10 Items You Should Never Clean in a Dishwasher
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Dishwashers are fantastic for speedy and efficient kitchen cleanups, but there’s a widespread misconception that they can handle all types of kitchenware. Although they do a great job on dirty dishes, there are certain items that are better off being washed by hand. Here’s a list of 10 things you should avoid putting in the dishwasher.
Cast Iron Skillet
Cast iron cookware is known for being tough and for cooking some of the best meals. But it works best when it’s looked after properly. Unfortunately, the dishwasher can lead to rust and loss of the non-stick surface.
If you accidentally put a cast iron skillet in the dishwasher, don’t worry. Just be sure that you dry it immediately and properly re-season it.
Knives
Don’t place sharp knives in the dishwasher. The blades can get nicked or lose their sharpness, and the knife might even cause damage to the dishwasher racks. Handwashing is the way to go, and you’ll appreciate it in the long run.
Graters
Like knives, graters can also experience blade dullness in the dishwasher. Furthermore, a dishwasher may not effectively remove all the particles trapped in their small holes, so it’s always best handwash them.
Wood Cutting Board
The hot water and dry heat in the dishwasher can cause wooden cutting boards to warp or crack. Additionally, the heat can dry out natural wood cutting boards, giving them a worn and faded appearance. Wood and dishwashers simply aren’t compatible.
Wood Utensils
Similar to cutting boards, utensils can also warp and crack in the dishwasher. To ensure their longevity, it’s best to handwash them.
Non-Stick Pots
Nonstick pots are vulnerable to scratches, and their finish can erode when subjected to the dishwasher’s high temperatures, which can be harsh on the nonstick coating. To ensure your pots last longer, it’s best to handwash them.
Insulated Drinkware
Insulated items like travel mugs and other drinkware should be kept from the dishwasher. High temperatures during the dishwasher cycle could harm the vacuum seal, so you should consider washing these by hand.
Anything Antique
If an item holds sentimental value or is a family heirloom, it’s best to wash it by hand. This applies especially to anything antique or hand-painted, as there’s a risk of breakage or fading due to high water pressure, detergent abrasion, and high temperatures in the dishwasher.
Copper Cookware
Copper cookware is timeless, pretty, and borderline expensive—so why would you want to ruin it? Handwashing is advisable to preserve copper’s shine and prevent discoloration or tarnishing.
Air Fryer Basket
Placing the Air Fryer basket in the dishwasher is a bad idea. The nonstick coating is susceptible to damage and the basket may not hold up well due to the harsh conditions in the dishwasher. Handwashing is always best.
How to Clean a Dishwasher
While a dishwasher’s main function is to clean dishes, over time, bits of food particles, dirt, and mineral deposits can accumulate inside of the dishwasher, leading to unwelcomed smells, crappy performance, and potential problems with drainage. By regularly cleaning your dishwasher, you can avoid some of these issues and use it to its full potential. Here’s a step by step guide on how to best clean it.
How to Clean a Dishwasher with Baking Soda and Vinegar
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