**8 Things You Absolutely Should Not Put in a Dishwasher** (and Why)
If you’re like me, you love the convenience of a dishwasher. It’s a modern marvel that saves you time and effort after a long day. But here’s the catch: not everything is dishwasher-safe. Throwing the wrong items into the machine risks more than just ruining your favorite belongings: it can damage your appliance, leave behind a sticky residue, and drastically reduce the lifespan of your kitchen tools.
It’s not about fear mongering; it’s about clarity. By understanding what science and culinary experts say about dishwasher safety, you can protect your investment and keep your machine running efficiently for years to come. Let’s explore what should be left out of the dishwasher and how to properly care for these delicate items.
The golden rule: When in doubt, check the manufacturer’s label. If it says “Hand wash only,” trust it. The intense heat and high water pressure of a dishwasher are much harsher than gentle hand washing.
1. SHARP KNIVES AND WOODEN UTENSILS
Let’s start with a bit of a shock. I recently saw celebrity chef Ina Garten post a photo on Instagram, and guess what? She had her knives in the dishwasher! You might be thinking, “What’s the big deal?”
The reality is that high water pressure knocks knives against other items in the rack, dulling the blade’s edge incredibly quickly. Additionally, intense heat and harsh detergents can cause wooden handles to crack, warp, or loosen from the blade. Finally, blindly reaching into a dishwasher full of hidden, sharp blades is a real safety hazard.
How to care for them: Hand wash knives and wooden utensils immediately after use with hot, soapy water. Dry them immediately with a towel to prevent rust (especially for carbon steel), and store them safely in a knife block or on a magnetic strip. Occasionally rub wooden handles with food-safe mineral oil to maintain their finish. Even if a knife claims to be “dishwasher safe,” hand washing will keep it sharp for much longer.
2. DELICATE CRYSTAL AND FINE CHINA
