The dishwasher has undoubtedly revolutionized kitchen cleanup, saving us precious time and effort. However, not everything is dishwasher-friendly, and certain items require special care to maintain their quality and longevity. In this blog post, we'll explore eight things you should never put in the dishwasher.
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Anything Wooden: Wooden items such as cutting boards, utensils, and knives with wooden handles should be kept out of the dishwasher. The abrasive nature of dishwasher detergent can scratch wood over time, and the heat from the drying cycle may cause warping or cracking. Instead, opt for rinsing and hand-washing, using a bit of baking soda for stubborn stains.
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Cast Iron: Preserve the perfect seasoning of your cast-iron cookware by avoiding the dishwasher. Instead, rinse it in hot water, use a soft sponge to lift stuck-on food (without dish soap, as it could break down the seasoning), and dry thoroughly with a towel.
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Aluminum Cookware: While aluminum pots and pans can technically go in the dishwasher, they will oxidize and lose their shine. Stainless steel cookware, on the other hand, may be dishwasher-safe according to manufacturer guidelines.
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Copper or Other Precious Metals: Copper pots and precious metal items can dull or discolor in the dishwasher. Keep heirlooms like silver, gold, and bronze out of the machine to preserve their gleaming finish.
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Nonstick Cookware: Nonstick coating may not fare well in the dishwasher, unless explicitly labeled as "dishwasher-safe" by the manufacturer. Even then, it's wise to inspect for any damage after each cycle.
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Certain Plastic Items: Follow the manufacturer's recommendations when it comes to plastic items. While hardier plastics may survive the dishwasher, softer ones might not withstand the heat. Place plastic items in the top rack to minimize exposure to heat.
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Kitchen Knives: Avoid the dishwasher for your kitchen knives, as the detergent can dull the blade and the heat can loosen handles. Instead, wash them carefully by hand in hot soapy water for optimal longevity and safety.
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Fine China, Crystal, or Painted Plates: Delicate items like fine china, crystal, and hand-painted plates should be spared from the dishwasher. The machine's harsh conditions can lead to chipping, fading, or loss of finish. The same applies to silverware with carved antler or bone handles.
While the dishwasher is a time-saving marvel, not all items are meant for its embrace. By giving special attention to the care of wooden, cast iron, aluminum, precious metal, nonstick, plastic, knife, and delicate items, you'll ensure the longevity and beauty of your kitchen treasures. Handwashing may take a bit more time, but the preservation of your valuable items will undoubtedly be worth the effort.
