If you’re like me, you love the convenience of a dishwasher. It’s a modern marvel that saves you time and energy after a long day. But there’s a catch: not everything is dishwasher safe. If you put the wrong things in the machine, you not only risk ruining your favorite items, but you can also damage the appliance, leave behind sticky residue, and drastically shorten the life of your kitchenware.
This isn’t scaremongering, it’s common sense. By understanding what scientists and culinary experts say about dishwasher safety, you can protect your investment and ensure your machine continues to perform efficiently for years to come. Let’s take a look at what not to put in your dishwasher and how to properly care for these delicate items.
The golden rule: when in doubt, check the manufacturer’s label. If it says “Hand wash only,” believe it. The intense heat and high water pressure of a dishwasher are much more aggressive than careful hand washing.
1. Sharp Knives and Wooden Utensils
Let’s start with something surprising. I recently saw a photo of chef Ina Garten on Instagram, and guess what? Her knives were in the dishwasher! You might be thinking, “What’s so special about that?”
In reality, the high water pressure forces knives against other items in the basket, causing the blade to dull incredibly quickly. Additionally, the intense heat and harsh detergents can cause wooden handles to crack, warp, or peel away from the blade. Finally, reaching blindly into a dishwasher full of hidden, sharp knives is a real safety risk.
How to maintain them: Wash knives and wooden utensils by hand in warm, soapy water immediately after use. Dry them immediately with a towel to prevent rusting (especially carbon steel), and store them safely in a knife holder or magnetic holder. Occasionally rub wooden handles with food-grade mineral oil to maintain the finish. Even if a knife is labeled “dishwasher safe,” hand washing will ensure it stays razor-sharp much longer.
2. Refined crystal and fine porcelain
