Do you use your dishwasher to clean almost all your kitchen items? If so, you might be making a mistake. While many times it’s fine to load most items in the dishwasher, there are some items you should never put in there. Read on to find out what not to wash in the dishwasher.
What Not to Wash in the Dishwasher
When tackling a mountain of dirty dishes, putting them in the dishwasher may seem like a quick and easy fix. However, there are some things that should never go in the dishwasher, and washing them incorrectly can cause some pretty serious damage. Here’s what not to wash in the dishwasher:
- Fine China: If the dishes are older than you are, it’s probably a fine china set. Fine china is delicate and can be easily cracked or damaged in the dishwasher or even just from the heat. Instead, hand wash these dishes with extra care.
- Cast iron: Cast iron is a pricey item and needs special appliances to be properly maintained and cleaned. Water and heat can damage the non-stick coating. Instead, rub some coarse salt over its surface and rinse. It’s that easy.
- Non-stick items: Any non-stick pan or cookware is no match for the dishwasher. The heat and its harsh detergents will damage the non-stick coating. Instead, soapy water and a cloth should be enough to do the trick.
- wooden items: Unfortunately things like wooden spatulas and cutting boards can’t go in the dishwasher. They become warped and may swell when they come in contact with water or heat.
- Crystal glass: Crystal glass items such as glasses, decanters, or special stemware should not be put in the dishwasher. The detergents and hot water are too harsh on these delicate materials and can cause chips and scratches.
While a dishwasher may seem like a panacea for dirty dishes and cookware, some items should never touch the inside of one. Knowing which items don’t belong and the best way to clean them will not only save you from a lot of heartache but will also keep your belongings around for years to come.
Conclusion
There you have it – several items that don’t belong in the dishwasher. Don’t be fooled, even though some of these items might seem like they would be safe, the same cannot be said for the damage they can create. As such, heed the advice and steer clear of taking chances when it comes to wrongly using a dishwasher.
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