Stop Putting This in the Dishwasher (It’s Wrecking Everything)

Not everything in your kitchen belongs in the dishwasher. It might seem like a shortcut, but a few common items can cause real damage—to your dishes, your machine, or both. If something's warping, fading, or coming out worse than it went in, this is probably why.

Your Dishwasher Isn’t as Safe as You Think 🧼

High heat, harsh detergents, and powerful water jets do more than clean. They strip finishes, weaken materials, and mess with anything not built to handle the pressure. Just because it fits in the rack doesn’t mean it belongs there.

Things You Should Never Put in the Dishwasher ❌

1. Wooden Utensils and Cutting Boards
The heat and moisture make wood crack, warp, and lose its finish. Hand wash and dry immediately instead.

2. Nonstick Pans
Dishwasher detergent can degrade nonstick coating fast. Even “dishwasher-safe” ones will wear down quicker. Stick to gentle hand washing.

3. Cast Iron Cookware
Water ruins seasoning and can cause rust. Clean with hot water and a stiff brush, then dry and oil after.

4. Insulated Travel Mugs or Bottles
The heat can break the vacuum seal and ruin the insulation. Wash the lid and body by hand.

5. Crystal or Delicate Glassware
Thin or etched glass is prone to chipping and fogging. Wash gently with a soft sponge.

6. Knives (Especially Sharp Ones)
Dishwasher detergent dulls blades quickly. Also, the high heat can warp handles. Rinse and dry by hand to keep them sharp.

7. Copper or Brass Items
They lose their shine and develop spots. These materials react badly with dishwasher chemicals.

8. Plastic That Isn’t Labeled “Dishwasher Safe”
Lower-grade plastic can melt or warp, especially in the bottom rack. Always check the label.

9. Aluminum Cookware
Aluminum oxidizes and discolors in the dishwasher. Over time, it can turn dull, gray, or streaky.

10. Anything With Adhesive Labels
Paper labels will peel off, clog filters, and leave gunk on everything else in the load.

Why It Matters (More Than You Think) ⚠️

  • Ruins the item over time

  • Shortens the life of your dishwasher by clogging the drain or filter

  • Void warranties on certain cookware and kitchen tools

  • Leads to costly replacements you didn’t expect

One wash might be fine. But repeated cycles? That’s where the damage builds.

How to Keep Your Dishwasher (and Stuff) Safe 🛡️

  • Always check labels before putting new items in

  • Use the top rack for fragile or light items

  • Hand wash problem materials no matter what the packaging says

  • Run an empty cleaning cycle once a month to flush out buildup

  • Don’t overcrowd—things need space to clean and dry properly

Save Your Stuff. Stop Tossing It All in the Dishwasher

Convenience shouldn’t cost you your cookware. A few extra minutes of handwashing now can save your knives, pans, and glasses from long-term damage. Your dishes will last longer—and your machine will too.

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