Perhaps one of the greatest inventions of all time was the dishwasher. The dishwasher makes life easier and simpler. Most items we use in our kitchen to cook and eat with can be easily popped into the dishwasher when they are dirty. However, some cookware should never be washed in the dishwasher. But, navigating what is dishwasher safe and what isn’t can be difficult. Especially if there are no clear instructions or stickers on the item. Here are some tips so you can take the guesswork out of dishes and keep your prized cooking possessions safe:
Are copper pots dishwasher safe?
Copper is the choice of many chefs due to its great heat conductivity. As a bonus, they are completely beautiful with the copper hue. The longevity of copper cookware is greatly increased if you keep these outside of the dishwasher. When these types of pots are washed in the dishwasher too much, their copper begins to dull and not only are they not as pretty, but they lose some heat conduction.
Is stainless steel allowed in the dishwasher?
It depends. Some stainless-steel items such as mixing bowls and silverware do fine in the dishwasher. However, something stainless steel items have been created by hand and should not ever see the inside of the dishwasher. Examples of these are stainless steel pots and pans. Because you do not want to damage or ruin any of your stainless-steel items, it may be safest to choose to hand wash these items.
What about cast-iron skillets?
No, never, don’t! Some people feel so passionately about this they demand that those who even think about placing their precious cast iron in the dishwasher should not be allowed to have them at all. Using the dishwasher on your cast iron pieces leaves them susceptible to rust. A cast iron skillet needs to be seasoned. This is why it is necessary to follow the specific cleaning instructions created for cast iron.
What else should never go in the dishwasher?
There are actually many other things that should not be washed in the dishwasher. To make things easier, we have created a clear list that can be referenced. Remember, that this is a guide and not necessarily a comprehensive list. Also, if you ever are confused or unsure, it is best to hand wash to avoid any damage.
What should not be washed in the dishwasher:
-Any item that is aluminum or has aluminum on it should never be placed in the dishwasher.
-Cast iron or enameled cast iron
-Any antique or family heirloom including dishes with gold, China, or even fancy glassware
-Sharp or steak knives
-Mugs that are insulated or vacuum sealed
-Any bakeware that is nonstick including pots and pans
-Any containers that are plastic unless the manufacturer specifically noted it is in fact dishwasher safe.
-Appliance accessories or components unless they are specifically noted as being dishwasher safe.
-Anything wooden including cutting boards, wooden spoons, or knives with wooden handles.
Hopefully, now you have a better idea of what to keep in or out of the dishwasher. But, did you know it is important to clean your dishwasher and other appliances regularly? Check this post out for some great tips on how to clean your dishwasher. These will help make sure your dishwasher does its job for many years. Contact us if you need any additional help.
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