Stop! These 10 Items Should Never Be Washed in a Dishwasher

Dishwashers are a huge time-saver, but not everything belongs inside them. Some items can be damaged by high heat, harsh detergents, or the powerful water jets.

Washing these items in the dishwasher can ruin them, reduce their lifespan, or even make them unsafe to use. Knowing what not to put in the dishwasher saves money, keeps your kitchenware in good condition, and prevents accidents.

The heat and detergent in dishwashers can dull knife blades quickly. Knives can also bump against other utensils, causing chips or damage. It’s better to hand wash knives with warm, soapy water and dry them immediately.

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Wood warps, cracks, and loses its finish when exposed to the high heat and moisture of a dishwasher. Hand washing with mild soap and drying thoroughly keeps wooden items durable and safe.

Dishwasher detergents and high temperatures can strip the non-stick coating, making the pan less effective and more prone to sticking. Wipe gently with a sponge and warm water to preserve the coating.

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Thin, delicate materials can chip or crack under dishwasher pressure. Fine china patterns may also fade over time. Wash these by hand using a mild detergent to maintain their elegance.

The dishwasher can damage the vacuum seal, reducing the item’s insulation effectiveness. Hand washing ensures your thermos or travel mug continues to keep drinks hot or cold for longer.

Cast iron skillets and pots should never go in the dishwasher. Detergents strip away the seasoning, and water causes rust. Clean with warm water, avoid soap, and dry thoroughly before storing.

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Some plastics can warp or release harmful chemicals when exposed to high heat. Check the label; if it’s not dishwasher safe, hand wash with warm soapy water.

These metals can tarnish, corrode, or lose their shine in the dishwasher. Hand wash with mild soap and dry immediately to keep them looking good.

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Dishwasher detergents and heat can fade painted designs or peel decals off mugs and plates. Wash these by hand to preserve the colours and patterns.

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Thin silicone molds or soft plastics can warp or lose shape in the dishwasher. Hand wash and air dry to maintain their form and performance

Dishwashers are convenient, but knowing what not to put in them protects your kitchenware, saves money, and keeps your items in good condition for longer. When in doubt, hand washing is always the safer option.