to use in the dishwasher.
Separate plastic from metal: Whenever possible, separate plastic items from metal items while loading the dishwasher to prevent any direct contact.
Hand wash delicate plastic items: If you have plastic items that are not dishwasher-safe or are delicate, it's better to hand wash them with a mild dish soap and warm water.
Use dishwasher-safe plastic items: If you are using plastic items in the dishwasher, make sure they are labeled as dishwasher-safe and designed to withstand the high temperatures and detergents used in dishwashers.
Avoid high heat settings: If your dishwasher allows you to adjust the temperature or drying settings, opt for lower heat options when washing plastic items.
In general, it's best to exercise caution when washing plastic items in the dishwasher, especially when they are not specifically designed for dishwasher use. When in doubt, hand washing plastic items is a safer option to preserve their condition and avoid potential issues with your dishwasher or health risks.