Having a dishwasher in your home can be a game changer. It is so helpful to clean up your dishes and not have to wash every single thing by hand. However, everything should not be thrown in there. There are many items that still need to be hand washed unless you want them ruined.
Here are some items you should never put in your dishwasher. Surely, your mother warned you about at least half of the things on this list.
1. Anything cast iron
Cast iron is amazing for cooking and can last many decades. However, you need to take care of it properly. You shouldn’t put anything cast iron in the dishwasher. You should always clean cast iron right after use, even while still warm. Use a scrub brush to get anything stuck on. Avoid using soap, steel wool, and other abrasives.
2. Good knives
Good knives will only dull faster in the dishwasher. Hand wash (very carefully) and dry with a towel immediately after use.
3. Crystal and fancy items
If you have expensive crystal items, don’t put them in the dishwasher. They could be ruined, chip or crack, especially if they are very fine crystal. If in doubt, always hand wash.
4. Painted or handmade items
If your children or grandchildren painted a mug that you love to drink from, always hand wash it. Hand-painted or ceramic items can chip or become destroyed in the dishwasher.
5. Plastic items
Some plastic items are okay in the top rack of the dishwasher, but some may become warped. Especially if you use really hot water, your plastic items may get ruined if you put them in the dishwasher.
6. Nonstick or copper pans
Check with the manufacturer but some nonstick pans cannot go in the dishwasher. They may lose its nonstick quality. Copper pans are generally okay but putting them in the dishwasher can change the color of these awesome pans.
What items do you never put in the dishwasher? Have you ever ruined any kitchen items in the dishwasher? What else would you add to this list?
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