Dishwasher Dos & Don’ts

Your dishwasher is a marvel of convenience—but it’s not made for everything. Hot water, strong detergents, and high-pressure jets can damage certain items quickly, sometimes beyond repair.

Here’s a practical guide to what should never go in the dishwasher—and how to care for them instead.

10 Items to Always Hand-Wash

1. Sharp Knives (Chef’s, Paring, Steak)
   Why: Jets dull blades; detergent corrodes steel.
   Instead: Wash with mild soap, dry immediately, store in a sheath or knife block.
2. Cast Iron Skillets & Pots
   Why: Dishwashers strip seasoning, cause rust, and ruin non-stick surfaces.
   Instead: Rinse with hot water, scrub (no soap), dry on the stove, and lightly oil.
3. Wooden Utensils, Boards & Bowls
   Why: Heat and moisture lead to warping, cracks, and bacteria.
   Instead: Hand-wash, air-dry upright, and condition monthly with mineral oil.
4. Nonstick Cookware (Teflon, Ceramic, etc.)
   Why: Detergent breaks down coatings, causing flaking.
5. Instead: Use a soft sponge with mild soap; avoid steel wool.
   Insulated Drinkware (Yeti, Hydro Flask, Thermos)
   Why: Heat damages vacuum seals; gaskets trap grime.
   Instead: Wash the body by hand; clean lids and gaskets separately with a bottle brush.
6. Aluminum Bakeware & Pans
   Why: Detergent reacts, leaving dull, dark, or pitted surfaces.
   Instead: Hand-wash with a gentle cleaner (Bar Keepers Friend works well).
7. Copper Cookware
   Why: Loses shine, tarnishes, may leach metal.
   Instead: Wash by hand; polish with lemon + salt or a copper cleaner.
8. Fine China & Metallic-Rimmed Dishware
   Why: Gold/platinum fades; delicate glazes crack.
   Instead: Wash gently in warm, soapy water; dry with a lint-free cloth.
9. Crystal & Hand-Blown Glass
   Why: Heat causes cloudiness or cracks.
   Instead: Wash carefully by hand; avoid sudden temperature changes.
10. Graters, Garlic Presses & Small Gadgets
    Why: Food lodges in crevices—dishwasher can’t clean thoroughly.
    Instead: Scrub immediately with a small brush under running water.

“Use With Caution” Items

• Stainless Steel: Usually safe—check manufacturer instructions.
• Silicone Bakeware: Dishwasher-safe (top rack preferred).
• Plastic Containers: Only if labeled “dishwasher-safe”; place on top rack to prevent warping.

The Takeaway

Saving a few seconds by tossing the wrong item in the dishwasher can cost you years of use. Protect your tools, and they’ll serve you for a lifetime.

When in doubt, hand-wash. Your kitchen—and your favorite gadgets—will thank you.