Items that Shouldn’t Go in the Dishwasher

Dishwashers are one of the most amazing modern appliances in existence. Yes, it can feel like you are always emptying yours, but the alternative, washing everything by hand, is far worse. However, not everything goes in the dishwasher. To ensure your dishwasher is well maintained, and runs smoothly, let’s discuss some items that you want to avoid loading into your well-loved appliance! 

Wooden Items 

Wood is porous and can also absorb water, which can cause it to warp, crack or split. It can also lose its finish and become discoloured. Therefore, items made of wood, like cutting boards, utensils or bowls, should be washed by hand using mild soap and warm water instead.  

Cast Iron Cookware 

Dishwashing cast iron cookware can strip it of its seasoning, leading to a decrease in cooking performance (and flavour!). The amount of water, humidity and detergents in a dishwasher will strip away all the layers of oil that make cast iron pans work so well and will eventually cause them to rust. Hand wash with a non-abrasive brush, dry immediately, and apply a thin layer of oil to maintain the seasoning. 

Non-Stick Cookware 

High temperatures and harsh detergents can damage the nonstick coating. This can lead to the coating peeling or flaking off over time. Once this happens, the item starts to develop rust or fails to be non-stick Hand wash these items with a gentle sponge and mild detergent. 

Sharp Knives  

Unless the manufacturer specifically says otherwise, sharp knives will dull much quicker in the dishwasher than they would if you washed them by hand. The blade can also cause damage to your dishwasher. If you don’t want to dull your knives, keep them out of the dishwasher. Wash them by hand and dry them immediately to avoid corrosion. 

Fine China or Hand Painted Items 

The intense heat, steam, and detergent can damage delicate porcelain, fine China, and hand painted dishes, especially if they have gold or silver trim. Therefore, if you want to keep these precious items in the family for years to come, avoid placing them in the dishwasher. While not always convenient, washing by hand will ensure these dishes remain in their current condition. 

Plastic Items not Marked Dishwasher Safe 

Low-quality plastics or items that aren’t labelled as dishwasher safe can warp, discolour, or release harmful chemicals when exposed to high heat. Always check the label to ensure the plastic is dishwasher safe before washing. It’s also a good idea to load these items on the top rack, where the heat isn’t as strong.  

This is by no means an exhaustive list of what shouldn’t go in your dishwasher. However, these are some of the most common things people add to their dishwasher that would be better handwashed. A little effort now will mean much more longevity for your kitchenware!