Never Put These 5 Items In The Dishwasher
Some things just don’t belong in the dishwasher no matter how tempting it is to toss them in. It might save time now, but it can cost you later in ruined utensils, broken pieces, or even unexpected damage to your machine. Here are six surprising household items you should always wash by hand, and why skipping the dishwasher helps them keep their quality in the long run.
Insulated Travel Mugs
Most insulated mugs rely on a sealed layer between two walls to keep drinks hot or cold. The high heat and powerful jets in a dishwasher can break that seal, if any part of the mug is damaged or otherwise compromised, letting water sneak in and ruin the insulation. Even if the label says “dishwasher-safe,” regular washing this way will still wear it out faster. Hand washing is much gentler and thus much less likely to accidentally break that seal.
Sharp Kitchen Knives
Putting knives in the dishwasher dulls the blade. The water pressure can also knock them around, damaging both the knife and the dishwasher rack. On top of that, the detergent wears down the edge of the blade, degrading its quality and strength. Hand wash knives carefully, dry right away, then store them in a safe spot. It keeps them sharper, safer, and better for all kinds of kitchen prep.
Wooden Utensils and Cutting Boards
Wood and water don’t mix well, especially not in a steamy, high-pressure dishwasher. The heat causes wood to swell and then shrink, which leads to warping, cracking, or splitting. Over time, wooden spoons can lose their shape and cutting boards can start to splinter. It also breaks down any finish that protects the wood. Wash these by hand, dry them quickly, and they’ll last much longer without losing their shape or picking up bacteria.
Cast Iron Skillets
Cast iron pans are built to last, but not in a dishwasher. The finish on cast iron (called seasoning) is what gives it that non-stick surface. A dishwasher strips that layer away, leaving the surface dull, rust-prone, and harder to cook with. Once it’s damaged, it takes work to build that seasoning back up. Instead, rinse with warm water, wipe it clean, and dry it right away. Add a little oil if needed, but not soap. It’s a small effort for a pan that can last generations.
Crystal Glassware
Crystal glassware is gorgeous, but it’s also quite delicate. Dishwasher heat and detergent are too harsh and can cause those beautiful cups to chip, crack, or get cloudy over time. The edges and stems are especially at risk of breaking in rough environments. If the glass has any kind of gold rim or pattern, that’ll wear off quickly in the dishwasher too. Stick to gentle hand washing with mild soap, and use a soft towel to dry. It’ll stay clear and beautiful much longer that way.
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It’s easy to assume the dishwasher can handle anything, but you still have to be careful what you toss in there. Washing some items by hand might take a few more minutes, but it protects your utensils, your dishes, and your machine from damage that adds up over time. Knowing what to keep out of the dishwasher helps everything last longer and work better. Sometimes the old-fashioned way really is the best one.
Daniel Mitchell
