13 Things to Never Put in the Dishwasher

Do you often feel like the chores in your household are never-ending? It’s a huge relief to throw dishes into the dishwasher, turn it on, and let it do all of the hard work for you. But that doesn’t mean throwing anything and everything into your trusty dishwashing machine is a good idea; there are several things that can be severely damaged if they accidentally end up in there. 

Read on to learn the 13 things you should keep away from your dishwasher!

1. Cast iron cookware 

Cast iron cookware should never be put in the dishwasher as it can cause the metal to rust and deteriorate over time. Instead, cast iron should be washed by hand using warm water and then dried thoroughly and re-seasoned.

2. Wooden utensils 

Wooden utensils, such as spoons and spatulas, should never be put in the dishwasher, because over time the heat and moisture can cause them to warp and crack. 

Instead, wooden utensils should be washed by hand using warm, soapy water and then dried thoroughly with a soft cloth.

3. Non-stick cookware 

Non-stick cookware should also never be put in the dishwasher since the heat and moisture can damage the non-stick coating over time. 

Instead, non-stick cookware should be washed with gentle, soapy water and then dried thoroughly with a soft cloth.

4. Delicate glass or crystal 

Delicate glass or crystal items such as wine glasses or vases should not be put in the dishwasher either, as they may become damaged due to the high temperatures of the water and detergents used. 

Instead, wash these items by hand with warm, soapy water and then dry gently using a soft cloth.

5. Copper pots and pans 

Copper pots and pans are also not suitable for the dishwasher due to their delicate nature; they may become tarnished or discolored if exposed to too much heat or moisture from washing them in a machine. 

Copper cookware is best washed by hand using warm, soapy water and then dried with a soft cloth after each use.

6. Silver cutlery 

Silver cutlery is another item that should never go in the dishwasher due to its delicate nature; it might become tarnished if exposed to too much heat or moisture from washing it in a machine. 

Silver cutlery is best washed by hand in warm, soapy water and then dried with a soft cloth after each use.

7. Aluminum cookware 

Aluminum cookware is not suitable for being put in the dishwasher due to its delicate nature; it may become discolored if exposed to too much heat or moisture. 

Aluminum cookware is best washed by hand using warm, soapy water and then dried thoroughly with a soft cloth after each use.

8. Knives 

Knives are another item that should never go into the dishwasher due to their sharp edges; they may become dull if exposed to too much heat or moisture. 

You can wash knives by hand in warm, soapy water and then dry them carefully with a soft cloth afterwards. 

9. Plastic utensils 

Plastic utensils such as spatulas, tongs, whisks, etc., are not suitable for dishwasher use either because they may melt when exposed to too much heat. 

Plastic utensils are best washed by hand using warm, soapy water before being air-dried on a clean towel. 

10. Disposable items 

Disposable items such as paper plates, plastic cups, aluminum foil, etc., are not suitable for being put into the dishwasher either because they will likely dissolve when exposed to too much heat or moisture. 

These items must instead be disposed of properly according to local regulations.

11. Insulated mugs and containers 

These items are designed with a special vacuum seal in between the walls of the product to keep your beverages hot or cold for extended periods of time. When you put them in a dishwasher, the intense heat and water pressure can potentially damage this vacuum seal. 

Once the seal is compromised, the insulating properties are significantly reduced or even completely lost. So, it’s always safer to hand-wash your insulated mugs and containers to ensure they continue to perform at their best.

12. Hand-painted ceramics and china 

These precious items often have intricate designs and patterns that are painted by hand. The harsh environment inside a dishwasher, which includes high temperatures and abrasive detergents, can cause the paint to fade, chip, or peel off. 

Moreover, the powerful jets of water can physically damage these delicate items. To preserve the beauty and integrity of your hand-painted ceramics and china, it’s recommended they be gently hand-washed instead.

13. Wooden cutting boards 

Wooden cutting boards have a natural beauty and durability that makes them a favorite in many kitchens. However, placing them in the dishwasher is a big no-no. The intense heat and prolonged soaking in water can make the wood warp or crack. 

Moreover, harsh dishwasher detergents can strip away the natural oils in the wood, making it dry and prone to bacterial growth. 

By hand-washing your wooden cutting boards and regularly oiling them, you can maintain their quality and extend their lifespan. Remember, proper care for your wooden kitchenware not only preserves its functionality but also its charm and character.

The bottom line

All in all, understanding what not to put in the dishwasher is critical for avoiding household disasters. 

While there usually isn’t any catastrophic damage done when people accidentally place a few of these things into their dishwasher, some items are easily destroyed and should never be put into the dishwasher. 

Be sure to double-check any plastic products that may melt or warp, and always hand-wash fragile or valuable items. Using the tips provided here, you can save yourself money by ensuring each item stays intact and doesn’t get damaged. 

Don’t think twice about taking extra measures either—even if it means investing in a gentle detergent. You can make your household chores easier and keep your kitchen free of broken and melted objects thanks to your dishwasher!