While dishwashers are incredibly convenient and effective for cleaning a wide range of kitchen items, there are certain items that should never be washed in a dishwasher due to the risk of damage or potential safety hazards. Here are some things you should avoid putting in the dishwasher:
Wooden items: Wooden utensils, cutting boards, and items with wooden handles should not be washed in the dishwasher. The high heat and moisture can cause the wood to warp, crack, or lose its finish. Hand wash wooden items to preserve their quality and extend their lifespan.
Cast iron cookware: Cast iron pans and skillets should not be washed in the dishwasher, as the intense heat and harsh detergents can strip the pan's seasoning, leading to rusting. Instead, clean cast iron cookware by hand with a brush or sponge and dry it thoroughly to prevent rust.
Nonstick cookware: Dishwashers can damage the nonstick coating on pans and pots, making them less effective and potentially harmful when the coating flakes off. Hand washing with a soft sponge and mild detergent is the best way to clean nonstick cookware.
Copper and brass items: Copper or brass cookware and utensils should be hand washed, as dishwasher detergents can cause discoloration and tarnish the metal.
Insulated mugs and containers: Dishwashers can compromise the insulation of travel mugs, thermoses, and other insulated containers, affecting their ability to retain temperature effectively.
Delicate glassware: Fine glassware, crystal, or vintage pieces are better off being hand washed to avoid chipping or breakage in the dishwasher's intense water jets and high temperatures.
Sharp knives: Dishwasher cleaning can dull the edges of sharp knives and potentially cause damage to the dishwasher's interior. Hand wash knives with care to preserve their sharpness and quality.
Certain plastics: Not all plastics are dishwasher-safe. Some plastics can melt, warp, or release harmful chemicals when exposed to high heat in the dishwasher. Check the manufacturer's instructions for dishwasher safety on plastic items.
Aluminum items: Some aluminum items may corrode or become discolored in the dishwasher due to the high heat and detergent.
Always consult the manufacturer's guidelines and care instructions for specific items to determine whether they are dishwasher-safe. When in doubt, it's usually safer to hand wash delicate or questionable items to ensure they remain in good condition and do not pose any safety risks.